What may have seemed like an attempt by the University of Louisville to send an all-clear message about its relationship with Patrick Henry Hughes seems to have added fuel to the fire.
This morning, Julie Hermann, a senior associate athletic director, sent an e-mail to news media that said Hughes had rescinded his statements that were detrimental to athletics. She wrote:
Just want to let you all know that patrick has rescinded his statements about wanting to join the band on his blog. Which we already knew..
His blog is clearly about being Greg Byrne’s voice per his comments about “professor/teacher”….
Now, Hermann may have interpreted an addition that Hughes posted on his website in a way that defies logic. Here’s the graph she’s referring to:
Please note - the following is written not for me but for music students everywhere and teachers/professors who have no voice with which to reach a broader audience. Teachers/Professors who must keep quiet or fear negative impacts on their careers. Really - I have no desire to participate in Athletic Pep Band under the Athletic umbrella - so what do I have to gain? Nothing. I realize Athletics probably won’t reverse their course and give the band back to the School of Music. The point of bringing up the rule which makes it logistically difficult to participate was only to show that as easily as Athletics waved it’s magic wand and took a for-credit course away from an accredited degree program, it could do the same for me if they really wanted me to participate, which they don’t. And that’s fine
More Juicy Stuff After the Jump…
Hermann is clearly trying to work some P.R. on the media by saying that Hughes and the University are A-OK. She’d like the public to believe that Hughes’ criticism of the University was all a big misunderstanding, that the P.R. hailstorm the school absorbed as a result of Hughes’ comments last week was no big deal.
And she confided in the e-mail stream something she likely didn’t want Hughes to see, namely this: “We have known for several years that Greg Byrne’s the director uses Patrick Sr. and Jr. as his voice. It is unfortunate that the Hughes have been used this way.”
That part of Herrman’s e-mail got back, through the media, to Patrick Hughes, Patrick Henry’s father, who appears to be mighty upset at the accusation. Here’s how he responded in a note to media members:
Seems pretty clear to me that Patrick’s opening statement speaks loud and clear that Patrick does not want to be in this band. I see no one rescinding any statement. I find it odd that all of a sudden Julie Hermann wants to stick her nose in this. Where has she been the last week? Also, believe it or not, there are other professors/teachers at UL and at other universities that we talk to besides Dr. Byrne. Many of them speak about the heavy handed, bullying tactics by this Athletic Administration. This series of notes below sure shows more of that. Looks like Athletic reaching, here don’t you think? Does it look like their scrambling? And you know, if this Athletic Pep Band is such a great idea, how come UL is the only Big East Univ. to be doing this? How many Band Directors at other universities would say this is a good idea? If it’s not about money, why is the marketing director of Athletics the driving force? By the way, I understand there is a video floating around now that someone has showing Mr. Moats declaring the old pep band inventory to be sold in front of these students. Can’t say it will come to light, but I’m sure hoping so. As for Mike Petchenik, I know of your closeness to Jason Puckett, Athletic Pep Band spokesperson - which is why you weren’t the first one to cover this story even though you were the first one to ambush me and my son at school, without UL’s permission to be on campus! Not surprised to see you’re the first with these comments from Julie H.
So it appears that Hermann should have picked up the phone rather than writing an e-mail that she should have known would get back to the Hughes family.
As for the part about Petchenik, he says he barely knows Puckett, who worked briefly at WLKY and says he was respectful to the Hughes in asking for the interview last week.
The whole soap opera is now public, thanks to the Internet and e-mail. And once again the University comes out smelling. TV stations are scrambling to cover the story for tonight’s news. Might be worth watching.
52 responses so far ↓
1 J. R. // Nov 12, 2008 at 5:41 pm
Julie Hermann was the other person at the meeting with students besides Kyle Moates. She also once asked the old pep band if we were still upset with them. The 10-15 of us sitting in the stands just kinda glared at her.
2 Steve Bittenbender // Nov 12, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Last time I checked, U of L was a public place — meaning no reporter has to ask permission to come on campus and talk to students.
This is a big non-story, and was probably a dead one. But for some inexplicable reason, U of L decided to stir up the hornets’ nest again.
What is going on down at U of L?
