Irish EyesG r a c e K i n g H i g h S c h o o l

Volume 45 Issue 4 Thursday, February 7, 2013 4301 Grace King Place, Metairie, LA 70002

Upcoming

Events

Mardi Gras Break

No School

February 11-15

Report cards

issued

March 22

ACT

February 9

From left to right: Tia Banerjee (Grace King), Mason Sarver (Sulphur High), William Cotten (Catholic High),

and Virginia Stewart (St. Scholastica Academy).

Isabella Cross

By Isabella Cross

Staff Writer

p. 5

King wins honor to host LASC Convention

Familiar environment may relieve testing anxietyWalter Sologaistoa was awarded 2011-2012 LASC

Advisor of the Year.

Isabella Cross

Jacqueline Frederic, Lydia Chon, and Marissa Mayfield campaign at

the LASC Convention in Sulphur, Louisiana.

Isabella Cross

King Composite ACTBy Hamna Sial and Shanzay Chaudhry

Layout Editors

if you’re actually applying things that you’ve learned at the same place.” science teacher, Michael Wytock said. Wytock used to be a tutor for the Princeton Review.

For senior Jessica Richmond, the science part on the ACT is considered the hardest. It consists of interpreting various graphs and tables in a limited amount of time.

ACT prep during Independent

method is supposed to familiarize them with the material. “Identify your weakest subject and just work on that,” Richmond said. “By eliminating unreasonable answer

choices and making an educational guess, there is most likely a better chance to get a higher score.”

“Don’t wait last minute to practice and sudy for the test,” senior Farah Alkhafaf said. Alkhafaf will be taking the Feb. 9 ACT.

“Starting the morning off right affects the overall performance of students on the ACT. Organization is what students really have a problem with. Such standarized tests require practice in advance.” Wytock said

“Do your best on the ACT because

is one of the most important things in high school,” Alkhafaf said.

Tia Banerjee was elected to represent Grace King as Secretary-Host after a three day campaign at the 2013 Louisiana Association of Student Council (LASC) Convention in Sulphur, Louisiana on January 21.

As the newly elected Secretary-Host school, Grace King will host the 64th annual LASC Convention. The convention is held on Martin Luther King weekend. Over 100 schools send representatives to the convention. Around eight to 12 representatives are sent from each school, including middle schools.

positions of President, Vice-President, Secretary-Host and Parliamentarian. This year’s newly

High School, President; South Lafourche High School, Vice-President; Grace King High School, Secretary-Host; and Catholic High School, Parliamentarian.

race for Secretary-Host. Grace King ran against Vandebilt Catholic High School. Grace King won by a landslide.

school is required state their intent to run. In addition to having posters and a campaign theme, schools must act out a skit in front of the entire delegation to win their vote. Over the three day period, schools campaign with items relating to

their theme. The student representing the school must also

give a speech in front of the entire delegation. Banerjee’s speech was focused around how Grace King’s student council is just like everyone else’s, and how everyone is willing to put in the effort to make the convention successful.

“Once I got up there, it was absolutely

anything like that before, and if I could do it again, I would.”

represent her school. “When Mr. Solo said we were going to run for Secretary-Host, I immediately jumped at the chance.”

The theme of this year’s convention was “All Leaders on Deck.”

The theme of Grace King’s campaign was “Toy Story,” the motto being “You’ve got a friend in us.” The campaign team handed out “Ten Reasons Why You Should Vote GK”, and bracelet pens, promoting an important LASC principle: “A good leader always carries a pen!”

The skit revolved around the characters of “Toy Story” working together in trying to

parts. The parts represented the

qualities that a good leader should possess. It demonstrated how members of student council must work cooperatively in order to accomplish tasks.

Various competitions were held during the convention. Students gave speeches related to leadership during the speech competition.

and high school divisions performed their speech in front of the delegation.

See LASC, News 3

GK vs

John Curtis

@Bonnabel

6:00 pm

February 14

GK vs

St.Martin’s

@Miley 5:30 pm

March 2

State Wrestling

Tournament

@Ponchartrain

Center

February 15-16

Valentine’s

Day

February 14

Sweetheart

Dance

@King

8:00 pm

February 23

Student

Council Picnic

March 9

Academic

Games

Tournament

March 1

With the ACT approaching in March, Seniors and Juniors endure a great deal of stress and pressure.

Some of the seniors have already received their acceptance letters from different colleges, however some are holding their hopes for

at Grace King.“Taking the ACT at a familiar place comforts students and

a lot of psychological studies that state that your memory recalls better

Mack Attack

Tournament

@Miley

February 21-23

@

6:00 pm

Median composite scores from 2005-

2011 provided by the counselors.

Eric Sheu

@

5:30 pm

Thursday, February 7, 2013 Irish EyesNews2Best Buddies accepting members

Best Buddies will be meeting every Tuesday during both lunches in Rm. 311. Meetings are always open to newcomers. See Coach Furtado or Diana Rivera for more information.

Junior Board sells class cards

Junior Board is selling class cards for $40. This card gets you and your date into prom for free. The last day to buy a class card is March 1. See Mrs. Torrado in Rm. 206 to buy one today.

Freshman Board sells class card

Freshman Board is selling class cards for $10. See Mr. Curran in Rm. 208 during second lunch to buy yours today.

4-H looking for new members

4-H made 82 pillow cases and delivered them to the Children’s Hospital on Jan. 3. They are now meeting every Thursday to crochet. New members are being accepted.

Singing competition tryouts

Irish Idol tryouts will be held on March 20-21 after school in Rm. 315. Irish Idol will take place on March 27 in the gym.

