When plans for the renovation of the Maggie L. Walker School building were originally designed, a fieldhouse was part of those plans, but was scrapped due to financial restrictions.
This year, however, the topic has been reopened in the form of the MLWGS Concession/Fieldhouse Feasibility Study Committee.
“When they originally renovated the school there were plans to put in a fieldhouse, but there was not enough money,” said Ms. Becky Henderson, President of the Athletic Boosters. “It has been something that has been in the works for a while.”
Ms. Belle Bronner, PTSA President, went to the Regional Board this year and requested that the topic be looked into. The Regional Board then commissioned the Feasibility Study.
“At the beginning of each year we earmark money for a project,” said Ms. Bronner. “All the money that we have from our budget and the auction will be going to this [the construction of the fieldhouse].”
That amount of money will be substantial, as the PTSA operating budget is approximately $60,000 annually. Ms. Bronner estimated that they will be able to put as much as $20,000 aside for the project this year.
Added on to the PTSA’s contributions will be the donations from the Athletic Boosters and the Foundation.
“The PTSA, Athletic Boosters and the Governor’s School Foundation, they are separate; they do their own fundraising,” said Mr. Phil Tharp, Coordinator of Administration and member of the Feasibility Committee. “It’s nothing that would be coming from the state or from tuition.”
The Feasibility Committee is now in the process of examining and editing the design from the original renovation.
“We still do not have a final blueprint,” said Ms. Bronner. “But we have a good idea.”
The committee is made up of parents and members of the administration as well as Governor’s School foundation representatives.
The committee is chaired by Ms. Sandy Whitehead, an architect who works for Baskervill Architecture. Another member of the committee, Mr. Robert Comet, is the president of BCWH Inc. and worked on the renovation of the MLWGS building.
Part of the committee’s job is figuring out how much the fieldhouse would cost. Estimates have risen to as high as $200,000.
“That [the estimate] is based on the square footage and current construction costs,” said Mr. Tharp.
The committee has been making progress, and Mr. Tharp plans to submit the Request for Proposals to the Richmond City Public Schools as early as next week.
The committee also hopes to present its findings to the Regional School Board at the April board meeting.
The current plan for the fieldhouse is approximately 1465 sq. ft and would be located just inside the fence that encloses the athletic fields.
The plan includes a kitchen and concession stand, training room, equipment room, handicapped-accessible bathrooms and a place for ticket sales.
While the concession stand will have a kitchen, almost no cooking will take place there.
“It’s not going to be a working kitchen,” said Ms. Bronner. “We’re going to have sinks, an icemaker and microwaves… if they cook hotdogs they will either do it inside or outside on the grill.”
There will be no specific group who runs the concession stand, but it will possibly be open to clubs and boosters to man for fundraising.
Having a training room outside is something that could be useful to the MLWGS sports teams that use the athletic fields.
“We have had some pretty serious stuff happen out there,” said Ms. Paige Hawkins, Athletic/Activities Director. “Safety wise, it will be a big improvement.”
While the idea of a fieldhouse is still only a possibility, many students are excited by the prospects that the idea holds.
“The fieldhouse would be an interesting addition,” said Johnny Tomlin (‘11). “I’ll just have to wait and see.”
Friday, March 13, 2009
Diversity Delay
This time we can’t blame the delay on the U.Va. consultants, because it was Mother Nature who caused a cancellation of the diversity study focus group scheduled for Monday, March 2.
Naturally, the interviews were rescheduled for a later date. Unfortunately that later date is next Monday, March 16. And, MLWGS acceptance/rejection letters are supposed to arrive in more than nine-hundred mailboxes on or before that date.
This means that when prospective students sit down with Dr. Moon and Dr. Brighton next week to discuss their experiences with the MLWGS admissions process – these eighth graders will already know if they have been accepted, waitlisted, or rejected.
How can these students or their families provide honest, unbiased answers to the consultant’s questions? From a statistical perspective, these surveys will surely lack validity. If only the diversity consultants had started a little earlier – or even if they had re-scheduled the interviews for this past Monday, March 9.
One mistake, even if it is a big one, is understandable. Let’s just hope the rest of the study proves more substantive.
Naturally, the interviews were rescheduled for a later date. Unfortunately that later date is next Monday, March 16. And, MLWGS acceptance/rejection letters are supposed to arrive in more than nine-hundred mailboxes on or before that date.
This means that when prospective students sit down with Dr. Moon and Dr. Brighton next week to discuss their experiences with the MLWGS admissions process – these eighth graders will already know if they have been accepted, waitlisted, or rejected.
How can these students or their families provide honest, unbiased answers to the consultant’s questions? From a statistical perspective, these surveys will surely lack validity. If only the diversity consultants had started a little earlier – or even if they had re-scheduled the interviews for this past Monday, March 9.