3 Parent of UofL student // Nov 12, 2008 at 6:41 pm
What this is really about is the Athletic Dept. having control over a group of musicians. When did that ever make any sense??? I think if Dr. Byrne had something to say, he would say it. He is not the kind of person to have others speak for him. People need to realize that the Hughes family are speaking out of concern for their son and his abilities as a musician. Athletics should give the band back to the people who understand what it takes to work with musicians. Bottom line, then move on!!!!!
4 herk // Nov 12, 2008 at 9:41 pm
Ah… wait a minute… Patrick Hughes is an inspiration. No doubt about it. But it seems to me both the hughes familty and uof L have gained from from this experience. UofL gave patrick the platform to show his talents, gain national exposure, make and sell his stellar recordings, and overall has been a positive influence on him. He in return has committed himself to the University and has been a wonderful ambassador for UofL. It seems to me both sides have gained immensly from this relationship. If UofL has rules that are different than most, so be it. Patrick should be treated the same as any other student…he wouldnt want it any other way. And he should respect the rules of the university..like any other student…beyond that, its just alot to do about nothin……..
5 saywhat // Nov 12, 2008 at 10:23 pm
herk - you should just keep your ignorant thoughts to yourself. If you think U of L helped in any way to make Partick you are mistaken.
He was nationally known long before his days at UL. Maybe you should learn more about the people you are talking about before talking out of the left side of you a$$.
6 jlm // Nov 12, 2008 at 11:04 pm
Quite frankly I’m sick and tired of the whole Hughes thing. There were other families I think who were more deserving. They traveled the world before they ever hit the spotlight so they couldn’t have been hurting too bad.
7 jim jones // Nov 12, 2008 at 11:19 pm
I’ve got to wonder why would Julie Hermann Munster would send such an e-mail without first consulting the Hughes family? She can’t be that stupid! Or can she? Clearly Hughes made no attempt to rescind any of his prose. He only emphasized he wasn’t doing this for himself. Any for Ms. Hermann to drag dr. byrne into this mess with no provocation. What a moron this women is!
8 LeighAnne // Nov 12, 2008 at 11:40 pm
Jim Jones…you took the words right out of my mouth. What a shame to this community Ms. Hermann is. This should, in fact, be renamed the “Julie Hermann weirdness” because what she did is just…weird.
9 music school supporter // Nov 12, 2008 at 11:48 pm
The fact is that at the meeting with AD 2 years ago, Moats and Julie said that the new pep band would never touch football events, that was marching band territory. If sending the pep band to PITT was in retaliation to Patrick disclosing the truth about the marketing priority/tactics of AD then that was really low! UofL did not make Patrick who he is today, if you have ever listened to ONE WORD he has spoken, you know that he gives all the glory to God, who deserves it much more than the stingy AD or UofL administration, and secondly he credits Dr. Byrne, a prof at the School of Music with his encouragement to join the marching band. When I came to UofL, I came for an education, and have been receiving a fantastic one, part of which has come from Dr. Byrne in my first year in the old pep band, under his direction and my years in the Marching Band. I have not learned one academic lesson from the Athletic Department, except that apparently Universities are controlled by the Athletic Dep. and I will NEVER want to work for such a institution.
10 Jesse Trumpet // Nov 13, 2008 at 12:06 am
There has been a lot of tension and confusion polluting the air on this issue. Perhaps I can can shed some light.
I am a Senior at the University of Lousiville Music School. A fellow trumpet player in the RED RAGE! Marching Band, and a former member or the REAL U of L Pep Band. There is nothing good about what this athletic administration is trying to do with any of this. It really says something when they put the value of the almighty dollar in front the lives of people. That is why they saw us as inventory. People are possensions to them.
Dr. Byrne is one of the best directors there is, and because he is a professor, he can not public voice his opions. Well, guess what? I CAN!!!
I think the only reason this pep band came around is to try and make a profit off of my friend Patrick. Once he clearly stated that he did not to have any part in the “AARP across the railroad tracks” , they needed to find another way to get ahold of him. Now the athletic pep band has crossed the line into the marching band territory. Once again taking away from the music department. They say they only reason they did it was because the marching band was not planning to go. Well, we can’t go places without funding. And speaking of funding….
