Picture - The Atherton Aerial
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Picture - The Atherton Aerial
John Yarmuth Holds Press Conference: Addresses High School Journalists FALL SPORTS Fall sports have come to an end, and what a great season it has been for Atherton High School. Atherton High School Volume 83, Issue 3 INDEX Pages 2-4 5-7 8-11 12-13 14-15 16-19 20 PAGES Category Editorials Arts Features Reviews School News Sports Wednesday ,December 19, 2007 Cover Art: Alex Harper and Anthony Heiskell Left: John Yarmuth Right: Hunter S. Thompson Editorials The Aerial Page 2 Wednesday, December 19, 2007 News Channel WHAS 11 Clearly Chooses Clear Channel Over Louisville: Joe Elliott Gets Lesson in Corporate Loyalty RUTHIE REDMOND T he holidays got off to a rough start this year, at least where local media is concerned: WHAS Radio talk show host Joe Elliott, whose show has been broadcast on weeknights since 1993, was fired in late November. His show was replaced by Michael Savage’s nationally syndicated program, The Savage Nation. A number of layoffs at WHAS due to corporate budget cuts were made by Clear Channel Communications (which also included longtime production director Scott Gentleman and Jill Lawrence), and they really served to remind us of just how backwards the media is. Joe Elliott, though decidedly conservative, tried to let his listeners hear both sides of the issues he discussed, and didn’t cut off callers who disagreed with him. The same thing could not be said for Michael Savage, and I have no idea how Clear Channel could make the fatal mistake of thinking that more local listeners would willingly subject themselves to Savage’s rants than tuned in to hear Joe Elliott. Some have argued that Clear Channel’s problem is that it’s run by conservatives – some go as far as to say that the problem with radio in general is that it’s a largely conservative-dominated medium. Well, when it comes to WHAS Radio, there’s no denying their conservative affiliations – WHAS is currently broadcasting Fox News (fair and balanced?) on the hour every hour, Rush Limbaugh for three hours, and now The Savage Nation for three more hours. More noteworthy than Savage’s conservative viewpoints, however, is his downright offensive attitude towards anyone with beliefs that don’t match his own. Isn’t he the same guy who was fired from MSNBC in 2003 for making anti-gay comments? Hasn’t the Council on American-Islamic Relations convinced companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T to pull advertising from Savage’s show because of disparaging remarks he’s made about Islam? I mean, no matter how many of us dislike Rush Limbaugh and his brand of conservatism, (polls have illustrated that as many as 60% of Americans have an unfavorable opinion of Limbaugh), he The Aerial Flight Plan: The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 Advisor: Matthew Rhinehart Contact: (502)485-8202 or [email protected] Section Editors News Editor Bobby Fiske Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Clark Contact: [email protected] Design Editor: Zach Leamy Contact: [email protected] Letters to the editor: Please submit to Ruth Redmond via e-mail (listed above). Please include your name and contact information. All letters must be signed in order to be published (digital signatures are acceptable). The Aerial reserves the right to edit for grammatical errors, length, and good taste. Letters may attack the Aerial’s policy, but not any person or persons on the staff. In no way will viewpoints be altered. The editorin-chief reserves the right to reject any letter. Editorial Notice: Features Editor Keishaundria Wright maintains the highest rated radio show in the U.S.., and on top of that, he has yet to make a comment offensive enough to get him pulled off the air. What scares me is that even though Michael Savage’s inappropriate remarks have earned him the criticism of many of his fellow conservatives, his ratings continue to climb, and he is currently ranked third in number of stations syndicated nationwide and in nationwide audience (behind Limbaugh and Sean Hannity). Sadly, it’s likely that ratings like these will more than make up for future controversies Savage might cause. Obviously it’s easier for Clear Channel Communications to pay a small syndication fee to broadcast The Savage Nation than it would be to continue to pay Joe Elliott’s salary. Unfortunately, the easiest thing to do, as I’m sure we’ve all heard hundreds of times, is rarely the right thing. Kelly Carls, Clear Channel’s Regional vice president of programming, has made sure to clarify that this particular layoff was strictly a business decision, not a personal one. Some media critics have disputed these claims, especially due to his popularity locally, saying that Joe’s tireless efforts “...WHAS is currently broadcasting Fox News (fair and balanced?) on the hour every hour...” Staff Writers Lauren Bunch Gibson Culbreth Ethan Foster Corey Grant Quentin Guin Alex Harper Anthony Heiskell Tara Montgomery Hannah Rapp Ruthie Redmond Martha Worland Art Director Reveiws Editor Miles Smith to shoot down the library tax were the real cause for his dismissal. Carls also said that firing Elliott was “a very difficult decision” that had to be made due to the current business climate which is “not very advantageous” for media outlets. This statement may have some truth to it, but I think much of the problem lies within Clear Channel – and not even necessarily with their conservative affiliations. I think the problem is that Clear Channel is run by poor businessmen. The layoffs at WHAS Radio are like Chrysler buying Jeep and then changing the product line to the cars in order to make production cheaper; it may cost less to make, but nobody’s buying. My hope is that Clear Channel will soon learn its lesson, whether it comes down to the huge FCC fines that are sure to follow their choice to broadcast The Savage Nation, or the hundreds of local listeners that will no doubt grow tired of being yelled at by an anti-Islamic, homophobic talk show host. Alex Harper Photography Evan Taylor If you would like to contact Ruthie Redmond about this article or any other article you may contact her at: [email protected] Advertising The Aerial Pledge Executive/Contact Martha Worland Contact: [email protected] *For rates please contact our advertising editor Aerial Webmaster Alex Harper THE AERIAL WEB SITE COMING SOON The Aerial is a student publication catering to the interests and concerns of the student body. The Aerial pledges itself to relay important and interesting information to the community, administration, and students of Atherton High School. The Aerial Strongly supports the first amendment and opposes censorship. The newspaper staff determines the content held within the publication. When questions concerning word choice, legal problems, or ethics arise, the editorial board and adviser will discuss and resolve them. The editor-in-cheif will have the final say. The Aerial staff is dedicating this year’s paper to the student body of Atherton High School and all members of its faculty. In order for The Aerial to be a successful school newspaper, it is important for the paper to be an open forum in which issues facing our community are debated openly and honestly in a productive manner. Therefore, it is our policy to encourage all view points to be represented on our editorial page. We encourage all to present their point-of-view on these pages. Send Op-ed letters to [email protected], or drop off responses in Mr. Rhinehart’s room, 122. ALL LETTERS MUST BE SIGNED IN ORDER TO BE PUBLISHED. The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 Needed! Arts in Education By: Lusie Cuskey Contributing writer. For many years, public education in the United States was gruffly characterized by “reading, writing, and ‘rithmatic,” all taught by rote recitation and memorization. In 1983, Harvard Professor Dr.. Howard Gardener dared to suggest that these methods were antiquated, and failed to meet students’ needs. As an alternative to the drudgery, Gardener presented his theory of multiple intelligences (different learning styles), which are now supposedly integrated into the curriculum of every class. However, when one cares to examine our education system, they find that reading, writing, and math are still the order of the day, and our teaching styles aren’t nearly as diversified as we would like to believe. In the majority of classroom settings, the students with the highest scores are those who boast verbal linguistic or logical-mathematical learning styles – students who can solve problems with hard logic, and students who are able to learn effectively by listening to lectures or reading a text independently. The ideal students share other characteristics, as well – they are intelligent, confident, good problem-solvers, clear oral and written communicators, and provide valuable contributions to society during and after their school career. Those students that were not fortunate enough to be born with a propensity for individualized, seated work are often left to fall between the cracks in order to allow their classmates to shine. The damage this has caused has been well documented throughout the years in juvenile delinquency rates and the discovery that issues such as depression and learning disabilities are not fairy tales, but problems that affect students who could otherwise be learning. It seems only logical that, with the discovery of various learning styles and problems associated with the education system, the methodology of education would evolve to meet the needs of students and foster the values our society treats with such high esteem. Editorials Even the most causal of observers would draw the conclusion that the thing that is needed most is some technique, some way of teaching that allows the students that have been differently gifted to reap the benefits their more conventional peers enjoy. Many people believe that such an answer lies in the realm of arts education. In May of 2002, the National Governor’s Association published a study entitled, “The Impact of Arts Education on Workforce Preparation,” which states: “The arts can provide effective learning opportunities to the general student population, yielding increased academic performance, reduced absenteeism, and better skill-building…increased self-esteem; the acquisition of job skills; and the development of much needed creative thinking, problem solving and communications skills.” This means that students receiving an education in the arts – especially those who learn best by doing - find themselves displaying the qualities of an ideal student with increased frequency and intensity. With such prestigious organizations as the National Governor’s Association applauding the effects of an education in the arts, one would be inclined to believe that public schools everywhere were scrambling to begin arts programs in order to reap the stated benefits. However, this is very nearly the opposite of the truth. With the introduction of the No Child Left Behind act, already sparse funding for the arts in elementary and secondary schools was reduced even further to funnel money towards math and reading initiatives. (Never mind that a 2006 study conducted in Page 3 New York by the R. David Guggenheim museum reveals notable literary improvements in students who had an opportunity to experience the arts in their classrooms on a regular basis.) Following this trend, arts education in our schools decreases exponentially as the years pass. The early Primary grades are colored by learning through visual art, movement, and music. As the elementary school years come to an end, the arts are removed from the curriculum and funneled into separate classes, poorly funded programs that allow a very limited number of students to explore one artistic discipline. Is it any wonder that middle school, the time that shows the sharpest decrease in exposure to the arts, is the time when many students lose their interest in education, an interest that never returns? The previously mentioned study by the National Governor’s Association suggests that at-risk or incarcerated youth become more valuable members of society when provided with a more solid foundation in the arts. It would seem, then, that the logical thing to do would be to attempt to prevent the initial slide by continuing in-class art into the middle- and high-school years. In his article, “School Reform Strategy,” R. Craig Sautter presents the idea of an arts-integrated school. In such a school, Sautter explains, the arts should not be set apart for blocks of time in separate rooms, but should be prominently displayed throughout the entirety of the curriculum. In his ideal school, students would spend the majorities of their days working together to supplement their core content with music, dance, drama, and visual art. Contrary to popular fears, the arts are no taught in spite of, but in conjunction with traditional languages, maths, and sciences in such a way that every program benefits and the students find themselves able to creatively and effectively apply their new skills to real-world situations. The director of the National Arts Education Research Center in New York, Jerrold Ross, explained the idea of arts integration in the math room: “I don’t see how you can teach mathematics, for example, without visual representation of what mathematical concepts are all about. It inevitably leads you to figures, shapes, forms, which are best illustrated through real art.” Many things are best done through real art – but, as many people are quick to point out, this also requires real money. Many schools have decided to use what little funding they have on programs directly involved with math or science in order to comply with the No Child Left Behind Act and get desired results on standardized tests. A 1999 study by the Arts Education Partnership and President’s Committee On The Arts And Humanities entitled “Champions in Change: The Impact Of The Arts On Learning” concludes that students with a rich arts education do, in fact, do better than their less educated peers on tests – not only in the areas of the arts, but every area. People in Fairfax County realized this, and founded the Fairfax Arts Coalition for Education, a group dedicated to advocating for arts in schools. Through their concern, they have succeeded in persuading their board of education to adjust the budget, allowing for more arts in the curriculum. After all, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, cites that one student dropping out and becoming involved with drug abuse or crime can cost taxpayers $1,700,000 to $2,300,000 annually. Such money could be far better spent teaching the arts to the students at risk of this fate, keeping their interest in education alive, and helping them to become valuable members of society. Through the years, man has been set apart from animals partially by their ability to create and appreciate art. But even animals know enough to teach their young in a way that will get their point across and encourage them to lead fulfilling lives. Perhaps humans should take a page from them, and consider going to their school boards and demanding an education for their children that truly helps them learn. The River City Players of Atherton High School presents a workshop prodution of December 19,20, and 21 7:pm Atherton High School 300 Dundee Road A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare Fairies, Lovers and Bottom OH MY! Editorials The Aerial Page 4 No Child Left Behind Act: Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Few Students Left Appropriately Prepared for Secondary Education By Taylor Fiske W e all know what it’s like to be young. We know what it’s like to be told you can do anything and that you have the world at your disposal. You don’t have to worry about making a decision anytime soon. It seems, though, that many of us high school students still haven’t made up our mind, even with college and the “real world” on the horizon. According to the University of Missouri in St. Louis, approximately 30-40 percent of incoming freshmen enter college undecided on what their major will be. Seventy to eighty percent of college freshmen will eventually change their majors. If so many students are unsure of what they’d like to do, why aren’t we helping them? High schools should make a strong effort to put students on their career paths early in high school, so that in college these students have a clear idea of what they like to do and would like to be involved in for the rest of their lives. The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 is, in theory, an