Volume 95, Issue 1 Fall 2019

AER IAL

Atherton High School News Magazine A The Aerial: Issue 4 1 Alexandra Castro Diaz

Alyson Barnes

Sara Montoya Obando Alexandra Castro Diaz

VDM

Noah Barber Reagan Petto

Noah Barber

2 The Aerial: Issue 4 All progress takes place outside of the comfort zone.

Michael Bobak

The Aerial: Issue 1 3 Dear Reader, The Aerial is not just a publication, but a legacy of excel- lence celebrating its 95th birthday this year. As we strive to embody objectivity we make the promise to listen and be held accountable for any and all stories we produce. This is a student publication, but make no mistake: this is a work of journalistic credibility. We strive to seek out the truth in the overwhelming amount of headlines we see in a day. We are a quarterly issue magazine and we strive to improve on every single issue. As for you reader, this is not a one-sided media. We write to inform you, what you do with our sto- ries is in your court. We look forward to taking this journey with you. ~ Lauren Leong , Editor in Chief CONTENTS 2 Rebel Photography 4 Editor’s Letter 5 Meet Our Team

6 Features Martin Sanders-Whitely Grant Gordon Nyah Miah ID Coleman Daniel Rademaker Monica Rodriguez 28 Local Stories 46 Rebel Art 48 Devotion Cameron Wright Jackson Williams Beatriz Arevalo Alayna Alvey Jillian Muncaster Max Zakeri Daniel Willen HarlanMeet Dawkins OurLauren Leong TeamMaggie Lucas Lead Designer Editor in Cheif Art Director

DESIGNERS & ARTISTS EDITORS

Vanessa Marquis Imari Maddox Mike Armstrong Kelly Parker Merlin Hernandez

Josie Seymour Nathaly Torres Fatama Alderawi Joseph Cortas Lily Buchanan WRITERS

Martin Sanders-Whitely Grant Gordon Nyah Miah ID Coleman Daniel Rademaker Monica Rodriguez

Cameron Wright Jackson Williams Beatriz Arevalo Alayna Alvey Jillian Muncaster Max Zakeri Daniel Willen The Aerial: Issue 1 5 FEATURES

ATHERTON’S NEW ACADEMIC VOYAGE

THE HEROIN HIGHWAY

JOE BIDEN’S RACE TO THE BOTTOM

SPIKE IN NEUROLOGY FEATURES

ATHERTON’S NEW ACADEMIC VOYAGE

THE HEROIN HIGHWAY

JOE BIDEN’S RACE TO THE BOTTOM

SPIKE IN NEUROLOGY Atherton’s new academic voyage: Navigating the ups and downs of Atherton’s new direction

By: Beatriz Arevalo & Iderian Coleman Designed by: Vanessa Marquis INTRODUCTION TO THE When Atherton High School students returned ACADEMIES OF LOUISVILLE to school in the Fall of 2018, they were instantly greeted by Atherton’s new status as a full Inter- Entering the 2019 school year, freshman were national Baccalaureate (IB) school. Additionally, granted the option of going into three different Atherton also had three new Academies of Lou- academies: Media Arts, Health Science, and isville career pathways from which Engineering. In Atherton’s 2018 welcome letter, students could choose to pursue. Dr.Aberli introduced this new addition In those first couple of days, it was saying “The academies experience will impossible for an Atherton student include guest speakers who specialize in to travel the hallways and not see these career fields as well as field expe- evidence of the school’s new status rience where students actually see what everywhere. these careers entail. As JCPS and Atherton This development was right in line develop ongoing business partnerships, with Atherton’s well-established approach to edu- students will have more choices to engage cation, and in that way the change seemed subtle in internships and job opportunities that provide at first. Afterall, Atherton had IB courses available them with career-related experience in that field since 1988. But the idea that Atherton as a whole to make them knowledgeable and competitive.” would follow the IB style of learning was radi- This school year is just the beginning and the end cally new, especially for some students who had is merely a statement with the academies having never taken an IB course. endless room for growth. While a more traditional educational model fo- The cause of this conversion was a $500,000 fund- cuses on finding the correct answer, an IB edu- ing from the Academies of Louisville that helped cation encourages a student to think outside the to aid these new academies in many different fields objective box of right and wrong and instead find and get them afloat with staffing. Along with this the answer that is most applicably logical to them funding, there will be another 1 million dollars put after the student explores a plethora of possible into a renovation project in order to accompany answers. In effect, IB seeks to nurture a student’s the need for improvements. natural curiosity and encourages creativity. Or as the IB mission states it: “The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowl- edgeable and caring young people who help to A massive renovation to Atherton’s architecture will be in effect follow- ing the current school year and to be finished coming into the 2020 school year, “we’re gonna get a massive en- gineering suite, a medical suite and a media arts suite by the beginning of next school year” states Dr. Aberli himself . an IB teacher even There are also plans for a possible expansion to the describes “IB offers Academies but this won’t come too fast, according them the chance to to Dr. Aberli “ We will maintain the three academies, further that intel- but we may keep introducing additional pathways lect and to further within the academies.” These following years will their abilities to the be reflective on the preparation of the students in- utmost level that cluded in the academies, as well as their success in you possibly can the paved career pathways. have in Jefferson county public schools…, with its international focus, its global context and the way THE VISION FOR THE DIPLOMA that it requires people to look at issues, it’s really the most demanding curriculum offered.” CANDIDATES With Atherton’s IB diploma program, students ATHERTON - THE PAST would spend their junior and senior years taking IB courses with 6 specific subject groups includ- William Tucker, an Atherton alumni and currently ing Sciences, Mathematics, and the arts. the IB Extended Essay Mentor has experienced the In addition, they would have to complete 3 re- program firsthand in the late 90’s having taken 3 quired components: Theory of knowledge (TOK), IB classes his junior and senior years. When asked CAS, and the extended essay. TOK is a required about these classes he stated that “ Those [IB cours- course which focuses on the idea of knowledge. es] were probably the most academically rigorous CAS, or Creativity, Activity, Service is an indi- experiences that I had up until my junior and senior vidual project a student must complete related to year of college.” And about his overall experience one or more of the elements in the title. Finally, in IB he reveals that “It really laid the foundation the extended essay is a 4000 word research paper for me as a reader and as a thinker; it helped me centered around one of the 6 subject groups. always think outside the box and question every- At graduation, if a student remains a diploma can- thing.” didate, meaning they stayed in the program those Even so long ago, the IB program has proven to be two years and completed all required components, a rigorous curriculum as it accostomes students to a then they will be awarded with an IB diploma as a new critical way of thinking and provides a sizable testament to their hard work. workload that must be balanced with extracurric- The IB diploma experience is a unique one in our ulars and a social life. Tucker,The Aerial: personally Issue part4 of9 county and its vision is set for academic greatness, several school activities remembers how “Because referred to involves more lectures, essays and I was involved with things all the time, work often socratic based learning in classes. times took a back burner and I have to admit that However, this change can work to better pre- there were plenty of times when I was doing my IB pare its students for the reality of college. One stu- History notes or writing a paper for English at 3 or dent expressed how the system helps students adjust 4 in the morning.” And these sentiments are echoed to real life stressful situations and the harsh world by more recent IB diploma candidate students as in which you have to learn to be quick on your well. feet. They put the IB experience into an interesting perspective “Let’s say, in a hypothetical situation, you took all IB classes and passed all of them but you failed every test that comes at the end…, you will still be much better prepared than every college student in that class.” With IB being geared to prepare college readiness, the addition of the academies aims to prepare career readiness after graduation. Together these two programs make the Atherton experience one that could stick with a student long after their 4 years of high school. ANALYSIS - THE GOOD THE UNINTENDED/ INTENDED When Dr. Aberli announced in his 2018 CONSEQUENCES? welcome letter that Atherton would become a whole IB school, there was an enthusiasm for However, This year the school has seen a Atherton’s new direction shared by some of the significant drop in the number of IB diploma candi- administration as well as some students. dates with more than half of the full IB juniors from For certain full IB students who were last year deciding to not continue on with the pro- fully adjusted to AP courses, new aspects of IB gram for their own personal reasons. Although these excited them. For instance, one past IB student reasons ranged from scheduling conflicts to a loss who struggled in AP because of its focus on of interest in particular classes, the general consen- tests shared her relief saying “IB gave me the sus gathered was that these students were under a option to choose a lot of what I’m learning and tremendous amount of stress. take control of certain parts of the final test For a certain student, this stress proved to grade…, that made me feel like my tests actual- be a breaking point but also a moment of realization ly show the things I’ve learned.” recalling how, “The workload was too much for me, When discussing with Dr.Aberli about right then, to be able to handle without becoming IB, it was even brought up how it has been distressed so through growing, I started to value my reflected in the school’s data that IB test scores happiness over accolades..” and going further they have historically been higher than AP test add “ I realized I was doing it for the recognition scores and enrollment rates for IB courses have rather than actually enjoying the challenge… and for also shown that trend. the cost I was paying it wasn’t worth it.” But, it is important to consider that the For some the cost to be a full IB student switch from AP to IB can be a big change to wasn’t just a mental one but a social one as well. undertake for some students which could prove Another previous diploma candidate student con- to be just as stressful as it is relieving. Another fessed “ To succeed in IB, I had to give up pretty student shared that “IB kind of has you learn much 90% of my social life…, I remember lunch everything for a test and beyond…, you’re was really big for me just because that was really the learning two things in one so that can be quite only time I got to sit down and relax and be with my stressful for some people; it’s a very big shift on friends, I wish I had more time than just 20 how you’re taught.” And this shift being minutes.” These two accounts only display some of the version is not available. Though this might be consequences certain students faced under the system an unfortunate consequence of Atherton’s new but overall many students on the inside had several direction, criticisms about the program which contributed to the Dr.Aberli addressed drop. this concern by When discussing with Dr.Aberli and asking him how frankly stating that he plans to improve the IB diploma program in order “We are an IB school... to prevent another such drop, he had this to say, “This when you come to year, for the first time since 1988 when IB first started Atherton we’re very here, we’ve introduced new IB classes…, by transparent about what making the diploma program more accessible, academic opportunities aligned with what students want to take and they we can provide…” have more options, more students may go the diploma program route…” He comments on how restrictive the roaster of course THE FUTURE - A COMMENTARY options was before and how that alone was the reason a majority of students left in the past. This year, IB The IB program, like the academies, Chemistry, Film Study and Psychology, along with is a commitment and it is vital that a student other IB course offerings were added to diversify the considers what their own personal limits are choices for IB students. But, with this addition comes before deciding to take on such an endeavour. the intended consequence of less AP course offerings But it is equally as vital that the student is given in the future with the junior AP literature course an extensive look into what they are in store for being phased out starting next school year. before making that decision. Another change in relation to AP is the AP European The administration makes a point to talk History course being turned from a required course to students in their sophomore year and give for AP sophomores to an elective. This caused a drop them information about what the next two years from 150 students enrolled last year to approximately could look like for them if they decide to go 60 this year. But, when asking Mr.Ellard, the AP Euro the IB route. But, perhaps the main point that teacher, about this change he was hopeful in stating should be stressed in these talks, along with the that “I actually think having AP Euro as an elective stress and workload, is that a student should be has helped the course. We have much more serious choosing to go that route for the right reasons. students in the class who are interested in the topic. It should be something a student feels intrinsi- Class discussions are academically rigorous and at cally motivated to do above all. times I can go slightly faster in covering content.” He Year by year, the number of diploma also comments on the diversification of Atherton’s candidate students naturally fluctuates, this time course roaster in the History department reflecting around, the number of full IB juniors is around how “We may not have every history class that our the 20’s. What can be hoped for them is that students want, but we are definitely more accom- they are comfortable in their position, are taking modating than in the past by coming up with what I classes they enjoy, and continue on to become think is the most diversified course catalog, since I’ve IB diploma graduates if they feel the program is been at Atherton.” right for them. While the focus on student interest and wanting to Overall, Atherton’s new direction aims give more course options is a great step in the right to give a student endless choices and resources. direction for the future of our school, the emphasis on The importance of student voice in our school’s IB leaves the concern of what will happen to stu- decision making is immense and in recognizing dents who would prefer to take AP courses. Though that by putting these new programs out there for not ultimately gone, it might lamentably make them the student body, the result, if executed ideally, have to either go into an Honors or IB course if an AP is an enjoyable, extensive and extraordinary learning experience. I hesitate, because I don’t want to be somebody that’s negative, but I just don’t see a solution... it’s such an ad- The Heroin dictive drug and it’s spread- ing so quickly. Highway