In one of Patrick’s recent news stroies, it was said toward the end of the report that, “Atlethics has raised $250,000 for the marching band”. Here is my question, WHERE IS IT? I have been in the marching band for four years, and not once have I ever seen Athletics do anything for us. We went to Pittsburgh two years ago. Now you would think that the athletic department could send their own band there. Well, that did not happen. We had to get outside funding to go to a game and support or team. To our surprise when we got there, our seats had been sold. Guess who was responsible for that. ATHLETICS! Also, why did we have to have outside help in order to get a decent practice facility for the band. I would surely think that some of the quarter of a million dollars could help with that.
We are musicians that go to these events to support our team and University. We show up because we think what we do makes a difference. Well, it seems that I have maed a little error. We are EXPENDABLE. We were tossed in the depths like yesterdays trash with pep band, and it looks like it could happen again. Well, we will not go down with out a fight. We will no longer be afraid.
I hope that everyone who reads this has a better understanding of the whole situation. We are jsut simple students/musicians. We are 215 strong, but sometimes that is not enough. WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT AND HELP!!!
Thank you and God Bless
11 junction jack // Nov 13, 2008 at 12:33 am
Mr. Hughes can be angry, but directing it at Petchenik is waaaaay unnecessary. Does he understand UofL is a public campus and Mike is free to roam wherever he would like? UofL doesn’t operate like a high school, and no one needs to give Mike permission to walk around.
If Mike ran at them screaming and yelling about doing an interview, then whined when they wouldn’t, yes, he’s out of line. I SINCERELY doubt that, though: Mike’s not that type of journalist.
If you’re angry at UofL, fine, be angry at them. But don’t use this as an opportunity to slime someone else.
12 jim jones // Nov 13, 2008 at 12:43 am
I agree. Mr. Hughes might have jumped the gun with this local reporter Mike (parents get that way when their children’s personal space is invaded without warning)but it is my understanding that all media before coming to a public University to talk with students/assistants/players/coaches during class time in classroom settings have to be cleared with at least the unviersity public relations office first. I’m sure all of the major news networks that have come on campus to do stories on the Hughes family recieved proper credentials before attempting to come onto campus. Let’s not get away from the point of Julie Herman’s irrational comments of this morning.
13 Guard Girl // Nov 13, 2008 at 1:23 am
I just want to say that I support Patrick! He’s an awesome person with the best intentions at heart.
Also, as far as I can tell the University has done nothing for the band or Patrick. The band has done for themselves and with the help of our band’s faithful fans.
Also, Patrick was famous before Home Makeover (Crusade for Children anyone? Crusade Cannonball rocks!) and he will be famous long after.
14 Tim // Nov 13, 2008 at 3:06 am
Kyle Moats is a piece of lard, with short man syndrome.
15 Novena // Nov 13, 2008 at 6:11 am
“A Few Words to Describe UofL”
MONEY; PR fluff; athletics trump academics; incompetent, uncaring administration; little humanity.
16 Brian M // Nov 13, 2008 at 7:09 am
What sickens me is the people that think just because Patrick Henry has become a local and nationl celebrity, that he owes all thanks to the University of Louisville. If anyone knows anything about Patrick, it’s his life story, parents, family, and his will and determination that have made him who he is, not the University of Louisville. If anything, it is the University that owes thanks to Patrick for putting on the red and black so often that when seen doing interviews, on billboards, etc. it’s his band uniform we always see!!
17 Carter Burger // Nov 13, 2008 at 8:57 am
Oh dear Lord, this story is back? I agree with Steve. This is such a non-story. Look at the big picture people. The economy is going in the crapper, people are losing jobs and all we can talk about is a member of the U of L band getting his panties in a wad because he does not want to play by the rules.
Sheese.
18 Punditarod // Nov 13, 2008 at 10:21 am
I don’t know but this all seems like a lot of arguing about something not very important. It’s not sports but even Seedy K expressed an opinion at his sports blog, Score, at leoweekly.com. I agree with him, all these people arguing need to zip it and get on to more important things.
19 Another DB // Nov 13, 2008 at 10:52 am
“Also, Patrick was famous before Home Makeover (Crusade for Children anyone?) ”
If you have to tell people why you’re famous then you’re really not famous at all. I have been involved with many Crusades and have never heard of the guy until the ESPN story about his father pushing him around the field which was quickly copied by a local outlet who now claims they did it first. Mr Hughes was quite happy when the media helped him get a free new home, free property taxes for life and free college tutition for his kids but, is quick to call out a good local reporter who must still work for his rent. As inspiring a story as Patrick may be perhaps daddy should buy a Websters and look up the word gratitude before crapping all over U of L and the media to which he owes so much. It would look much better on him than the blanket of entitlement with which he currently has chosen to wrap himself.