One mistake, even if it is a big one, is understandable. Let’s just hope the rest of the study proves more substantive.
Perplexing Postponement
We really shouldn’t even be at school today.
As most of the MLWGS community is aware, Friday March 13 was originally scheduled as a teacher/student holiday. That was before the Great March Blizzard of 2009 paralyzed the Richmond region. When we returned from our three blissful snowdays, MLWGS administration decided to “postpone” our March 13 holiday until Memorial Day.
The rationale for the postponement was simple. Our calendar contains four “built-in” emergency/snow days. Although we have only used up three days so far this year, administrators were worried that some sort of wild spring storm could pop up.
Thus expending our last “built-in” day and requiring even more time, thereby pushing the calendar into the red. Doesn’t it seem a little silly to worry about some kind of weather-related incident with three months left in the school year? In the past three years we haven’t used any of our four cushion days.
Additionally, the student handbook’s snow day policy (below) shows no mention of pre-cautionary snow make-up days. Instead, it only defines the procedure for making-up snow days if the tally for any given year surpasses four.
Surprisingly, MLWGS was not alone in its decision to replace a pre-scheduled holiday with a snow “make-up day.” In fact, Goochland County Superintendent, Dr. Linda Underwood, also a MLWGS Regional Board member, voiced similar concerns in a recent Richmond Times-Dispatch article (see quote at right).
Make-up (Snow or Other Missed Instructional Days)
Days 1-4 are built in as banked time.
January 30 (if 5 days are needed)
February 18 (if 6 days are needed)
April 11 (if 7 days are needed)
Extended Day (if 8-9 days are needed) Classes start at 8:30 A.M.
June 16 (if 10 days are needed)
As most of the MLWGS community is aware, Friday March 13 was originally scheduled as a teacher/student holiday. That was before the Great March Blizzard of 2009 paralyzed the Richmond region. When we returned from our three blissful snowdays, MLWGS administration decided to “postpone” our March 13 holiday until Memorial Day.
The rationale for the postponement was simple. Our calendar contains four “built-in” emergency/snow days. Although we have only used up three days so far this year, administrators were worried that some sort of wild spring storm could pop up.
Thus expending our last “built-in” day and requiring even more time, thereby pushing the calendar into the red. Doesn’t it seem a little silly to worry about some kind of weather-related incident with three months left in the school year? In the past three years we haven’t used any of our four cushion days.
Additionally, the student handbook’s snow day policy (below) shows no mention of pre-cautionary snow make-up days. Instead, it only defines the procedure for making-up snow days if the tally for any given year surpasses four.
Surprisingly, MLWGS was not alone in its decision to replace a pre-scheduled holiday with a snow “make-up day.” In fact, Goochland County Superintendent, Dr. Linda Underwood, also a MLWGS Regional Board member, voiced similar concerns in a recent Richmond Times-Dispatch article (see quote at right).
Make-up (Snow or Other Missed Instructional Days)
Days 1-4 are built in as banked time.
January 30 (if 5 days are needed)
February 18 (if 6 days are needed)
April 11 (if 7 days are needed)
Extended Day (if 8-9 days are needed) Classes start at 8:30 A.M.
June 16 (if 10 days are needed)
Quote of the Week
“If we get a tropical storm in May, I just don't know...”
said Dr. Linda Underwood.
Yet according to statistics published by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the federal agency that oversees the National Weather Service, May is the least active month for tropical storms worldwide. Go figure!
In the grand scheme of things, this rearrangement is not a big deal. In late May as we enjoy a four-day weekend, we will probably look back with fond appreciation to the MLWGS administration. However, it would be nice to have some sort of consistent school policy for weather-related make-up days. Perhaps we could hire a emergency-snow-day-make-up-day-handbook-policy-consulting-firm! Who knows, it might only cost $70,000!
said Dr. Linda Underwood.
Yet according to statistics published by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the federal agency that oversees the National Weather Service, May is the least active month for tropical storms worldwide. Go figure!
In the grand scheme of things, this rearrangement is not a big deal. In late May as we enjoy a four-day weekend, we will probably look back with fond appreciation to the MLWGS administration. However, it would be nice to have some sort of consistent school policy for weather-related make-up days. Perhaps we could hire a emergency-snow-day-make-up-day-handbook-policy-consulting-firm! Who knows, it might only cost $70,000!
Art: Required or Not?
Alex Kesselring (’12):
“I don’t think it should be required. Some people just aren’t artistic; some people want top use their time for other things.”
Oliver Goodridge (’11):
“I’m kind of on the fence; I’m not really artsy, but I can see the need for balance.”
Kathleen Webb (’10):
“It would be totally unbalanced if we didn’t… one credit is not that much to ask!”