Sweetheart Dance tickets on sale

Executive Board will hold the Sweetheart Dance on Feb. 23 in the cafeteria from 8-11 PM. Voting for Class Sweethearts will take place from Feb. 18-22 outside Rm. 315 during lunch. Pre-sale tickets are $5.

Yearbooks on sale

The 2012-2013 yearbook is currently on sale for $60. The last day to buy one is March 1. See Ms. Lampo in Rm. 310 or a yearbook staff member to buy one today.

Musical showcase to be held in April

The Talent Theatre Department will be putting on a Spring Musical Showcase from April 15-17. If you have any questions, please see Mr. Maggiore in Rm. 514.

Academic games competition

The senior team for Academic Games placed second overall at Thomas Jefferson High School in Gretna on Jan. 25. These seniors include Aizaz Ahmad, David Dobie, Alex Korominas, Patrick Le and Huy Vu.

Senior trip installment

The third installment for the senior trip will be collected soon. The senior trip will be to Orlando to visit various parks.

Grace King’s Step Team performs on stage at the January pep rally. The Step Team has 10

members and is sponsored by Omar Mendez and Yasmine McGehee.

Mahum Riaz

Advances in technology aid students with learning disabilities

Students with learning disabilities may not be aware of various equipment, learning strategies and resources

According to Learning Disabilities Association of

schools.

dyslexia, dysgraphia and others There is no one sign that gives a clear and immediate

a learning disability, such as a white cane or wheelchair; students with learning disabilities may be overlooked or misunderstood. It is not uncommon for a dyslexic student to go through middle school undiagnosed.

Typically, a higher education institution requires that a student with

that provides support services for students with disabilities in order to receive accommodations. A course instructor will receive a letter from

accommodations for a student with a

Students with learning disabilities may be provided with accommodations during class session. For example, if a student has dysgraphia, a learning disability that affects one’s ability to write, the student may be allowed to type the assignment. Student with learning disabilities may be given extra time on

a test or even an exam.As the number of individuals being diagnosed with

learning disabilities has increased over the years, so have the understanding and utilization of academic and technological strategies for accommodation. There are a number of things instructors can do while planning a course to make it more accessible to all students, including those with learning disabilities.

Laptops and special typewriters are available to students diagnosed with dysgraphia. A certain font was designed for the students that are dyslexic. This special font helps the disabled student to read better.

Instructors can give biweekly quizzes to make sure the students understand the material thoroughly. For students that are dyslexic, instructors could provide assignments with a larger font or read the content out loud.

“Students should also realize that having dyslexia will not necessarily prevent them from graduating from college,” Dr. Paul Bole, Associate Professor at University of New Orleans said.

There are various scholarships for graduating students with learning disabilities. There are even colleges especially designed for students with learning disabilities.

The goal of all these accommodations is to give the students with a learning disability an equally accessible learning environment. Individualized accommodations are not designed to give the student an advantage over other students, to alter a fundamental aspect of the course, or to weaken academic rigor.

By Linda LinBusiness Manager

Compiled by Bianca Shrestha

Senior Board collecting fees

The third installment of Senior Fees are being collected now until Feb. 22. This installment includes your ticket to Senior Prom, which will be held at the Superdome on May 4. See Mr. Cella in Rm. 211 to pay yours today. If you have already paid your fees in full, stop by Mr. Cella’s room to pick up your invitation.

Junior Prom venue announced

Junior Prom will be held on March 28 at the Children’s Museum from 8-11 PM. Admission for you and your date is free with a class card. Without the card, admission is $50 for you and $25 for your date.

Compiled by Tia BanerjeeSports Editor

Myth FactDyslexic students read

backwards

Dyslexia is a mental illness

Dyslexic students lack intelligence

Dyslexia is only found in young children

Words actually look jumbled due to trouble with phonetics

Dyslexia is a language based learning disability

Dyslexia occurs in people of all backgrounds and

intellectual levels

Dyslexia might not be

Myths and Facts about Dyslexia

Thursday, February 7, 2013Irish Eyes 3News

Preparations underway for convention

Students share driver’s education experiences

Senior trip promises ‘Fun in

the Sun’ By Eric Sheu

Editor-in-Chief

The LASC Convention consisted

of schools campaigning, seminars and

meeting all sorts of new people. Over

the three day weekend, students attended

multiple seminars and exchanged ideas.

All students contributed ideas to

other students who can then bring them

back to their schools.

general sessions started between 8 and

8 a.m. General sessions ended late as

well, sometimes ending at 11 p.m. and

the delegates getting to their hotels at 12

a.m.

In one of the general sessions,

American Idol star, Joshua Ledet,

performed for the delegation. Russ

Peak, a comedy hypnotist, acted as a

motivational speaker.

Preparation for the 2014 convention

meeting. Grace King must choose a

theme, prepare hotels for all the delegates

and provide meals. A convention

requires commitment from everyone at

their school. Grace King’s sports teams,

student council, faculty and even parents

are encouraged to help.

Grace King will enlist help from other

schools. There are over 40 committees.

Examples include a decorating

committee, dance committee and Martin

Luther King program committee.

Planning is still in its early stages.

Banerjee expressed her thoughts on

the future convention, “It’s not just me.

I may be the representative and I may be

the face of Grace King, but in the end,

it’s not just me. It’s a team effort. It’s a

school-wide effort.”

The senior class will be vacationing in

Orlando, Florida over Spring Break.

50 seniors will visit eight theme parks

including Disney World and Universal

Studios. The trip will take place during April

17-20.