The words hung in the air like a thick, unforgiving smog, filling the confines of the room–a snug tucked away study in W.L. Lyons Brown Library on Bellarmine’s campus. As the discussion veered from such things as the root of the narcotics-smuggling epidemic to ways to fix addiction, an eerie realization washed over the room: this is bigger than any one problem.

In the past few years, Americans have come to be stretched gravely thin in regards to the cultural, social, and political conflicts being monitored: gun control, immigration, global warming, the list incessantly marches on. The biggest and baddest skeleton in society’s collective closet, however, is persistent and all-encompassing. That tenacious pile of bones is drug abuse. The Cradle Of Addiction With the Appalachians claiming the title of “cradle of the opioid epidemic,” coal mining has long been a staple of life in Western Kentucky and Virginia. In pain and suffering as a result of this hard career (oftentimes the only option given in times of recession and hardship), many of the coal miners working in this region were prescribed hard-hitting opioids like Vicodin, OxyContin, and Percocet–almost always blinded to their addictive nature under the illusion that prescription medication can't be abused. Later they were compelled to switch to cheaper, more erratic narcotics when painkillers became too expensive (to the fault of Big Pharma). With this fueling the regions unceasing drug problem, Kentucky in particular has been devastated by the aggressive trafficking of illicit drugs from Central and South America. One prodding question is, where are these narcotics funneling into Louisville and the U.S. from? The answer: right under everyone’s noses. I-65 has long been described as “Heroin Highway,” and rightfully so. The major transportation artery slices through the US with the volition of a serpent, running through Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky and ending in Gary, Indiana, situated just south of Lake Michigan. The “pipeline of illegal drugs” is favored by cartels wanting to push their product into the heartland of America, the Midwest, and then further into the country.

Everyday, state and local police play a game of cat and mouse with narcotics traffickers on the almost 900-mile expanse of highway, only as if the cat was practically blind and deaf. Many times these traffickers send out multiple cars filled to the brim with illegal narcotics, knowing Everybody thinks it’s not going on in that “if one gets hit (stopped), the other four will get through.” With this uncontrollable flow ofWW their neighborhood… don’t get a false opiates, methamphetamines, and more running right into the Louisville and broader Kentuckiana area, ignorance is bliss and involvement seems, without a doubt, costly to some. In reality, it sense of security. isn’t. The Heroin Highway

A Gut-Wrenching Reality To illustrate and bring light to such an alarming aspect of drug trafficking in America, a professional is needed. Major Mike Halbleib, a seasoned officer of the Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit, has agreed to talk about the uniquely misunderstood and certainly understaffed conflict ravaging the community. Beginning his career in 1992 by joining the L.M.P.D., Halbleib was soon promoted to detective and later awarded the title of “Louisville Police Officer of the Year” in 2000. As an expert witness for the Jefferson and Bullitt County Commonwealth Attorney’s Offices, he is undoubtedly well-versed in narcotics-related issues. As previously noted, Halbleib joined the Louisville Metro Police Department in 1992.

Although even back then this was considered a serious issue, its awe-inspiring enormity is something relatively new. "Back when I first came on, if you seized heroin, you were talking about a couple small (~.1 gram) balloons. And we might see that once or twice a year… now you’re seeing kilos upon kilos upon kilos. A kilo’s 36 ounces”; The proof is in the pudding. While it’s virtually impossible to pin down the amount of illegal narcotics in the US at any given moment, a good indicator is seizure rates at the Southern border. According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency, heroin seizures have almost tripled since 2009 and methamphetamine seizures have quintupled to over 266,828 pounds at and between ports of entry. A Crisis- and Hope- In Hiding Location doesn’t matter. Spend all the money you want on a nice house in a quiet area, send your kids to private schools. Even still, drug addiction tears lives apart from the Hollywood Hills to Compton, from upper Manhattan to the Bronx, from St. Matthews to Portland. That’s the damning thing about this problem in particular, you’re never safe.

Fierce contention is wielded as a weapon when discussing the epidemic being faced on a state

Everybody thinks it’s not going on in The Aerial: Issue 4 13 their neighborhood… don’t get a false sense of security. W

Art by Maggie Lucas W

and national level. “Some people say you need tal houses, they’ll drop off the stash quickly to cut off the head of the snake, focus on break- and get back on the interstate.” The clues are ing down major case traffickers. But others say quite evident in most cases, but most people no, you need to focus on the rehabilitation as- want to stay away from reporting them for fear pect and helping people with these addictions. of getting involved. Yet anonymity is always Others say you need to focus on the education an option, so exercise it. “If everybody would part of it... You can’t really say one is better take the opportunity to look through their than the other, you have to work at all three at neighborhood and just see what’s happening, the same time.” it’s amazing what time we could do as a police These are all strategies being executed department… Every time we make an arrest, in abundance. Admittedly, however, they are all the neighbors come out, saying ‘I knew all overtaxed and (relatively) ineffective ideas. something was going on,’ they saw all the For as long as the D.A.R.E. program has trav- signs.” eled around the country informing kids about Sink or Swim? the dangers of addiction, abuse has nonetheless For as long as the River City sits latched perched proudly over the Ohio, its communi- onto our youth. Since courts began handing out ties will continue to wither from within with- mandatory prison sentences for the distribution out support and rehabilitation. Louisville is in of certain illegal narcotics in the 80’s, drug the midst of a maddening epidemic, yet the peddlers have still dealt it in droves. Now is the power to bring forward change is traded off time to think outside of the box and involve the from hand to hand by apathetic individuals, community to mitigate drug trafficking and its reliant on someone else to fix the world’s ruinous effects on Louisville neighborhoods, problems. But this is not a world filled with even if it makes the city just a bit safer. So superheroes, instead it’s a world of normal where is there to start? people who need heroic mindsets. Halbleib says a good answer is self-po- Louisville and the greater Kentucki- licing. No, this does not imply chasing down ana area are more than capable of boasting a criminals yourself and exercising the act of cit- bright future, but the good only comes when izens’ arrest, comparable to a kind of awry and we as a collective come together and deal with hazardous vigilante justice. Instead, it means the bad. Ironically, in a day and age where ev- looking for signs of illegal or suspicious activ- eryone is connected, the divide between indi- ity and not hesitating to report it. "We as viduals is drastic and, in a sense, devastating. law enforcement just want people to open their When alone, addiction to our vices is eyes, look for the signs of drug activity, and just more often than not the only place to turn to. pick up their phone and call... an anonymous Instead of cowering to the epidemic because phone call, that’s all we need.” But what are the you think a difference can’t be made, become signs to look for? It can range from anything to an outlet that someone, a friend, a family homes in your neighborhood with no obvious member, or even a stranger can turn to. If ev- owner, cars coming in and out a night, long eryone lived that way, we might not even have periods of vacancy, no kids. “A lot of your drug a Heroin Highway. traffickers won’t venture far off I-65… What we’re seeing is a lot of the cartels will get off WrittenThe by Aerial: Daniel Issue Willen4 15 the interstate in rural areas where they have ren- Designed by Imari Maddox & Harlan Dawkins HOW DO COUNSELORS NAVI-

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The Aerial: Issue 4 17 Neurologist Spike Written by Max Zakeri Designed by Nathaly Torres