Meredith Nuttycombe (’09):
“Art is the laxative for the constipation of the soul. I support art.”
Out of Iraq
by Logan Ferrell (’ 11)
The nation is now officially halfway through the “first hundred days” of the Obama administration. For many of the actions of the past weeks, it is still too early to truly judge results; only the coming years will reveal the full economic impacts of Obama’s policies and the virtue of his many appointments. Among these decisions, which hold serious implications for the future, was President Obama’s February 28th announcement that US troop levels in Iraq will be drawn down by August 2010, and the “combat mission” ended.
Taken at face value, this ideal proposal sounds great, as most are eager to bring our troops out of harm’s way.
However, if hastened, this policy shift could prove a catalyst for further domestic unrest within the fledgling nation of the new Iraq. It is that attempt, to rush redeployment, as well as the unclear goals of the remaining force, which worries me.
For, I think it is worth noting, that U.S. goals were always “to train, equip, and advise” the Iraqi government; however, in order to achieve that role, a basic security must be maintained, and that is what lead to a combat role. These roles, combat and advisory, are not as President Obama would suggest so easily or clearly separated; especially in an operation where previous attempts to hastily turn over control to Iraqi forces saw the nation veer towards civil war and chaos.
Already, the currently arranged Status of Forces of Agreement with the Iraqi government calls for US troops to take a more “advisory” role by withdrawing from Iraqi cities in 2009, and then the nation entirely in 2011.
It seems to me, that to suddenly draw down troop levels a mere year before troops are scheduled to leave anyway, greatly diminishes the crucial role a strong force presence could play in the days leading to the 2011 transition.
If anything, this time prior to such a transition will require the highest degree of security possible, and that entails a troop presence not plagued by cuts and constant changes in what their role is called.
Overall, Iraq has seen gains in both stability and security. However, those achievements should not be jeopardized by an overoptimistic depletion of forces. Speaking to the current time table, ensures time to evaluate the situation and ensure that the U.S. does not leave behind a nation incapable of being controlled by Iraqis.
The nation is now officially halfway through the “first hundred days” of the Obama administration. For many of the actions of the past weeks, it is still too early to truly judge results; only the coming years will reveal the full economic impacts of Obama’s policies and the virtue of his many appointments. Among these decisions, which hold serious implications for the future, was President Obama’s February 28th announcement that US troop levels in Iraq will be drawn down by August 2010, and the “combat mission” ended.
Taken at face value, this ideal proposal sounds great, as most are eager to bring our troops out of harm’s way.
However, if hastened, this policy shift could prove a catalyst for further domestic unrest within the fledgling nation of the new Iraq. It is that attempt, to rush redeployment, as well as the unclear goals of the remaining force, which worries me.
For, I think it is worth noting, that U.S. goals were always “to train, equip, and advise” the Iraqi government; however, in order to achieve that role, a basic security must be maintained, and that is what lead to a combat role. These roles, combat and advisory, are not as President Obama would suggest so easily or clearly separated; especially in an operation where previous attempts to hastily turn over control to Iraqi forces saw the nation veer towards civil war and chaos.
Already, the currently arranged Status of Forces of Agreement with the Iraqi government calls for US troops to take a more “advisory” role by withdrawing from Iraqi cities in 2009, and then the nation entirely in 2011.
It seems to me, that to suddenly draw down troop levels a mere year before troops are scheduled to leave anyway, greatly diminishes the crucial role a strong force presence could play in the days leading to the 2011 transition.
If anything, this time prior to such a transition will require the highest degree of security possible, and that entails a troop presence not plagued by cuts and constant changes in what their role is called.
Overall, Iraq has seen gains in both stability and security. However, those achievements should not be jeopardized by an overoptimistic depletion of forces. Speaking to the current time table, ensures time to evaluate the situation and ensure that the U.S. does not leave behind a nation incapable of being controlled by Iraqis.
A Conversation With MLWGS Own Mr. Irvin Charles
Maggie Walker Alumnus and MLWGS Head of Security Shares His Thoughts
First of all, how did you spend your snow days?
Actually, it was a good chance for me to take some time and do some charity. I visited my aunts, my father, and made sure that everyone’s walkways were clear. I spent some time with my family and got to make some snowmen with my daughter. She loved it. This was her first snow.
What do you think about having to come in on our March 13th holiday?
You’ve gotta do what you gotta do, and I trust that the administration has done what is best for your academic program.
Mr. Tharp said something about MLWGS Security instituting “shock and awe” and having the full staff present some days ?
Every once and a while we like to be proactive and have a full showing as a deterrent. Especially with this warm weather making everyone a little more active, we want to make sure that we don’t have any incidents.
There have been several muggings reported around the VCU area as well as a shooting at Monroe Park, what is your advice?