excellent program designed to boost the performance of America’s public schools. However, what it tends to do is hold back students who may be exceptionally gifted while they wait for everyone else to catch up. No Child Left Behind assumes that all students are geared towards academic learning, and lowers the standards of achievement so that more people have the opportunity to achieve. It’s like shortening a marathon to one mile so that everyone gets to finish; those who could do more never get the chance to achieve more, and it waters down the word “success” for everyone. Students should be allowed to take classes that coincide with the skills and interests they have developed or are interested in developing. Instead of forcing everyone to take the same classes and meet the same requirements, it would be far more sensible to make classes available that may not be your standard math or science-related class but still retain the sense of purpose that America holds so dearly. Students interested in pursu- ing a career in journalism shouldn’t have to sit in a physics class they will be destined to struggle in. For schools to assume that all students can, or even want to, learn the skills they deem important is ignoring individuality and attempting to mold students into what they “should” be. It funnels kids into one narrow stream, drying up the ocean of possibility we tell them they have as children. This is coming from the same country that has prescribed Adderall and Ritalin to over two million kids for Attention Deficit Disorder because they can’t focus and do what is asked of them in our schools. I am sixteen years old and the only time my school has talked to me about my future in college was when a counselor came by and distributed a flyer to the students in one of my classes. The lines of communication between counselors and students about college are inadequate, and just raise more questions that never seem to get answered. Students need to be made aware of what opportunities they have and how they can take advantage of them. If students don’t have any idea what they want to do, it makes choosing a college that much more difficult. Distance and tuition costs are important when picking a school, but it might also help to have a little idea of what you’d like to get out of college. In America, it seems we want students to do countless five-year plans and personality tests to plan for the future, but they seem to confuse students even more. There are so many options out there; telling students they need to have these certain requirements met and a definite plan for college will only make them anxious and afraid. We need to do a better job allowing students to explore their own interests before college so that they can have some idea of what they’ll do in college. It seems this would appease America’s desperate plea for productivity as well as the need to recognize our diverse student population. Instead, we are still letting standardized tests determine what we teach in schools. Students are all individual people and deserved to be treated as such by America’s education system. Join The Aerial and Contribute to Your School and Community By:Gibson Culbreth A t one point in its history, The Aerial was one of Atherton’s more important extracurricular programs. For three decades, the early fifties to seventies, it was one of the best student written and run papers in Kentucky, and until only a couple years ago it had been an Atherton tradition laid to rest. This year the staff of the Aerial is made up of a group of fantastic people. They are talented, dedicated and excited about the products they have turned out so far. There is one problem though… most of them are seniors. While this has been the best year for the paper in a long time, the year is halfway over. It’s time to start thinking about what’s going to happen next year. With only three underclassmen in Mr. Rhinehart’s 7th period Journalism class right now, the prospect of losing all of the ground the seniors have struggled to gain seems all too possible. If you love writing, reporting, or just exploring interesting topics you might want to consider joining the staff of the Aerial next year. The paper also needs photographers and anyone interested in graphic design. A paper that isn’t attractive to the eye is usually one that doesn’t get a lot of attention. Why join the staff? Well, first of all, to support your school. As cheesy as it sounds, I’m sure you want to make your mark in high school. This is a great way to do it. The Aerial is an important part of Atherton’s history, and hopefully it’s future as well. One thing that the staff puts a lot of emphasis on is that our school newspaper is both written and run by students. A vast majority of the articles are written by students, in the class we have a hierarchy to keep people focused and because of all of this work the Aerial is almost completely independent. Mr. Rhinehart is officially the Journalism teacher, but he’s more of an advisor. The staff is completely made up of students who write, read and edit each others work. Since the Aerial has such an open forum the paper enjoys more freedoms. Atherton trusts the newspaper staff to know what to print, and that’s a big deal. You may not get a lot of say in what goes on in other places of the school, but if you are on the staff of the Aerial, you will be able to provide and participate in a free forum where you can be heard by all. It’ll also look great on a college application. As of next year all of the editor positions will be open and that is a great way to show responsibility and leadership skills. Both traits are things colleges look for in stu- dents applying to their schools. It’s a little extra work, but it’s definitely worth it. Another perk to joining the newspaper is improvement in writing skills, which you are going to need for the rest of your life. You know those transactive pieces for your portfolio? If you are on the Aerial’s staff then you are going to be writing them every six weeks, and you’re going to want to write something good. Since you are writing them for the paper though you probably won’t take the typical portfolio approach to it, and that will make it a lot better. Then your English grade may improve. The Aerial has finally gotten back to an excellent standard. Other high schools, some of which have Communications as a magnet, are astoundingly jealous of Atherton’s Aerial. We are beginning to gain the notoriety we once wore proudly on our sleeve. Please keep this tradition going. If you want to join the staff of the Aerial, sign up for Journalism as a class when you schedule for next year. If you want to submit a piece for publication this year see Mr.Rhinehart, talk to a member of the staff or send it to: [email protected]. This is a your forum and The Aerial strongly appreciates your opinions, input, and support. Arts Mellwood Arts and Entertainment Center The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 An Interview With Mellwood Artist Mike Fulkerson By : Martha Worland Mellwood Arts and Entertainment Center is a community of working artists, run by artists, full of artists and for everyone. In recent years Louisville has bloomed with artists. Studios, galleries, art schools and museums, all have become more common in Louisville as time has gone on. There was a time when the places we know as the hip and the trendy, as the art hot spots, were office buildings, factories, stores, homes, fields and so many other things. One such place is Mellwood Arts and Entertainment Center. Right now it is being transformed from the meat packing company it once was into a community for the arts. With studios, galleries, unique shops and even an art supply store and gym, Mellwood is certainly one of the most unique places in Louisville. And if you enjoy art in any way- you will probably find something you will enjoy there. Mellwood is certainly different then what the people who worked there when it was a factory used to see every day. There are, however, some things that have remained the same. In fact one of the main reasons that Mellwood has gotten so much attention is because in transforming the factory, they were also able to preserve a building that has stood for over 100 years. When you around you can see that the building itself hasn’t changed too much. Mellwood is still certainly different from what the workers in the 1900’s saw every day, but at the same time some things have remained the same or similar. The brick and plaster walls and the twent- foot ceilings have not changed much from the original construction of the building in 1904, or even from the additions that latter came in the mid 1900’s. The old slaughterhouse is still under construction, and there are few studios in that part of the center. It is probably one of the places that look most like the original. John Clark purchased the property in 2003, after the old owners closed it in 2002, and began working on transforming it quickly. Though at first the center might have been something very different, like an antique mall or apartments, most of the ideas lent themselves to an art theme more then anything else. There were many inquires before the use of the old factory was decided. When the Mellwood team started to make contracts and allow artists and entrepreneurs to reserve space there were many people who were interested. There were already at least 130 people signed on to be tenants by October of 2004. Mellwood is now one of the most unique establishments in Louisville. When it is completely finished, it is expected to be the largest center of its type in the US. It is based primarily on the similar Pendleton Arts Center in Cincinnati and the Torpedo Factory Arts Center in Alexandria, VA. There are over 200 artists and entrepreneurs at Mellwood currently, and the center continues to grow. In just three and a half years the number of artist studios has gone up from 30 to 190 art studios. A lot more then art happens at Mellwood. There have been many events and festivals held there. A couple are the KinoLouisville’s fall Page 5 Kabaret, and the Good Folk Fest. KinoLouisville is a branch of the Kino group, and one of only three branches in the US. Kino itself is an international group of film makers and the Kabaret is a festival unique to Kino. The Good Folk Fest is an art festival that consists of artists and musicians whose work is Folk in nature. These aren’t the only events at Mellwood though. Both of the Event Rooms are also very popular. They are rented for weddings, receptions, parties and the like. Over 200 brides have had their weddings and/or receptions there since 2006. Because of the low rental prices at Mellwood, it is a chance for artists and entrepreneurs alike to try something with out getting in over their heads. One such case is found in Patti Fadel and her cake shop on “retail ally”. When she first started her business she took a plunge, a risk that may or may not have worked out. She is also about to take another. In January she will be opening a café to go along with her other business, Elegance in Kentucky, at Mellwood. When I talked to her in her cake and gift wrapping shop she told me, “I look at the café as my baking heaven, and any extra it brings in will just be icing on the cake.” She also told me about the trouble she has during the holidays, “I get so many orders that I have to turn people away, and I hate to do it, but there is only so much I can do.” Not all of the tenants at Mellwood were new to the art world before coming to Mellwood, though. Mike Fulkerson, an artist whose drawings explore social interactions or the lack of them, was already successful before he came to Mellwood. His artwork for the band My Morning Jacket’s album Z has helped him gain more attention in the art world. As he said, “Everyone who bought it now has a piece of my artwork in their home and I have been told for a fact that that includes Conan O’Brian, David Letterman, and Jack Black!” In my interview with him he also mentioned that just being at Mellwood with its history, high concentration of other artists and unfinished corners, ensures that he always has ideas… Even if sometimes the work going on in other halls can make it difficult to concentrate in the middle of the day. Another artist who was successful before their arrival at Mellwood and is also on the center’s staff is Scooter Davidson. She is the leasing and marketing director for Mellwood Arts and Entertainment Center. When John Clark came to her and asked her to be one of three people in charge of Mellwood she was intrigued. “He wanted artists to run the leasing, marketing, and outreach of Mellwood and not the real estate agents or outside public relations firms…” She also has a studio at Mellwood, but has little time to “do her own thing”. She also told me that the only thing she would change about Mellwood is the lack of artists’ residents on the property. Mellwood with its unique atmosphere and abundance of original art is also probably one of the best places in Louisville to get Christmas presents this year. One thing is for sure not only is it more interesting then places like the mall or other chain stores, you can be sure that anything you get there is going to be one of a kind. As Scooter says, “Skip the mall. Do the Mell.” The Visitation Mike Fulkerson Fulkerson: Sometimes its hard to work when someone is cutting concrete or wood in the next hall. They are still converting lots of areas from slaughterhouse to artist studios. Most of that work goes on during the daytime hours however, and I usually work in the early mornings and evenings, so its usually pretty easy for me to avoid that headache. Q: What is your favorite part about working and renting studio space at Mellwood Art and Entertainment Center? Q: How do you feel about your success on the cover art of My Morning Jacket’s newer album Z? Fulkerson: The greatest thing about having a studio at the Mellwood is the close proximity it puts me to other creative individuals. It’s a really great place to network with other artists and to tap into some creativity. The Mellwood also does a pretty good job of putting together events that draw people in from the community to see what’s going on in the local art scene, Fulkerson: I’ve got to admit that it’s pretty cool to have my artwork be part of a record that made Rolling Stone’s Top 10 albums of 2005. That album got huge press and lots of people bought it. Everyone who bought it now has a piece of my artwork in their home and I have been told for a fact that that includes Conan O’Brian, David Letterman, and Jack Black! There are six of us artists that were asked to make artwork for the album and I believe that we are all equally amazed with the success that it has brought us. Q: Has there been more attention to your artwork since the album was released? which I think is one of the finest in the Southeast. I also manage the Artist & Craftsman Supply at the Mellwood, which makes it extremely easy to work in my studio before and after work, and even during lunch-breaks if I choose to. Fulkerson: Yes there has, which is pretty amazing because I’m hard to get in touch with. I don’t have a Fulkerson’s artwork can be seen in My website yet which makes Morning Jacket’s Z album booklet . networking a little tough. Fulkerson: If I choose But as soon as I get the site up and going to take advantage of the many perks of being (slated for this winter), the guys in MMJ have a tenant there, such as showing at the Melltold me that they would link their page to mine. wood’s Pigment Gallery, and participating in I’m sure that this will bring me more attention. the Final Friday gallery hop, I’m sure it would give me more exposure. However I use my stuQ: How did you get the job of creating the dio there simply for what it is... a studio. I love new cover art? having a place away from home where I can focus on my work and make a mess of things Fulkerson: I have been friends with the guys if I choose to. Its hard to get really creative at in My Morning Jacket for quite a long time... home when I have to keep relatively tidy in since they were playing coffee shops and other order to not destroy my house with ink and tiny shows. Johnny Quaid, the founding guitarpaint and such. ist, is actually one of my oldest friends in the world. We met way back in high school and Q: Do you feel that working at Mellwood imwere in art class together. We used to always proved your artwork in any way or helped you hang out and draw and record goofy songs in grow as an artist? his basement. Anyway, over the years John ended up owning a few of my drawings. Later Fulkerson: I do believe that the Mellwood has on, after MMJ was