Over the last 10 years, the world has seen a large in- and treating mental illness, doctors would base more crease interest in the field of neurology. This has lead to off of the patients symptoms and previous observations more people to choose neurology as a career. With this rather than the new neurological observations. This new increase, experts in the medical field have decid- made the neurological field less valid in helping mental ed to take hold of this “gracious gift” and funnel these illnesses than psychology because the neurologists were new neurologists into pro- more dependent on human grams for mental health. emotional responses rather Most people don't realize than the actual brain itself. that the field of neurology While neurologists have still is gaining importance for made a lot of progress with the aid and improvement this method, psychiatrists of mental health. and other doctors see the potential for improving the The field of neurology is research and knowledge for the study and treatment of the neurological field. disorders of the nervous system. The nervous sys- Because of this new pro- tem includes both the spi- grams were created to aid nal cord and the brain but in this process by allowing most of the neurologists more money and other re- that are used are the ones sources to be used. These who specialize in the cra- new programs help these nial nervous system. The doctors focus on specific as- neurologists who study pects of these processes to the help map out different aspects, such as the neurolog- help better them and overall help us get closer to cur- ical pathways. These mapped out pathways are paired ing mental illness through verifying and even finding with aspects of psychology to help and find patterns new models and methods for identifying and analyzing the brain exhibits when going through certain mental these illnesses. This moves the primary focus on actual illnesses. This happens when nerve pathways light up brain research rather than testing patient data through with activity and neurologists capturing these chang- psychiatrists responses. es helping with finding medical treatments for things like depression and schizophrenia. While these seem The largest and overall more impactful program that like great ways to battle mental health issues, these pro- has helped funnel these neurologists is the Research cesses are hard to validate due to the large neurological Domain Criteria Initiative. This program was started pathways of the brain. Because of this, when diagnosing five years ago in the National institute of mental health located in Bethesda, Maryland. The program divides the a strong correlation that their ideas are correct. And doctors into different sections of mental health and then when these doctors are positive with their findings, their research counterpart. This ensures that a section they write a report and send it to other colleagues for of people are focused on specifically researching new review. Then those doctors conduct the experiment methods and another section testing and implementing themselves. And after they finally have the same con- these methods. Intern, this allows for new medicine to clusion, that revelation then gets spread throughout be made to aid in the process of curing these illnesses the world through different ways. These include news and can even give helpful tips and things to watch for in articles from high end medical journals such as: the patients for psychiatrists. This is said to be a more effi- BMJ, JAMA, and the Lancet and through other news cient method and helps employ more of these doctors. networks from other doctors who spread the awareness But due to these programs only emerging in the last few of these words. So when a breaking revolution in the years, the results are limited. Although most doctors in medical industry emerges. Doctors in our city of Louis- the field have high hopes for these programs, they have ville find out very quickly. not made a lot of progress. But that doesn’t diminish the programs credibility. The new program has a large These revelations inside the neurological industry are number of resources and many brilliant minds working slowey impacting our lives through new programs and together to better humanity. the curiosity of humans. These programs have a bright future according to the administrators of these pro- Although this process doesn't happen often, when they grams, and have hopes of exponentially helping both do, the researchers and the other professionals always current and future patients suffering from mental ill- re-check and re-test each experiment to make sure with nesses.

The Aerial: Issue 1 19 JOEJOE BIDEN’SBIDEN’S RACERACE TOTO THE BOTTOMBOTTOM Chomping at the bit, the entire Packed and article: “ How the Media Fell Out of country follows the progression of the Love with Beto O’Rourke”. This turn 2019-2020 Democratic National Contentious around by the same magazine that Primary, which will decide the main promoted his candidacy was a water- challenger to President Donald Field shed moment, and since then, his Trump as he seeks reelection. Collec- Senator Bernie Sanders has remained support in the polls has steadily tively making up news headlines since in a solid 2nd place lead, maintaining declined, and currently is at an July 28th, 2017 (when John Delaney poll averages between 15 and 19%, average of >3%. became the 1st person to officially while the rest of the field remained Mayor of South Bend, Indiana Pete declare candidacy), it has been one of below a 10% ceiling. He declared his Buttigieg began his campaign with the longest running news stories still Presidential candidacy in February 0.3% support in the polls. Yet, during developing, with repercussions 2019, with his brand of Democratic the contentious summer months this throughout the country. Socialism as an all-encompassing year his perceived pragmatism and platform, bringing back his voting performance seemed to draw the Road To The base from his 2016 Presidential run. Upon declaring his candidacy, his White House poll numbers began to rise roughly a “In national polling, As coverage for the 2018 midterms point per week until the end of March even before officially ended, focus on the Democratic at a peak of 24%, only 6 points away Primary heated up in the mainstream from Biden at the time. But soon declaring his candi- media, quickly centering around after, Biden announced his candidacy, former Vice President Joe Biden. It and Senator Sanders’ poll numbers dacy, Joe Biden re- was speculated about before the 2016 slowly fell and fluctuated until late mained close to 10% Presidential Election if he would run, May, stabilizing at an average of attempting to make the move from 15-18%. Although they have re- ahead of the 2nd Vice President to President. When he mained in that range since, Sanders’ highest candidate.” chose not to run, it became more poll numbers continue to reflect the clear that he was eyeing the 2020 or possibility that he is one of the most 2024 election. formidable opponents to Biden in the So from November 2018 through Primary. April 2019, Primary speculation was Former Texas Senatorial Candidate over whether Biden would run during Beto O’Rourke received extensive this election cycle or not. In national media attention upon declaring his polling, even before officially declar- candidacy in mid-March, even being ing his candidacy, Joe Biden remained featured on the cover of Vanity Fair’s close to 10% ahead of the 2nd highest April 2019 issue. This resulted in candidate Vermont State Senator rising from late 2018 poll numbers of Bernie Sanders, and at least 20% 5-6% to a peak of 9.5% in early April ahead of almost 2 dozen other candi- 2019, showing significant momen- dates. His constant media attention, tum. However, most likely because of despite not declaring candidacy yet, the inability for candidates to distin- as well as his identity as a known guish themselves in a Primary of 20+ political quantity was and is most candidates, national media began to likely responsible for his very strong turn their attention away, culminating base of support. with a summer 2019 Vanity Fair For nearly the entire Primary race, WRITTEN BY JACKSON WILLIAMS, DESIGNED BY HARLAN DAWKINS

Whttps://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2020/ president/us/2020_democratic_presidential_nom- indicating he has a very solid chance ination-6730.html of skating by to the nomination as long as he remains relevant and maintains his base. Most of the 20+ candidates barely have 2% during this time, showing his clear dominance in the field. On June 27, 2019, the second night of debate for the first Democratic National Committee’s (DNC) Prima- Open Conflict

ry occurred. During the debate, former California State Attorney General and current California State Senator Kamala Harris (who had media to him. However, upon reach- seen some polling above 10% back in ing a peak of just over 8% support, The “Joe February - March 2019 but recedback Buttigieg has stagnated, unable to Biden Effect” down) repeatedly and aggressively grow or take other candidates’ sup- criticised Biden’s record on forced port. Additionally, beginning in July, presidential bid on April 25, 2019 and school busing. This directly resulted questions about the satisfaction in his 2 weeks later polled 41.4%, the in the first steep drop in Biden’s poll own town seemed to pop up. Yet the highest level of support for any numbers, losing 5 points in just a nature and direction of his candidacy candidate then or since. But from that week. Although his support had been has not changed, remaining in the top point on Joe Biden’s level of support steadily decreasing, Biden began his 5 candidates with just under 6%, fell gradually until late July, where he trend of unstable polling in the high indicating for the time being he stays has remained between 27 and 32%, 20’s at this time. At the same time, in the race. indicating his major lead was built up Senator Harris’ support went from a Hanging over every candidate’s head, because of hype, and assumably declining 7% to 15%, reinvigorating Joe Biden officially announced his receded to his initial base of support, her campaign and receiving a jump in mostly holding strong. Campaigning support matched only by the spike on Obama’s record and a return to the Biden received upon his announce- political arena before President ment. Now Senators Harris, Warren, Trump, he seems to draw much of the and Sanders all had about 15%, moderate support in the Democratic heavily competing for the 2nd place Party. spot. Notable is the decreasing value of his On July 31, 2019, during the end of peaks in the polls. Gradually, his the second night of debate for the peaks are decreasing (32.2%, 31.5%, second DNC debate, U.S. Representa- and then 30.1%). This downward tive Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii un- trend could be a symbol of his gradu- leashed a major rhetorical attack on ally decreasing support, or could be Senator Harris’ record as Attorney temporary. He survived the fluctua- General, shocking many in both the tions of several lower tier candidates media and Democratic Party. The during this past summer, holding steady support Senator Harris had onto a third of the party consistently, been receiving began to wilt away, similar to President Trump during and Thehas continuedAerial: Issue to fall. 4 Now21 at the 2016 Republican Primaries, below 6%, Senator Harris is polling 20% in the polls, with the only other Biden only has to look about 5% the lowest she has since her an- one being Senator Sanders at his peak down to Senator Warren now. The nouncement last winter, and many see right after his announcement and just race could easily close between just her campaign with little left to do to before Biden’s. these two, or another candidate could challenge the frontrunners she al- With a platform drastically different emerge like so many others appeared ready has taken shots at. than Biden, the two candidates to do. Biden is currently trending Meanwhile, Massachusetts State appear to represent distinct wings of downward, while attempting to Senator Elizabeth Warren began her the Democratic Party, and so far she remain fairly steady, while Warren is campaign in late 2018 obscurely, and has the momentum to meet and on the upswing unlike any candidate with less than 10% support, seemingly challenge him for the top support so far. The debate between two wings not having a clear path to the nomi- among Democrats. in the Democrat Party seem reflected nation. Lackluster in both media between Biden and Warren, so it coverage and exposure to the public, becomes important to see where the her candidacy did not appear to be support from the rest of the candi- going anywhere and many wrote her Notably, both Senator Warren and dates will go. off with many other candidates who Andrew Yang are the only candidates couldn’t steadily gain support. It was to be in a better place in the polls now Executive Director of the Jefferson only in June this year that she broke than in any part of the race so far, and County Republican Party Louis Sean 10% in the polls, and steadily recieved the DNC Convention to select the gave his outside opinion on the glowing media attention. With plat- general election challenger to Presi- Democratic Primary, frankly stating, forms such as criminal justice reform, dent Trump is still close to a year “[The] Primary shows a very stark student loan debt forgiveness, and away. image of what the parties are offer- Medicare for all, she crosses over with Despite his unique background as a ing.” He cites Biden, Senator Warren, Senator Sanders’ policies, and yet she CEO and unique proposal for a form and Mayor Buttigeg as the most recieves the publicity of a major of universal basic income in his notable candidates, but wants to candidate that Sanders does not. By ‘Freedom Dividend’, Andrew Yang, remind people that immigration still the beginning of July, she had met most likely due to a lack of exposure, seems to be the most important issue Senator Sanders in poll numbers, and remains very low in the polls. With to the American public. Focusing the constant tension between the two more than 10 candidates on a debate more locally, the main event in state is if she is able to peel off some of his stage it can be difficult for any -un politics is not the Democratic Prima- support for her own. They chose not known candidate to receive notoriety. ry at all, with all resources on the to criticize each other publically, and Yet, breaking 3% in the polls to place contentious 2019 Kentucky Guberna- the both of them remained relatively himself in the top 6-7 candidates is a torial race. It seems necessary for even in the 16-18% range, but by early big achievement in a field of known Kentuckians to follow both develop- Democratic political stars. ments to see the direction the state September, she might take in the began to slowly coming years. break away from Sanders, solidly When identify- taking 2nd place ing trends and in the polls, news develop- presenting the 1st ments, Real- new serious ClearPolitics. challenge to com was the Biden in months. source for all By the end of polling data used September she in this article. became the 2nd candidate other than Biden to reach more than The Media Circus