I am logged on with the state’s database, and everyday I get updates on crimes in our area. When I get reports like this, I like to give students warnings and remind them that they need to be mindful of their surroundings, especially those students who like to stay back for activities and who go to places like Kroger to get food. They need to remember to be aware of what’s going on around them.
There was some talk about demoting MLWGS to a different athletic league - one with smaller sized schools. That isn’t going to happen, but what are your thoughts on the competitiveness issue?
Well, you know that those schools that are the same size as we are usually pretty far away. That would mean for longer travel times. But let me tell you something, I think it has been good for us to be able to challenge these bigger schools. When we someday get to the point where we’re winning a lot, the word will get out, and Maggie Walker might start to draw some top athletes.
Acceptance letters are being sent out, and shadow days will be here in a few weeks…
My advice for students and parents who are considering this school is that they should take the time to come by and visit. I’m certain that once they visit they’ll make the right decision. I don’t know of anyone who has still been apprehensive after spending time here. We have a great school here with excellent teachers and staff.
Q&A with Danny Yates on March 10, 2009.
Have a question for Mr. Charles? E-mail us at mlwgs.jabberwock@gmail.com
MLWGS Students Enjoy Snow Day Fun
By Virginia Cross, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
MLWGS students submitted their favorite stories and photos from last week's snow days.
Photo courtesy of Emily Bird (‘10)
“It started when we were having a snowball fight at Byrd Park, and we found icicles hanging from the field house. We took them off and started fencing.”- Scott McClellan, (’10)
Photo courtesy of Woody Kaine (‘10)
“We were sledding at the capital, and we thought we should build a snowman. Since we were at the capital, we wanted to do something nerdy, and since it would have been too hard to model a snowman after the George Washington statue, we started making a regular snowman. Then, we decided to cut out Tim Kaine’s face symbol from a poster, and we put that on the snowman. People were asking us to take pictures of it!” - Callie Guy (’10)
Photo courtesy of Danielle Stephens
“I was going to make a snowman, but I was having trouble getting the snow to stick, so instead I carved a dino out of ice with a spatula. I used carrots for the teeth and claws, and the back is made of icicles.” -Danielle Stephens, (’12)
Photo courtesy of Kathy Battle (‘10)
“I was just going to stay inside and drink hot chocolate because I didn’t have any snow clothes, but my sister and I decided to go out and play in the snow. My dog loves the snow, so I played around with her.” -Kathryn Battle (’10)
Photo courtesy of Kenzie Grasso.
“Riding horses in the snow was cold! Some of the horses were scared of the snow, but my horse was fine. Later, we made the mistake of throwing snowballs at the horses, which made the horses freak out. Then, we got in trouble for it.” -Kenzie Grasso, (’10)
MLWGS students submitted their favorite stories and photos from last week's snow days.
Photo courtesy of Emily Bird (‘10) 
Photo courtesy of Woody Kaine (‘10) “We were sledding at the capital, and we thought we should build a snowman. Since we were at the capital, we wanted to do something nerdy, and since it would have been too hard to model a snowman after the George Washington statue, we started making a regular snowman. Then, we decided to cut out Tim Kaine’s face symbol from a poster, and we put that on the snowman. People were asking us to take pictures of it!” - Callie Guy (’10)
Photo courtesy of Danielle Stephens “I was going to make a snowman, but I was having trouble getting the snow to stick, so instead I carved a dino out of ice with a spatula. I used carrots for the teeth and claws, and the back is made of icicles.” -Danielle Stephens, (’12)
Photo courtesy of Kathy Battle (‘10) “I was just going to stay inside and drink hot chocolate because I didn’t have any snow clothes, but my sister and I decided to go out and play in the snow. My dog loves the snow, so I played around with her.” -Kathryn Battle (’10)
Photo courtesy of Kenzie Grasso. “Riding horses in the snow was cold! Some of the horses were scared of the snow, but my horse was fine. Later, we made the mistake of throwing snowballs at the horses, which made the horses freak out. Then, we got in trouble for it.” -Kenzie Grasso, (’10)
Parent Disagrees with Recent Editorial’s Suggestion for Mr. Morton to Cut His Salary
Dear Editor,
In response to the article “A Suggestion for Mr. Morton”, I am not quite sure how asking Mr. Fred Morton to give up a portion of his salary will be a gesture of solidarity. Mr. Morton has worked all his life and has earned several retirement compensations. The man served our country; he is entitled to every dollar he gets.
He worked for other Virginia school districts and VCU; he is entitled to every dollar he gets. Now he has another job, as the director of Maggie Walker Governor’s School.
Either he is an overachiever or a man who loves his job in education. I would think that the $100,000 plus salary he will receive when it comes down to hourly salary will certainly be adequate compensation for all the hours he works, and he will be working his tail off.
