By Dwyane Darensburg, 12th Grade
The Club Paradise Tour brought its swagger to New Orleans last Saturday. In the sold out Lakefront Arena, thousands of fans gathered to come see one of today’s most popular performing artists. Every time Drake comes to New Orleans, he’s treated like a king; he responded that New Orleans is “one of the greatest cities I’ve been to.”
The performances flowed well and it seemed like everyone enjoyed themselves. Emerging artists A$AP Rocky and Kendrick Lamar started off the show, but not a lot of people were familiar with their music. The audience applauded energetically when they were done, so hopefully they’ll get the credit they deserve in the future.
Drake’s individual performance was spectacular. Instead of having a DJ play the whole set, he was backed by a more traditional rock band with guitar, bass, keyboard, and drums. He performed multiple songs off of his new album Take Care, but also performed some of his classics such as “Miss Me,” “Over,” and “Uptown.”
I’ve seen every one of Drake’s New Orleans appearances and I felt that this one was especially satisfying having watched his progress over the years. Compared to three years ago, his focus and work ethic is on another level.
Drake has added significant lighting effects to his show. Bright colors and different patterns added a strong visual element. The only downfall of the concert was that he only performed for an hour and 15 minutes.
One highlight of the show was when Drake stopped performing and interacted with his fans for about 20 minutes. He called out fans that caught his eye—attractive girls, the freshly dressed, or even youngsters that attended the concert with their mothers. Overall, the show was well worth the money. Hopefully he’ll be back again soon.
Mar 2 2012 | Posted in
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By Fred Minor, 12th Grade
Drake is only one reason to go to the Drake concert on February 25th at the Lakefront Arena. It’s the rappers third headlining trip to New Orleans, but this time around there are two other good reasons you should be in the crowd: opening acts A$AP Rocky and Kendrick Lamar.
Kendrick Lamar is a west coast rapper from Compton, California, who figuratively received the torch from other West Coast legends such as Snoop Dogg and Kurupt and one of the veterans in rap, The Game. These rappers have credibility in California, and their words meant a lot to the young rapper who grew up listening to them. Former rapper and mega producer Dr. Dre was in attendance and gave the nod that the torch was now passed to Kendrick. Many consider Lamar to be the next Tupac Shakur.
Lamar is a conscious rapper who raps about the life of a California kid who doesn’t want to be just another statistic in the Compton daily news report and had to find a way out. He doesn’t fit into typical rap stereotypes of violence, sex, drugs, and alcohol. He also raps about the society he grew up in, and the struggles of growing up in Compton during the late 80s and early 90s. There is soul in his music and it comes from wanting to be more than what society offered him.
Even though Kendrick was passed the torch, he is still somewhat of an underground artist. He has chosen to remain independent and has not signed with a major label. His latest project was his first album release entitled Section.80 and was released in 2011. It temporarily topped pop artist Adele and Lady GaGa on iTunes. He has proved a major label doesn’t bring record sales and publicity, it’s all about the drive of the individual.
So, if you haven’t purchased tickets to the concert, unfortunately they may be hard to come by. But if you do come across a ticket or two, you should take advantage of the opportunity because you get to see two established artists and one future star, A$AP Rock.
Feb 17 2012 | Posted in
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By Zach Wahlder, 11th Grade
Locals can sense it in the air. It’s an uneasy feeling that we can’t seem to shake.
A pessimist might tell you that things are worse than ever and that they’re never going to get better. An optimist might tell you that we’re just passing through a phase and that life in the city will soon improve. But no matter what you consider yourself, you can’t help but look around and notice that something is wrong and out of place in the city of New Orleans in these first months of 2012. But really, our problem has been around for a very long time and we just haven’t done enough to fix it. Whatever the case may be, New Orleans continues to struggle to control violent crime and murder.
It seems not a single day goes by in which the front cover of the paper or the night news doesn’t include a homicide story or an investigation into a recent homicide. The bad news is unavoidable and fear is affecting our daily life.