The Aerial: Issue 1 23

The Aerial: Issue 4 25 the community and congress. some would say racist, hate from president Donald Trump. These Women being held to a seemingly Seemingly negative or controversial views of him derive heavily from higher standard results in judgment views and opinions towards Women statements similar to “go back and that may go as far as to criticize the in political power can often be help fix the totally broken and actions of female politicians on a represented through fellow political crime-infested places from which ‘harsher’ level than men because of members. Beyond the local borders they came.” from President Trump’s the evidential distaste of a difference of Kentucky, representative Alexan- twitter. in appearance. Where these voices of dria Ocasio-Cortez, and representa- disdain are coming from is in consid- tive Ilhan Omar are just two of the In an interview with Kentucky house eration of the vast difference between women in congress that receive, what representative Attica Scott, the difference between the community skin, clothing, hair, and even actions. and out of the public is an overall and politicians became evident in her When in reality we work just as harsher judgment. Beyond the experience. hard.” With being subject to these barriers of cosmetics and pants suits, discriminatory actions and remarks, a female candidates worth is at large “It’s never seen, it threw people.” says she encourages more young women dependent on her compensation in Scott while discussing the comments to visit the capital and be involved, potential. Women, in and out of made towards her natural hair, and informing them that everything they politics, are starting with an unfair the uniformity of the Louisville do will be judged, even speaking too advantage, and therefore have to Metro Council. The council ques- loud, but giving hope despite that. work harder to prove a level of future tioned her on if she was going to cut Scott noted that more diversity in potential that is already seen in men. her hair once appointed. Remarks congress would “reflect state policy Within the barriers of clothing, a towards her appearance however in which you live and reflect the study released by Name It. Change It. were scarcely from the community. community.” revealed how significantly a woman's “The community rarely said any- Nima Kulkarni, another female appearance can change an electoral thing, it wasn't a factor while run- representative, is the first Indian race. The fake election that was being ning. It was mainly the political American to be in house. Attica Scott presented to the people taking this members. People in the community commented on an event they were survey included comments resem- show more respect and authenticity.” both at, and how Kulkarni seemed to bled a 2012 election. The study be purposefully avoided when it concluded that a comment made Resembling a community in which came to the camera. Scott believed about a woman's dress or heels, being you represent politically is what this was because of her traditional positive or simply a statement, had gained Attica Scott the support from ethnic clothing that she was wearing. negative effects on the voters. the public, but that same reason is She also commented on how it what causes turned heads from reflected the lack of diversity in The social climate within the closed political members. The uniformity of house. This situation is similar to doors of congress seemingly reflects politicians seems to give these Scott’s, and many other women, a wider implication of uniformity members closed minds that play a especially women of color. within politics outside of Kentucky. role in their judgment. “There’s an Despite that, women continue to assumption to look as much alike as Although it is evident that the represent themselves outside of the possible. It’s a reflection of the lack of community response in Kentucky is lines, the result being a positive diversity, while differences should be significant in comparison to in house outreach in community through a welcomed.” says Scott. to treatment, the majority case for in personal connection.

Attica Scott spoke on the views on 2019 women, “It’s definitely terrible that women are judged more on what they are wearing, how they speak, 2005 their hair, and if their choice of Female Republicans makeup or not wearing any at all.” The comments that have been made 1999 Male Republicans towards Scott in articles has been a factor, “More often than not it’s used Female Democrats to try and keep me in my place and 1989 try to humiliate me. They try to make Male Democrats people think less of me.” says Scott. 1979 Other Party/Vacant Being a woman of color in office subjects Scott to political members 1969 calling her angry 0 25 50 75 100 for simply speaking up. “Women of color are judged The Aerial: Issue 1 different based off 27 LOCAL KEEP LOUISVILLE BRUTAL

ALGAE INVADERS

FIBER-OPTIC FIASCO

SCHOOL OF NOSTALGIA

LOSING MY RELIGION LOCAL KEEP LOUISVILLE BRUTAL

ALGAE INVADERS

FIBER-OPTIC FIASCO

SCHOOL OF NOSTALGIA

LOSING MY RELIGION The Aerial: Issue 4 29 Keep Louisville Brutal

c By Martin Sanders-Whiteley

But Heavy Metal is largely overlooked by local Louisville’s music scene has made great creative media, and fans of the music seem to be a minority at Atherton. Brandon Jolly, a senior at Atherton and a impact throughout the years. Post-Rock pioneers Metalhead, says that fans of Extreme Metal at Ather- Slint are internationally regarded as key figures in al- ton are “a minority...there’s not many of us! There are ternative music. Alternative Rock band My Morning like, some Metalheads in disguise that I know of that Jacket has also achieved an international audience. I won’t like, out, because it might ruin their reputa- As of 2019, the popularity of Punk outfit GRLwood tion.” This suggests that Metal fandom is something has spread well beyond the boundaries of Louisville. people try to hide, something to be ashamed of. Atherton High School has produced more than a few Louisville bands, especially within the Punk scene. The very essence of Atherton itself, it does attract Anemic Royalty, The Happy Yew and Shark Sand- Punk and Metal musicians. I think it does have a wich were all formed by Atherton students, and have pretty wide influence just because we have numbers. become important fixtures in Louisville’s Punk and There are a lot of Punk and Metal fans who go to Alternative scenes. Atherton.”