I for one am sick of people who think that people who work hard, and earn their dollars, do not deserve all their money they have worked hard to accrue. Mr. Fred Morton is our new director and we will foster a positive relationship with him among the MLWGS family, but not by asking him to relinquish some of his salary.
That is as absurd as asking each faculty member and student to bring in a part of their earnings for the year to make up for the deficit. We will survive these tough economic times.
Debbie Sawyer
A MLWGS parent
In response to the article “A Suggestion for Mr. Morton”, I am not quite sure how asking Mr. Fred Morton to give up a portion of his salary will be a gesture of solidarity. Mr. Morton has worked all his life and has earned several retirement compensations. The man served our country; he is entitled to every dollar he gets.
He worked for other Virginia school districts and VCU; he is entitled to every dollar he gets. Now he has another job, as the director of Maggie Walker Governor’s School.
Either he is an overachiever or a man who loves his job in education. I would think that the $100,000 plus salary he will receive when it comes down to hourly salary will certainly be adequate compensation for all the hours he works, and he will be working his tail off.
I for one am sick of people who think that people who work hard, and earn their dollars, do not deserve all their money they have worked hard to accrue. Mr. Fred Morton is our new director and we will foster a positive relationship with him among the MLWGS family, but not by asking him to relinquish some of his salary.
That is as absurd as asking each faculty member and student to bring in a part of their earnings for the year to make up for the deficit. We will survive these tough economic times.
Debbie Sawyer
A MLWGS parent
Board Room Renovations = $9K
by Elaine Hillgrove, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
The Maggie Walker boardroom underwent some minor but expensive renovations on March 10 and March 12.
"We are finishing the boardroom, where we are putting in hi-tech equipment," said Ms. Bronner, PTSA President. "We've put a projector in."
The projector is not the only new thing being added to the boardroom, though. Controllers for the projector, a VCR/DVD player, and a phone were also added.
Ms. Patti Chappell, Assistant Director of Technology, said that these renovations cost “around $9,000.”
According to Ms. Chappell, these renovations were not done at the time the whole school was renovated because of budget concerns. It was not considered necessary to have a projector in the boardroom.
However, “we found out there are more and more times when it would have been beneficial to have one in there," said Ms. Chappell.
“When there were presentations that needed projectors, we would have cords all over the floor.”
The room is now able to receive phone calls and conduct conference calls. It is also internet/computer accessible.
“Now the boardroom is in the 21st century,” said Ms. Chappell
The boardroom undergoes a pricey renovation. Photo by Charles Condro
The Maggie Walker boardroom underwent some minor but expensive renovations on March 10 and March 12.
"We are finishing the boardroom, where we are putting in hi-tech equipment," said Ms. Bronner, PTSA President. "We've put a projector in."
The projector is not the only new thing being added to the boardroom, though. Controllers for the projector, a VCR/DVD player, and a phone were also added.
Ms. Patti Chappell, Assistant Director of Technology, said that these renovations cost “around $9,000.”
According to Ms. Chappell, these renovations were not done at the time the whole school was renovated because of budget concerns. It was not considered necessary to have a projector in the boardroom.
However, “we found out there are more and more times when it would have been beneficial to have one in there," said Ms. Chappell.
“When there were presentations that needed projectors, we would have cords all over the floor.”
The room is now able to receive phone calls and conduct conference calls. It is also internet/computer accessible.
“Now the boardroom is in the 21st century,” said Ms. Chappell
The boardroom undergoes a pricey renovation. Photo by Charles Condro
Idol Mania
By Gabriella Cifu, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
We’re done with the auditions, the dreaded Hollywood week (for both contestants and viewers), and top 36 eliminations. The Top 13 have been chosen, and the ever anticipated countdown begins for who will be the next American Idol.
There have been several changes to the show this year (both good and bad). To begin with the traditional Top 12 was expanded this year to include Anoop Desai, one of the most popular contestants among fans, despite his often less than stellar performances.
However, because an additional week was not added to the show, two contestants were eliminated in the first week. However, I think this flexibility was a good idea, because it gave viewers one more chance to see several of the singers that had not had consistently good performances, but were nonetheless early favorites of the fans.
A rule concerning eliminations has also been implemented. In past years, fans, and judges have been shocked when contestants (such as Chris Daughtry) were voted off the show long before expected. To avoid similar issues, the judges have been given the right to nullify the elimination of one contestant over the entire season. The following week, two individuals will be eliminated, yet producers hope this will limit the chance of a great contestant being voted off too early.
This past Wednesday, Jorge Nuñez and Jasmine Murray were the first two contestants of the top 13 to be eliminated. Both had unremarkable performances and the eliminations came as no surprise to fans or judges. When asked if they would like to reverse the eliminations of these individuals, the judges were quick to say no.