Senior Board we developed a list of must have

events, desired events and dream events,”

Senior Class Sponsor Joshua Cella said, “and

they put the senior event on the dream events.

I never thought it would happen.”

The trip was approved by Principal Meg

Griffon when Cella and Assistant Principal

Gerod Macon, who had dealt with similar

class trips, approached her with the idea.

The main event is Grad Bash, exclusive to

high school seniors around the country and

hosted by Universal Orlando Resort. Both of

the resort’s theme parks are closed for Grad

Bash. The event will consist of amusement

rides around the park, a concert which

includes artist Pitbull and multiple dance

areas.

“The trip is planned by a company in

Florida and we told her what dates we wanted

to go,” Cella said.

The day of departure, the group will head

to Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay and arrive

in Orlando to a poolside pizza party. The

following day will be spent at Disney’s Magic

Kingdom and Universal’s Grad Bash.

“I want to take advantage of the

opportunity to go with my friends. It’s during

Spring Break and to have a chance to go on a

trip like this with friends is awesome,” senior

Reyna Murillo said.

The trip will end with a visit to Disney’s

Blizzard Beach, a water park.

Cella along with Macon, Amanda

Livaudais, English teacher Kelly LaBry

and Junior Board advisor Katrina Torrado

will be chaperoning the trip.

Students were required to sign a contract

with their parents that they will pay the full

$533, which was split up into a payment

situation was called for.

Students will be sleeping four to a room.

They will have the chance to choose their

roommates when the trip nears.

“I feel excited because not only are we the

only class to go on a senior trip, but I get to

spend it with my class of 2013 family,” senior

Gerald Boheim said.

“There will be no down time,” Cella said,

“and if there is downtime the students will be

wanting to sleep.”

Obtaining a driver’s license is one

of the many things teens look forward

to during high school. The process of

getting one, however, can be dreadfully

long and confusing due to the new state

law regarding license requirements.

Additionally, there has been contention

as to how driver’s education truly

prepares adolescents on the road.

According to students, the

environment of the class may not

be engaging. “It was not really fun,

honestly. Sitting in class eight hours

for seven days straight was just tiring.

Some kids, mainly guys, did not take

it seriously which was distracting,”

senior Stephanie Duong said, recalling

her experience at Victor Manning

Driving School.

Students aged 15 to 17 must take 38

hours of driver’s education and eight of

those hours must be on the road with a

driver’s education teacher. “The classes

are mostly knowledge based. It would

be better if we had Internet access with

some PowerPoint presentations and

a driver’s education teacher, said.

Once completing the course, students

Motor Vehicles. A learner’s permit will

Many debate the effectiveness of

driver’s education on teens and how it

could prevent crashes. “They introduce

you to the car, like how to move and

change gears, parking, driving, and

turning. The rest is usually perfected

yourself while driving with your parents

or alone,” senior Guang Li said.

“The more experience you have,

hopefully the better driver you become.

Things have changed; there used to

as far, and drove slower. Driving is

dangerous,” Stewart said, “you just

need some knowledge of the rules and

practice.”

By Bianca ShresthaManaging Editor

Meg GriffonGrace King’s LASC campaign team returns from the three day convention at Sulphur High

School. King will host the next LASC Convention which will be held in 2014.

enable a teen to drive with a licensed

driver over 21 or a licensed sibling over

18. When the teen has attained their

learner’s permit for 180 days and is at

least 16, they will be able to get their

intermediate (restricted) license.

Finally, when at least 17, drivers

must pass an on-road driving exam to

get their full license. The on-road exam

tests drivers’ knowledge about safety

procedures such as checking their

mirror for blind spots, making sure

they turn correctly, and stopping when

necessary. Upon passing the exam,

the applicant will be issued a Class E

license.

Additionally,

individuals 18

years or older

have to take a 14

hour pre-licensing

course. In effect

since August

2012, this state

law requires six

hours of classroom

instruction with

eight hours of

behind-the-wheel

experience. Once

passing the course,

the person will be

ready to take the

written test.

LASC, from front page

1. When two vehicles approach an intersection at the same time:

a. merging rightb. merging leftc. moving in the opposite directiond. moving in the same direction

3. What precaution should be taken by drivers when the weather is bad or the pavement is slick?

a. Drivers must apply brakes frequentlyb. Drivers must reduce the safe following distancec. Drivers must increase the safe following distance of two secondsd. Drivers must maintain a steady speed of 55 mph

Driver’s Education Quiz

Answers: 1. d , 2. d , 3. c

4 Features Irish EyesThursday, February 7, 2013

School lunch menus facing overhaul from renowned chefs

Well-rounded senior selected as Student of the Year

By Samah Hammad

Staff Writer

By Tia Banerjee

Sports Editor

This year, a group of administrators, counselors and teachers have selected Di Chen as Student of the Year.

Chen did not expect to be selected to represent Grace King as Student of the Year. “I thought of myself as [this] girl coming from China seven years ago. I thought my grades were good, but never thought my grades were so good. I mean, I participated in school, but I never knew that people thought that much of my involvement in there. I never knew my involvement and grades [were] recognized. And at the end, I was surprised.”

the United States was the language barrier. “Coming here, everything was new to me,” Chen said. “The lifestyle is different, but you can adapt to it.” It was not until Chen met a student who translated things for her that she was able to overcome the language barrier. Chen said that she is thankful for that student until this day.

Chen is an involved member of student council with

and rare ability to inspire those around her to get work done and to so in a joyous way,” Senior Board advisor Joshua Cella said. “Di also brings an incredible amount of organization and memory.”