Ethan Zitelli, also a senior and a Metalhead, observes Art teacher Jeremy Dixon states that the number of things in a different light: “There is a lot of influence Metal fans at Atherton is “difficult to say. I’m always from Atherton. I don’t necessarily think it influences seeing the students wearing the shirts and such, but as the scene as a whole, but I think at least in the youth far as bands and band members? That’s a bit harder scene Atherton is very, very prominent in the sense to answer. However, lately I’m hearing about more that we are a center of supposed acceptance, so that and more bands with at least a few members from attracts a very eclectic group of people. Within that Atherton.” and those ideals, I guess you’re gonna get a lot of quote-unquote ‘outsiders’ who are more likely to Dixon himself is involved in the local scene: “It all relate to the extreme and emotiLouisville also has a came from my love of 80s and 90s hardcore, punk, large and vital culture of Heavy Metal music, espe- and metal. I used to roadie for bands back then and cially in its more brutal forms: Black Metal, Death was always going to all-ages shows. I guess I never Metal, Grindcore, and Doom Metal, among others. gave up that habit. I probably see 2-3 shows a week on my own, many of which are metal, and I also dio….Now, I do realize it’s not necessarily a palatable work part time doing security at venues and music style of music to everyone, but it is a community that events so there’s those shows too... and I get paid to deserves so much more recognition than it gets,” see them now…” Parental and venue restrictions can also prevent mi- When interviewed, both Zitelli and Dixon frequent- ly mentioned Metal and Punk in the same breath. “I really see a super-strong connection. Honestly I think of them as two peas in the same pod. I just b brought up Knocked Loose whom most people categorize as hardcore punk, but I see and hear their metal side throughout their music and definitely Spinellis is definitely an option for Metal-loving minors. among their fanbase.” says Dixon. Zitelli mentions The restaurant turned music venue plays host to shows that “People in the scene play Punk and Metal. featuring bands in genres ranging from Indie, to Punk, That’s pretty much accepted. And sometimes it’s to Metalcore, to Death Metal (sometimes all on the same like, Folk influenced or whatever, but it pretty much bill,) throughout the year. centers around stripped-down Punk and Metal. Other than that, it’s kind of an eclectic bunch just because Louisville is such a melting pot.” Checking the support acts for shows by Extreme Metal bands from out of town can be a helpful tool, as local Jolly also recognizes the crossover between the bands will frequently support these bands when they two genres: “If you hear, say, Suicidal Tendencies come to Louisville. For example, Buffalo Death Metallers or like, more Hardcore stuff, Black Flag, stuff like Cannibal Corpse have been supported by Cryptic Hymn, that, and you want something a little bit harder and and intergalactic “Scumdog” Metal band GWAR has fre- a little bit faster, that would be the crossover to Met- quently seen local support from Stonecutters. al.” However Jolly, has also noticed a very different trend: “You see a lot of kids who go from Punk, or like, Pop to Indie and not so much into Metal.” A reliable option for young fans is Louisville Is Dead. The relative minority of people discovering the Louisville Is Dead is an all-ages Punk, Hardcore, Hard Metal scene could be due to the much smaller Rock, and Metal festival that happens anually, give or amount of exposure Extreme Metal gets compared take a cancellation, and features a lineup of local bands. to other genres. When asked if he thought local These bands range from the very popular (GRLwood, media gave Metal bands enough attention, Mr. Stonecutters, Cryptic Hymn,) to the relatively unknown. Dixon responded: “They do but only when a band gets popular outside of the city. They never seem to talk about them when they’re coming up. Look at Knocked Loose for example! The news and other media NEVER spoke their name until they were coming back from being on Warped Tour! Even if one is unable to attend shows, checking the Meanwhile they were becoming HUGE everywhere lineups for local events can help to support the scene. If else!” someone finds a local band that they like, they can still support the band by buying their music online. Finding “I mean, 91.9 WFPK, I don’t really have any beef bands this way also allows listeners to keep track of the with them or anything, obviously,” says Zitelli, “but local bands they like, and see if these they’re kind of a local music station, and they like bands are playing events they can attend to focus on underground artists and stuff, which is in the future. lovely, but I’m always distressed at the amount of Singer-Songwriter I hear versus anything else. I have rarely, if ever, heard Punk and Metal on the ra- The Aerial: Issue 1 31 Child Bite at The Highland Taproom in nors from going to lo- Louisville, KY on 20-Apr-2015 cal Metal events. Paul “I wish I went to more all-ag- Certainly, local bands Greenberg, like the oth- es shows, but sometimes I er students interviewed frequently play at ven- for this article, is a se- feel like the ‘old guy in the ues off-limits to minors. nior at Atherton, as well back’ that makes the kids “Highland Tap Room has the Metal Mondays as a Metal fan. Unlike feel a bit uncomfortable.” them, he has not been and MagBar is always involved in the local -MR. DIXON heavy,” Mr. Dixon Metal scene, but this observes, “however isn’t for lack of trying: “I’m only 17.” says Greenberg. those are almost always 21 and over.” But Dixon also “I still need my parents’ permission to, you know, suggests alternatives for younger Metalheads: “Head- buy tickets that are more than 20 dollars or whatever. liners is finally starting to get more heavy acts and There’s a lot of parental and societal opposition.” (these shows are) often all-ages. Then there’s Spi- nellis and house shows…” Dixon himself doesn’t go On the tendency of Metal bands to be booked at to as many of these events as he does “adult” Metal venues with an age limit of 21 and up, Greenberg shows: commented: “That falls under the societal (idea that) ‘only adult adults, adults that can drink alcohol, can “I wish I went to more all-ages shows, but sometimes listen to this kind of music,’ when it’s like, ‘no!’” I feel like the ‘old guy in the back’ that makes the kids feel a bit uncomfortable.” Even if one is unable to attend shows, my ears to listen to it.” checking the lineups for local events But these Thrash bands weren’t what can help to support the scene. If got Jolly invested in Extreme Metal. He The lyrical content was also a turn-off someone finds a local band that they recalls that he “really got into it deep for Stutz: “Granted, I am a christian like, they can still support the band by when I was listening to Slipknot’s first but that is not the reason why I don’t buying their music online. Finding album like, every day. So, I would wake like it. I listen to songs that speak of bands this way also allows listeners to up, and get in the shower, and it would doing things that are sins..... OH keep track of the local bands they like, be on…” MY!!!. I have always associated heavy and see if these bands are playing metal with counter culture, dark, events they can attend in the future. The primary reason that the Metal- dangerous stuff. Just my thoughts.” heads interviewed were attracted to the Despite his dislike of the music, Stutz For some, the tipping point into music was because of its intense keeps an open mind and doesn’t think Extreme Metal from more traditional emotional quality. “(Metal is) pure badly of Metalheads. He stated that he Rock was Thrash Metal. Thrash emotion,” Zitelli commented, “It’s very, doesn’t “judge people who like metal exhibits many of the hallmarks of similar, almost, to a Jackson Pollock music…. My son listens to it some and classic heavy metal, and can be quite painting....There’s not a box you can I think the word of him (sic). It is catchy and melodic (Metallica being put it into. It’s the music of raw emo- simply a preference. I don’t think there the most popular example,) but is also tion.” “The extremeness of it didn’t put is such a thing as a bad genre, just bad faster and more aggressive. Thrash me off.” Greenberg remarked in a performers. I don’t appreciate heavy bands like Slayer, Kreator, and Power similar vein. “I liked it. It was, you metal (except for smoke on the water Trip push the limits enough that they know, emotional.” which is, I am sure, pretty mild heavy can be considered Extreme Metal. metal) but that is like saying you like Paul Greenberg also talked about the one food over another.” Ethan Zitelli recalls his beginning on appeal of musicianship in Metal: “I’m a the path to musical brutality: “It was drummer. Being a musician, the drum- Brandon Jolly believes that “more almost like a natural progression. My ming in Metal is faster, it’s usually people should be looking at Metal. All parents gave me like, The Ramones...I more complex, so that’s intriguing as a the different kinds of Metal are always grew up on some of, like, the surface musician.” fascinating….It’s overwhelming at first, level, like Black Sabbath type stuff…” so if you don’t know what you’re But the aspects of Metal that draw looking for, you’ll just go in to a guy Paul Greenberg had a similar musical some people to it, can also repel others. screaming over a bunch of guitars, and beginning: “It was a natural progres- “The first time I heard heavy metal was that can be very overwhelming….Just sion from classic Rock, I guess...then when I was a teenager.” recalls Ather- see what you like! You can’t judge it off when I was like, maybe 10 or 11 I start- ton math teacher Douglas Stutz. “I of one taste….maybe do a little Canni- ed listening to, I guess, harder stuff like remember seeing a MTV video (sic) bal Corpse...or go see GWAR!” Green Day or things like The Clash or and just thinking it was way to intense Led Zeppelin.” (sic) for me. I liked James Taylor a While Metal has great qualities that great deal at this time in my life and might go unnoticed by many, perhaps Brandon Jolly also began his Extreme comparatively, it was very harsh.” Metal doesn’t need too much attention. Metal journey with Thrash, recalling “Oh they all think we’re freaks and that when he was younger he “would When asked what particular aspects of weirdos and I am totally fine with always listen to early Metallica… the music repelled him, Stutz cited the that....” states Dixon. “We don’t need (especially the) Ride The Lightning era vocals: “I don’t really understand them anyway and more of our music of the band.” with his father. “(We anything they are saying and there is for us! See y’all in the pit!!!” would also) get a little bit of Slayer in no story in the music….It just hurts The Aerial: Issue 1 33 there.” Jolly remembers. AlgaeAlgae InvadersInvaders By Grant Gordon