Kara Dioguardi, a respected songwriter and singer, has been added as a fourth judge to the show. I was initially against the idea of a fourth judge; a sentiment that has not changed in the slightest. To begin with, they already had a good balance of judges.
The kind, but out of touch with reality Paula, the brutally honest, but reliable Simon, and the dependable, but often incoherent Randy result in three diverse judges that are well-known and loved by all Idol fans. Kara is clearly the oddball out. It seems she has personality swings, and she goes from being overly nice like Paula, to trying to be more critical like Simon. Dealing with Paula’s quirks was painful enough, but we are now forced to deal with yet another judge who doesn’t offer a unique personality to the panel.
Even though it is only the first week, there are some clearly identified favorites that are predicted fly to the top. Sixteen year old Allison Iraheta is astonishingly good not only compared to the other teenagers in the show, but the entire mass of contestants. Although she is certainly not the best singers, she will have the support of the younger generation throughout the competition, and will definitively be in the top contestants.
Danny Gokey is one of the top two singers on the show this year. His voice has a beautiful gravely pitch, and he has had consistently solid performances this season. My only criticism against him is that he does not have the stage presence that many of the others have. But I can definitely see him being successful in the future based on vocal ability.
Adam Lambert is hands-down one of the best contestants the show has ever seen. He truly has it all: vocal range, a great personality, a unique image and incredible stage presence. His history of musical theater may make some of his performances look like acting, but there is no doubt that he has an incredible voice and even more astounding range.
The last contestant of particular interest this year, Scott Macintyre. He is the first contestant on Idol that is blind. However, he does not need any kind of sympathy support because he has a stunning voice, and is great with his accompaniments on piano during his performances. While he may not be the best singer, he certainly is not letting his disability slow him down in any way, and is predicted to be a more popular contestant this season.
Although they are still in the process of separating the good from the great, several of the season eight contestants are simply in a league of their own.
There is no telling which contestants will pull ahead and stay original each week, but with the changes this year the show is promising to be as popular and entertaining as ever.
Photo courtesy of http://www.blogcdn.com.
We’re done with the auditions, the dreaded Hollywood week (for both contestants and viewers), and top 36 eliminations. The Top 13 have been chosen, and the ever anticipated countdown begins for who will be the next American Idol.
There have been several changes to the show this year (both good and bad). To begin with the traditional Top 12 was expanded this year to include Anoop Desai, one of the most popular contestants among fans, despite his often less than stellar performances.
However, because an additional week was not added to the show, two contestants were eliminated in the first week. However, I think this flexibility was a good idea, because it gave viewers one more chance to see several of the singers that had not had consistently good performances, but were nonetheless early favorites of the fans.
A rule concerning eliminations has also been implemented. In past years, fans, and judges have been shocked when contestants (such as Chris Daughtry) were voted off the show long before expected. To avoid similar issues, the judges have been given the right to nullify the elimination of one contestant over the entire season. The following week, two individuals will be eliminated, yet producers hope this will limit the chance of a great contestant being voted off too early.
This past Wednesday, Jorge Nuñez and Jasmine Murray were the first two contestants of the top 13 to be eliminated. Both had unremarkable performances and the eliminations came as no surprise to fans or judges. When asked if they would like to reverse the eliminations of these individuals, the judges were quick to say no.
Kara Dioguardi, a respected songwriter and singer, has been added as a fourth judge to the show. I was initially against the idea of a fourth judge; a sentiment that has not changed in the slightest. To begin with, they already had a good balance of judges.
The kind, but out of touch with reality Paula, the brutally honest, but reliable Simon, and the dependable, but often incoherent Randy result in three diverse judges that are well-known and loved by all Idol fans. Kara is clearly the oddball out. It seems she has personality swings, and she goes from being overly nice like Paula, to trying to be more critical like Simon. Dealing with Paula’s quirks was painful enough, but we are now forced to deal with yet another judge who doesn’t offer a unique personality to the panel.
Even though it is only the first week, there are some clearly identified favorites that are predicted fly to the top. Sixteen year old Allison Iraheta is astonishingly good not only compared to the other teenagers in the show, but the entire mass of contestants. Although she is certainly not the best singers, she will have the support of the younger generation throughout the competition, and will definitively be in the top contestants.
Danny Gokey is one of the top two singers on the show this year. His voice has a beautiful gravely pitch, and he has had consistently solid performances this season. My only criticism against him is that he does not have the stage presence that many of the others have. But I can definitely see him being successful in the future based on vocal ability.
Adam Lambert is hands-down one of the best contestants the show has ever seen. He truly has it all: vocal range, a great personality, a unique image and incredible stage presence. His history of musical theater may make some of his performances look like acting, but there is no doubt that he has an incredible voice and even more astounding range.