formed, Jim James, the had a positive impact on my art for the reasons singer and songwriter, saw some of my drawalready given, but another perk of working ings at John’s place and really liked them. As there is that if I ever hit a road-block of some soon as they began working on Z, Jim called sort while working on a drawing, I can leave me up and asked me to contribute artwork for my studio and walk the halls for a while. I’ve the booklet. The rest is history. always been able to find some inspiration walking the halls there, be it through conversaQ: Have there been any other artists who have tion with other artists, or finding some hidden contacted you about creating the cover art for part of the building that hasn’t been developed their albums? yet. The old slaughterhouse parts of that place are really bizarre and creepy, which naturally Fulkerson: Yes there have, and I am currently stimulates creativity of some sort. working on album art for someone that I’m not able to talk about just yet. It is someone I am Q: Is it at any time difficult working there? extremely proud to be working with. Have there been problems, complications or drawbacks? Q: Do you believe that working there has made you better known as an artist? Arts The Aerial Page 6 Hunter S. Thompson: The American Dream JEREMY CLARK Artwork by Anthony Heiskell The American Dream dropped ten hits of acid, took a few snorts of cocaine, and developed a sense of humor, all in 1971. The long road that led to this new perspective started in 1937 when Hunter S. Thompson was born in Louisville, Kentucky. Essentially from a blue-collar background, he strived to achieve his goals, which were to become the Great American Writer and to document “the death of the American Dream.” His scathing humor, unconventional journalism, and penchant for chemical intake of all sorts paint a very negative picture in the eyes of many. However, it was precisely the way he worked, his being Hunter S. Thompson, which no one else can do, that blew apart the Old World journalism that had started to crack. In declaring “the death of the American Dream”, Hunter S. Thompson embodied an American Dream that rose from the ashes. It was an American Dream for the twentieth century. Hunter Thompson’s childhood was quite tumultuous, at least as much as the rest of his life. He attended Atherton High School until the death of his father in 1952, which may have prompted him to transfer to Male High School. Spending lots of time in the Highlands, Thompson’s group of friends were considerably wealthier than he. A big fan of pranks, he was always causing trouble whenever he could. Their mischievous behavior escalated to the point where he and his friends were arrested for robbing a liquor store. His friends had rich fathers, Louisville’s elite patriarchs, who bought their way out of jail time. Thompson had neither a father nor money; he sat in his cell the night he should have been graduating high school. not to have a civilian job. Eventually, he was uncovered as the man behind the pseudonym and was also censored from The Command Courier for being too controversial. He was able to talk his way out of the Air Force without getting a dishonorable discharge and soon left to become a journalist. Hunter S. Thompson traversed all sorts of roads and highways, going from small towns to New York City and everywhere in between. Rarely did any of his jobs last long; his idiosyncratic behaviors were often too much for any newsroom to handle. Always down, Hunter never seemed to be completely out. Despite less-than-meager living situations he was convinced that something would come along. Hunter S. Thompson moved to San Francisco in 1964, which had been gaining notoriety for its hippie-drug-underground-hoopla. He published Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs in 1966 after spending a year traveling with the Hell’s angels, a notoriously rowdy bunch of motorcycle-riding, free-spirited outlaws who later ruined the Altamont Music Festival in 1969. Thompson’s run with the Angels ended with his being “stomped” by Hell’s Angels when they realized he was being paid for the book. Hunter Thompson became critical of the hippie movement. Unlike the Beats or the New Left, the hippies lacked any motivation or conviction and instead, just wanted to get drugs. In later novels, most infamously Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Hunter Thompson would continue to express criticism for the sixties’ counterculture and its decadent persona. Hunter S. Thompson went on to run for sheriff of Aspen, Colorado in 1970, which prompted him to write an article about his candidacy for Rolling Stone magazine. He only narrowly lost the election, surprisingly, and he began his job as a writer for Rolling Stone. It was Rolling Stone that went on to publish his most famous work, Fear and Loathing In Las Vegas, A Savage Journey To The Heart of The American Dream, 1971. Fear and Loathing was an unplanned birth. What was supposed to be a two hundred and fifty word summary turned into a twenty-five hundred word feature story published for Rolling Stone magazine in 1971. Thompson’s exploration of the death of the sixties’, the shambles that is the American Dream and excess consumerism has made Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas a hugely successful book. Documenting the journey of Raoul Duke and Dr. Gonzo to Las Vegas for a narcotics’ convention and the Mint 400 motorcycle race, all while under the influence of an encyclopedic list of illegal substances, Fear and Loathing is considered the best example of Gonzo journalism ever written; it has been regarded by some as the best book on the sixties’ counterculture. Hunter S. Thompson continued to write many novels until his death in 2005. Fear and Loathing On The Campaign Trail, 1972, Kingdom of Fear and The Great Shark Hunt are among the novels he wrote after what he always referred to as” the Vegas book.” The Great American Author appealed to Hunter Thompson. He admired F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway. One of his favorite things to do was to rewrite the novels The Great Gatsby and A Farewell to Arms repeatedly; this made him feel like he knew what it felt like to write this great novels. He was convinced that he was “the next F. Scott Fitzgerald.” Hunter S. Thompson spent a few years in the Air Force after high school. He was an unruly recruit; one might even say an oft-inebriated recruit. He did find the Air Force useful, though. While stationed at the Eglin Air Force Base in Florida he was the sports editor of the on-site newspaper The Command Courier. Hunter also wrote for an off-base paper under a pseudonym, since as a recruit he was Hunter S. Thompson relaxing on beach in Puerto Rico as seen on cover of The Rum Diary. “Politics is the art of controlling your environment.” -Hunter S. Thompson Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Hunter S. Thompson’s declaration of the death of the American Dream culminated in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. In Vegas, Hunter S. Thompson criticizes the hippies, who lack the purpose of the Beat generation from which it morphed. At the end of the sixties, the hippie movement had become nothing more than jaded cynicism, and all the optimism of their youth was now empty and meaningless. Those people who wanted change, and wanted it NOW, had given up; much of their gusto had died with Jim Morrison in a Paris bathtub and had choked on barbiturate-induced vomit. Their optimism had been ambushed in Vietnam, and assassinated in Dallas, Texas and Memphis, Tennessee. The hippie movement wanted to change, but instead it chose to go after escapism, and their acid-fried brains could only continue to pick flowers from the ground and like tie-dye shirts. The hippie movement and all its brilliant shimmering would fade away without ever meaning anything. Those whose brains survived Acid Tests and the Tet Offensive now gave up the beliefs of their youth, donned suits, and pursued the ultra-consumer materialistic progress they previously rebelled against. To Hunter S. Thompson, this was the death of the American Dream. Innocence was dead, and now American mainstream capitalism had full control. The hippies lost, and it was their fault. Hunter S. Thompson grew out of a blue-collar situation, then sleazed and burned his way to the top. His methods were ruthless; “never apologize, never explain” was one of his “Rules of Gonzo.” Living hand-to-mouth and mooching off people around him, he remained optimistic that his determination would pay off. A bright yet troubled student, he didn’t let his own social deficiencies keep him from achieving his goals. He merely broke the rules as he saw fit and rewrote the rule book completely. A driving force of New Journalism, Hunter S. Thompson set new standards - both high and low - for everyone. He was always in control. He took his own life knowing his body was deteriorating. He knew the drugs and the alcohol years had aged him incredibly and it was his time to go. Hunter S. Thompson said the American Dream was dead. This was the old one; he had redesigned a new American Dream whether he meant to or not. This one was for those who couldn’t, or wouldn’t, succumb to the rules set before us. Those who work hard and still can’t get ahead because of the standards set before us must reinvent those standards and let nothing hold us back. We create our own success out of own hard work. We are always in control of our destinies, whatever they may be. And if you buy the ticket, you take the ride. Arts The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 Atherton Lays Claim to Best-Selling Mystery Series Author: Sue Grafton GIBSON CULBRETH Contributing Writer: Matthew Rhinehart O ften is the case when the average high school student looks around at his or her school and thinks that his or her school is, well… average. In some of these cases, the surrounding neighborhood of the student’s school is average – the scenery, the people, the action are all run-of-the mill stuff; nothing special seems to have germinated where they now stand. The student may even wonder, wouldn’t it be cool if someone talented and famous stood where I now stand? An Atherton student has little to go on when attempting to confirm suspicions that his or her school is of the ho-hum variety – one almost senses the special-ness that permeates the air each time he or she enters the building. Still, many Atherton students may be unaware of the number of now talented and famous individuals also called themselves Rebels for a time, and that maybe some of these people once physically stood where they do now. Yes, some of these former students went on to become sport stars of their era, Charlie Tyra, University of Louisville’s first basketball All-American being a good example. But a much larger number of Atherton’s luminaries are of the literary kind, which is not surprising when one considers that for several decades Atherton was the school, academically speaking. When reflecting on this fact, it is not shocking to see two famous writers – Sue Grafton and Hunter S. Thompson – among the list of Atherton students who attended the school during the 1950’s, the decade best known for McCarthyism and hula-hoops. “Having reached the halfway mark in the alphabet, my prime focus is on writing each new book as well as I can.” -Sue Grafton yearbook. In addition, Grafton’s attendance at Atherton is noted on several standard websites like Wikipedia. It would be intriguing to report details of Grafton’s school days from her point-of-view, which The Aerial is hoping to report in a near future issue. Request for a personal interview, submitted through snail-mail due to lack of e-mail contact on Grafton’s part, are undoubtedly backlogged in a stack of autograph request at the time of this report. Born in April 24th, 1940 in Louisville, Ky., Sue Grafton grew-up in the Highlands in a household in which writing was common. Grafton’s father, C.W. Grafton, primarily supported his family as a lawyer, but he also wrote mystery novels on the side. The Rat Began to Gnaw the Rope (1943) and The Rope Began to Hang the Butcher (1944) were C.W. Grafton’s firsts of four published novels. Grafton did not truly begin working on her craft until the year after graduating Atherton, at the age of eighteen. Four years later, Grafton finally completed her first of seven novels – two of which were eventually published. Unable to find early success with her fiction writing, Grafton screen wrote made-for-television movies during the 1970’s. Two of these television movies – A Caribbean Mystery and Sparkling Cyanide – were based on Agatha Christie novels. It seems that structuring screen adaptations for a mystery-writing heavyweight such as Christie inspired Grafton to try her hand at writing in the mystery genre once again. Before graduating the University of Louisville with a degree in English in 1961, Grafton attended Atherton from 1953 to 1957. Even though there is little trace of her pre-celebrity roots on the internet, her picture can be spotted in any yellowed 1955 Torch This time around, New York Times best-selling paperback status did not elude Grafton. All of her book writing success rest solely on her “Alphabet Series” novels. Each mystery title is based on a letter of the alphabet, and is released in corresponding order. For example, Grafton’s first novel in the series, published in 1982, was titled “A” Is for Alibi, followed by “B” Is for Burglar (1985), “C” Is for Corpse (1986), and so on. Grafton’s twentieth novel of the series, “T” Is for Trespass, was recently released earlier this month. Each novel in the “Alphabet Series” is told from the point-of-view of Kinsey Millhone, a private investigator who lives in Santa Teresa, California. Like Angela Lansbury from the 1980’s Murder, She Wrote television series, Millhone seems to be involved, somehow, wherever and whenever a creatively gruesome murder takes place, but she has yet to be the focus of serious police inquiry into the crime even though this peculiar pattern has repeated itself twenty times now. And it is this formulaic approach to fiction, among other things such as prose writing skills and social importance, which makes Grafton a source of controversy with some serious readers here at Atherton. Some wonder if a best-selling, “dime-store” genre writer such as Grafton is really such a source of literary pride for a school when it can also claim the likes of Dr.. Thompson, an Atherton attendee whose brilliant, ground-breaking, and highly controversial (morally, socially, and politically) journalism pioneered Gonzo, a style of “new” journalism/fiction that may never be replicated. Page 7 Fortunately for both sides of the debate, this controversy is all a matter of perspective for some, and is the equivalent of comparing apples to oranges for others – Thompson and Grafton are about as different as two people could be that has ever existed. In either case, the fact that both these writers achieved high levels of success as writers, however it may be defined, is inarguable. Both writers have also achieved a high degree of celebrity within their own circles. The points of commonality do not end there. Sure, both writers attended Atherton High School, but the fact that only three years – Thompson being the eldest of the two – separated the two in school makes this piece of trivia a bit more intriguing. Then, there was a brief correspondence between Grafton and Thompson years after high school in which Grafton sought publishing advice from the Good Doctor, which has been famously chronicled in Thompson’s collection of letter correspondence known collectively as The Gonzo Papers. The correspondence between these two writers illustrates the work and pressure involved in the early stages of their careers. Talent is not always enough – in a few instances even talent, at least in the conventional sense of the term, is not a requisite ingredient to reach the pinnacle of an individual’s chosen career path. What is needed is the willingness to sacrifice, and Grafton and Thompson arguably sacrificed much to reach the levels of success they both achieved in the types of writing in which each one engaged. Another ingredient for success is perseverance, and Grafton can certainly be commended for the perseverance she invested into her dream when she was on her way to making a name for herself in the mystery-writing genre. If an Atherton student ever wonders if someone talented and famous stood where he or she now stands, remember there is a good chance it has happened. Moreover, if this Atherton student aspires one day to become a writer of some kind, he or she is attending