Dangerous algae blooms that originated in a small stream Kentucky, Fish & Wildlife they unfortunately did not in Wheeling, West Virginia has traveled over 500 miles respond to the string of emails I asked their staff. Fish & through the Ohio river current infecting tributaries, Wildlife may not be able to completely get rid of Blue- streams, and even water collected by companies. The Green algae we are able to contain its spread and its dam- toxic blooms that infect the Ohio river contain toxin that age. Possible things that can be done to prevent the spread sickens and even kills pets and humans. The toxic algae of Blue-Green algae is to wash your boat vigorously with blooms may seem like regular green pond muck that a bleach solution, using a bleach solution helps ultimately accumulates in most average streams but at certain tem- destroy any form of blue-green algae on your boat. If you peratures it turns a dark red, the toxic algae gathers up happen to come into contact with the Algae it is urged to on commercial and private boats and rub off onto people leaved the water and wash yourself off immediately, pets when they remove their boats from the Ohio. Multiple can fall ill to the effects faster so it is urged to wash your water supplier companies that collect and use Ohio river pets with even faster a response. Symptoms of Blue-Green water for commercial use are out of luck because the toxic algae poison are : Nausea, Dizziness, Dehydration, and algae gums up water cooled machinery and sometimes Varying organ pain. While these toxins cannot kill hu- even breaks them. mans it most certainly can kill pets. Sins that algae is pres- ent in the water you are in is a green slime on the shore, it One prominent effect of the algae bloom is the closing of is most likely washed up algae. Dead fish and other aquat- the Waterfront waterpark. The waterpark that hundreds of ic life is also a huge red flag of Blue-Green algae. Hopeful- citizens flock to during hot weather has been shut down ly this article will help you and others stay safe and have due to the algae bloom. The waterfront waterpark uses fun while venturing near the Ohio river. recycled water from the Ohio river, using filters to keep out physical objects and small particles, the microscopic The introduction of dangerous algae can stamper dozens toxes flow right through into the water. The waterparks of famous waterfront events. The waterfront and the Ohio weak filters had a horrendous back fire when in back in river host droves of recreational activities that people July 30 children had fallen ill after an E coli outbreak. One participate in every day as a part of their common routine. contributing factor to the algae’s bloom is the perfect envi- For instance the pest fish, Asian Carp, take over bodies of ronment to spread. The toxic algae thrives in nutrient rich water and destroy ecosystems, the carp have reached the environments rich in phosphorus and nitrogen. Ohio and have taken over brook run-offs and some of the more gentle parts of the river. The slow and gentle parts With all of the natural gas trapped under the Ohio and of the river house a very special fish,the paddlefish, an waste dumped into it caused the waters to fill with nitro- endangered fish species that has a shark like body with a gen and warmth a perfect environment for catfish, pad- paddle nose, these fish help clean up carbon filled plants at dlefish, and highly toxic algae blooms. With the multitude the bottom that provides habitats for blue-green algae, but of barges coming through the Ohio if action is not taken with the algae overcoming the river, the fish are dying be- it can latch onto barges and other commercial boats and cause the carp have bodies of iron and can survive in the travel further down the Ohio and can even jump into algae but the paddlefish cannot, hence the catfish eating other major streams and possibly travel to other major the food for the paddlefish killing off even more of them. commercial lines and possibly spread to the Ocean. There have been multiple occurrences of blooms in the ocean Besides the life in the water, there is also a danger to life that have grown in astronomical size and kill sea life and on land. The waterfront is obviously a very beautiful place damage fishing and aquatic industries. The Ohio river to hold events, vantage points to view the river, lots of runs off into places all over the city, including beargrass parking, and hundreds of yards of open grass to sit makes creek, a popular swimming and fishing spot enjoyed by the waterfront the ideal place to host events, such as the most may soon be overwhelmed by toxic algae. 2018 Air show and even Louder Than Life. All of these Invading the Ohio, AlgaeAlgae InvadersInvaders Abusive Industries to events are , most of the time, pet and child friendly. Blame ? Kentucky, Fish & Wildlife they unfortunately did not With all of these children and pets running around they Helping clean up the river is very important to the respond to the string of emails I asked their staff. Fish & will most likely run down to the water because, as we health of the city, confronting industrial companies the Wildlife may not be able to completely get rid of Blue- all know, water is really cool and should be observed by pollute the river, trying to introduce safer waterways Green algae we are able to contain its spread and its dam- all. Pets will most likely go down to the water to drink and policies for barges, increase\ing recycling efforts age. Possible things that can be done to prevent the spread from the river and they will end up consuming physi- across the riverfront are all fantastic ways to support the of Blue-Green algae is to wash your boat vigorously with cal clumps of algae and as stated before when animals city and ecosystem. a bleach solution, using a bleach solution helps ultimately consume the algae they fall deathly ill and sometimes destroy any form of blue-green algae on your boat. If you even pass away. Children will most likely just fall ill and The concept of a toxic invader, like blue green algae, happen to come into contact with the Algae it is urged to recover within a week. can be intimidating but it is a product of mother na- leaved the water and wash yourself off immediately, pets ture that will come and go naturally. These kinds of can fall ill to the effects faster so it is urged to wash your natural events cannot be stopped or altered so the only pets with even faster a response. Symptoms of Blue-Green Now all these horrid things being told to you about thing we can do is just leave it alone.The Ohio River is algae poison are : Nausea, Dizziness, Dehydration, and blue-green algae, “Is it really bad as it is, will me and the coronary arteries of Kentucky, it provides fast and Varying organ pain. While these toxins cannot kill hu- my family keel over and die because of some water easy transport of the Kentucky life-blood all across the mans it most certainly can kill pets. Sins that algae is pres- plants”, short answer to the question is “No”. You will country. Lets take care of our arteries, lets take care of ent in the water you are in is a green slime on the shore, it most likely not die from the algae. Kentucky Fish and the Ohio. is most likely washed up algae. Dead fish and other aquat- Wildlife are working hard to research and clean up the ic life is also a huge red flag of Blue-Green algae. Hopeful- algae, hoping to find a way to contain the algae so it ly this article will help you and others stay safe and have cannot spread anymore. Local public laboratories have fun while venturing near the Ohio river. rumored to be taking samples of the algae to build a possibly vaccine or “cure” for the Blue-Green algae The introduction of dangerous algae can stamper dozens symptoms. Blue-Green algae feeds off of carbon and of famous waterfront events. The waterfront and the Ohio in-water bacteria. river host droves of recreational activities that people participate in every day as a part of their common routine. Another contributing factor to the blue-green algae For instance the pest fish, Asian Carp, take over bodies of blooms are the abundance of carbon in the Ohio river. water and destroy ecosystems, the carp have reached the As people may, or may not, know lots of crazy things Ohio and have taken over brook run-offs and some of the have sunk into the Ohio from barges, to cars, to air- more gentle parts of the river. The slow and gentle parts planes, if it exists in Kentucky it has probably seen the of the river house a very special fish,the paddlefish, an bottom of the Ohio. The most common cargo transport- endangered fish species that has a shark like body with a ed onto the Ohio is coal, besides tobacco and bourbon, paddle nose, these fish help clean up carbon filled plants at coal is Knetuckys best export.Since 1790 ten billion the bottom that provides habitats for blue-green algae, but tones of coal has been mined and exported out of with the algae overcoming the river, the fish are dying be- kentucky. For some odd reason barges have had a weird cause the carp have bodies of iron and can survive in the thing of sinking near louisville and all that coal sinks algae but the paddlefish cannot, hence the catfish eating to the bottom.Coal is extremely high in carbon and the food for the paddlefish killing off even more of them. when it falls to the bottom it chips away into water and dissolves increasing the carbon levels by ten fold. The Besides the life in the water, there is also a danger to life increased carbon level have stayed for the past twen- on land. The waterfront is obviously a very beautiful place ty years and has led to another incident like this back to hold events, vantage points to view the river, lots of in 2013. In 2013 there was another huge algae bloom parking, and hundreds of yards of open grass to sit makes occurred in the Ohio and cancelled multiple swimming the waterfront the ideal place to host events, such as the events. The abuse to the Ohio from Industrial caus- 2018 Air show and even Louder Than Life. All of these es and natural human error have created a breeding ground for poisonous algae and awful water conditions.

Google Fiber Inc. sought out Fiber-optic feasibility did not end who’s who of cities that are focused Louisville with the goal of innovat- with this initial failure of sorts on building strong economies for ing a city they claimed was “on the however. Instead, Louisville used today and for the future.” The rise”. For 487 days this distant Google Fiber’s decision as an “who’s who” are Fiber Cities and developmental dream became a opportunity to promote and devel- this time, Lousville had not been tangible reality. The city was able to op their fiber-optic capability passed up. Fischer continued the reach new heights with the help of independent of corporate invest- announcement saying “I’m eager to corporate connections, capital and ment. Smith explains this develop- see the positive transformation this cables. As quickly as it had come mental process saying “It was a brings for our city’s businesses and however, the privatized preference team sport for the next year and a families for years to come.” Noted ended suddenly as Louisville half, working hard to get Google’s “for its potential to boost families became “just not the right business attention...we embarked on a pretty and create jobs” Google Fiber’s decision”. With these words, the aggressive six month pathway to investment represented a milestone fibrous future of our city was cut become a ‘fiber-freindly’ city.” for Louisville and Kentucky. down, but it was a cut that was far Throughout the six month develop- from clean. mental pathway there were notable As Google Fiber entered Louisville changes to telecommunications it was marketed directly to resi- Louisville’s push for a fiber-optic ordinances, public works coordina- dents; it would be the individuals future started as an idea. The idea tion, development of GIS asset and families of Louisville who however, was revealed only after a inventories, and an in depth review would have direct access to this series of initial inquiries searching of Louisville’s fiber-optic needs. revolutionary network. Ted Smith for possible areas of innovation Although extensive and challeng- explains this decision saying “..the within Louisville. “In our interest in ing, the rigorous changes outlined changing nature of work, the looking at what competitive, attrac- by the pathway transformed Louis- changing nature of expectations of tive, economically robust mid-sized ville into a city with the tools and what a city has to offer...there is cities had going for them...” Ted infrastructure to bring “competi- more gig work and remote work Smith, the chief of civic innovation tion to the market”. For Smith, the going on now than in any point in in the mayor’s office from 2011- prized competitor was Google American history.” The fiber-optic 2016 and key fiber-optic figure Fiber. With their fiber-optics, network was therefore able to explains “...this idea of ultra high- community investment, and bal- bridge the commercial and residen- speed, affordable broadband -fi ance sheet they provided the most tial broadband internet chasmin as ber-optics was becoming talked conceivable solution to Louisville's it sought to provide even greater about as one of the next amenities developmental desires. economic equality and activity that a competitive mid-sized city among all sectors of the economy needs to have an answer for.” It is Emphasis concerning fiber-optic from individual to corporation. important to note however that this marketability reached a climax Google idea was not unique to Smith or when it was announced in 2015 Fiber was Mayor Fisher’s administration. In that “Over the next several months, also able to fact, Smith explains that “Google Google will examine the feasibility provide Fiber had announced to the world of running fiber along public rights services that they were looking for applica- of way -- along telephone poles and which tions for wiring up 10 cities... underground -- throughout Jeffer- sought to virtually every city in America of son County, by Ted Smith, Metro work with any size applied”. These initial ten government's chief of civic innova- the margin- cities represented the very begin- tion. Following a period of intense alized of ning of Google Fiber throughout apprehension, the city and its Louisville the nation, an impressive honor residents finally received word on though local which Louisville, although having April 26, 2017 as Louisville Mayor applied, was denied. Greg Fischer announced that The Aerial: Issue 1 37 “Louisville is officially joining a to drastically reduce the installation What followed however was a fairly time and started signing homeown- subdued series of adjustments, and ers up 5 months after Google continued experimentation as announced its intention to coming Google Fiber continued to roll-out to Louisville. Although initially the network. In fact, Google Fiber praised for their ingenuity, very remained relatively out of the quickly there became more con- public eye until February 7, 2019 cerns than compliments as the where,on their blog, Google Fiber fiber-optic network became a published a report stating simply fiber-optic fiasco. and clearly “Today, we’re saying goodbye to one of our Fiber cities... A little less than a year following after a lot of analysis, we’ve made Fiber Restoration Project Corner of Goolge Fibers initial announce- the tough decision to leave Louis- Dundee and Fleming Rd. ment and plan, Google Fiber was ville, Kentucky.” The decision, large- tested, as consumer reports and ly unexpected by almost all resi- charitable giving and corporate customer reviews transitioned and dents, marked the official end to the support. A Google spokesperson were no longer so supportive. Local partnership between with Google explained their charitable motiva- news agencies quickly picked up on Fiber and the City of Louisville. tions saying "With the right tools the local discontent with the tech Although certainly a loss, when and resources, we believe that the giant and published these com- asked about additional fiber-optic next generation of developers, plaints in articles writing “Google possibilities to replace the hole coders and entrepreneurs will come Fiber may have promised super- which Google Fiber had left Ted from right here in the Portland high-speed internet in Louisville, Smith explained that “Google neighborhood”. Louisvillians were but expectations of the company leaving the market...is coming at a exposed to a level of corporate have fallen short for some. Resi- time when it’s not like we're really involvement, equality, and inter- dents in the Belknap neighborhood going to go back and say ‘I wonder connectedness the likes of which are calling the installation work on if other providers will bring high were previously unseen. some streets sloppy.” As Google speed broadband to my door.’’ The Fiber crews began installing the reality of the modern era in which Perhaps most import of all was the cable throughout neighborhoods we live is that mobility and inter- means by which Google planned on within Louisville, the inexperience connectedness are now critical building the fiber-optic infrastruc- and lack of familiarity with new components to a successful techno- ture throughout the community. It installation techniques had many logical system. Gone are the days was made very clear that Louisville residents wondering about the was an experimental area where safety and longevity of the network Google took certain liberties as it as epoxy, asphalt and cable came trialed new elements. One such poking out of the ground. Discus- element was their newly developed sions with local communities “shallow trenching”. Web company revealed a population apprehensive TechRepublic published a piece on about signing up with a program this experimental method which who longevity was already a point Google Fiber linked to their page of debate so early in the installation explaining that “Instead of mount- game. ing cables on utility poles or dig- ging deep into the ground, shallow Google Fiber was quick to address trenching allows a company to cut a the issue and concerns of residents small groove in the street or side- saying "Google Fiber is aware of the walk, lay the fiber in that groove, situation and we're working closely Fiber Restoration Project Corner of Dundee and Fleming Rd. and backfill it with a special epoxy” with the City of Louisville to In doing so, Google Fiber was able resolve it as quickly as possible." where a single residential connec- tion will provide the mobility required for employees and design- ers. Rather, we must look to the future and take cues from media giants as they seek to provide internet access no matter where you go.