20 Band Student // Nov 13, 2008 at 11:45 am
Patrick Hughes and his father are not acting entitled and acting as if he is famous…he is simply disputing a claim the Athletic Department has made. I encourage one if not all media outlets to go to one of the 200 students in the University of Louisville Marching Band and see if Patrick’s statements are not the truth. You will find we feel the same way Patrick does. There is a lot that isn’t being reported…Patrick is simply trying to get the message out there. Answer this…why would Patrick want to pick on his own University and perhaps have people perceive it as negative. He obviously is make serious and true charges…now it is up to the media and the Louisville public if they care to seek the truth. WE LOVE YOU PATRICK AND WE ARE ON YOUR SIDE!
21 happygolucky345 // Nov 13, 2008 at 11:55 am
If you all had the chance to get to know Patrick Hughes then you would know that he is probably the most selfless person I have ever come across. He didn’t ask for this, he only wants to be there to support his fellow classmates and cheer them on. What is so wrong about that? The UofL Marching band program has done everything it is capable to make sure Patrick can do what he loves . Without the help of anyone else I might add. The Marching band program has become what it has become because of the wonderful students who care about it and a band director who cares about the students for who they are and not for their value.
22 Band Student // Nov 13, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Here Here happygolucky…I challenge any media once again….
PUT A MICROPHONE IN MY FACE!!!
And let’s see if what I have to say is the same as what Patrick is claiming!
This Athletic Department cannot have the right to do what they want with UofL STUDENTS!
23 Brian M // Nov 13, 2008 at 12:31 pm
In respones to “Another DB” :
To you and the other people who know anything about this story, who Patrick is, or what Patrick stands for, I want to say that I am sorry. I am sorry for whatever it is you have had happen to you to make you feel so unhappy, or angry, or whatever feeling you have that makes you think you know why Patrick has brought his story forward, and wants to turn the truth into something that makes him look bad. I’m sure you have never meet Patrick Henry or his family. If you had, I’m sure you would infact understand that Partick has not brought this story to light for his own good. He knew when he wrote the blog on his website that there would be plenty of people like you who would try and turn this into something it isn’t. Try and make themselves feel better by making someone else sound bad using false pretense. Patrick is bringing this to light for his fellow bandmates, and the University School of Music, who have been wrongly done.
24 Charlie // Nov 13, 2008 at 2:35 pm
He keeps referring to those academic credits. Must have missed out on them.
If the music department wanted the pep band, they should have made sure music students showed for the games. They did not and Tom Jurich took action to make sure he had a reliable pep band.
Sorry if Patrick and dad’s feelings were hurt and he missed out on some easy credits but the athletic department had no recourse. The Hughes see only their side of this mini-drama.
25 Band Student // Nov 13, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Excuse me Charlie, but the band, 30 members (all we were allowed to send) showed up for EVERY GAME! I will not comment on the fact that you think Tom Juich is competent enough to ensure he has a reliable band…according to CBS announcers, that band was a joke at the NCAA tourney. The reason this band was taken over, pure and simple, was because they wanted to add 60 addditional events to our 50+ we already did…the Music School said NO to that, because they were standing up for us, STUDENTS! So what does Tom do, goes to people who aren’t students and who don’t have the same constraints as students, like studying! A university should protect a students time to further their education. Patrick Hughes could care less about the 1 hour of credit, whoop ti do…it’s the fact that TOMMY TURTLENECK can take over something in the academic side of the THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE! Something, he prides himself on being complete separate from. And believe me, he couldn’t stand the attention Patrick and the band were getting…at a football game, ESPN is covering Patrick….think about it. The athletic department has a green card to say anything, do anything, without any consequences. WHEN THEY FAIL…IT’S SOMEONE ELSE’S FAULT!
JUST LOOK AT OUR FOOTBALL TEAM…
26 Charlie // Nov 13, 2008 at 3:11 pm
Well if you can’t attend the other 60 events, you aren’t showing up. Don’t look for sympathy here.
27 junction jack // Nov 13, 2008 at 3:25 pm
Jim Jones, your heart is in the right place, but you are wrong: UofL is a public university in a public place, and Mike (and every other media member) is free to talk to anyone he would like. The Hughes family has the right to not speak with him, but Mike is allowed in.