a school with a literary pedigree most other schools could only wish they could boast. True, one of the two writers to walk the halls bearing Atherton’s name may be studied in an academic context in the years to come, but also being able to lay claim to a best-selling genre writer is definitely something a school can take pride in as well. In any case, regardless of a school’s tradition in producing fame and talent, it takes the willingness, perseverance, and sacrifice of the individual student to make a name for him or herself one day. Article Sources: Thompson, Hunter S. Fear and Loathing in America: The Brutal Odyssey of an Outlaw Journalist. Simon & Shuster, 2007. Wikipedia.org - Sue Grafton Profile (source verified). Features The Aerial Page 8 The Internet You Love, but Know Nothing About: Web 2.0: operating systems to bring internet conISABEL KROME The Internet is changing. Social networking sites, web-based applications on our desktops, user-controlled content, wikis and widgets—these changes in the way developers are using the World Wide Web have led to a new term- Web 2.0. This is a very confusing word for a very important paradigm shift, and so I, pretty much a computer newbie, set out to understand what, exactly, it means. When I first came across the term, I was puzzled by it. Many of the technologies characteristic of Web 2.0 have been around since the early days of the internet. Tim Berners-Lee, one of the two men who launched the World Wide Web in 1991, says that “Web 2.0 is… a piece of jargon, nobody even knows what it means. If Web 2.0 for you is blogs and wikis, then… that was what the Web was supposed to be all along.” Web 2.0 sites have certain things in common, however, even though they are all very different. Rich Internet Applications One of the main ideas behind the design of “Web 2.0” websites is using the network as a platform. That means that applications are completely based off the internet and run entirely in a browser, eliminating the need to install them on the computer. Rich Internet applications, or RIAs, emulate the functionality of traditional desktop applications, but are based out of a browser. For example, applications like GoogleDocuments run out of a browser but have the same function as word processing or spreadsheet software. There have many advantages and disadvantages. They are much more complex than traditional desktop applications, and this makes development harder. They require more up-to-date browsers, and this leads to accessibility concerns. However, they require no installation, and updates/ upgrades are automatic and hassle-free. They are generally less prone to viruses, and they can be run from any computer with an internet connection, regardless of the operating system of the computer. Also, let’s face it, who wants to download and install software when an alternative is available online? tent to the desktop. This means that when Folksonomy a user wants to, for example, check their Folksonomy is also known as “tagging” email, they don’t need to start their browser, go to their email, and log in to their or “social classification.” It is important account just to do that one thing—there’s to websites like facebook.com, a social a widget that’ll tell you when you have networking site where users can “tag” new mail. There are also widgets that show other users in pictures, and del.icio.us, a weather forecasts, connect to social netsocial bookmarking site where users colworking sites to give you updates, and just lectively store, share, and tag web bookmarks. This means that a user can tag a site about anything else developers can think as “bookstore,” for example, and that site of. There are even widgets that automatiis put into a category of other sites tagged cally remind you of upcoming events, and “bookstore” by other users, and users can widgets made to look like post-it notes you then search the tags to find what sites are can move around your desktop. associated with them. 3 Even though most Web 2.0 sites do share these common features, they often Wikis use them to totally different ends. Here are Many Web 2.0 sites use wiki software some examples of widely used Web 2.0 at least partially.The (in?)famous Wikipe- sites: dia.com is the perfect example of this type of website. A wiki, (according to, fittingly, Wikipedia.com) is a collaborative website that can be directly edited by any person with access to it. Pages on a wiki website iGoogle are usually highly cross-referenced with hyperlinks, essentially creating a database Google’s personalized homepage has of interconnected information. It would seem that if anyone can add or alter information, the amount of false input from users would quickly render the site useless as a source of information. However, an important characteristic of a wiki is that the community self-corrects. Each change to a page is recorded and can be debated. If a community is self-scrutinizing enough, the information will tend to be accurate, or at least represent a consensus by that community. opened itself up to the widgets of third party developers, and now users can personalize their homepage to tell them if they have new emails on their gmail account, to give them a horoscope, to play their favorite internet arcade game, to show area gas prices, or even display their favorite comic, updated daily. 6 While it is certainly not the most innovative of the sites I’ve discussed, or even the most widely used, it is the most useful and accessible, with drag-able widgets and as much, or as little, customization as the user would like. A homepage can be simple, or it can be the user’s internet dashboard, where they can monitor all of their other frequent internet activities. Digg.com Widgets A widget is technically just a portable chunk of code stuck into any HTML-based website. They are usually third-party based and have been around since the origin of the Web. Widgets are used in many sites to personalize the content, enabling a user can choose what widgets they want. Now, widgets are used in the desktops of many Digg is a community-based popularity site. News stories, pictures, and videos are submitted by users and then voted onto the front page by a user based ranking system, called “digging.” When a user reads a submission they feel is interesting or important or funny, they “digg” it, and stories with the most diggs are displayed on the front page. Users can only digg a story once, and then it is marked as “dugg” from their account. This keeps people from digging a story multiple times to fraudulently get it more exposure. Digg combines social bookmarking, blogging, Wednesday, December 19, 2007 and syndication in a unique way, making it an indispensable way to waste time on the internet. In fact, trying to look up things on the Internet while writing this always took me back to this site, because searching through it for semantic articles on the concept of Web 2.0 was a perfect excuse to get sidetracked on a news story about why Subway places their cheese in such a geometrically displeasing way, or to discover a new flash game to play with. Facebook.com Facebook.com is a social networking site. Users create accounts in a specific network, whether that be a school, company, geographical region, or, since September 11, 2006, no network at all except your email address. Once users are registered, they can join groups, which can be anything from everyone in the same dorm as you to a group dedicated to the children’s game “The Floor Is Lava!” Users can upload pictures, tag their friends in pictures, be tagged in pictures, and all of the pictures in which a person is tagged are grouped together and linked to that person’s profile. Recently, Facebook has opened itself up to outside applications, which users can add to their page and use to do anything from tell their horoscope, have an online food fight, edit their pictures, and give each other online gifts4. This has set an example for rival social networking site Myspace.com, where a popular application on Facebook is now showing up on people’s Myspace pages. 5 Web 2.0 or just the plain ol’ internet, it is, and will ever remain, the perfect way to goof off. Article Sources: 1. DeveloperWorks Interviews: Tim Berners-Lee (7-282006). (http://www.ibm.com/developerworks/podcast/dwi/ cm-int082206txt.html) 2. Top Ten Reasons to Embrace RIA’s: The Universal Desktop (7-10-2006) (http://blogs.zdnet.com/Stewart/ ?p=52) 3. About del.icio.us (9-10-2007) (http://del.icio.us/about/) 4. “MySpace to Get Popular Facebook Travel App” Tech News Blog (9-6-2007) (http://news.com.com/8301-10784_ 3-9773271-7.html) 5. About Facebook (9-10-2007) (http://www.facebook.com/about.php) 6. Homepage Content Directory (8-29-2007) (http://www. google.com/ig/directory?root=/ig&dpos=top) Features The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 FOR A GOOD TIME CALL ME i GIVE FREE BJS Page 9 Press Conference with John Yarmuth - An Atherton Alumnus A Gonzo Journalist’s Take on the 3rd District Representative BOBBY FISKE He-Man O n November 27th, 2007, I loaded up with a triple shot of espresso from Heine Brothers, grabbed a dingy legal pad and pencil, and put the key into the ignition of my car. Speeding down Broadway in the late afternoon, I passed block upon block of discolored Dairy Marts and Indi’s chicken joints. I parked my car in the lot at The Courier-Journal and took a quick jog over to the Romano Mazzoli Federal building, whose 3rd Congressional District seat John Yarmuth now holds. Entering the building, I passed through the wand waving security ritual, removing my Boy Scout belt in the process. I didn’t take it personally; even the Boy Scouts of America could be considered slightly militant by Homeland Security’s standards. Saying adios to the security officers, I descended the stairwell of the sterile building, straightening my messy hair and bomber jacket. Entering the press conference, I glanced at the front row of early arrivals. They straightened their ties, adjusted their crimson sweaters and cleaned their thick rimmed glasses. I couldn’t help but feel under dressed. I strategically placed myself in the middle row of chairs where I could observe yet still be heard. Among the crowd of my fellow colleagues, I happened to see a few familiar faces from my middle school days. It seems ludicrous that they could go from being hellraisers to high school journalists in just four years, but that’s exactly what happened. A slightly tan man in his late twenties approached the podium with an air of confidence in his voice and profusely thanked us for attending the press conference. After the usual five minutes of kudos and vapid chit-chat, he finally introduced who we all had been waiting to see: Congressman John Yarmuth. Before I dive into the press conference, it is important that you get a bit of background information about Yarmuth. John Yarmuth was born in 1947 right here in Louisville, Kentucky. Graduating from the one and only J. M Atherton High School in 1965, Yarmuth was president of the student government and quite possibly a contributor to the Atherton Aerial. So, when it became apparent the staff of the current Aerial was dedicating an issue focusing on literary heavyweights that attended and/or graduated Atherton High School, my staff and I knew that the Yarmuth press conference was a coincidence that I needed to exploit. It was essential; the story must be done for good or ill. Along the way on Yarmuth’s climb to the top, he began to make a large impression on his hometown when he co-founded The Louisville Eccentric Observer and began to write very opinionated political editorials, all of which makes him relevant to any discussion of influential writers from this city in any context. The Louisville Eccentric Observer, LEO for short, is an alternative newspaper founded by Yarmuth in 1990 with the help of former U of L basketball coach Denny Crum and three capture anything but murmurs on their highdefinition audio recorders. Make no mistake, John Yarmuth is a polished politician. His many years on Marlow Cook’s staff prepared him for events such as this. He responded to the questions in that skillful way that politicians have; they make you think they have answered your question when really all they have done is skirt around possibilities. Giving you what you want to hear and never really giving you a clear response but perhaps one that will satisfy for now. This is some realpolitik if you ask me. Most of them candidate that he agreed with on most issues. Eventually he summed it all up by declaring that he would “back whoever the Democratic Party chooses to nominate.” As Yarmuth gave his closing statements, I stood up and stretched my tired legs. Giving one last look at that sterile cafeteria with its florescent lighting and stuffy inhabitants, I ascended the stairs into the crisp night air. Twirling my keys and breathing in real air, devoid of politics, I drove off down Broadway towards Crescent Hill under miles of green lights. By the time I passed Phoenix Hill Tavern, a persistent thought kept running through my mind; it was very nice to have firsthand access to Congressman John Yarmuth – I couldn’t help but wonder if one day Mr. Yarmuth and I will trade places, and if one day a student from my Alma Mater will be writing an article about me. Questions I didn’t get to ask Mr. Yarmuth but would have liked to: 1. As a Congressman, do you find it difficult to put aside your own opinions about things when voting for the people you represent? John Yarmuth 3rd District Representative; D-Ky Illustration by: Anthony Heiskell other investors. do it, so can I hold “He answered like a politician. Yarmuth assumed it against a man He never stated which candidate like John Yarmuth? the role of editor and contributed a was the most qualified; instead weekly political In fact, he gave some reasons why each article. when asked how When his background in candidate would be good.” asked how his journalism aids experience as a journalist aids in his career in his career in politics, Yarmuth responded, “It congress Yarmuth responded, “It’s a phenomhelps for me to find the most important points enal background for politics. Interestingly in any issue. There are certain things being enough I’m first member of the society of interpreted by different audiences in differprofessional journalists to be elected to Conent ways.” These two statements show that gress.” Yarmuth is watching his tongue now that he But I digress. Back to the program at hand. Yarmuth can be described as a sharp man of average height with brown, intelligent eyes. Starting off the press conference with a continuation of the normal expressing of gratitude to the attendees, Yarmuth quickly changed gears, giving us the opportunity to ask him questions. Despite his WAVE 3 television debate series, Yarmuth & Ziegler, Yarmuth surprised me with his performance at the press conference. Avoiding eye contact with the people who were asking the difficult questions, he spoke with a soft voice and I’d be surprised if the other high school journalists were able to is in office, rather than openly expressing the opinions he once gave in his weekly address to the readers of LEO. When party lines are drawn, Yarmuth plays his part perfectly. When I asked him who he thought was the best candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, Yarmuth responded exactly how I expected he would. He answered like a politician. He never stated which candidate was the most qualified; instead he gave some reasons why each candidate would be good. He said that electing Obama would change how the rest of the world perceives the United States and that Hillary Clinton had plenty of experience, which I would have loved to discuss. Then he decided that Edwards was the 2. As a worker for a Senator, did you get a draft deferment during the Vietnam war? 3. Do you find yourself changing your opinions in favor of the opinions of Kentuckians as a whole? 4. What connections have you built in your time in Washington that replace Anne Northup’s former connections? 