Chen was helpful in getting Love is Louder, where she is president, off the ground. “We started telling some of our students ‘We really want to get you guys involved,’

and was like ‘What can I do to help?’,” Love is Louder co-sponsor Kelly LaBry said.

Other clubs Chen is involved in include National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Key Club and 4-H.

Chen is the only female in her class’s top ten. Chen said she was number 17 her freshman year and thought that was good, but that she could do better. “She started planning that out when she was a freshman, that she was going to move up in her ranks,” English teacher Tammy Burst said. Chen gradually moved up over the course of her high school career and is now ranked number eight.

For college, Chen said she has applied to Tulane, Loyola and Xavier. She plans on earning a business major and going into either business management or international business. “Something I love to do is travel, and international business would help me do that,” Chen said.

Students who are chosen to as their school’s Student of the Year must put together a portfolio to be turned into the parish. Portfolios include the student’s transcripts from elementary school through high school, as well as a

list of any awards, honors and/or recognitions they have received. Students also may include something about

the portfolios are judged, select students are then chosen to do an interview to help the parish decide who the regional Student of the Year will be. “Whenever regional comes around, that’s another thing I’ll just try my best at,” Chen said. “That’s all I can ask of myself.”

Eric Sheu

Student of the Year Di Chen enjoys lunch with friends on Feb. 1. Chen is involved in a number of clubs including Student Council, National Honors Society, Love is Louder and 4-H.

According to the New England Journal of Medicine, the current generation of people may have shorter life spans than their parents. The major reason for this is diet.

New York’s recent legislation has banned all restaurants, fast-food joints and movie theaters from the selling of soda larger than 16 sounces. For example, 7-11 can no longer sell a “Big Gulp,” which is twice the size.

Schools follow many dietary restrictions to ensure healthy breakfasts and lunches for their students. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) are responsible for the meals that are served to all students across the country.

Most teachers and students agree that there is a direct connection between diet and performance. Over the past few years, new limits to school lunches have decreased the amount of servings. Studies have shown that students who have a healthy diet are more attentive in class.

In contrast, students who are hungry feel tired and sluggish.

Currently, students who eat school lunch consume more milk and vegetables and fewer sweets, sweetened beverages

and snack foods. The United States Department of Agriculture considers potatoes and french fries as vegetables. There are many meat alternatives such as seafood, eggs, nuts, seeds, and soy products.

Lorna Saravia, manager of Grace King’s cafeteria said, “We don’t decide where we get our food, we have to follow the guidelines set up by the government.”

First Lady Michelle Obama launched a program called “Let’s Move!” that is dedicated to solving the problem of childhood obesity. This program ensures children healthy, affordable food.

for the “Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010.” The act permits funding for federal school meals and gives low-income children an opportunity to access healthy

food. Standards also apply to food sold in vending machines and school stores.

Many people have tried to tackle the problem of school lunches. Chef Ann Cooper, the head of nutrition for Berkeley public schools in California, was one of many who took on the challenge. She began by banning heat-and-serve dishes and removing undesirable ingredients.

of dollars over budget and showed no improvement. However, after a while, Cooper’s new meals impressed inspectors.

focused on Tony Geraci, a charismatic chef from New Orleans. He strived to provide locally-grown, freshly-prepared meals for students in Baltimore’s public schools.

Geraci’s vision included school vegetable gardens, student-designed meals and nutrition education in the classroom. Over the course of two years, Geraci successfully replaced the pre-plated, processed meals.

The accomplishments of these chefs, and many others, are gradually helping the improvement school lunches.

Courtesy of cafeteriaman.com

New Orleans native, Tony Geraci helped transform the Baltimore school lunch program. Tennessee is his next target.

5FeaturesIrish Eyes Thursday, February 7, 2013

Venue for Junior Prom opens possibility for new traditionBy Jessie Chen

Managing Editor

Mystery surrounding Mardi Gras Indian culture intrigues visitors By Leiana Pineda

Staff Writer

One of the most anticipated events of the year is just around the corner - prom. Planning for this special occasion begins months in advance.

On the surface, it may seem simple: choose a nice venue, hire a DJ and buy refreshments. Contrary to popular belief, it is far from that inaccurate conception. Junior Board began discussing different venues back in

October. As president, I had to arrange appointments to look at locations in person. After several trips with the

the choices to our top two.

has held a dance there before. Despite the fact that no additional amenities are included, Junior Board voted on this location with hopes of trying to keep things new and different. In addition, budget also played a role. We had to set aside money for not only the DJ, but also decorations,

food and any other necessities.

Before we could proceed with any further

advance can be time consuming. For example, parking was an issue. In trying to accommodate

had to search for parking lots nearby in addition to the street parking already provided.

After selecting the venue, Junior Board

brainstormed and discussed what we thought our class would like as themes and again voted. It

Wonderland.”

of life is that it is impossible to try and please everyone. Part of the responsibility of being a board member is

choose with consideration of what our peers would like.

have been grouped into different committees, which include refreshments, decorations as well as music. Everyone is assigned a different task and it is up to them

one person is too overwhelmed and the responsibility is evenly distributed.

For example, the decorations committee is responsible for embellishing the entire area with various creative

decorations on the wall to making giant candy.

all of which teach a lesson or demonstrate a fact of science.

entertain themselves while surrounded in effervescence.

pulleys and levers of all sorts. With all the advanced planning, time and effort that go

into Prom, Junior Board strives to hold an unforgettable night for our peers.

Jessie ChenThe Junior Prom will be held at the Children’s Museum located in the Central Business District on March 28.

dynamic celebration. Mardi Gras simply would not be Mardi Gras without these brightly dressed participants.