The city’s problem is not so much the crime rate as it is the murder rate. The homicide rate in New Orleans was measured as ten times the national average in 2010 compared to the crime rate, which was actually below the average of similarly-sized cities. In 2011, there were 58 homicides per 100,000 people, making New Orleans the most murderous city in the entire U.S.—an unsettling reputation that we have held onto for some time now.
The disturbing proof is in the statistics. And many citizens are putting the blame on the local authorities. Even with early promises made by Mayor Mitch Landrieu and major strategic and leadership changes in the police department, the murder and crime continue to rise. Although the NOPD has put a lot of work into solving the crime problem, they are still receiving strong criticism from local citizens and national observers.
Just to give you an idea of how bad it has been since the New Year, twelve people were murdered in the first twelve days of the year, and at least two dozen have been wounded in shootings. But the most shocking news of 2012 so far occurred on January 13, 2012. In an 18-hour wave of violence, 17 people were shot and six were killed. This outbreak of violence came on the heels of Mayor Landrieu’s positive appraisal of the city for its well-managed national sporting events. He swiftly took to the cameras once again in order to reassure the people of New Orleans that the sudden rise of crime and violence will be dealt with. But is that enough? Is the mayor living up to his promise of controlling crime in the city? Is everything possible being done in order to protect our status as a major tourist—and family—destination?
Is the rest of the country aware of how serious our situation is? I don’t believe it’s healthy for young children living in New Orleans to witness so much violence. Greater measures should be taken in order to ensure the protection and security of the youth of the city. Many doubts begin to arise regarding life in New Orleans. Do we want to continue to live in this city? Is it safe for us to go out and explore our city’s diverse neighborhoods? Should one fear such a simple act as stepping outside your front door? We shouldn’t be constantly plagued with insecurity and fear. We need to know that our city is safe. We need to guarantee a safer environment for our younger generation.
I’m not a pessimist and I’m not trying to be a Debbie Downer. We just all need to be aware that all is not easy in the Big Easy and we shouldn’t act like it is. But not all hope is lost. This resilient city has experienced more downfalls than that of Mel Gibson’s career, but in the end New Orleans always seems to come out on top. And I believe that with the right amount of work and hope from authorities and citizens, the city of New Orleans will be safe one day.
Feb 6 2012 | Posted in
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Zachary Stoufflet, 11th grade
His videos are all over Youtube.com. His shows come on Comedy Central. Well, now is your opportunity to see Jeff Dunham with all of his character companions live, Thursday, January 26, at the New Orleans Arena performing his act Controlled Chaos. His humorous charm and gut-busting jokes should fill the arena with cackles.
Jeff Dunham’s material focuses on current world events. He converses with his dummies about news and newsmaker such as 9/11, President Obama, and Tiger Woods. He has skewered all ethnicities, backgrounds, and age groups, and even his wife. In an interview with the Washington Post, he stated, “As a standup comic, it is my job to make the majority of people laugh, and I believe that comedy is the last true form of free speech.”
Jeff Dunham’s performances may contain profanity and adult situations. In Dunham’s performances, his characters usually find themselves in tough situations. Dunham gives his characters a problem during the show and as the performance continues he tries to give them advice to resolve the problem. In one performance, Walter, a grumpy old man who’s angry at his wife, receives an itchy sweater from Dunham and complains that the sweater is annoying. Dunham tries to cheer up Walter and after much arguing and bickering, Walter warms up to the sweater, but not Dunham’s holiday cheer.
Some of the other characters that will be in Dunham’s show include the child-like character Peanut, the fossil-like Walter, spicy José Jalapeño on a Stick, and the infamous Achmed the Dead Terrorist.
This is a one-night show here in New Orleans that might not be back for a couple of years. So if you are a fan of Dunham’s work or love ventriloquism, grab yourself a ticket. Average ticket prices are $50.
Jan 25 2012 | Posted in
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By Austin Doyle 11th Grade
A former varsity wrestler, a member of the Bulletin Staff, the National Honor Society, the A/B Honor Roll, and a prominent member of his school community, Dr. David Heitmeier certainly left his mark on Holy Cross. Currently an eye doctor and state senator, he took time out of his schedule to talk to me in his Senate office in Algiers.
