Linking school children with the world In a unique collaboration, Karen Patterson will e-mail students of Yellow Springs High School and McKinney Middle School as she chronicles her visits to various sites around the world, detailing cultural and social climates. She will also communicate visually through the use of a digital camera. According to school officials, “Our administration, staff and students are excited about the prospects of this real life experience. The concept ... is educationally sound and at the forefront of authentic learning.” Gettin’ the blues Yellow Springs-based African American Cross-Cultural Works (AACW) recently celebrated its second annual blues festival and bazaar, Bluesfest ’98. The fall jamboree was just one example of AACW’s efforts to reach all sectors of the community. Karen Patterson was there. “Everybody counts on this Earth, and nobody can tell me any different,” said Patterson, with her characteristic in-your-face optimism. “Everyone counts – and that’s our theme at the AACW.” Bluesfest is multi-directional. It begins with a blues workshop and continues through the weekend with a bevy of family-centered amusements, food and craft vendors and live entertainment featuring local and national talent. In addition to Ms. Patterson, talent included musician/singer Guy Davis, Piney Brown, Cincinnati's H-Bomb Ferguson, Alligator recording artist Michael Hill and his Blues Mob, and Criminal recording artist Nerak Roth Patterson. – From a report in the Dayton Daily News, September 7, 1998 Planning for Next Blues Festival Already Underway The next African American Cross-Cultural Works (AACW) Bluesfest will take place this fall (dates will be announced at www.aacw.org), in the Antioch College Amphitheater. Make plans now to be there!