Mardi Gras is well known for the

around the country travel to New Orleans

when it comes to these festivities. One aspect of Mardi Gras that is not well known is the Mardi Gras Indians.

that escaped from their masters and took refuge with Native Americans. Under the

the resemblance between Native American and African culture.

tradition of masking and dressing in New Orleans is unclear. However, the practice dates back to the 19th century, after the Emancipation. During this time, African Americans were prevented from attending Mardi Gras festivities due to prejudice

Americans to create their own style of celebrating Mardi Gras, and masking as Indians was one of them.

costumes can take the creator a year to make as thousands of beads are carefully

costumes are shrouded in secrecy.In the past, Mardi Gras day meant

violence for many Mardi Gras Indians. It was a day to settle all scores, to get revenge on rival tribes. Indians were there to defend the neighborhoods that

violence, but with the beauty of the costumes. When two different tribes encounter each other, most of the focus is put towards who has the most appealing

Mardi Gras Indians Council leans more towards the communal aspect of things.

and community in a spiritual way,” Miller said. He believes that this is more to the

about that.”

instead they choose when and where to

and cow bells,” Miller said.

allowed to take part in parades.”Although these Mardi Gras Indians

might not be the most famous part of the Mardi Gras celebrations, the tradition of the Indians certainly plays an important

and with limited resources,” Miller said. When asked what he thought would be missing from Mardi Gras if the Indians

beauty of it.”

to keep African culture intact as much

want you to think.”

Eric SheuTraditional Mardi Gras Indian costumes are displayed at the Backstreet Cultural Museum in Tremé. Intricately designed costumes may take up to a year to complete.

6 SpotlightIrish EyesThursday, February 7, 2013 7Irish Eyes Thursday, February 7, 2013

Gun Violence in America“As a country, we have been through this too many times. Whether it’s an elementary school in Newtown, or a shopping mall in Oregon, or a temple in Wisconsin, or a movie theater in Aurora, or a street corner in Chicago -- these neighborhoods are our neighborhoods, and these children are our children. And we’re going to have to come together and take meaningful action to prevent more tragedies like this, regardless of the politics.”- President Barack Obama on Sandy Hook Massacre, Dec. 14, 2012

When the public is faced with the latest news about gun violence, the feeling of shock is soon replaced with outrage. Whether it is a member of congress speaking to her constituents, a child attending school, or a moviegoer enjoying a midnight release, people are looking for someone to blame.

“I have never seen the nation’s conscience so shaken up by what happened at Sandy Hook. The world has changed and is demanding action,” Vice President Joe Biden said.

The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, which has been in effect since 1994, was supported by President Ronald Reagan, a long time member of the NRA. The bill was signed by Bill Clinton. It called the FBI to develop the national instant criminal background check. This created the opportunity to run instant checks on every potential gun buyer through a national data base.

The bill is dedicated to James Brady, the Press Secretary, who was shot by John Hinkley, in the effort to gun down

in the assassination attempt. Brady suffered a traumatic head injury that left him partially paralyzed.

On Jan. 8, 2011, U.S. Representative, Gabrielle Giffords was shot along with 18 others. Six people died. Due to

reached a national spotlight. The alleged shooter, Jared Lee Loughner has a long record of mental health problems.

On July 20, 2012 James Holmes allegedly shot and killed 12 people and injured 58 during the midnight release of “Batman: The Dark Knight Rises.” The weapons used

reignited the debate on gun laws. Following the shooting, background checks within the state increased by 43 percent according to the Denver Post.

On Dec. 14, 2012, 20 children and six adults were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary when Adam Lanza entered the school and began shooting. Lanza was armed with a military

Some gun law advocates are calling for a reinstatement of the Federal Assault Weapons Ban, which was signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1994. The law banned both fully automatic and semi-automatic guns. An automatic

trigger is held down. Additionally, the ban made it illegal to manufacture these assault weapons for private citizens. The law was deigned to expire within 10 years.

However, the NRA is voicing its opposition. “Only honest, law-abiding gun owners will be affected, and our children will remain vulnerable to the inevitability of more tragedy” NRA President, Wayne LaPierre, stated in a recent press release.

Sandy Hook tragedy latest chapter in school violence

It is 9:42 A.M. on April 16, 2007 when police respond to calls,

Norris Hall at Virginia Tech. The nine minute rampage that ensues leaves 32 dead and 17 injured. The shooter is among the dead. The Virginia Tech massacre is the deadliest in the history of the United States. This is just one of many school shootings that have occurred in the United States.

On April 20, 1999, Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris, two students at Columbine High School, went on a 49 minute rampage that left 13 dead and 21 injured. The two shooters then committed suicide.

The latest school shooting occurred in Newton, Connecticut where 20 children and six educators were killed by Adam Lanza at Sandy Hook Elementary School. The guns Lanza used in the shooting were taken from his

mother’s gun collection. The increase in mass shootings,

particularly school shootings, in the United States has left Americans stunned. The reasons behind what would push young adults to commit these mass killings are perplexing. However, experts point at easy access to guns and mental instability as key factors in these situations. Some of the worst school shootings in the country have been committed by individuals who have had a history of mental health problems or easy access to guns.

In light of these shootings, the gun debates continue. Schools across the country have been forced to enact stronger security measures. After the Columbine shooting, the Jefferson Parish Public School System made it necessary for students attending its public schools to wear uniforms. This policy made it less likely for students to hide weapons in their clothing. Mesh book bags for middle and high school students

were also made a requirement. In Orleans Parish schools,

for years. Many schools in the parish have resulted in chaining doors throughout the school day. Although, this is more common in older schools, which tend to have an excess of exit doors that can not be regularly patrolled. This procedure, however, puts schools

As a result of the Virginia Tech massacre, any person attending a Virginia University, or working for a government position in the state, must go through an extensive background check. Universities around the country have given students the option to apply for emergency mass text messages. Universities, like Michigan State, have online tips on how to handle shooters.