Dr. Heitmeier knew from a young age he wanted to be an eye doctor. When he was about ten he would go to his aunt’s in Donaldsonville. She loved football, and with young David by her side, would write letters to the NFL teams. In return, the teams would send back decals and autographed pictures. His aunt was blind though, and because of her, he wanted to be an eye doctor from a young age.
When Dr. Heitmeier started Holy Cross in 8th grade in 1974, Brother Robert Hampton was the headmaster, Mr. DiGange was the prefect of discipline, and Brother Melchior roamed the halls. He was a senior during the infamous year the football team finished 0-10. “Holy Cross was the education and the environment…the motto says it all ‘from boys to men.’ It teaches you about life, about priorities, and about faith in God. You can go to any school to learn how to read and write. Holy Cross teaches you the academics, it teaches you about life.”
Dr. Heitmeier has always been a prominent member in his community. He has given free eye exams to schools and at Golden Agers home. He sat on his home owner’s association board at Park Timbers. He was appointed to a healthcare task force and served as a reserve agent for the Attorney General’s office. He also volunteered with the Special Olympics. “I just always enjoyed giving a little back. When you do things like that you always are more rewarded than the time that you’re giving up.”
Dr. Heitmeier first decided to run for senate after Katrina. The local and federal government had failed during those hard times and it irritated him. During Katrina the hospitals in the region were in peril. Charity had closed; West Jeff had taken over uncompensated care but was burning through cash. Dr. Heitmeier stepped in and began looking for ways to stabilize the healthcare system and the hospitals around the state. He developed a financing formula called the Upper Payment Limit. So far they have made 190 million dollar payments to the hospitals without a penny in taxes. There are currently 468 million dollars in the budget. West Jeff named him a “Healthcare Hero” because of the help they received from this legislation.
Currently, Dr. Heitmeier is involved in building the LSU VA Medical center in downtown, The General De Gaulle Corridor (to widen the drainage along General De Gaulle), and the construction of another bridge to connect Plaquemines and Jefferson parishes. He is working to bring more healthcare dollars without additional tax dollars on the people of Louisiana, and building more schools.
Dr. Heitmeier is one of many alumni who have accomplished a great deal after graduation, but also look back fondly at their time on campus. “At Holy Cross I felt like there was nothing I couldn’t do…the sense of accomplishment and achievement. It was a great time of my life. Enjoy it, it goes by quick.”
Dec 14 2011 | Posted in
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The candidates, from left to right: Barry Bernadas, Chad Clark, Wayne Landry, James Pohlmann
By Ryan Bourgeois, 11th grade and Rosco Couture, 11th grade
For the first time in 27 years, the office of sheriff in St. Bernard Parish is up for grabs. The position that current Sheriff Jack Stephens leaves vacant is highly coveted, and so far, the contest has been full of attack ads and heated debates.
The four candidates vying for the top position are Barry Bernadas (HC alum and father of junior Noah Bernadas and senior Zachary Bernadas), head of the St. Bernard Narcotics Division Chad Clark, Councilman at Large Wayne Landry, and current Chief Deputy of the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office (SBSO) James “Jimmy” Pohlmann. All four candidates agree on many of the critical problems in St. Bernard Parish such as drug abuse, violence, and how they plan to control the new Public Housing developments. Each candidate brings something to the table but there are also some downfalls that hinder their chances of winning.
As residents of St. Bernard parish, we decided to take a closer look at this exciting race. Here, in alphabetical order, we examine the candidate’s records and platforms.