If a tv station wants to speak to a specific athlete or student, they can contact the university (f.e. basketball players or footballers are available only on certain days), but they are by no means required to call before stepping on campus, shooting video or doing interviews.
28 Band Student // Nov 13, 2008 at 4:05 pm
So if the basketball team can’t make it to Lacrosse, Cross Country, Swimming, Field Hockey, Baseball, Soccer, Shot Put….maybe we should say they aren’t showing UP! We had a clear job description of Mens Basketball….Womens Basketball…and volleyball. I say have 5 people at a soccer match isn’t showing up either! You just don’t get it! Don’t worry….we do!
29 Charlie // Nov 13, 2008 at 5:19 pm
I get it: you don’t have time to go to all of the events. The paid pep band does. Apparently your loyalty only extends to football, basketball and volleyball. That’s why he’s paying people so he doesn’t intrude on your precious time. Go study, you have plenty of time, thanks to Tom.
Oh and the basketball team isn’t playing music when it goes to these events.
30 Disgusted // Nov 13, 2008 at 7:00 pm
In response to Another DB….(”Mr Hughes was quite happy when the media helped him get a free new home, free property taxes for life and free college tutition for his kids but, is quick to call out a good local reporter who must still work for his rent. As inspiring a story as Patrick may be perhaps daddy should buy a Websters and look up the word gratitude before crapping all over U of L and the media to which he owes so much. It would look much better on him than the blanket of entitlement with which he currently has chosen to wrap himself.”)….
I couldn’t agree with you more! Sure, Patrick Henry Hughes has turned his disability into a blessing, and has been an inspiration for America. And I’m sure his intentions are true. But his dad needs to take his foot out of his ass, and show some appreciation. I understand he is protecting his son and only wants to support him in his endeavors, but show some gratitude to the entire nation…and yes, UofL and especially the media (both local and national)…for turning Patrick into what he has become. There would be no Extreme Makeover, free home, free education, free trips around the world, etc., etc., otherwise. Patrick’s father needs to start treating others with the same respect and fairness he is demanding from the Athletics Dept. Two wrongs don’t make a right. Grow up!!!
To Patrick’s father…. Let Patrick shine in his abilities, and continue to take advantage of the many opportunities that come his way. Since when have you let challenges or road blocks get in your way? Stay focused on what’s really important. Learn some anger management skills, and stay humble!! There is just no reason for this “blanket of entitlement” which is only going to turn against you in the end and scar both your and Patrick’s reputations (and limit those priceless opportunities). Continue to help your son be an inspiration and give back to the world…and start appreciating all the good that has come into yours!
31 Brian M // Nov 13, 2008 at 7:44 pm
It sounds like Charlie should become a PEP BAND member. He has all the time in the world to study the day of a college student, and all the time they have available to be used to put money in the pocket of a major athletics department. He knows about all the time they spend studying, all the hours they spend playing their instruments to become better musicians so their not sitting on their ass all day next to Charlie, the guy who has all the time in the world and no sympathy for those who have lives!
32 Horrified // Nov 13, 2008 at 7:51 pm
I am a UofL marching band alumni and the athletic association has been holding the marching band hostage for years. I enjoyed marching band & made many lifelong friends for the 3 years I was in it, not 4. I quit after the 3rd year because of the lack of respect we received from the a.a. When the Cards went to the Humanitarian Bowl in Boise, ID, the a.a. refused to use all the allocated funds they had supposedly received to even put us in a room for the night. Instead they flew us cross country and back just long enough for us to play a pep rally before the game. After freezing in cold stands for what seemed to be the longest game ever, the only thing that I would have loved was to get out of snow covered uniform & into a nice, warm room for the night. Instead they put us right back on a plane & flew us back home. I despised our poor treatment & quit after that. The next year I went to Liberty Bowl in Memphis but with my family this time. Thankfully the marching band was there only after Dr. Byrne told them that there would be hotel rooms or the marching band would not be at the bowl game. All of this happened between 1999-2000 so this has been going on for quite some time. Thanks to the Hughes family the mistreatment has finally come to light.
33 Band Student // Nov 13, 2008 at 8:01 pm
Way to go HORRIFIED! These people just don’t understant and to Charlie, you shouldn’t be able to replace your students at a UNIVERSITY!!!!!