Even with new security measures enacted in schools throughout the country, some states are pushing for tighter gun control.

International gun laws do not always ensure safety

In the wake of the recent tragedy of in Sandy Hook, the state of New York is proposing some of the most strenuous gun laws today.

Despite public outrage over the senseless acts of violence, New York Mayor, Michael Bloomberg has met resistance. “Lots of people think we shouldn’t have speed limits, we still have speed limits,” Bloomberg said. “Everytime somebody is on a poll, a majority of the people want sensible gun restrictions.

gun. What kind of craziness is this?”New York recently passed a new

legislation, calling it the New York Secure

Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act. The law bans residents in the state of using magazines that carry more than seven rounds. The law will also require an instant background check on all ammunition purchases at time of sale. Current gun holders with magazines that hold eight or more rounds will be required to sell the

is expected to challenge the law in court, calling it unconstitutional. Since the controversy of gun control is continuously expanding, many bills will be proposed, trying to restrict gun usage.

By general comparison to other countries, the United States is less restrictive on gun control. According to statistics, the United States has the highest percentage of

gun possession in the world. In 2009, the United States had an annual rate of 11,493 murders that were caused by gun usage. The combined annual murder rate caused by guns in Great Britain is 41 murders.

Despite countries having strict gun laws, high gun related deaths do occur in those countries. In Brazil, only citizens over the age of 25 are allowed to own guns and have to be registered. However, Brazil has the second highest gun related deaths in the world. In contrast, Japan has little enforcement of the strict gun laws although gun deaths are among the lowest in the world. These statistics lead people to question the effectiveness of various gun control laws.

With a license, a citizen in the United

States may commonly carry a gun outside home for self defense. In Russia, self defense

guns and automatic weapons appear normal for usage in the United States, they are prohibited in Russia.

In Great Britain, citizens are required to go through a thorough background check in order to be eligible to own a gun. When the gun is issued, the penalty for abusive

six months in jail. In some countries, penalties for gun possession are much more severe. Chinese civilians are not allowed to have guns for reasons other than hunting and protection from wildlife, for example. Citizens of China can receive the death penalty if caught illegally selling guns.

A common theme found in many mass shootings in American history is the shooter having a history of mental problems.

suspect of the crime at the Aurora, Colorado movie theater. He allegedly brought a gun into the midnight premiere of “The Dark Knight Rises” Batman movie. There were 12 killed and 58 wounded. He was declared mentally ill along with a bipolar disorder; Holmes is awaiting trial

During the two months preceding the mass shooting in a Colorado movie theater, Holmes had withdrawn from his small society and gradually isolated himself. Although classmates of Holmes at the University of Colorado were troubled by his recent behavior, they never anticipated him to have violent tendencies. Even though Holmes was on medication, he still proceeded to use violence as a way to express his feelings.

In 2007, at Virginia Tech University, Seung-Hui Cho killed a total of 33 people including himself. Cho had mental issues such as symptoms of depression, and anxiety. The school campus in Blacksburg, Virginia was then known as the site of the deadliest shooting in the nation’s history.

Previously, Cho was admitted into a psychiatric ward, but was then released. He would have suicidal and homicidal thoughts there, but denied them throughout his visits with mental health professionals.

At the University of Texas at Austin in 2010, Colton Tooley, a sophomore math major killed himself. Tooley was

On the same college campus, in 1966, Charles Whitman, a student at UT and former marine, shot and killed 14 people.

and began shooting randomly, wounding 32 people. Whitman’s previous mental health problems included

frequent anger bouts, terrible headaches and an uncontrollable temper. He fought as marine in the Vietnam War. Whitman seemed very fond of his wife, but admitted to assaulting her on two occasions.

Whitman decided to seek professional help at the University of Texas Health Center for his uncontrollable violent impulses. He had weekly appointments with Dr. Maurice Heatly which he attended until August 1, 1966, the day of the mass shooting. This was known as the second deadliest shooting in the nation’s history.

One day prior to the shooting, Whitman paid a visit to his mother where he attacked and brutally beat, strangled and stabbed her to death with a hunting knife. He also later killed his wife while she was asleep.

Not all mentally ill people exhibit violent

tendencies. People on both sides of the gun law issue agree that weapons should be kept out of the hands of the mentally ill. An increase in federal funding for treatment as well as background checks may prevent future violence. Mental health professionals are encouraged to report dangerous patients to criminal justice authorities.

According to Dr. Paul Appelbaum, former President of the American Psychiatric Association, these tragedies may bring the mental health issue to the national spotlight. “We are facing an opportunity to begin rebuilding a system of care that has been decimated over the last decades by the progressive withdrawal of resources.”