Barry Bernadas, a 23 year veteran with the FBI’s evidence response team and field intelligence group, offers a straightforward approach to what he would do as sheriff. Solving neighborhood crime will be Bernadas’ first goal as sheriff; he plans to implement a parish-wide community policing (neighborhood watch) program that will notify residents of a crime the day after a crime is committed in their neighborhood. Bernadas said during a recent WDSU debate that this will be effective because “No one knows a neighborhood like the ones who live there.” Regarding drugs, Bernadas plans to implement a drug dog program, which St. Bernard currently lacks, to aid local officers in getting drugs off of the streets. He also plans to hire a social worker to help the families affected by drugs in the home. Bernadas will also mandate that the leases for the residents of the complex will be kept on record with the Clerk of Court’s office. Bernadas believes that he is the best candidate for the job because he believes that the SBSO’s policies are “stale” and need to be updated by someone new to the sheriff’s office that has a law enforcement background. Name recognition is the main obstacle that stands in the way of Bernadas and the office. He is the unknown candidate in the election.
Chad Clark, an 18-year veteran of the SBSO, plans to make the fight on drugs his top priority if he makes it into office. As the leader of the Narcotics Division, Clark obviously has firsthand, hands-on experience in the struggle against drugs. To combat this problem, he plans to increase the current amount of narcotics officers, five, to 15, tripling that division in size. He also plans to have them working fulltime, 24/7 because, as he says in his commercials, “that’s the way drug dealers work.” Clark’s plan to solve crime goes hand-in-hand with his drug plan, by getting drugs off the streets. The crime rate in St. Bernard will decrease accordingly. The housing project is another issue that Clark wants to take head-on, he plans on having undercover deputies living inside the housing complex to be able to keep a close watch on any illegal activities that may be going on inside. Clark believes that he is the candidate to be elected because the people of St. Bernard need a tough cop to be their sheriff. A major setback facing Clark is the fact that many people of St. Bernard feel that he is better cut-out to command the Narcotics Division. In other words, people feel that his strongest asset is also a reason for him not to be sheriff.
Wayne Landry, a local businessman, as well as Chairman of the St. Bernard Hospital Board, is campaigning on the promise to investigate the Meraux Foundation, an allegedly corrupt public works foundation. To tackle crime, Landry wants to spend about $800,000 to add more deputies to the force, he also plans to create a White Collar Crime Division to investigate the establishment and workings of the Meraux Foundation and remove “dead-heads,” people who receive checks from the sheriff’s office without actually having a job in the sheriff’s office. He plans to execute random searches of known criminals to stop crime before it ever occurs. On the subject of drugs, Landry wants to target the drugs at the source, he wants to be able to “be proactive, rather than reactive” to the drug problem by doubling the size of the division that actually seizes the drugs. Regarding public housing, Landry plans on giving free criminal background checks to all prospective residents so that the complexes will be largely crime free. Landry claims to be the best choice for sheriff because he wants to completely overhaul the SBSO and exterminate all corruption from within. The biggest problem facing Landry and his campaign for Sheriff is that he lacks experience with law enforcement and the SBSO. He is a businessman and councilman who, many argue, does not know how to run a para-military organization.
James “Jimmy” Pohlmann, the current 2nd in command and 28-year veteran of the SBSO, has a simple plan if he gets elected sheriff: to stop crime. As chief deputy, Pohlmann is responsible for much of what goes on in the SBSO. If he is elected sheriff, he would continue to control crime in St. Bernard and keep it safe in the same manner that he is doing now. Pohlmann would control the drug problem by implementing drug education programs in school at all levels, he would also create “faith-based” rehabilitation programs to help drug addicts get clean, and he also plans to work closely with the District Attorney’s office and the local judges to help put drug dealers away for a long time. Pohlmann plans to work with the management of the housing development to “maintain a high standard of living” for all the residents, he also plans to ask for reduced or free rent for deputies who wish to live in the complex in hopes of having full-time police presence and protection in the housing complex. The one major obstacle that could stop Pohlmann from winning this election is his alleged involvement with the Meraux Foundation and the allegedly corrupt SBSO and current Sheriff, Jack Stephens.
In less than a week, the SBSO will be drastically changed for the first time in 27 years. The four candidates all have different areas of expertise. That being said, these men also have various limitations that could keep them out of the office. No matter what the outcome of the election, St. Bernard will likely remain one of the safest parishes in Louisiana.