This university should say, “what is possible for our pep band to do,” not “well they can’t do 120 events, let’s get rid of em!”
My hats off to the School of Music, for saying NO to that and for standing up for the rights of students!
34 jim jones // Nov 13, 2008 at 9:25 pm
It’s great to see Patrick’s classmates and even former band members and others backing him up in the face of the negative comments made by individuals here who know nothing about the Hughes family. “No great endeavor to change a cultrual mindset of abuse and neglect was ever undertaken without some resistance.” I commend Patrick Henry Hughes for recognizing what is right, and for recognizing his responsibility to stand up against tyranny and fight for change. It’s the sort of courage one doesn’t see much these days but is truly great. It forged this great nation.
35 Charlie // Nov 13, 2008 at 10:56 pm
We don’t have to know them personally. We judge them by their actions.
36 Band Student // Nov 13, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Charlie, you need mental help, man! Seriously, get some!
37 saywhat // Nov 14, 2008 at 12:08 am
to Another DB…
“I have been involved with many Crusades and have never heard of the guy until the ESPN story”
What hell are you talking about. Your statement proves you’ve probably never been around the Crusade. Anyone associated with that great charity knows Partick. He’s been like the poster child for that org since he stated playing the piano.
38 Another DB // Nov 14, 2008 at 8:50 am
Sorry, but it’s true. Never heard the guy’s name before ESPN but the Crusade helps so many children and has showcased hundreds over the years, perhaps my involvement preceeded Patrick’s. I do not know his father or Patrick and wouldn’t pretend to know what a man like that has had to endure to elevate himself to such a level. I wouldn’t even know how to try. I do know, Briam M, that if it weren’t for the Mike Petcheniks and the U of L’s and so many of the entities his father is blasting the majority of those here, save the band members, would never have known Patrick or his inspiring story. The father had the fortitude and love to do what was neccessary to help propel his child to meet his potential, which is expected of every father, but still, good for him for showing such excellent character. I have to ask though would any parent here not do the same for his or her own child? Patrick’s is an inspiring story as is his father’s however, does this mean Patrick is entitled to different rules? In some cases dealing with his diabilities…Yes, and those have been made but, the rules he has been asked to observe which he has chosen not to follow have little to do with any condition from which he suffers physically. There are plenty of inspiring stories, some in Patrick’s very neighborhood, who still thrive and excel without free college tuition for the family, free mansion-type homes, free money to satisfy future tax obligations and free national exposure which has lead to many if not all of Patrick’s major accomplishments and the very reason he is requested for personal appearences and speaking engagements. It is sad to know that Patrick is among a chosen few of the disabled who receive that kind of assistance and favorable attention. Being his father for many more anonymous years than famed ones, I assumed Patrick Sr. would realize this and show some appreciation in the form of a little latitude towards those who have assisted to make his son’s life what it is rather than what it will be for thousands more who do not share Patrick’s luck or talent but, must still endure the hardships.
39 K.E.R // Nov 14, 2008 at 2:01 pm
As a student here at UofL I feel that UofL always puts the money before its students. Coming from another state with an even bigger university, their concern was money, but their focus was on the students. I feel this pep band decision is one that UofL is making out of haste seeing as its happened over the last 2 years. I felt bad for the marching band when i watched the football game(against pitt) this past weekend and heard a poor rendition of the fight song, and then i realized it was because it was a poorly arranged band, with players who looked like they were my grandparents. i was ashamed to say i was from uofl at that moment because i thought being in a marching band was about being a student and cheering your team on, and if your 60-something and not even from UL why should you feel obligated to. I feel that this new “pep band” isn’t a representation of the students. I feel its a representation of the corruption in our school. I feel that this is a prime example of quantity of quality.I believe that as a student here at UL that when I go to a game I should hear a proud a supportive fight song, and not a sad pitiful one. As a student I should be encouraged by what my commrades are doing whether in band, or sitting next to me in my seat. And right now, I feel disheartened by the fact the pep band can’t even play their songs well. I fully support the Hughes in the fact that they are just trying to support their sons dreams. I feel that they are a good representation of godly people, and if hope they continue to out their lives in that manner.