Yet, in addition to a technological hole, Google Fiber also left a system of trenches and cable which was very quickly deteriorating. The trenches cut into the shoulder of the road spiderwebbed into massive cracks and potholes leaving Louis- ville streets in a state of incredible disrepair. However, as part of Google Fibers exit, a contract was negotiated between Google and the City of Louisville where close to four million dollars would be given to the city to remove and repair the deteriorating streets, returning them to how they looked just a few years ago. The restoration process continues throughout Louisville as every trace of a fiber-optic network is removed from Louisville. The nature of the events which have occurred in Louisville beg questions of progress, accountability and corporate responsibility. Louisville now and Louisville three years ago would appear technologically similar; neither have a fiber-optic network and both are controlled by the same internet giants. In the midst of this somewhat bleak reality however, there lies a call to the youth of our city. A call best articulated by Ted Smith:

“Louisville really will benefit from listening to younger people. If you look at the kinds of changes we're going through as a country and society the sort of gaps in familiarity with the way people socialize, the way people entertain themselves, the way people learn...I think it's actually getting harder. I think the individuals of your generation aren’t waiting to become my generation, you're going to become your own generation and you're going to be dealing with a very different country and world than my generation or the generation before me. You and your fellow students taking serious interest in these things and challenging the logic and wondering why other things aren't being addressed is a critically important thing. Now is really a great time to get involved.”

The Aerial: Issue 1 39 The Party Appeal Real Vintage, or Thrift Trickery? Think back to 1999, just before a new millenium, where Many vintage clothing stores make themselves as thrift the thought of going into the year 2000 was almost stores, but there still remain real thrift stores that sell unfathomable. The new year would provide an entirely items that are very old, up until the early 2000’s, and new party life, especially looking at songs from artists even some new things. For example, Goodwill is a like Prince who said “party like it’s 1999.” The appeal common thrift store where many people donate old A School Of of the partying of the great age of music, culture, and A School Of items to which are then resold at a low price. This is a overall human advancement into the future, carries on true vintage store, since it mainly gets old items from School of Nostalgiathrough vintage items sold now. The rapid advancement oth ers aisnd doesn’t ca ter its items specifically to the of things such as video games, which started with Pong, tastes of its customers. One example, is some vintage Vintage style and items have made a resurgence in popularity in a game that was so simple, but advanced for the time stores will buy items from people, and then resell them the past 3 years, and it’s been getting more popular yearly. The Why Vintage Clothes? due to computers being very new, the first modern at twice, or even three times that value. This seems like NrNesurgence of voointage style hsass also appeattred in the livaaes of many llIf you go tgog any Goodwiiill, you wilala probably find computer being created in 1938, but the first video a good idea, but it can often lead to the overexagguration Atherton students, especially when you see someone wearing a shirt many shirts that are old and unwanted, since they are games to ever be integrated into a device used for data of prices for “vintage” items, that could be bought for that has a faded picture of an old album cover on it, or someone tattered or say something like “Nascar Grand Prix processing. The appeal of the 2000’s loving vintage cheaper at many other places. This is mainly up to what wearing a nike windbreaker. One main component of this love for 1996.” Many older genpixilatederations would get rid of items like old Atari games and Rock n’ Roll t-shirts, the consumers of vintage items want, but generally there vintage clothing and style is mainly because of the amount of these items since they are unwanted, but one man’s mainly comes from the love or need for exciting things are true vintage items such as old Coca-Cola t-shirts etc., nostalgia many kids from the 90’s and early 2000’s feel for these trash is another man’s treasure, especially in the case that came from the generations of partying and culture in rather than specific items that give off the sense of the things, since most of the culture of the 90’s carried into the early of many vintage style supporters, that would buy the U.S. “party appeal” of older clothes from the 70’s to the 80’s. 2000’s. Specifically, childhood memories influence most of these this shirt in a heartbeat. The main appeal to this old nostalgic feelings in the current generations of the early 2000’s style of clothing from the 70’s to the late 90’s, is known mainly as GenZ, who have large differences between mainly because of the “party” aspect of it, such as a generations, but share a few of the same nostalgic feelings about brightly-colored shirt, something that makes them things such as old Nickelodeon cartoons like Spongebob, and things feel nostalgic. Many people that buy “vintage” that may spike memories of simpler times of the childhoods of clothing from the 70’s through the 90’s also see many stressed generations of the present. some appeal in having older things that aren’t seen

as “fabricated” and that many older things have

Differences in Generations some sort of feel to them. There is a certain type of One of the main differences in social-cultural values of American teens now is the difference between the children that we call feeling that comes with wearing vintage things like “GenZ,” and the teenagers born from 2000-2003. Those two groups old t-shirts, but why not old clothes from the 50’s or are comprised of the same people, but the teenagers born from before? 2000-2003 don’t feel the same nostalgic feelings that generations from 2004-2006, or later. Specifically, Fortnite is a popular video game amongst many younger generations than the ones that are at Atherton currently (generally), but many people from the 2000- 2003 generation don’t care for this video game, since so many Written by Daniel Rademaker younger generations play it, and are interested in new things. As for Designed by Harlan Dawkins the 2000-2003 generation, they would probably feel nostalgic playing something like Mario Kart (which has made a resurgence since the release of the mobile app). These generations are very different, and often the 2000-2003 generations prefer older things The Party Appeal Real Vintage, or Thrift Trickery? Think back to 1999, just before a new millenium, where Many vintage clothing stores make themselves as thrift the thought of going into the year 2000 was almost stores, but there still remain real thrift stores that sell unfathomable. The new year would provide an entirely items that are very old, up until the early 2000’s, and new party life, especially looking at songs from artists even some new things. For example, Goodwill is a like Prince who said “party like it’s 1999.” The appeal common thrift store where many people donate old A School Of of the partying of the great age of music, culture, and A School Of items to which are then resold at a low price. This is a overall human advancement into the future, carries on true vintage store, since it mainly gets old items from School of Nostalgiathrough vintage items sold now. The rapid advancement oth ers aisnd doesn’t ca ter its items specifically to the of things such as video games, which started with Pong, tastes of its customers. One example, is some vintage Vintage style and items have made a resurgence in popularity in a game that was so simple, but advanced for the time stores will buy items from people, and then resell them the past 3 years, and it’s been getting more popular yearly. The Why Vintage Clothes? due to computers being very new, the first modern at twice, or even three times that value. This seems like NrNesurgence of voointage style hsass also appeattred in the livaaes of many llIf you go tgog any Goodwiiill, you wilala probably find computer being created in 1938, but the first video a good idea, but it can often lead to the overexagguration Atherton students, especially when you see someone wearing a shirt many shirts that are old and unwanted, since they are games to ever be integrated into a device used for data of prices for “vintage” items, that could be bought for that has a faded picture of an old album cover on it, or someone tattered or say something like “Nascar Grand Prix processing. The appeal of the 2000’s loving vintage cheaper at many other places. This is mainly up to what wearing a nike windbreaker. One main component of this love for 1996.” Many older genpixilatederations would get rid of items like old Atari games and Rock n’ Roll t-shirts, the consumers of vintage items want, but generally there vintage clothing and style is mainly because of the amount of these items since they are unwanted, but one man’s mainly comes from the love or need for exciting things are true vintage items such as old Coca-Cola t-shirts etc., nostalgia many kids from the 90’s and early 2000’s feel for these trash is another man’s treasure, especially in the case that came from the generations of partying and culture in rather than specific items that give off the sense of the things, since most of the culture of the 90’s carried into the early of many vintage style supporters, that would buy the U.S. “party appeal” of older clothes from the 70’s to the 80’s. 2000’s. Specifically, childhood memories influence most of these this shirt in a heartbeat. The main appeal to this old nostalgic feelings in the current generations of the early 2000’s style of clothing from the 70’s to the late 90’s, is known mainly as GenZ, who have large differences between mainly because of the “party” aspect of it, such as a generations, but share a few of the same nostalgic feelings about brightly-colored shirt, something that makes them things such as old Nickelodeon cartoons like Spongebob, and things feel nostalgic. Many people that buy “vintage” that may spike memories of simpler times of the childhoods of clothing from the 70’s through the 90’s also see many stressed generations of the present. some appeal in having older things that aren’t seen as “fabricated” and that many older things have