The last contestant of particular interest this year, Scott Macintyre. He is the first contestant on Idol that is blind. However, he does not need any kind of sympathy support because he has a stunning voice, and is great with his accompaniments on piano during his performances. While he may not be the best singer, he certainly is not letting his disability slow him down in any way, and is predicted to be a more popular contestant this season.
Although they are still in the process of separating the good from the great, several of the season eight contestants are simply in a league of their own.
There is no telling which contestants will pull ahead and stay original each week, but with the changes this year the show is promising to be as popular and entertaining as ever.
Photo courtesy of http://www.blogcdn.com.
Spring Sports Review
By Karthik Ilakkuvan, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
A grand slam. An 11-2 blowout. And two 1-0 shutouts. Too bad none of those were for Maggie Walker.
Baseball: After an impressive (for Maggie Walker, at least) 9-11 season last year, the baseball team has lost five players, including star player Will Roberts, currently playing for the University of Virginia.
“It’s a rebuilding year,” co-captain Joey Surma (’09) said. “We’ve got a new coach, Meade Langhorn, who used to play for the Kansas City Royals, who’s a lot better than the previous coach. He’s actually making us do work.”
With five freshmen and three other new players on this year’s team, the season looks promising for the future. For now, they’re going to have to work at it, after a tough 14-4 loss to Hermitage to open their season.
The game started off on a sour note, with the pitcher walking the first batter, hitting the next two, and giving up a grand slam to the fourth. Probably due to nerves, eventually things settled down, and Maggie Walker outscored the opposition, excluding the first two innings. There’s still more to work on, though.
“We’re still looking for managers who like to bake, look reasonably attractive, and need community service,” Surma said.
Softball: A new assistant coach and two freshmen should bode well for the team this year. Opening the season off with an 11-2 loss, it doesn’t look too promising, but there’s not too much to worry about.
“All that we want is to be better than the baseball team,” co-captain Becca Diakun (’09) said.
Spectator Scott Clark (’09) had the following to say about the game: “The air was temperate, but the wind was biting and strewn with dirt and pieces of metal. The girls played hard, they were fierce with heart and unity. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to defeat the intimidating kinetic force that was Hermitage. But I was proud of the girls, for kicking aside their doubts and fears and just having fun with the game. I was proud to be a witness of that awesome phenomenon. I was proud to be one of their fans. I was proud to be a student of Maggie Walker.”
Boys’ Soccer: If there was one theme to last year’s season, it was close games. This year’s no different. A 1-0 loss to Monacan in the Prince George tournament, the boys’ team was able to keep the opposition out for most of the game.
“Our defense was organized, but we just couldn’t put one in,” Peter Slag (’09) explained. “They scored on a brilliant shot.”
With star keeper Dan Laws (’11) holding his own, this season should be another one filled with close games. One freshman starter on offense should help, but this year’s goal is to win a few games and get into the district tournament. Captains Max Schick (’09) and Marcel Rodgers (’09) lead the charge this season.
Girls’ Soccer: What’s the worst way to start off a season? A loss, yes. But what’s worse? To lose 1-0 to Manchester on a penalty kick. It’s how things started out for the girls’ soccer team.
“I think we did pretty well holding them off,” co-captain Kelly Diaz (’09) said. “We’re getting used to playing with each other. In general, I’m hoping we’re going to have a good season.”
Qualifying for regionals is the main goal this season, and it’s a genuine possibility with a few good freshmen coming on to the team, as well as captains Rachel Semus (’09), Amanda Watson (’09) and Diaz leading the way. They continue their season with a game on Monday against St. Gertrude, who is coached by ex-Boys’ soccer coach Dan Park.
Boys’ Tennis: The high point of the spring sports season, the tennis team beat Patrick Henry. Ahem, they massacred Patrick Henry. 8-1 the final tally, the boys’ went 6-0 in their singles matches, winning all six matches in straight sets, dropping only one game throughout. Freshman Ryan Murphy, playing in the six spot, chalked it up to a freshman mistake, winning his match 6-0, 6-1.
Losing no seniors from the top 6 last year, things look promising for the tennis team this year. Captains Michael Armstrong (’09), Will Weber (’09), and Ziyi Gao (’09) hope to make regionals and even states this season.
“Our opposition has withered away while we are filled with strong, new members,” Gao said.
Girls’ Tennis: The news for this year’s girls’ tennis team? It’s not that there’s a junior playing #1, but it’s who that junior is. Jocelyn Powelson (’10), in her first year of Maggie Walker tennis, is leading the Maggie Walker lineup, with Amanda Randall (’09), Andi Davis (’09), Emily Zhang (’11), Kelsey Miller (’12), and Kameron Adams (’09) playing two through six.
“We should have a really good season,” Kelsey Huffer (’09) said. “We have a lot of new people who play year-round, training not just during the tennis season. That’s really the most important thing they can do.”