You can watch the full WDSU debate here.
Oct 20 2011 | Posted in
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By Zach Wahlder, 11th Grade
This year, from sundown on September 28 to nightfall of September 30, Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, was observed. The day marked the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days, also known as Yamim Noraim, the “Days of Awe,” and is followed ten days later by Yom Kippur.
These days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are meant to be a time of reflection for all Jews. Maybe you have heard of these days, but never fully understood what was being observed. As a member of the Jewish faith attending a Catholic school, I felt it would be beneficial to myself and others to research and explain what the High Holy Days are all about and what they mean to Jews all over the world.
The Hebrew date for Rosh Hashanah is 1 Tishrei 5772. Although Rosh Hashanah means, literally, “head of the year” or “first of the year” in Hebrew, the holiday actually takes place on the first two days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, which is the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar.
These days are a time to reflect upon life, especially the past year. Mistakes should be examined and forgiveness should be asked. Going into the New Year, Jews make the changes necessary to plan ahead for a better life. It is a time for serious introspection and a time for preparation to repent before Yom Kippur. According to Jewish tradition, each person’s fate for the New Year is inscribed into the Book of Life by God on Rosh Hashanah. These decisions made by God are sealed on Yom Kippur. The actions that will alter these decisions include repentance, prayer, and good deeds. While it is Jewish tradition, these beliefs can be taken either literally or metaphorically depending on your denomination of Judaism.
Jews traditionally gather in synagogues on Rosh Hashanah for extended services. A shofar, a ram’s horn, is blown at specific times throughout the service. Foods such as apples and honey, fish, and Challah are traditionally eaten on Rosh Hashanah. The common greeting on Rosh Hashanah is “L’Shanah Tovah,” which means “a good and sweet new year” in Hebrew.
Yom Kippur marks the end of the Jewish High Holy Days, otherwise known as the “day of atonement.” Yom Kippur is considered the most important and sacred holiday of the Jewish year. This year, Yom Kippur takes place from sunset of October 7 to nightfall of October 8. The name “Yom Kippur” pretty much explains what the holiday is. It is a day set aside to “afflict the soul” and a time of serious soul-searching. Yom Kippur atones for sins between man and God. While we also look to make amends between man and God, it is of utmost importance to make peace among each other. It is your last chance of the year to demonstrate your repentance and make amends.
Aside from prayer and repentance, Jews are required to fast for the entire day of Yom Kippur. If there are instances where there is a threat to life and health, these restrictions can be lifted, especially for pregnant women and young children. Evening services conclude Yom Kippur with a long lasting blast from the shofar, although some synagogues hold services all throughout the day. Again, depending on your denomination of Judaism, some of these restrictions are followed strictly or lightly, if at all.
This year, at my synagogue Temple Sinai, I had the pleasure of helping to lead an alternative youth service along with the youth group Jewish Crescent City Youth for Rosh Hashanah. It was a great experience and I will be assisting again for the Yom Kippur service this weekend. Maybe this year I’ll actually fast for Yom Kippur. Maybe.
Oct 6 2011 | Posted in
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By Austin Doyle, 11th Grade
Every year, young Catholics all over the world get together to strengthen fellowship and their bond with God on World Youth Day. In New Orleans, the event is organized by the Archdiocese of New Orleans and a group called Teen CROSS, (Full disclosure: I am a current member). The event is open to both middle and high school students and will take place on October 23rd at Loyola University.
The day will begin with ice breakers to wake up participants. The opening ceremonies will begin with a skit demonstrating this year’s World Youth Day theme: “Like a Good Neighbor, God’s Always There” based on the gospel passage of the day about Jesus’ Law of Love. The keynote speakers will be youth ministry speakers Chris Padgett and Brian Greenfield. There will be a movie, workshops, and lunch will be provided. The day will end with a Mass.
“Honestly, every year I’ve gone to World Youth Day it’s changed my life,” said fellow Teen CROSS member Megan Decker. “Going to a public school, I don’t get the way the Catholic Church works or why we believe the things we believe. World Youth Day is a way I can learn about my faith and I get to be with other Catholics.”
