Things feel like they are moving along, now. We have been planning as a group how and when we can get some additional footage. Coordinating schedules is usually a challenge, but I think everyone is doing their best to work it out. Shooting out of town complicates things, but I think that the eventual product will be worth the challenge.

I've been making an effort to contribute some more ideas for potential b-roll. I realize while shooting a documentary you don't really know what you will end up with, but I envision the final product being really personal, with less focus on the mystery and more on letting people know about this girl. I'm seeing that she touched a lot of peoples death, and there was a wide spread impact from her death.

My group members have been there to help me out. Working as DP is a new position for me, one that at times I feel unsure. My group members have made themselves available whenever I have a question or need some clarification.

We are approaching more interviews. I am excited to keep deeper into the project, and see where the information leads us. I think there is potential to tell a new story here, even though the overall story has been gone over.

Sacrificial Poets Bio and Interview Questions

Sacrificial Poets-
Established in 2005, Sacrificial Poets was formerly known as the Chapel Hill Slam Team. However, the name was changed after the tragic murder of Irina “Ira” Yarmolenko on May 5, 2008. Ira was one of the founding team members. Ira set the tone, not only through her spoken word, but also as a team leader and inspiration to all of those around her. She demonstrated unrelenting commitment and sacrifice to the success of the team and to the spoken word movement. Therefore, the team decided to change its name to the “Sacrificial Poets” to commemorate her legacy and contribution.

1)    What was your relationship with Irina?

2)    How was Irina involved in founding the group?

3)    Why was the group formed?

4)    What is the poetry club’s mission/purpose?

5)    Why was the name changed after her death?

6)    What were some of Irina’s strengths as a poet and as an artist in general?

7)    Do you have a favorite poem, written by Irina?

8)    How do you remember Irina?

9)    How did you become aware of Irina’s death?

10) What changed after she was killed?