40 Brian M // Nov 14, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Another DB,
What you still don’t get is that it isn’t the Mike Petcheniks and the University of Louisvilles that have made Patrick who he is. Patrick has never turned down a interview with news reporters. I can remember when Patrick was very little and the new was interviewing his parents. I can remember interviews with him all his life, but I’m sure he has never had an interview with a badgering reporter! And for that matter, who would want to? The University of Louisville has done nothing to make Patrick Henry who he is other than accepting him into their school, somply making him a college student. I guess all the thousands of students at the university should bow down to the administration and keep their mouths shut too huh? There is nothing wrong with someone who is known to use their voice to let people know of wrong doing. This world needs more people like Patrick Henry to bring to light these issues.
41 Jason Puckett // Nov 15, 2008 at 12:22 am
A point of clarification since this was brought to my attention.
In this e-mail attributed to John Hughes, he completely misrepresented my relationship with WLKY reporter Mike Petchenik as well as my employment status, and accused me having direct influence over how WLKY reported the story.
I do thank the blog moderators for noting Petchenik’s response, which was correct: aside from being friends as co-workers for six months, we were not “close” as John Hughes implies.
Also, while I am close friends with Mr. Greener, director of the athletics pep and I helped him throughout 2007 in getting the new band on its feet, I was never, or am currently a “spokesman” for the band as is noted by Mr. Hughes.
Lastly, the implication that I had in some way influenced Petchenik and WLKY in their handling of the story is not only laughable, but a total lie.
I worked at WLKY from August 2006 - February 2007 as the managing editor of the station’s Web site, WLKY.com. My last day there was Feb. 23, 2007 and, until now, other than an occasional e-mail, text or Facebook communication, I have had NO contact with anyone at WLKY regarding any aspect of their operations.
In fact, when I e-mail Petchenik on Thursday about seeing my name on this blog, that was the first time I’d “talked” to him in nearly 21 months.
Making all of this even more humorous is the fact I haven’t even lived in Louisville in eight months since getting my current job as assistant online editor for the Athens Banner-Herald and OnlineAthens.com in Athens, Ga., where I’ve lived and worked since February of this year.
As I mentioned to Petchenik, I should probably be flattered the Hughes’ think I have that much pull at a fairly major network affiliate.
All I request from the Hughes’ is a simple apology, and they can be on their way to do whatever they want to do.
To reiterate, I’m not the band’s spokesman and I had NO influence over how the story was reported by WLKY since I haven’t worked there in almost two years and have lived 650 miles away from Louisville for over eight months.
BTW, I hope Georgia beats the hell out of Auburn today.
Go Cards!
Go Dogs! Sic ‘em! Woof woof woof woof!
42 Youshouldbeashamed // Nov 15, 2008 at 10:43 am
Mr. Petchenik is FAR from a badgering reporter. It’s too bad the editor of this website chose to print Mr. Hughes’ lies in their entirety without regard for Mr. Petchenik’s reputation.
Funny how he chose to apologize to the other person named in the e-mail, but left Mr. Petchenik hanging out to dry on the erroneous statement that he ambushed the family.
I guess the editor got he wanted: page clicks for his website.
43 jj424242 // Nov 15, 2008 at 8:42 pm
Jason Puckett? Is this the same Jason Puckett that threatens PHH with talk of knives and gun fights on his facebook page? Bet UL was sorry to see you leave town. Judging from the blogs today, looks like fans want to see Tommy Turtleneck hit the road, too!
44 jj424242 // Nov 15, 2008 at 8:43 pm
As for the Pethenik kid - being a reporter is a tough business. Ask anyone. Better thicken up that skin a bit if you want to be successful at it.
45 Jason Puckett // Nov 15, 2008 at 10:09 pm
Yep, that would be me.
As for that quote, it was an analogy (ever see “The Untouchables” when Malone…nevermind) . For it to be construed as a “threat” is REALLY stretching it.
And actually, many at U of L were sorry to see me go (just for reference, I’m on a first-name basis with Dr. Ramsey and have been for several years).
Regarding today’s blog, I could give a rat’s rectum about Tommy Tuberville as he’s at the East Alabama Ag Extension, not Georgia.
As it is, I’m still waiting for my apology from the Hughes’ boys for their misrepresentation of me in that e-mail. At least the moderators of this site were classy enough to straighten things out on the home page.
Hunker down you Hairy Dawgs!!!
46 UofLnMU // Nov 15, 2008 at 10:25 pm
I guess some folks are a bit hazy on the whole metaphor thing…or were asleep the day in class that they introduced that or the concept of hyperbole (accusing someone of “bringing a knife to a gun fight”).