Another fellow teen CROSS member, Ally Zitzmann, said, “World Youth Day, to me, means fellowship and witness. It means witness because we as Teen CROSS and individuals of the Archdiocese are spreading the word of God and most importantly the world of God.” World Youth Day is being celebrated all around the world by Catholic youth. Every two years there is a major World Youth Day in a select city which the Pope attends. This year it was celebrated in Madrid and more than a million people attended. Zitzmann continued, “World Youth Day is a time to get teens and young adults of today to live in a better world, a world where, no matter what, someone will always be there for you. Christ calls us to go out and preach the good word to all nations. That is all we are doing as teen CROSS members is simply following the Gospel.”
If you would like to participate, please contact Mr. Lopez for more information. The fee is $30 and the signup deadline is October 13th.
Sep 23 2011 | Posted in
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By Blake Reimmuth, 12th Grade
Let’s just say that this year’s Jazz Fest lineup isn’t as strong as recent years. With only a handful of good performers and a smorgasbord of mediocre, outdated acts, here’s some information (and opinion) to help you decide which days to attend.
Friday, April 29th
Robert Plant & the Band of Joy and Jeff Beck are the two contenders of the day. Both are rock legends and will offer excellent showcases of guitar skill. Both Robert Plant and Jeff Beck are getting up there in age, so now is your chance to see them. Some other groups you may not have seen before that are worth checking out: The Avett Brothers, Justin Townes Earle, Wilco.
Saturday, April 30th
The people who put on Jazz Fest decided to invite Bon Jovi back after last year’s horrendous, but well-attended, performance. Why? Ticket sales? I’ll be Livin’ on a Prayer for Bon Jovi to redeem himself this year.
Sunday, May 1st
Sunday should be called John Day. John legend and The Roots, John Mellencamp, and Dr. John are the three main acts worth seeing.
Friday, May 6th
This is the absolute best day to visit Jazz Fest. Arcade Fire, Willie Nelson, Lupe Fiasco, and Better Than Ezra—something for everyone. Arcade Fire uses just about every instrument imaginable, which makes their shows dynamic and diverse. Willie Nelson is a legend and still puts on a great show. Lupe Fiasco brings hip hop and rap, while Better Than Ezra is a local favorite. If you have to pick one day to visit Jazz Fest, this is it.
Saturday, May 7th
Jimmy Buffet and The Strokes are quite an odd mix. Jimmy Buffet’s music is dreadful, whereas The Strokes kick A and take names. Honestly, The Strokes alone make this day.
Sunday, May 8th
Sunday is sort of…meh. Kid Rock is washed up and lame, The Neville Brothers, while a classic Jazz Fest tradition, play every year, and the same goes for Cowboy Mouth. Really, I would just skip Sunday, unless you’re actually a huge Kid Rock fan.
Apr 18 2011 | Posted in
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By Joshua Brunet, 12th Grade
The Holy Cross Tigers played their part in helping the community of St. Bernard Parish by planting trees along Judge Perez Dr. and St. Bernard Hwy. Hurricane Katrina damaged, destroyed, and uprooted many of the historic trees in the area.
On February 12, 2011, I joined seniors Brent Kitto, Corey Dominick, Dylan Zeringue and sophomore Andrew Lambert on a service project to plant oak trees and crepe myrtles along Judge Perez Dr. We worked for five hours, removing the trees from their containers, placing the trees into the ground, packing mulch and soil for the trees to grow, and securing the trees with stakes.
We planted approximately ten crepe myrtles, and over fifteen oak trees. Five hours of planting trees may seem to be boring grunt work. However, we managed to have a lot of fun, getting into a rhythm and working together in teams, (despite the fact that I was on the heavy lifting end). With the other service groups, we accomplished our goal and afterwards enjoyed a relaxing lunch at Today’s Catch.
We had a lot of fun getting our hands dirty and hanging out on the weekend. Working with friends on a fun service project is a great opportunity to get service hours.
Apr 11 2011 | Posted in
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