By Hamna Sial

Layout Editor

Nation divided on President’s proposed gun legislation

By Leiana Pineda

Staff Writer

Gun violence often linked to mental health problems

Gun laws in other countries

1970

April 16, 2007Virginia Tech Shooting, resulting in 32 dead and 17 wounded

July 20, 2012Gunman opens ! re in movie theater killing 12 and wounding 58 in Aurora, Colorado

December 14, 2012Sandy Hook Elementary Shooting resulting in 27 dead and 12 injured in Newton, Connecticut

April 20, 1999Columbine Shooting resulting in 13 dead and 21 wounded

By Nga Nguyen

Opinions/Entertainment Editor

By Stephanie Dix and Jenna Brewton

Staff Writers

August 1, 1966University of Texas Shooting results in 13 dead and 32 wounded in Austin

1980 1990 2000 20101960

September 28, 2010Colton Tooley attempts

to repeat University of Texas Shooting

July 18, 1984Man kills 21 people at a McDonald’s restaurant in San Ysidro, California

August 20, 1986Postal worker kills 14 people at o" ce including himself in Edmond, Oklahoma

October 16, 1991Man drives truck into cafeteria killing 24 people including himself in Kileen, Texas

November 2, 1999Xerox employee kills 7 coworkers in Honolulu, Hawaii

December 26, 2000Man kills 7 coworkers in Wake! eld, Massachusetts

Murder by weapons in 2011

Statistics verifeid by FBI

Obama’s gun control proposals

Infographic by Eric Sheu

Statistics verifeid by FBI Infographic by Eric Sheu

Sport: Baseball

Position: Third Base

Grade: Senior

Favorite Athlete: Josh Hamilton

Favorite Food:Favorite Class: Gym

Favorite Musical Artist: Taylor Swift

8 SportsThursday, February 7, 2013 Irish Eyes

Players of the MonthBy Tia Banerjee

Sports Editor

Lady Irish softball training

new team this season By Tia Banerjee

Sports Editor

The softball team has high hopes for

this season, working with a team made

up of fresh, new talent.

The team is competing in Division

5A, against teams such as Archbishop

Chapelle, Mount Carmel Academy and

Chalmette High School.

For senior Courtney Kissinger, this is

team. Kissinger has been playing softball

since childhood. “I’m excited about

every game. Every game is different, but

I’m excited to play. It’s my passion, it’s

what I like to do,” Kissinger said. This

season, Kissinger will be co-captain

along with senior Kathryn Martell.

The team is made up primarily

of underclassmen, some of

who have never played softball

before. “I’m very excited. There

was some good talent that came

out and some girls who are not

quite as experienced [in] softball,

but are thoroughly coachable

and academically good students

and just excited about playing

softball. I’m really looking

forward to coaching,” Head

Coach Carolyn Hefner said.

Tryouts for the team were

held on Jan. 17. “Tryouts were

actually really fun. We just did

basic drills, but it was a challenge

for me even though I’ve been playing

softball all of my life,” freshman Brooke

Juneau said.

29 girls showed up for tryouts, 20

of who made the team. “We really have

some good talent this year and this is the

a JV team,” Hefner said.

The team practices nearly everyday

later this month.

The team is working hard to beat last

year’s record of 8-13. “Last year, we

didn’t win any district games, although

we came pretty close once or twice. I

hope to win one or two this year, and if

not, as long as the girls learn a lot from

the sport, and just become teammates,

good teammates,” Hefner said. “To me,

that’s a winning season.”

Courtney Kissinger

Sport: Softball

Position: Co-Captain/Pitcher

Grade: Senior

Favorite Athlete: Misty May-Treanor

Favorite Food:Favorite Class: Medical Terminology

Favorite Musical Artist: All Country Artists

“Courtney is a very dedicated athlete. She is a team leader and motivator.

Courtney is a pleasure to coach and is well respected by her teammates. “

- Coach Carolyn

“No-nonsense player. Just shows up, works hard, and produces.”

- Coach Ledoux

Coach Carolyn Hefner and freshman Shenitha Weathers practice hitting in the batting

cages upstairs in the gym.

Tia Banerjee

Tia BanerjeeThe team practices everyday afterschool in

preparation for their first game later this month.

Daniel Martinez

SportsIrish Eyes Thursday, February 7, 2013 9

RobertoFurtado

Coach

Running with Roberto

Superbowl gives New Orleans fresh new lookBy Mahum Riaz

Staff Writer

If you were to look up the term coaching

I have the vantage point of teaching the

every opportunity and learn from their

your academic coach, to have your hand

Sports fans willing to pay high prices to support teams

Mahum RiazCBS Network set in Jackson Square hosted a variety of shows including Face the Nation and various sports ventures.

With Super Bowl XLVII held in New

Super Bowl weekend continued on

By Rhonisha RidgewayStaff Writer

add up to in order to

pricetag, people are

counterfeiting of

Illustration by Bianca Shrestha

OpinionsThursday, February 7, 2013 10 Irish Eyes

Current generation urged to take action in regards to gun controlThe controversy over gun control laws has received renewed attention due to the new

school massacre. However, enforcing stricter gun laws may interfere with the rights of Americans as stated in the Second Amendment of the Constitution.

There have been many rallies protesting gun control in response to the recent shooting in Newtown, Connecticut. Gun safety advocates, mothers and teachers, held signs calling for stricter gun control. They also demanded stricter enforcement of gun control.

For decades there have been issues with gun control and after major shootings such as Virginia Tech, this is the response from people: Citizens rally while legislators urge to pass bills. Although usually, within time, the protest fervor dies down and people move on. There is clearly no single solution to gun control laws.

Will the incident at Newtown be different? Children ages six to seven were murdered at Sandy Hook Elementary School. If this does not bring national attention for urgent change, there is little hope that anything will.

One can argue that guns have a purpose to protect. California, a state considered one of the most liberal in the nation, allows citizens to use lethal force to protect themselves from imminent danger within their home. Though this law is in place, not everyone that owns a gun has one for this reason.