5. As a graduate of Atherton, what would you say to present day students of your Alma Mater? These questions are simply but “Eccentric Observances” that I am sure any member of The Aerial staff would have asked a congressman if given the opportunity. Features The Aerial Page 10 Wednesday, December 19, 2007 The Aerial’s Holiday Anti-Shopping Guide The meaning of the holidays re-evaluated. TARA MONTGOMERY T his time of the year, it isn’t easy to avoid sales pitches being crammed down your throat at every turn. The repetitious commercials, happy jingles, and the plethora of ads stuffed into the Sunday paper try to wrap you up into Christmas spirit, the so-called “spirit of giving”. In efforts to promote selflessness people are constantly talking about how great it is to give, but who is it we are really giving to? As usual, it’s the big businesses and corporations who rake in the profit, often at the expense of others. This holiday season, trying to shop for those who have everything, make the effort to improve the lives of those who have nothing. Following are some suggestions for gifts that give, in more ways than one. Charities and Organizations the package usually includes at the least an article of clothing, along with a toy. An idea for those choosing to participate in this particular charity would be to split it with a friend, due to the higher cost. By giving to this organization you will provide for a child who may otherwise have nothing but disappointment on Christmas morning. Noteworthy national charities are Toys for Tots, Family Giving Tree, and Operation Christmas Child. Further information about these charities can be easily found online. Gifts and Donations Combined Everyone has certain causes and charities that are close to their heart. Whether you support funding for the environment, AIDS research, or breast cancer, there are multitudes of gifts available that benefit these foundations. So, if you do choose to buy presents, but still want your money to go to something worthwhile, these gifts are the way to go. Below are some gift options that also include donations. • TheDailyGreen. com offers a ton of environmentally conscious gifts, for everyone from babies to pets. Also on the websites are lists, helpful to holiday shopping, such as toys made in the US, and organic shopping suggestions. The first thing to come to mind at the thought of gift giving isn’t usually giving 350 Christmas trees were burned in a bonfire to someone you’ve never on the south shore of Utah Lake. even me. Friends, family, and significant others are always at the top of our lists. For that hard-to-buy-for person, we • PRODUCT(RED) are popular, highalways end up finding one thing or another, scale items which benefit the Global Fund, and regardless of how impractical a gift it may African AIDS programs. The official website be. The amount of stress that goes along with is JoinRed.com, and they have an extensive holiday shopping seems unavoidable, though amount of items available for purchase, from in fact there is a possible alternative. Tell brands such as Apple, Converse, and The Gap. those on your list that this year you’re going to Many of the items featured on the website can give solely to charities. They may look at you also be found in stores in the mall. strange for a second, but to almost anyone this is an awfully admirable gesture. • UNICEF, a charity aimed at child Outside any major retailer during this time of protection and development worldwide, uses year, you start to see the familiar red buckets, fund raising as a way to carry out it’s goals. and hear repetitious ringing of bells, an obvious Their online catalogue offers plenty of prodattempt to get attention from shoppers. Most ucts, allowing you to easily support this wellrecognize these as the efforts of the Salvation established and successful organization. Army, a famous organization hoping to give to those with serious financial struggles this holiday season. With monetary woes sweeping Finally, if you’re completely opposed the city for many, every bit of the money raised to the notion of your money falling into the is guaranteed to be used, and appreciated. The wrong hands, there’s always the option availdonations are coming slower this year than able to make your own holiday presents. So, usual, though, due to rising gas prices and other if you don’t want to support the overgrown factors increasing the cost of living, so every businesses that are running rampant this time penny received will surely make a difference to of the year, put in a little added time and efa local family. fort, and be your own means of production. The Angel Tree is another very If nothing else, it will be worth it to avoid the popular holiday charity. Through this charity, crowded shopping centers and angry customyou’ll provide gifts for a local impoverished ers, allowing you to create and revel in your child. The average amount spent on each of own Christmas cheer. these “angels” is around 50 to 75 dollars, and 1551 Bardstown Rd. Louisville KY 40405 502-456-6911 homeskateshop.com Features The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 Page 11 Atherton High School is Jam-Packed with Musical Talent HANNAH RAPP KICK , CRASH, BOOM, BAM! On paper, these onomatopoeia may sound like they are coming from the pots and pans in our kitchen, but they are actually the sounds of creativity, passion, and talent. They are the sounds of music, in the air here at Atherton. Atherton is a place where it isn’t considered ‘nerdy’ to play an instrument, and although each music class is different, the majority of musicians around school say that it’s a great feeling. So here’s a view of each class, at a glance…. BAND Learning about music doesn’t only take drive, eagerness, and practice, it also takes a great teacher to keep you interested, fresh, and motivated. Atherton has this type of teachers, not only in its core classes, but also in its music rooms. Each teacher has talent and passion for music as well as a background of multiple music positions, and they work hard at using all of it in order to be the best. “I chose to teach band because I like working with young people and I have a passion for music,” confesses Sarah McClave. Ruled by Ms. McClave, band at Atherton has shown tremendous success because of her dedication and talent. But even she says that the student musicians at Atherton have made all the difference. “The readers should know that the band at this school works really hard and we have a topnotch ensemble!” she points out. “They’ve improved immensely. We’ve gone from 30 to 70 players and received distinguished [ratings] every year since I’ve been teaching. Also, our jazz band is one of the best in the state and we’ve added a percussion ensemble class.” Band also gets professionals from each instrument to teach them every week, but the class can improve by getting even Number three in the county, chorus has been continuously amazing with the voices of our classmates and of course the ‘energizer bunny’ Mr. Lin, Atherton’s chorus teacher. Chorus may come across as confusing and difficult, yet beautiful and mysterious, and that’s because it is. There is a mixture of Bel Canto, Chorus, Chamber Singers, and Mixed Chorus all rolled into one, but for Amanda Boden, a senior and singer for Bel Canto, it is all a matter of how you look at it. “I love that I get the chance to sing,” she says. “Mr. Lin is top-notch. Whoever comes next year should have it pretty easy, just as long as they go by his rules and guidelines. “Every music class has worked just as much as any kind of sports team, and we are just as good. How come we don’t get a pep rally?” more students involved. “What I like most about band is that I am challenged every day, and at Atherton I feel accepted. I don’t have to hide my talent,” preaches Dion Henry, a junior drummer in Atherton’s band. Mr. Robinson, the current band student teacher also notes that Atherton’s band is very fortunate to be one of the school’s most valuable assets. “Once a close relationship between teachers and their students is established, the sky is the limit in terms of success,” he notes CHORUS Left: Atherton High School Band performs at The Kentucky Center for the Arts. Photo by Evan Taylor, digitally enhanced by Zach Leamy Right: Atherton high School’s Mixed Chorus performing at the Annual Winter Concert under the direction of Steve Lin. Photo by Evan Taylor, digitally enhanced by Zach Leamy He’s been following them for many years at Atherton, and they haven’t steered us wrong yet.” There will be many events this year that shouldn’t be missed, and they will be the final showings before their teacher, Mr. Lin retires. Be there. ORCHESTRA Orchestra at Atherton has come a very long way. Students are making a bigger, richer sound than before, because they are getting to play more of the advanced level music, according to Mr. Dougherty, Atherton’s orchestra teacher. Each class period is filled with auditions, coaching, sectionals, and rehearsals in order to keep them up to date. “Our students know more about the history and philosophy behind the creation of high school students,” says Mr. Dougherty. When asked how Atherton’s orchestra compares to others schools, Tiara Phoenix responded, “If you gave us a piece of music that we have never seen before and told us to play it, we would play it with all we’ve got. We have determination, while other schools would get tired of it and don’t seem to take it as seriously.” She adds, “Our only problem is that we don’t have enough money to satisfy our needs. We barely have enough instruments for everyone.” Just like a sports team, each music class has made its way to the top, and all that Atherton needs to do is recognize it. “Every music class has worked just as much as any kind of sports team, and we are just as good. How come we don’t get a pep rally?” asks Dion. Chorus classes with Mr. Lin, band classes with Ms. McClave, and orchestra classes with Mr. Dougherty have all received a distinguished in KMEA since they’ve been teaching. KMEA is one of the most important festivals that any high school musician can play each year. “ It’s like the CATS test for music,” notes Ms. McClave. As a community, we sometimes forget about our fellow musicians as we get lost in our own music, but teachers like Mr. Lin, Ms. McClave, and Mr. Dougherty have driven and are driving our musicians to higher heights, and right now they have reached that note. They deserve a round of applause and a standing ovation. Job well done! Reviews The Aerial Page 12 No Country for Old Men By: Miles Smith 3.5/4 It was Thanksgiving weekend when my mother decided we needed to see the new Coen brothers’ film, No Country for Old Men, which is based on the Cormac McCarthy novel by the same name. Personally, I thought only a more experienced person would be able to interpret this film. When I say experienced, I’m referring to the old, decrepit man loitering at a nearby liquor store who gave up life long ago. Of course, I was far from the truth. When the credits started to roll, I felt a burst of puzzlement and confusion emanate from the audience. I muttered the only word I could fish out of my vast abyss of knowledge. “Awesome.” The film begins with Sheriff Ed Tombell, played by Tommy Lee Jones, speaking to the audience with his indistinguishable flat tone. He tells the audience about how crime and law enforcement changes drastically with different generations. “Some of the old-time sheriffs never even wore a gun . . . Can’t help but wonder how they would’ve operated these times. There was this boy I sent to Huntsville here a while back. My arrest and my testimony. He killed a fourteen-year-old girl. Papers said it was a crime of passion but he told me there wasn’t any passion to it.” While Tommy Lee Jones is stating differences with the new and old, the visuals show the same contrasts with different barren landscapes. Little things like these can make films great. The film is purely Coen brothers’ material; characters with different motives, developments, personalities, and dialogue, which is impossible not to laugh at though it perfectly develops each character in the oddest of ways. One of the most interesting characters in the film is Anton Chigurh, brilliantly played by Javier Barden. I should note that all actors were phenomenal from the direction of Joel and Ethan Coen. Anton Chigurh is the young whippersnapper of the sheriff’s monologue. Anton is a killer, he has no emotions whatsoever with the living. He carries a cow stunner connected to an oxygen tank. When the tank is exerting pressure on the stunner, Anton pushes a button and the stunner whips out a rod inflicting precise, swift and fatal damage. Anton is only one thread in No Country for Old Men. After introducing Anton, the film travels not too far off into the desert where Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin) hunts for Antelope. He stalks an animal he shot to find two intersecting trails of blood: one drier than the other. He looks both ways to find a shot dog limping aimlessly into the desert. What would Jesus do? Would he investigate the dog or back track to the place where the dog was shot? Llewelyn Moss does the latter. It seems more logical than what Jesus would do. Llewelyn finds a drug deal gone wrong. They shot the dealers, pushers, and “even the dog”. What Llewelyn doesn’t find is the money. He finds a briefcase, similar to the briefcase in Fargo, with $2 million off a mile under a tree. So the plot of No Country for Old Men involves Llewelyn attempting to take the $2 million for his own intentions, Anton trying to take the money from Llewelyn, and Sheriff Ed Tombell trying to stop a merciless killer. The film, like Fargo, which is also directed by the Coen brothers, is a perfectly constructed thriller, both climactic and anticlimactic. Many movies fail from having too many coincidences that seem tacky and unrealistic. In No Country for Old Men, each character connects with another in a smooth and more realistic flow. Also, the characters are always interesting because how surreal the dialogue and dialect is written. The dialect is always an important feature in a Coen brothers film. Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin pull off the southern dialect flawlessly. There is nothing but praise for this film. No Country for Old Men is as great as a film Fargo ever was. American Gangster By: Zach Leamy 3/4 Ridley Scott’s not-soAmerican American Gangster brings a new meaning to irony, blurring the gray area between the black and white. From its title to its characters, this film creates very little separation between right and wrong. However, it is the direction and cinematography that makes this film what it is. The film primarily focuses on the interaction of two characters; Harlem drug kingpin Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington) and Ritchie Roberts (Russell Crowe), a street-hardened cop. After the unexpected death of a major drug distributor, Lucas, us- ing an international connection with Vietnam, seizes the opportunity and creates one of the largest drug operations New York has ever seen. Despite Lucas’ drug smuggling exploits and murderously violent behavior, he is a dedicated, honest, family man. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Roberts is a divorced man in a custody battle with his wife. His friends are addicts and crooked cops, yet he is one of the few honest detectives in a ridiculously corrupt law enforcement agency. His reputation amongst his peers and co-workers is largely based upon his actions after discovering a great sum of money and turning it in to corrupt authorities, who are nearly guaranteed to keep it for their personal use. The camera angles, lighting, and directing are the aspects of the movie that truly tell the story. The combination of great blocking and cinematography allow the audience to see the emotions of all the characters involved in a particular event. Lighting is used very appropriately, although it sometimes comes across as slightly too melodramatic. Whether or not one likes it is a matter of personal taste, especially in regards to the lighting part of the film. If it weren’t for the lengthiness of this film and its slow beginning it may have been a classic. Tragically it falls just short. Beowulf By:Anthony Heiskell 2.5/4 Beowulf has been one of the most hyped movies of this winter season with other movies such as I Am Legend and National Treasure: Book of Secrets. I was hesitant to watch the bane of all high school literature be transformed into a cartoon. However, after falling into the adrenaline pumping rhythm, it’s hard not to appreciate the fast-paced action of Beowulf. The plot is about as basic as Norse mythology can get. It starts out inside of a mead hall of a town that’s cursed by a troll. In turn the king decides to send a reward for a hero to come and slay it. Thus Beowulf arrives. He slays the troll and peace is restored. Then it turns out the monster has a mom, and when mama isn’t happy, no one’s happy. Think of all the stock characters in old English and you have the cast of Beowulf. The strong but flawed hero (Ray Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Winstone) and the heroes sidekick (Brendan Gleeson), the town drunk who is also the king (Anthony Hopkins), the whiny queen (Robin Wright Penn), the king’s sleazy assistant (John Malkovich), and the misunderstood monster (Crispin Glover). But what makes these characters so vivid and strong are the voices that bring them to life. The script takes itself so seriously that when it does crack a joke it’s just not funny. Between co-writers Neil Gaiman and Roger Avary, I don’t know who to credit for some of the most confusing lines of dialogue. I however would more or less like to know whose idea it was for Beowulf to fight naked in half the movie. Did he just not like clothing? The most annoying things about the movie either had to be the nude fight scenes, the placement of the candle, or how the smoke only rises waist high. As bad as the script may be, the faces of the digitally animated characters are even worse. Wonderful actors such as Anthony Hopkins and John Malkovich voice them, but the animation just can’t capture the intense emotion that these actors could provide. Even Shrek could get more emotion out of their characters then Beowulf. What makes this movie worth seeing is the unbelievable shots that director Robert Zemeckis (director of Forrest Gump and The Polar Express) chooses for Beowulf. He’s finally found some solid ground to stand on with this and the similar Polar Express. The shots are crazy and smooth. They echo a style very reminiscent of Sam Raimi. Despite epic storytelling, corny dialogue and extreme cartoon violence, Beowulf will at least stand the test of time for fans of Conan the Barbarian. They’re the only who could possibly appreciate this cartoon version of Norse mythology. The Aerial gladly accepts submissions for the review section. If you have written a review and you would like it to be published please send it to: aerial.editor.in.chief@ gmail.com Reviews The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 Page 13 I Am Legend: Most Certainly Not a Cinematic Rip-off of 28 Days Later By: Jeremy Clark 3.5/4 Will Smith’s gray hair completely threw me off. As a young, fresh prince his West Philadelphia flat-top and demeanor seemed everlasting. Seventeen years later, Will Smith has become an elder statesman of Hollywood, although I feel like he is much younger than his gray hairs show. His new movie I Am Legend shows him making more strides as an actor. No longer relying on the machismo of his characters like he’s done in the past with Bad Boys and Men in Black, Will Smith shows us he can play the vulnerable male as well. I Am Legend is based on the book of the same name, written by Richard Mathe- virus that mutated from being the cure for cancer to being a pandemic-causing virus. While immune, he must still protect himself from the dark-seekers; they were the people left behind who contracted the disease and now roam the city at night like vampires hunting for anything they can eat. My initial response when hearing about this movie was that it would end up being a cinematic rip-off of 28 Days Later. However I Am Legend surpassed 28 Days Later in making me feel the dispiritedness of isolation and the struggle to save humanity while looking out for one’s self. For most of the movie, a dog is Will Smith’s only supporting cast member. Director Francis Lawrence does a great job of letting the silence of the movie speak for itself. It makes I Am Legend the tense and tragic movie it is; adding any sort of narration to the movie would have made this seem like a special doomsday episode of The Wonder Years. to the gargantuan urban jungle it is today is jarring. Juxtaposing familiar landmarks such as Times Square against the tall grasses that have grown through the pavement is a beautiful yet terrifying image. Herds of deer run through the streets leaping over rusting taxis abandoned at a moment’s notice. Lions prowl through the streets, turning New York into an African savannah. Silence makes suspense. Without people to talk to, Robert Neville rarely has anything to say. Eerie doesn’t accurately describe the feeling I get from this movie. This entire movie is built on suspense. Will he find anyone else? A cure? Will he be attacked? There’s so much suspense that it is literally exhausting. But who would go to sleep watching this movie? Following Robert Neville throughout his daily life as the potential savior of the entire human race can get repetitive. His watch alarm is set to the sunrise and sunset of each day, and he I Am Legend begins to lose steam about two-thirds of the way through. Robert Neville meets Anna, played by Alice Braga and her son Ethan, who’s played by Charlie Tahan. At this point the movie just takes a turn for the utterly predictable, going as far as to explain the religious themes that were already mildly apparent. By this point, I was already emotionally exhausted from the first two-thirds and now I felt insulted having to put up with such a tacked-on conclusion. It is so feel-good that it makes me feel sick, and I left the theater not sure how I felt about the movie. The most terrifying aspect of this movie is that this horrific pandemic is entirely man-made. People are dying because what was hailed as a medical breakthrough mutated into an unstoppable virus. It reduces people to basic primitive behaviors; as “darkseekers” they hunt anything that is still alive whether it is human or animal. The plot of the movie sounds all-too-familiar in the context of today’s world. It is the worst case scenario, the 2012 doomsday ending for the world. Medical virus is the cause of the catastrophe in the movie. In real life, they tell us it could be anything. It’ll either be bird flu or nuclear war or bioterrorism or global warming or the next big disaster. Every accident around the world is accredited to the downfall of the world as we know it. At the center of it all is this immeasurable amount of guilt placed on the shoulders of the human race. It is our faults, and we must change it before we kill ourselves off. We’re chewing each others’ heads off trying to decide what to do; everyone’s paranoid, stockpiling protection against an unseen killer. (Screenshot courtuesly provided by media.kino-govno.com. Additional worrk performed by Zach Leamy.) son. The movie opens with one doctor’s declaration that she has found a cure for cancer. The next scene is New York City, three years later, and there is no sign of human life other than Robert Neville. He is presumably the only man left in the city, if not the entire world. His mission is to find a cure for the The stadium seating at Tinseltown Theaters meant that I didn’t have to peek between the ridiculously large hair of the ladies in front of me. I had full view of the screen, which meant I was immersed in the movie the whole time. Seeing New York City turned into an actual jungle, as opposed goes through the same procedures almost every day. This strict regiment is keeping his sanity intact. There is so much repetition that you can easily get lulled by it; eventually you stop waiting for something scary to happen. And then something scary happens. It’s simple yet effective. Written in 1954, the cinematic debut of I Am Legend comes at an interesting point in world history. A radical shift may be upon us and who knows whether it will be on as large a scale as is predicted. I Am Legend is terrifying, funny, tragic and uplifting all at the same time. Leaving the theater I was instantly aware of the background noise of humanity in our lives. It is eerie to think about what life would be like without people. The Aerial School News Page 14 Is your plate full enough yet? ILP’s - Are the graduation requirements for education really requiring us to be more educated? KEISHAUNDRIA WRIGHT For a senior this year, and for those in the future, the above question would seem absurd enough to elicit reactions ranging from nervous laughter to a full-blown rant directed at whoever would ask a question that already an obvious answer. But there it is, and no answer is required. However, the new entrée now being served on students’ platters may not be as awful as we make it out to be, and it may be even beneficial for some. The new item being added to the list of graduation requirements for the 2007-08 school year is the Individual Learning Plan, or the ILP. Students are now required to complete an ILP all four years of high school in order to graduate. An ILP is a basic plan created for students to keep track of courses, colleges, scholarship opportunities, and career planning tools. The ILP can take an average of two to three hours to complete, depending on how much effort a student wishes to put into it. On the basic level, students are required to fill out a list of all of the classes they have completed thus far, the grade they received for the class, community service hours completed, awards and recognition received, and any extra curricular activities they were involved in during high school. There is also a section available for students to compile a list of their long and short-term life goals. This section was designed in order to get students thinking about where they want to go after high school, and what they must do in order to get there. A list of colleges, scholarships, and career choices are there for students to explore as well, giving them a view of all of the options available after graduating. Then, there is a section for education planning where students must select schools that interest them and offer what they are looking for in the next phase of their education. Students take a career matching survey that matches them to a possible career based on the answers given, and are then given a list of colleges that offer that major or field of study. A description of the career is given, along with other information about that possible career choice. “It helped me a lot with the colleges”, said Grant Durham, a senior who has completed his ILP this year. “It helped me get a good look at them, and narrowed my search. It definitely made the process easier.” While most students around Kentucky completed their first ILP last year, Jefferson County students are just starting to become familiar with the plan this year. JCPS received extended time because of its size and student population, and most seniors around the county are just finishing their first ILP. Located in the student section of the JCPS website, the ILP has become a way for students, as well as administrators, to have a visual representation of preparation and planning methods being taken at the final stages of secondary education. Counselors are able to look at any student’s ILP and offer assistance with any questions, help make career planning decisions, and keep track of all graduation requirements completed. “The freshmen class this year will definitely benefit from completing an ILP”, said Ms. Stogner, the senior guidance counselor. “They have four years to go back and review and revise their plan and see how their choices have changed over the years. An ILP just gives us an organized way of exploring the educational journey, and something to refer back to when needed.” Although the ILP has proven to be effective for some, it has become just another routine chore for others. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 “Most seniors just want to get it over with,” said Ms. Cassidy, the freshman and sophomore guidance counselor. “The ILP definitely won’t have as much value for seniors as it will for others who have a few years to go back and review and revise every year.” “I don’t think its achieving its designed purpose with the seniors this year,” said Tiara Phoenix, another senior who has completed her ILP for the year. “People are just writing down anything to get it finished. We won’t even have a chance to go back and look at it in a few months.” Another problem found with the ILP is the fact that its an on-line project that requires the use of a computer. “When you have 450 students to make sure complete an ILP, the computer availability issue makes it hard for them to work on their own. Not everyone has computer access,” Ms. Cassidy said. Most of Atherton’s seniors have a fully completed ILP for the year, and those who don’t must have them completed as soon as possible. The underclassmen are now being introduced to the ILP, and will have it completed before the end of the school year. Along with an ILP every year, students are still required to obtain 22 credits and score apprentice or higher on the math, reading, and on-demand sections of the CATS test., as well as an apprentice or higher on the writing portfolio. Book and Music Exchange 1616 Bardstown Rd. Louisville, KY, 40205 502-454-3328 BUY SELL TRADE Cd’s*Dvd’s* Video Games*Books www.booksandmusicexchange.com www.myspace.com/bookandmusic The Aerial School News Volume 83, Issue 3 Jefferson County Public Schools Distributed Free Student Power Plus Cards: seemingly crushed. Something had to be DVDs, and CDs along with access to the done. I was the one who had to do it. online research tools. Audio book Does it really work? library’s lovers can download audio books to their LAUREN BUNCH The folks at the library, the heads of JCPS and TARC officials have teamed up to make Jefferson County students’ lives better. They aim to help Jefferson County students read, all while helping them get around town cheaply. Many Jefferson County students were introduced to Student Power Plus Card very late into the 2006/2007 school year – only a few days prior to the conclusion of school last spring, in fact. Many students were handed new cards with only scant information about the purpose of the new cards. That it was a new library card was obvious, and information regarding new TARC rates for students using the card proved intriguing for some, but specific details seemed elusive for students wishing for more information about their Student Power Plus Cards. So, what is the Students Power Plus Card, what benefits do these cards offer, and do they really work as advertised? The Aerial looked into the benefits of the card while investigating whether or not the TARC policy in regards to the Student Power Plus Card was consistent throughout the city. According to Louisville Free Public Library’s website, the Student Power Plus Card Program is a partnership between the Louisville Free Public Library and the major school districts within Jefferson County – both JCPS schools and Archdiocese of Louisville Schools . The program allows for students to own a library card plus card that also functions for several other purposes: (1) student identification card, (2) a TARC discount card, (3) and a KidTrax identification card for JCPS students. As with all library membership cards, students who use them are entitled to access to books, audio books, magazines, personal MP3 players. Very important for many students, the Student Power Plus Card can enable those interested in entering higher education to take advantage of practice probes for the SAT, ACT, GED, ASVAB and some AP exams. The Louisville Free Public Library reports success from their side of the partnership. According to a recent LFPL newsletter from this past November, students were using their cards to check out approximately a thousand items on a daily basis. Furthermore, the LFPL claims a record number of 30,254 students benefited from library sponsored reading programs over the summer this year, all because of the Student Power Plus Card Program. From the library’s perspective, things couldn’t get any better for JCPS students armed with the new Power Plus card. The sun seemed to shine brighter. Students’ steps seemed lighter. Life was good. Or was it? The other important component of the Student Power Plus Card, the TARC discount, was to allow students TARC rides for $.60 anytime students flashed their Student Power Plus Card during evenings and over the summer months. The sixty cent rate was also supposedly applicable towards pre-paid tickets. However, on the seedy underbelly of this new opportunity was a harsh, ugly reality; it seemed some buses weren’t honoring the card. Several alleged incidents were reported in which bus drivers refused to give discounts. Students’ idyllic existence were Armed with my power-plus card, a pocket full of change and a whole lot of righteous indignation, I set out. Boarding one bus, I flashed my card at the bus driver. He gave me a slight nod that said, ‘Yeah, you’re in the club.’ I looked across the aisle at my fellow passengers and saw another plus member. I could tell by the excellent posture and complete refusal to meet my eyes or look at me whatsoever that she was part of the club also. A second bus offered a different story. The driver demanded the standard dollar, twenty-five cent fare. “But,” I said, waving my card around as if it were a delicate paper fan. The driver just raised her eyebrows. Foiled. Ever hopeful, I caught a ride another TARC. This time, I pulled out my card and said sweetly, “Sixty cents, right?” This time the Student Plus Card was a success. A forth TARC bus proved to be a success as well. Unfortunately, a fifth TARC ride cost $1.25 despite the Plus Card in this rider’s possession. Three out of five buses honored the Student Plus Card. This proved to be more successful than the claims that the card was worthless in regards to its TARC policy. However, a sixty percent success rate does not quite qualify as the upholding the full promise of the Student Power Plus Card. LOOK! IT REALLY DOES WORK. ADVERTISE WITH THE AERIAL TODAY AND PROMOTE YOUR BUSSNIESS, EVENT, OR OTHER MESSAGE YOU WANT PEOPLE TO SEE. CONTACT US AT [email protected]. Page 15 LIBRARY LOCATIONS, SCHEDUES, AND CONTACT INFORMATION Bon Air Regional 2816 Del Rio Place (502) 574-1795 Mon-Thurs 9-9 Fri, Sat 9-5 Sunday 1-5 Crescent Hill 2762 Frankfort Avenue (502) 574-1793 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday closed Fairdale 10616 W. Manslick Rd (502) 375-2051 Mon, Wed, Thurs 12-8 Tues 10-8 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday closed Fern Creek 6768 Bardstown Road (502) 231-4605 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday closed Highlands-Shelby Park 1250 Bardstown Rd. (502) 574-1672 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday closed Young Adult Outpost 1250 Bardstown Road (502) 574-1640 Mon-Thurs 1-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday closed Sunday closed Okolona 7709 Preston Highway (502) 964-3515 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday 1-5 Portland 3305 Northwestern Pkwy (502) 574-1744 Mon, Tues, Thurs 12-8 Wed 10-8 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday closed St. Matthews/Eline 3940 Grandview Avenue (502) 574-1771 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday 1-5 Shawnee 3912 West Broadway (502) 574-1722 Mon-Thurs10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday 1-5 Shively-Newman 3920 Dixie Highway (502) 574-1730 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday closed Southwest Regional 10375 Dixie Highway (502) 933-0029 Iroquois Mon-Thurs 9-9 601 W. Woodlawn Ave. Fri, Sat 9-5 (502) 574-1720 Sunday 1-5 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Western Sunday 1-5 604 South Tenth Street (502) 574-1779 Jeffersontown Mon, Tues, Thurs 12-8 10635 Watterson Trail Wed 10-8 (502) 267-5713 Fri, Sat 10-5 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Sunday closed Fri, Sat 10-5 Sunday closed Westport 8100 Westport Road Main Library (502) 394-0379 301 York Street School Year Hours (502) 574-1611 Mon-Thurs 3-9 Mon-Thurs 9-9 Saturday 10-5 Fri, Sat 9-5 Friday 10-5 Sunday 1-5 Sunday closed Middletown 200 North Juneau Drive (502) 245-7332 Mon-Thurs 10-9 Fri, Sat 10-5 Sports The Aerial Page 16 The Great “08” Senior Class Breaks Curse and Makes History COREY GRANT For many years, Atherton football has left through the same doors whenever there was a home game to be played. Most of those games were lost, and were lost by a great margin. Before this year, Atherton football had been virtually non-existent and played the role of the cellar-dweller of Jefferson County football. Those doors that the players exited, were marked by the number 13, or also called “exit 13.” Some people may think that it is silly to think that a number could be the cause of decades of defeat, but of all the numbers, that number stands still at the upper left corner of the exiting doors as a sign of a curse that has plagued this football program ever since it began. The record is proof. Atherton football had a record of 4-7 this year. The last time Atherton won 4 or more football games in a single season came almost 30 years ago when the Rebels went 5-5 in 1979. But after this year, it seems that Atherton could have broken any jinx that may have been cast onto them, as this group of players have done what no others who have ever played football here have done; go to the playoffs. It wasn’t the greatest way to end the season, but Atherton’s playoff lost to Valley was a huge step for the future of this program. In the first round of the playoffs, the Rebels were manhandled as they flopped to the Valley Viking 53-7. It was a tough loss to swallow as it would be the last time that many of the seniors would ever get a chance to play the game of football. In the game, Senior quarterbacks Justin Cloud and Stuart Madison sustained injuries. Justin Cloud suffered from a mild concussion as two defenders crashed into him headfirst. He would return, but Stuart Madison, who left the game with a leg injury, would not. “The hardest thing I have ever done was sitting on the sideline helpless, watching my teammates play for the last time,” Stuart said. Justin Cloud tried not to let the result of the game get to him. “I try not to look at the negatives, so after the game, all I was thinking was hopefully getting a chance to play at the next level,” he said. It’s easy to say that this loss impacted everyone dramatically. Tears were being shed by the start of the 4th quarter because everyone knew they would eventually have to say goodbye. When asked what it felt like walking off the field for the last time, Senior Jason Withrow was all heart. “That’s like asking how it feels when a close relative dies. Unless you were apart of it, unless you went through what we went through, then you can never grasp how it felt. The feeling that I had when I looked in everyone’s eyes, and saw the pain… it was just terrible.” Senior Cedrick Dolby also commented on that same moment. “It had to be one of the hardest things I ever had to do in my life. You work so hard through the summer and you lay it all on the line, just to get to the playoffs. I mean, you practically sweat blood for 10 weeks, and to see it end is heart breaking.” This year’s 4-7 record came with home wins over KCD, and Owen County, and away victories against Breckenridge County and a blowout victory against Iroquois on their senior night, 34-16. Their losses included Western, Valley twice, Spencer County, Fairdale, and close losses to North Oldham and Shawnee. When asked what the biggest disappointment about this season was, Coach Mason responded, “losing to Shawnee, Spencer County, and Valley the first time. Those are games that we should have won.” One of the major reasons for this team’s success came from individual performances. Justin Cloud, who was named to All-District as a DB and WR, led the team with 103 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles. He was also a big weapon on offense totaling 10 touchdowns on the year. Those of which came on his 3 TD passes, 3 TD catches, 2 rushing TD’s, and two kick returns for scores. Other players that made All-District were Defensive linemen Dijon Coleman, Kicker Francis Ladege, Center Nathan Johnson and Alfredo Gonzalez at Tight End. Honorable mentions include lineman Corey Grant and Reggie Brown. Despite missing the list, Junior Starting Running Back Curtis Toole was a force in the running game as he ended the season with 750 Wednesday, December 19, 2007 total yards and 5 touchdowns. When asked what he needed to work on for the upcoming season, he said, “Get stronger, faster, and score more touchdowns. I also need to work on my attitude.” Stuart Madison also missed the list but was a force on defense acquiring 77 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 interceptions and 11 pass break ups. Matt Brown, many of the seniors spoke out. “He gives respect to the people that give respect,” said Justin Cloud. “He tells what I need to do, and how I need to do it to be successful.” Despite losing many star players to graduation, there is still optimism for next year. However, the coaches and players alike know there is work to be done. “We took a big step forward becoming a team last season, but there is plenty of room for improvement,” said Coach Stallard. “We just have to continue to stay focused in the weight room and classroom on our goals, and we will succeed.” When asked how Coach Brown impacted him, Alfredo Gonzalez replied, “He helped me realize that life is all about making good decisions and not just about being the toughest guy.” When asked about his expectations for the upcoming year, Coach Brown said, “I expect us to extend our win total and improve our chances in the playoffs.” Some of the key returnees for next season’s team include Offensive and Defensive lineman Dijon Coleman, Reggie Brown and Marcus Woods. Charles Ladege, Curtis Toole, Alex Taleot, and Wide Receiver Chris Ellis also return. All year this team had been told to believe. It became a motto, a trademark, but more importantly, it became a way of life. Coach Matt Brown who had instilled the belief that anything is possible, is responsible for the turnaround of Atherton football. “Hopefully, I have helped them understand that hard work pays off and that great things can happen despite the odds,” he said. “The seniors dedicated themselves to get better ever since I took over (when they were juniors). Their determination impressed me the most.” When asked what he learned from this year about himself, he responded, “We fought through adversity all year long. We never gave up. I have learned how to motivate a little more than normal.” For the most part, Coach Brown has impacted his seniors and has become a father figure to some of them. When asked about their Head Coach “He basically showed me what it is like to face adversity and deal with things like a man,” added Jason Withrow. This season was a huge surprise, especially considering that the closest game Atherton had last year was against Iroquois, 45-6, a 39 point loss! That shows leaps and bounds how much better Atherton football was this year. All of the seniors can take pride in the fact that they are what started the turnaround in Atherton football. They know that they will forever be remembered as champions in history. “I have been apart of Atherton football for 3 years and I take pride in saying that I helped turn the program around, but it hurts to know that this year was my last go around and I’m no longer a part of it,” said Cedrick Dolby. When asking Justin Cloud how it felt to make history at Atherton, he said, “Better than good! Atherton has changed me just as much as this past season has changed the way people think of Atherton football.” There is no doubt that any curse that has haunted Atherton football is finally over. The seniors leave the team with big shoes to fill, as Atherton football looks to build off of this season’s success. These seniors will always be remembered for fighting through adversity these last couple of years where winning was not an option, and they will forever be remembered for the courage and the fight that they showed on the field, and the character they showed for sticking with the game that they keep close to their hearts. A season that began so magically, defeating KCD 14-9, ultimately ended as a year that will not soon be forgotten. These seniors are now legends of Atherton High School, and their legacy, along with their memory will forever live on. “All of the success that Atherton football will achieve in the future is because of them,” said Coach Stallard. “They laid the foundation, not only for next year, but all the years after that as well. They will always be remembered as a champion in Atherton Football history.” “My experience playing football at Atherton High School has been one I’ll never forget. We did something great this year and it is my hope that this is the beginning of a new Rebel’s football program” -Zach Leamy, Class of 2008 Coach Mason’s lasts words to this senior class, before their departure, comes deep from the heart. “I love you! Thank you! And Good luck! History will remember you as a champion!” Sports The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 Zach Leamy Zach Leamy Zach Leamy Zach Leamy Page 17 One-on-One with New Volleyball Coach Kissel Q: What did you learn about your coaching ability this season? Kissel: I learned that I have a lot more to learn as a coach. Not only can I learn more about drills and strategies in volleyball, but I have so much to learn about motivating people, and game-winning strategies. By: Corey Grant since the top two teams go to Region, The Rebels advanced and fell to eventual state champion Assumption High School, 10-25 in both contests. The Rebels were lead by Senior Anna Hodapp, who was the leading setter with 11 assists per match. Senior Alex Marquardt was the best hitter with a 36% kill percentage, and was tied with Junior Meghan Chung with 2 aces a match. Amanda Kissel, the Assistant Coach for the volleyball team this year, sat down with me to discuss her feelings on the season. “I was surprised at how hard the girls worked and hoe quickly they all improved.” T his year, the Atherton Rebel Volleyball team had a record of 17-13, and managed to beat Brown in the 1st round of the district tournament playoffs. They then went on to lose to the Manual High School Crimsons in the Championship game, but Q: What was it like getting to coach volleyball this year? Kissel: I loved coaching volleyball this season. It was really nice coming into this school year already knowing some of the students. I couldn’t have asked for a more hardworking group of kids to work with. Q: What was your favorite moment this year? Kissel: The Spencer County Tournament – we lost the first round of the tournament, putting us in the losers bracket. The girls then fought back all day long and eventually came in second to a much-fresher Meade County team. Q: What was your worst moment this year? Kissel: Losing to Brown at home. We were by far the better team, but were without Anna Hodapp, our setter. Q: How was it like helping this team get into the tournament? Kissel: All year long your goal is to win as many games as possible and improve as individuals and as a team, but you are always pushing to do well at individuals and at the state tournament. We always kept Brown in mind, because we know that was who we would face at Districts. It paid off too – we beat them in three games allowing us to move on to the Regional Tourney. Q: What surprised you most about this season? Kissel: At first I was surprised about how inexperienced we were. Out of 19 players on both JV and Varsity, we only had 5 girls that had played high school volleyball. Some had no volleyball experience, period. Then I was surprised at how hard the girls worked and hoe quickly they all improved. Q: What are some ways that you practiced and prepared for games this season? Kissel: Defense is a big part of the game to me. You may have the best setter and amazing hitters, but if you cannot serve and pass (bump), the other things do not matter. So, especially at the JV level, we did a lot of serving and serve reception. Q: What can you say about the hard work and dedication that this team ahs been able to show all year? Kissel: When you have such an inexperienced team, you cannot rely on experience as much as pure effort and hard work. Even with the few experienced players we did have, it was hard work and dedication that brought us our success. Q: Elaborate on the success of your players? Kissel: On an individual basis, Anna Hodapp, our setter, and Alex Marquardt, received a few all-tournament team honors. We also had quite a few JV players, such as Alex Pizzaro, Emily Weigel, Fahira Mehmedovic, and Ada Sanchez step in and give great effort on the varsity court. Q: If you could give the departing seniors one last message, what would it be? Kissel: Anna and Alex: It was great to coach you guys this year – I learned a lot from you guys. If you work as hard in whatever you choose to do as you did in volleyball this year, I know you are capable of great things. 