Losing two top-six seniors, it looked like this was going to be a rebuilding season, but with new members, the team was able to overcome two close singles losses to beat Patrick Henry 5-4.
Outdoor Track:
Abbie Pettigrew (‘09) practices her hurdle skills during yesterday’s workout.
A grand slam. An 11-2 blowout. And two 1-0 shutouts. Too bad none of those were for Maggie Walker.
Baseball: After an impressive (for Maggie Walker, at least) 9-11 season last year, the baseball team has lost five players, including star player Will Roberts, currently playing for the University of Virginia.
“It’s a rebuilding year,” co-captain Joey Surma (’09) said. “We’ve got a new coach, Meade Langhorn, who used to play for the Kansas City Royals, who’s a lot better than the previous coach. He’s actually making us do work.”
With five freshmen and three other new players on this year’s team, the season looks promising for the future. For now, they’re going to have to work at it, after a tough 14-4 loss to Hermitage to open their season.
The game started off on a sour note, with the pitcher walking the first batter, hitting the next two, and giving up a grand slam to the fourth. Probably due to nerves, eventually things settled down, and Maggie Walker outscored the opposition, excluding the first two innings. There’s still more to work on, though.
“We’re still looking for managers who like to bake, look reasonably attractive, and need community service,” Surma said.
Softball: A new assistant coach and two freshmen should bode well for the team this year. Opening the season off with an 11-2 loss, it doesn’t look too promising, but there’s not too much to worry about.
“All that we want is to be better than the baseball team,” co-captain Becca Diakun (’09) said.
Spectator Scott Clark (’09) had the following to say about the game: “The air was temperate, but the wind was biting and strewn with dirt and pieces of metal. The girls played hard, they were fierce with heart and unity. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to defeat the intimidating kinetic force that was Hermitage. But I was proud of the girls, for kicking aside their doubts and fears and just having fun with the game. I was proud to be a witness of that awesome phenomenon. I was proud to be one of their fans. I was proud to be a student of Maggie Walker.”
Boys’ Soccer: If there was one theme to last year’s season, it was close games. This year’s no different. A 1-0 loss to Monacan in the Prince George tournament, the boys’ team was able to keep the opposition out for most of the game.
“Our defense was organized, but we just couldn’t put one in,” Peter Slag (’09) explained. “They scored on a brilliant shot.”
With star keeper Dan Laws (’11) holding his own, this season should be another one filled with close games. One freshman starter on offense should help, but this year’s goal is to win a few games and get into the district tournament. Captains Max Schick (’09) and Marcel Rodgers (’09) lead the charge this season.
Girls’ Soccer: What’s the worst way to start off a season? A loss, yes. But what’s worse? To lose 1-0 to Manchester on a penalty kick. It’s how things started out for the girls’ soccer team.
“I think we did pretty well holding them off,” co-captain Kelly Diaz (’09) said. “We’re getting used to playing with each other. In general, I’m hoping we’re going to have a good season.”
Qualifying for regionals is the main goal this season, and it’s a genuine possibility with a few good freshmen coming on to the team, as well as captains Rachel Semus (’09), Amanda Watson (’09) and Diaz leading the way. They continue their season with a game on Monday against St. Gertrude, who is coached by ex-Boys’ soccer coach Dan Park.
Boys’ Tennis: The high point of the spring sports season, the tennis team beat Patrick Henry. Ahem, they massacred Patrick Henry. 8-1 the final tally, the boys’ went 6-0 in their singles matches, winning all six matches in straight sets, dropping only one game throughout. Freshman Ryan Murphy, playing in the six spot, chalked it up to a freshman mistake, winning his match 6-0, 6-1.
Losing no seniors from the top 6 last year, things look promising for the tennis team this year. Captains Michael Armstrong (’09), Will Weber (’09), and Ziyi Gao (’09) hope to make regionals and even states this season.
“Our opposition has withered away while we are filled with strong, new members,” Gao said.
Girls’ Tennis: The news for this year’s girls’ tennis team? It’s not that there’s a junior playing #1, but it’s who that junior is. Jocelyn Powelson (’10), in her first year of Maggie Walker tennis, is leading the Maggie Walker lineup, with Amanda Randall (’09), Andi Davis (’09), Emily Zhang (’11), Kelsey Miller (’12), and Kameron Adams (’09) playing two through six.
“We should have a really good season,” Kelsey Huffer (’09) said. “We have a lot of new people who play year-round, training not just during the tennis season. That’s really the most important thing they can do.”
Losing two top-six seniors, it looked like this was going to be a rebuilding season, but with new members, the team was able to overcome two close singles losses to beat Patrick Henry 5-4.
Outdoor Track:
Abbie Pettigrew (‘09) practices her hurdle skills during yesterday’s workout.
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