I suppose that JP would be the first one to engage in cowboy-like behavior on the internet. As far as UofL being sad to see him gone, the guy worked as a marketing associate for a hell of a long time. I guess that you don’t know what that is, either. Marketing associates (I’m guessing that you presume that these guys count the money, or something) show up to events hours upon hours early, and leave hours upon hours after the final bell. Marketing associates also get paid like indentured servants, in addition to being treated like them.
To call out this guy as being something negative is to show that you don’t understand what commitment to the university or love for athletics is, or that you’d just rather be an ass-hat.
I just can’t get over how facts have been hijacked here. Athletics wanted a presence at all sports from pep band. The School of Music said that was impossible. The Athletic Department were so adamant to support the Olympic sports that they wouldn’t take no for an answer–even if it meant fielding their own band. I’d find it difficult to deal with someone who reneged on commitments made to provide musicians at important events, too.
I can understand that folks who only are privy to a partial representation of the facts would be upset, or if folks who really are attached to a celebrity would naturally want to see it his way. Still, having worked with high school and college marching bands (and athletics), that the time that one individual (or small group of individuals) judges themselves to be more important than the whole, it’s pretty much doing the entire organization a disservice.
The whole thing just seems really goofy to me. Athletics deemed heavy handed because they were dissatisfied with the product that was out there in terms of pep band? Well, if the School of Music was dissatisfied with the way a Music History class was run, wouldn’t they step in–after giving the teacher an indication that s/he wasn’t towing the line? (To my knowledge, that’s more or less what happened.) As for news reporters asking tough questions to celebrities, that’s kind of the deal with celebrity. One of my best friends files dental claims…and never has to worry about tough questions from reporters. You can’t be a celebrity without being exposed to criticism. If this is the worst criticism that PHH encounters, he’ll have lived a charmed life.
47 Jason Puckett // Nov 16, 2008 at 2:29 am
Thanks MU…I appreciate it.
Another good metaphor to add to the list might be: straws, grasping at.
“My God Almighty, he ran right through two men, Herschel ran right over two men…My God, a freshman!”
48 Youshouldbeashamed // Nov 16, 2008 at 10:12 am
jj424242 …hmm….sounds a lot like John Patrick himself.
49 happygolucky345 // Nov 16, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Quote UofLnMu
“Athletics deemed heavy handed because they were dissatisfied with the product that was out there in terms of pep band? Well, if the School of Music was dissatisfied with the way a Music History class was run, wouldn’t they step in–after giving the teacher an indication that s/he wasn’t towing the line?”
First of all the music department would step in if it was a music class period, but what the athletics is doing is if the music department stepped in and intervened a biology class. You dont send in an actor to do a lawyer’s job, or a circus performer to do a brain surgeons job.
Second of all as a band we are NOT a product. We are a band made up of 200 individuals who matter and make the band what it is. Telling us that we are only a product and replacing us is a HUGE slap in the face. The athletic department is making fools of themselves and are becoming a laughing stock.
Charlie-
I am SO sorry that I am unable to attend 120 games. I am only a music major taking 19 hours and when I am not in class I am studying, practicing and trying to find someway to sleep after its all accomplished. Excuse me for not being able to fit that into my schedule. You obviously have NO understanding of what it is like to be in the music school.The music school in my opinion is one of the hardest schools that is seriously under rated.
50 happygolucky345 // Nov 16, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Oh and Charlie Dont you dare talk to the Band about Loyalty.
51 jj424242 // Nov 16, 2008 at 6:54 pm
Thanks for the comlpiment “Youshouldbeashame”. I don’t know the Hughes’ but from what I’ve seen of them over the past dozen years on TV and around the community they are honest, God fearing, Christian people who have done lots of good for millions of people expecting nothing in return. Can you say the same about yourself?
52 Guard Girl // Nov 17, 2008 at 12:04 am
To Another DB and Disgusted:
I just want to say that Patrick and his family did not get that house for being famous.
Ty Pennington didn’t show up at their house one morning out of random.
One of our very own marching band students wrote the letter to get him and his family nominated and they are very gratful to her for what she did.
Be gratful to the media… Really?
To everyone else:
You can say what you like, but that will not stop the marching band from protecting what is ours!
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