In the case of Sandy Hook, Adam Lanza got access to his mother’s semi-automatic

other guns? No one. One may encounter signs that read the Bible verse, “Thou shalt not kill” posted on

the front lawns of houses in New Orleans. These signs were issued as a response to the high rate of violence and murder in the city. This illustrates the fact that due to the high crime rate, people of the city turn to religion for assurance.

guns is to protect the innocent from harm. Yet how can we sort out the murderers from the protectors? This is a debate of politics, morals and perhaps most importantly, the safety of the American people. The prominently known mass killings of Virginia Tech, Aurora, Colorado and now Newtown, Connecticut add to the history of the controversial gun policy.

It is saddening to see the increasing rates of murder in America. Whether it is protesting in marches or voicing opinions through newspaper editorials, some sort of change must be made on current gun laws. The government does not own the people; it should serve the people.

Student grateful for new Fine Arts classes offered

Editor-in-Chief

Eric Sheu

Managing Editors

Jessie ChenBianca Shrestha

Business Manager

Linda Lin

Layout Editors

Hamna SialShanzay Chaudhry

Sports Editor

Tia Banerjee

Opinions/Entertainment Editor

Nga Nguyen

Staffwriters

Leiana PinedaJenna Brewton

Sabra BurgeStephanie DixIsabella Cross

Magdolin HakemSamah Hammad

Adviser

Thomas Curran

Irish EyesVolume 45 No. 4

Irish Eyes is a monthly publication in conjunction with the journalism program at Grace King High School. It is a member of the Quill and Scroll Jour-nalism Honor Society, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, American Scholastic Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association and the Louisiana Scholastic Press Associa-tion. Letters to the Editor are welcome

Irish Eyes reserves the right to edit any submissions. The views expressed in columns are those of the columnists. The views expressed in the editorial are those of the Editorial Board.

Shenanigans with Sheu

Eric Sheu

Editor-in-Chief

For the past two weeks I avoided digital

the camera my dad gave to me. Why?

easily accessible. The digital camera has

quality.

cameras obsolete. Remember those

develop? They still sell those. So why did I revert back? The best

part of digital cameras is its ability to

party with a disposable camera most of us

developed, they were more memorable

could be deleted.

about every picture I take.

Linsanity

Although the new school year started with many new elective classes, I am especially thankful for the new orchestra class that is being offered along with the new Fine Arts classes.

At beginning of the year, I heard from friends that a new string orchestra was

hesitant due to the fact that I had never

played any string instrument. I had always wanted to play the violin, however I was afraid of not being able to catch up in class being the beginner I would be. Yet, I was determined to join the new orchestra

I discussed applying for the class with the

that it did not matter whether or not I had previous music knowledge. Knowing this, I applied for the class with eager.

After a week’s worth of classes, I was able to play several different tunes on the violin. I was proud with my progress because I had always been told that the

It made me feel special. I was capable of doing something that many people do not know how to do.

The students in the string orchestra class are all hard working individuals that push themselves to be a better person. Most of the students in the class are beginners. It may be due to the fact that it is a small class, but I have discovered a special bond

between the class with the students. We go through the good and bad times. The class is like a second family to me.

My new hobby has brought great pleasure to me. I have higher expectations and personal goals for myself. The class

and the things that I am capable of.You cannot learn how to play an

instrument in one day. You have to take it step by step and the road is not smooth. I overcame many obstacles. Sometimes, I would not be able to play a certain note. People say “practice makes perfect.”

the right time, the feeling is great.Overall, learning the violin has made

for the best. I have found my inner musical self as well as a second family. This great opportunity and blessing was offered thanks to the new Fine Arts classes. I highly recommend that you apply for a

new hobby for yourself?

Illustration by Bianca Shrestha

Linda Lin

Business Manager

‘‘

‘‘

OpinionsIrish Eyes 11

Letters to the Editor

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Do you feel pressured to have

a girlfriend or boyfriend during

Valentine’s season?

‘‘

‘‘

No, not if you consider yourself an individual.‘‘

‘‘‘‘

SpeakOut

Soccer player expresses pleasure in teamwork

Heaven Zeccarias, sophomore

Sophomore appreciates effort of practice test

Simin Almassi, sophomore

Cheerleader expresses her admiration of team

Hailey Bachemin, sophomore

Early graduate getting head start in life

real world.”

want to graduate high school to gain more freedom

Farah Alkhafaf, senior

High school new experience for home schooler

Jade Hays, sophomore

Senior ready for baseball season

Phillip Rahm, senior

Senior concerned with lengthy class time

changes since the new administration came into

for the students. Olivia Hodgins, senior

Former ROTC member glad to represent band

Frank Macaluso, sophomore

Soccer team captain greatful for team

Chelsea Guillot, sophomore

something there for nearly everyone.

community service hours, which you need

from all around the state and have met

region.

you want to go into after you graduate.

if you are interested in starting one, it

teachers, electives and diverse student

Banter with Banerjee

Tia

Banerjee

Sports Editor

who are in love.‘‘ ‘‘‘‘

Andres Arauzsenior

DianaRiverasenior

JenniferVasquezsophomore

JuanChavezsenior

MonicaCrain

sophomore

with family and friends.

just another day to me and if you really love

nice things for them any day.

‘‘

‘‘‘‘a lot of friends that surround me with love.

Thursday, February 7, 2013 Entertainment12 Irish Eyes

Irish Illustrations: Teens advised to take precaution at parades Illustrated by Samah Hammad

B e st of 2 0 1 2

MovieBreaking Dawn Part 2: 28%

- Breaking Dawn Part 2 is the

21

- 21

Artist

Illustrations by Jenna Brewton

Compiled by Magdolin Haken

Staff Writer