Differences in Generations some sort of feel to them. There is a certain type of One of the main differences in social-cultural values of American teens now is the difference between the children that we call feeling that comes with wearing vintage things like “GenZ,” and the teenagers born from 2000-2003. Those two groups old t-shirts, but why not old clothes from the 50’s or are comprised of the same people, but the teenagers born from before? 2000-2003 don’t feel the same nostalgic feelings that generations from 2004-2006, or later. Specifically, Fortnite is a popular video game amongst many younger generations than the ones that are at Atherton currently (generally), but many people from the 2000- 2003 generation don’t care for this video game, since so many Written by Daniel Rademaker younger generations play it, and are interested in new things. As for Designed by Harlan Dawkins The Aerial: Issue 4 41 the 2000-2003 generation, they would probably feel nostalgic playing something like Mario Kart (which has made a resurgence since the release of the mobile app). These generations are very different, and often the 2000-2003 generations prefer older things Losing My Religion: The Disaffiliation of the UnitedB Methodist Church By Lily Buchanan

that they needed to go their sepa- Lift high the rate ways for the sake of the mis- sion.” Local churches around the cross, country are now asking the ques- tion: is breaking away from the The love of United Methodist label the best thing to do for the sake of their Christ proclaim mission? Till all the world DISAFFILIATION

adore his sacred Along with the passing of the Traditional Plan, the delegates to St. name. Louis also implemented a ‘safety net’ procedure, to catch churches that wouldn’t want to abide by the Plan. The procedure is Decision 1379, more commonly known as the Disaffiliation Plan. It currently These words echoed around The means that LGBTQ+ identifying states that local churches shall have Dome in St. Louis, first in English, people cannot be ordained. limited rights to disaffiliate for then Portuguese and Korean. Over Methodist churches also may not “reasons of conscience...related to 500 delegates to the event sat at host same-sex marriages, and the practice of homosexuality or round tables, facing an altar that held Methodist clergy can’t officiate at the ordination or marriage of candles and a small stained glass them. self-avowed practicing homosexu- panel, depicting the sacrament of als,” (according to a General Con- communion. The job of these repre- This has been deemed the Tradi- ference release). This is a real sentatives would decide the future of tional Plan, which passed with a option for proponents of the One their international church, and a slim margin (53% for, 43% Church Plan, the Plan that opposed united decision was unlikely. against). Since the passing of this the Traditional. It involved leaving plan, many anticipate what could the decision of allowing LGBTQ+ WHAT’S AT STAKE even become a denominational clergy up to each individual church, divide in the Church, what is through a vote. Though not United The United Methodist Church made being called a ‘Paul and Barnab- Methodist, many members of a radical decision last February, one us’ moment by Reverend Rob Highland Baptist Church here in radical in its seemingly unradical- Kaylor. In an interview with UM Louisville have been open about ness. The Church voted to uphold its News, Rev. Kaylor commented, not fitting the traditional Baptist previous stance on human sexuality, “They [Paul and Barnabus] had a label. Member Ava Paprocki, a a decision that many see as behind sharp disagreement, and the junior at Atherton, says, “It [High- the times. Breaking it down, this vote disagreement was sharp enough land Baptist] is a very accepting community, and very progressive in definitely don’t think it affected the church endorse the Traditional terms of churches. I was not ex- church [St. Paul] specifically. I Plan, so there may not be a prevail- Losing My Religion: pecting myself to be a church think we’ve always been very open ing opinion church-wide (reminis- person, but here I am.” Members of minded and accepting of everyone cent of the slim margin through HBC have considered splitting with regardless of what other denomina- which the Plan passed initially). the Baptist denomination previous- tions or other Methodist churches ly. The big state for UMC disaffilia- think.” However, when asked about WHAT NOW? B tion currently is Mississippi, with a the denomination in general, the number of seven churches wishing member said, “It did kind of change As more and more United Method- to depart. the way I saw the Methodist ist Churches hold their regional Church as a whole. The fact that we annual conferences, this topic will LOCALLY don’t judge based on things like continuously be up for debate. that [sexuality of members/clergy] Many sources predict a schism In Louisville, St. Paul United has always made me more proud to between left and right wing Meth- Methodist Church has an average be a Methodist and it’s upsetting to odists, and Bishop Thomas Bicker- youth group size of 40 regularly see us taking a step in this direc- ton commented that “we [United attending people, from ages 12-18. tion. I never wanted to be a part of Methodists] are in an untenable Quite a few of that number are something that would agree with situation,” to the New York UMC students at Atherton, and are vocal this decision.” Conference. He continued to say, about the reinforcements of the “We must work intentionally, for a Methodist policies. Junior Zoe The consensus seems to agree with way in which we bless one another Cowherd says, “It’s really upsetting this viewpoint, at least among the as we head in different directions.” to know that the church is taking majority of St. Paul’s Methodist While there is no definite crystal steps backward, especially in this youth. Most youth are unhappy ball from which the future can be day and age.” When asked about St. with the Methodist denomination determined, progressives and Paul’s changes since the Confer- as an international organization, conservatives continue to butt ence, another member (who wishes but pleased with St. Paul’s handling heads over this issue months after to remain anonymous) said, “I of the issue. Other members of the the Conference. Forecast? More storms before a rainbow. The fact that we don’t judge based on things like that [sexuality of members/clergy] has always made me more proud to be a Meth- odist and it’s upsetting to see us taking a step in this direction.

The Aerial: Issue 4 43 Bellarmine: A Knights’ Rise Written by Cameron Wright & Designed by Imari Maddox

It’s always the divisor that separates the While the Knights have always had this strong from the strongest in college athletics. prestigious image in D2 athletics, it was not The good from the great. The big brothers from easy to locate the necessary funds, space, and the little ones. The difference between Division time for the D1 transition. As Wiegandt ex- 1 and Division 2. Throughout the country, it has plains, the change was a huge process. “The become clear that Division 1 athletics set the potential move to D1 has been studied a few standard in all of collegiate sports, and while times in the past,’’ he explains. “This particular this may be true, Bellarmine University has had time was part of the Univers- a stellar basketball team for as long as I can ity strategic planning. It was studied approxi- remember. From turning on the TV and seeing mately 2 years by a vast group of constituents.” Bellarmine tied with UofL or beating them, to Bellarmine has long centered a community full seeing the support they receive in the communi- of sports fanatics, as the city of Louisville in ty, Bellarmine has proven to be one of the great- itself is known for its faithful collegiate athletic est Divisions 2 programs in the nation... until fanatics. The process was one many Knights fans now. in the city long awaited.

On June 18th, 2019, news broke that the private university in the heart of Louisville would soon take another step in what has been an exceptional growth of an athletics program. Led by athletic director Scott Wiegandt, the Knights athletic program has made its way to the top of the food chain: Division 1 NCAA athletics. Many great players and coaches have done many great things for the University, creating amazing memories and great atmo- spheres at the Division 2 level, and they plan to carry these remedies to the Division 1 level with them. The Knights will play just one more season before joining the Atlantic Sun Conference with the likes of Florida Gulf Coast, Lipscomb, and Liberty. Every Knights athletic team will make the transition except the Lacrosse team, which was already D1, being the lone D1 Knights team at one point in time. ional Championship. Since the championship, Needless to say, the community’s reaction the Knights’ basketball team has not looked to the promotion has been incredibly exciting, back, being ranked amongst the top of D2 pro- along with everyone else involved in the growth grams nearly every single year. Throughout the and development of the Knights’ athletic depart- years, said teams have put up good fights against ment. “We have had an unbelievable response top-notch programs, such as the University of from our campus community as well as the city Louisville. Wiegandt is extremely optimistic of Louisville,” Wiegandt explains, fresh off the about the programs direction, and performances University announcing the big decision. While like these give him great reason to be. “I am un- excited for the transition, the Knights’ don’t plan sure that we are that different from other DI ath- to change their identity or their values. As Wie- letics programs as a whole,” Wiegandt states. “We gandt puts it, “We will continue to have academ- share the same goals, recruit and retain excellent ic excellence. We will make this transition to D1 students, graduate, be productive members of with Bellarmine profiled athletes.” While many our community, and compete to the best of our usual sports fans would find it odd that Bel- abilities. We may not be as big as some others, larmine seems they may be sticking with what’s but the expectations are the same.” I think I considered D2 talent, the talent Bellarmine has speak for everyone in Knights Nation when I say accumulated over the years, especially in basket- said expectations all filter down to one word: ball, has clearly been miles ahead of the compe- Win. tition. The​ Knights have won five GLVC men’s basketball itles and four NCAA Midwest Region- al titles, and on March 26, 2011, the Knights won their first NCAA D2 Nat- So it’s time to accept the Knights as what they are. It’s time to stop associating Bellarmine athletics with the competition they have ob- viously been a step ahead of for a long period of time and associate them with their new col- leagues. They are a UofL. They are a University of Kentucky. They are a WKU. They are the Bel- larmine Knights, and it’s going to be a fun ride watching this empire being built in the High- lands of Louisville, Kentucky.

The Aerial: Issue 1 45 Marissa Smith Sun Sihan Tinia Clardy

Kiana Stallard Emilia Barnett Vince Kokas

VDM

Hailey Campbell Claudia Kiefer

Joanna Locke

Alivia Jett Kelly Parker Hana Hatunic The Aerial: Issue 1 47 In Memory of 60 LLD

48 The Aerial: Issue 4