2007-08 Boys’ Varsity Basketball Schedule: Date The Fistic Arts By: Quentin Guin When you hear the word boxing, the first thing you think of is two very large men going at it punch for punch until one of the men falls down for the count. But let’s face it; we’re way past the age of Rocky. Now days, boxing is all about determination, timing, perseverance, and mental endurance, not to mention athleticism and patience. Today boxing is more than just a sport; it’s become an art form, especially with the help of rising stars like Floyd May-weather, Antonio Tarver and Vladimir Klitschko. It’s not very hard to see why. This art form has traveled with us for ages. Today there are many different elements, classes and leagues of boxing. There are the professionals, the amateurs, women’s and youth league. These different classes give many competitors, young and old, the chance to compete in the sport that they love so much. The youth league boxing club is a community center dedicated to teaching young athletes the road to glory. The league not only teaches them the basic skills and techniques but also the discipline and respect needed to succeed in between the ropes and the real world. Youth coach Tim Price says, “This center is about more than just fighting; it’s giving these kids the opportunity and a push to do complete their goals in life. I’m proud to be a coach here.” The staff consists of fitness trainers who have worked with professional boxers. Everything that you need to stay in tip-top shape can be found in the training center. The youth leagues are quite similar to professional boxing leagues; the youth league does not pay its boxers. The league makes a schedule for your specific community center. This schedule places each community center against another. Then they chose one boxer from each weight class and have them compete in three five-minute rounds. Each fight is scored just like a professional fight and after the three rounds the judges determine a winner. These wins determine your com- munity center’s league ranking. At the end of the season the league announces the seasonal champions and their top fighters and like any other sport, they present them with medals and a championship trophy. Victoria Walker, the number one boxer from the girls league says “I’m glad to have the youth boxing league in my community, it gives kids and teenagers like me from bad neighborhoods the chance to prove that their worth something. It’s like stepping from the streets into a home. I feel like I have a family here”. You can sign up to become part of the youth boxing league at any community center in your area. There’s not many requirements to join and if you love to box or would like to compete in something new, then this would be the best opportunity. 12/27-28 1/8 1/11 1/14 1/22 1/25 1/28 1/20 2/5 2/8 2/12 2/15 2/19 2/22 Opponent Franklin Simpson Tour Doss Whitefield Bullitt Central Iroquios Spencer Co. Butler Eastern St. X Valley CAL Western Ballard Southern Site Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Away Home Time TBA 7:30 6:00 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 6:00 7:30 6:00 6:00 2007-08 Girls’ Varsity Basketball Schedule: Date 12/21-22 12/26-29 1/8 1/11 1/15 1/18 1/22 1/25 2/4 2/8 2/12 2/15 2/19 2/22 Opponent PRP Christmas Tour Greenwood Tourny Doss Whitefield Bullitt Central Eastern Iroquios Spencer Co Assumption Valley CAL Western Ballard Southern Site Time TBA TBA Home 7:30 Away 6:00 Home 7:30 Home 7:30 Away 6:00 Home 6:00 Away 7:30 Away 6:00 Home 7:30 Away 6:00 Away 7:30 Home 7:30 Sports The Aerial Page 18 2007-2008 Bowl Predictions Bowl/Location/Time ROSE BOWL Pasadena, Calif. Jan. 1, 4:30 p.m. (ABC) Participants/Predictions USC (10-2) vs. Illinois (9-3) Ethan: Illinois: 31 USC: 23 I honestly thought that SC was at least 8-4 with the talk of how bad they are, but Illinois resembles the Kentucky of last year and “believes!” Corey: USC wins 38-21. Illinois took the seat that Mizzouri should have had. USC will run away with this one. SUGAR BOWL New Orleans Jan. 1, 8:30 p.m. (FOX) Hawaii (12-0) vs. Georgia (10-2) Ethan: Georgia: 41 Hawaii: 24 While riding high on emotion the real ride will kill the Warriors, and their war chant will do little to intimidate an SEC school, and( mark my words), future Heisman winner Knowshon Moreno. Corey: Georgia wins 38-35 in OT Georgia will win Hawaii and Colt Brennan will give the Bulldogs all they can handle. FIESTA BOWL Glendale, Ariz. Jan. 2, 8:00 p.m. (FOX) West Virginia (10-2) vs. Oklahoma (11-2) Ethan:Oklahoma: 34 West Virginia: 21 Oklahoma makes good of its second chance in Glendale, and puts the Big (L)East back in its place. Corey: Oklahoma wins 28-21 WVU threw away the ball too many times against PITT. Sooners “D” will be the factor that results in a win. ORANGE BOWL Miami Jan. 3, 8 p.m. (FOX) Kansas (11-1) vs. Virginia Tech (11-2) Ethan:Virginia Tech: 24 Kansas: 17 Tech reemphasizes’ everybody’s point of why Kansas is a basketball school (who is second only to The University of Kentucky). Corey:Kansas wins 35-27 The Hokie “D” will be exposed, as Kansas ends its dream with a BIG BANG. BCS TITLE GAME New Orleans Jan. 7, 8 p.m. (FOX) Ohio State (11-1) vs. LSU (11-2) Ethan: LSU: 35 Ohio State: 28 In its first test of the season and the first game in over 50 days, Ohio State doesn’t pull a repeat, but is reminded why the SEC is the best. Corey: LSU wins 42-28 LSU’s speed and athleticism is too much for even Ohio State’s Defence to handle. Louisiana will run away with a victory and the National Championship title. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 NCAA’s Bowl Championship Series: Should it be eliminated? GRANT: There is no doubt the BCS is not the answer. Missouri was shafted after being number one in the nation last week, and now they aren’t even in a BCS bowl game. It I don’t understand how this is possible! What we don’t need is another points system. The BCS has continuously created mismatches in the bowl games. It is not at all an effective system. Remember the National Championship game last year? It was a blowout. This shouldn’t happen. A playoff system is the answer. “The BCS was implemented beginning with the 1998 season to determine the national champion for college football while maintaining and enhancing the bowl system that’s nearly 100 years old.” FOSTER: Starting with mumbles since its inception in 1998 the Bowl Championship Series (BCS), which was originally comprised of only the Orange, Rose, Sugar, and Fiesta Bowls, and then the addition of the BCS National Championship Game in 2006, has grown into death threats. And believe it or not, the BCS has always had controversy - even in its first year. But I believe that it’s time to shift all of our energy that is used to diss the BCS that even Rev. Al Sharpton would speak out on and change. Keep in mind, I don’t care what you think of my opinion because I don’t care about yours. Otherwise, I would have asked for your input. Also, considering that money controls everything, there is no way the BCS will ever die-especially since people still go to the games and the money flow only increase every year for all 5 games. That said… Keep half of the bowls. 32 is too many because it means half of Div-1 schools get to play in a bowl, so in a way all you have to do is be mediocre all year and you’re in the MPC Motor City Car Care Credit Union Bowl. However, if you do away with all of the bowls, everybody loses money, and then somebody who truly deserves gets left out. However, until a way is found to determine the best team in America we will just be stuck with what we have now. What is wrong with that? Every week is more entertaining than the next, and college football popularity is at an all-time high because every game is a can’t miss game. People will complain, no matter what, no question about it. Screw all “Domers”. Yes, I said screw Notre Dame. They get an automatic bid to a BCS game if they finish the season in the top 8 of the BCS standings. No specialties make them join a conference - and any other team who thinks they are special. Take all conference champions, a total of 11, teams and a single at large birth, 12 teams in all. Give the four best (overall record, strength of schedule, and head-to-head match ups) teams a bye. Then, the following round will be just like the NCAA basketball tourney in March. Game sites will be at the current home of the Orange, Rose, Sugar and Fiesta Bowls. The title game will then be concluded at one of the formers, cycling to a different location each year. Everyone is a risk of losing and the competition now is getting so much tougher and it’s only adding to the craziness. Yes, money will be lost. Yes, somebody will get left out. Yes, wait, what somebody’s still unhappy, oh well, welcome to life! -bcsfootball.org The Aerial wants your opinion. Write us. Tell us what you think about this issue or anything else that you feel strongly about. Make your voice heard. Sports The Aerial Volume 83, Issue 3 Q&A with Cross Country Coach Withers By: Ethan Foster Recently, I was granted the privilege to spend a few moments with first-year Cross Country coach, Dave Withers, gain an insiders view on the up and coming Cross Country Team, and reflect on the 2007 season and their plans to run into the 2008 season. Q: When did you find out you were going to be named the new head coach in place of Coach Elliott? Withers: On July 15th, I was informed of becoming the new head coach. On the second day of school, I was informed of Coach Elliot’s departure; that I would be both the Girls’ and Boys’ coach. Q: What was your first outlook of the season upon learning that you would become the new head coach? Withers: Since I was already an assistant, I knew the players and the capabilities that they possessed. But at the same time, the stress and pressure of being a head coach was now put into the equation. Q: How good was your first year? Withers: Having a very mature and veteran group, led by my seniors Amanda Boden and Nancy Mok, made the transition to being a new head coach much easier. I was disappointed that we couldn’t send more to state. My goal was five, but we did send two runners to state: Bernadette Catron, and Chris Lewis. Q: What challenges did you face in your first year? Withers: Since I was an assistant last year, there were true no team issues to worry about, but I did have to perform a serious balancing act between my family (wife, and 2 daughters), teaching, and coaching. Q: What about next year? Withers: Well, obviously, having two runners who went to state returning helps tremendously, as well as getting the core of my team back, several of whom are capable of going to state makes the outlook for next year look very appealing. However I do lose my senior leadership in Amanda, and Nancy. Q: How would you describe your team? Withers: Blue collar, grind it out. They don’t mind doing hard work, and have a great “just run” attitude. Page 19 Raising the Bar-And Racing Past It: Atherton Cross Country By: Ethan Foster other Atherton teams this year in undergoing the growing pains of a coaching change. Coach Bill Elliott, who had coached both the Boys’ and Girls’ Cross Country the previous three years, resigned right as the season began. The coaching change, coupled with a major drop off in running experience on a Boys’ team that had only a hand full of runners to begin with, conspired to make the road to glory look more like the road to perdition at the beginning of the Fall schedule. However, upon further examination as the season progressed, the road that appeared to be headed south was actually headed north for the team. “The coaching change wasn’t that big of a deal because everybody already knew Coach Withers,” said junior Summer Rines in reference to Coach Dave Withers, who was already a member of The sports term “raising the bar” refers to improving upon previous team or individual athletic success. And in most cases, teams who have had experience in the past, “raising the bar” means winning championships, be they Super Bowls, NBA Finals, or in the case of a high school cross-country team, State Finals. While the idea of Atherton winning State may seem a bit far stretched for some, it has happened before. In fact, Atherton’s Girls’ Cross-Country team has won two Individual State titles since the team’s inception in 1960; Leslie Voit won the title in 1977 and Camille Forrster won the title in 1978. The Girls’ team won a State Team title in 1978 as well. The Boys’ Cross Country team has had their share of success, too. After being formed in 1960, the boys won at the Individual State level thanks to Pat Ehrler in 1963, and became the only school to sweep the state titles in both girls’ and boys’. To win a state title, cross country teams compete much the same golf teams compete with each other. Each cross-country team is comprised of five members each, and the cumuAtherton’s Girls’ and Boys’ 2007 Cross Country Team. lative times of all the coaching staff as an assistant during the runners on the team are averaged at the end of same three years Elliott was at the helm. the meet. The team with the lowest time wins Coach Steve Shartzer, another fasince the team that finished the race quickest miliar face within the Atherton sports family, would have the lowest average time. Teams decided to also help the team as an assistant do not necessarily win meets due to the fact coach. The smooth transition in coaching that the team’s top runner may finish in first change, coupled with the help of 1978 state place in the overall individual standings. If winner Camille Estes – formerly known as the rest of your team places near the back of Camille Forrster – donating team uniforms the pack in the race despite one good indifrom his local running store, the Fleet Feet, vidual performance, the team will not place made what seemed like a long road for the highly. This type of scoring leads to a system Cross Country team into a jog in the park for of competition that allows placing – the much of the season. racing terminology for when each runner One other factor that need not go completes the race relative to other runners unnoticed was the actual performance of – for both the team and the individual at the the runners, specifically the leadership of state level of competition. the Girls’ captains, seniors Nancy Mok and However, when trying to reach state Amanda Boden. Mok and Boden not only in any sport, a team or individual must posencouraged and urged their teammates on, but sess a strong element of stability in terms of led by example as well. “They were everyboth the coaching staff and the team itself. thing I needed them to be,” Coach Withers Unfortunately for Atherton’s Cross Country said, “[they were] dependable, friendly, and team this past season, stability seemed to helpful to both me and the rest of the team, be a missing factor. Not only were there not and always willing to sacrifice.” enough boys to compete as a team, both the Mok attributed her team’s success to Boys’ and Girls’ teams were much like some something greater than just her contribution as a leader. “As far as the Girls’ team goes, I think we have grown stronger in our ability to compete [because of] our bond as a team has helped to push the team to new levels of competition,” she explained. Everybody played a part from making sure that the attitude of hard work and dedication never wore off to laying it all on the line despite of the obstacles. This was never exemplified more than when Rines ran the latter part of the season with a stress fracture in her lower back despite being advised not to run and to let her back heal. Rines made it to Regionals, but the pain became too severe and she was unable to run at the State competition. Even though Girls’ Cross Country is losing two important runners in Boden, and Mok for next season due to graduation, Withers said that “next year looks even more promising. ” Withers can count of the return of Rines who, despite her claims of having a sub par performance this season, ran the “Downtown Doubler 15K” meet in 1:20:05. Withers also returns Bernadette Catron, who placed 13th in regionals and placed fifty-ninth overall out of 205 runners. Catron was also the fifth selection to the “Superteam,” which consists of the ten best sophomores from the state of Kentucky, and includes all three classes – A, AA, and AAA. The future of the Boys’ teams seems equally secure. Junior captain Nick Hosono returns for his 5th year on the team. Hosono’s dedication to his team is not only exemplified by joining the Atherton Cross Country team during his 8th grade year, but also by his perfect practice attendance record in the four years he has competed for the team already. Chris Lewis also returns for the Boys’ team. Not only will he look to improve upon his 122nd finish out of 208 at state, he will also continue what Withers called a year long competition between Lewis and Hosono. Even with a returning cast that screams success, one issue still remains for Atherton’s Cross-Country team: Numbers. Not statistical numbers, but the number of people on the team, which remains low. “Numbers have always been an issue because so many people see running as a punishment,” says Withers, “but for the people who run cross country, and even track, it’s for the love of running… it’s a way of life.” So the next time you run and get tired think of your “Runnin’ Rebels” after all they do run for you. “Buy the ticket, take the ride” -Hunter S. Thompson. Cover Art: Alex Harper and Anthony Heiskell Left: John Yarmuth Right: Hunter S. Thompson