KNIGHTLIFE May 21, 2018 XLIX • ISSUE 4
Unrepeatable Above: Ms. Rosemary Libbon is filled with emotions during her pep rally. Students and faculty members honored Ms. Libbon’s 21 years of service at Bishop Montgomery.
Written by Erin Hall and Jackson Anderson
After an amazing twentyone years at Bishop Montgomery, our beloved principal, Rosemary Libbon is stepping down and retiring. She came to the school in the summer of 1997, and has served as the principal ever since. Senior Keisha Barrera says she will most fondly remember her for, "showing how she cares for us and saying that she loves us everyday." Indeed, Ms. Libbon showed her love for the
school in many ways over the last two decades, whether it was through her eloquent addresses to the entire community at mass or something as simple as a warm smile in the hallway. Ms. Libbon is a defining characteristic of Bishop Montgomery. She made Bishop Montgomery more than just a high school. As she stated in her open letter to the school, her "heart will always be here at Bishop Montgom-
ery." It's safe to say she will always be in our hearts as well. Ms. Libbon managed to infuse love throughout the entire campus, while maintaining an academically rigorous and safe environment. Although everyone is excited to meet the new principal, James Garza, there is no doubt that Ms. Libbon will always be considered the best principal we could have possibly wished to have guided
us through high school. Your amazing graces and precious jewels will love and miss you.
The Question too Often Asked Interviews by Julia Hadnett
It seems that with every age, there is a dreaded question at all family events. As a young kid, it’s always about height. As an eighth grader, it’s graduation this, graduation that. But as a senior, it’s the most daunting question of all: “Where are you going to college?” Honestly, I felt bad as I interviewed these seniors, asking those annoying and scary questions that seem to be the topic of every conversation, but they answered my questions graciously. I interviewed five seniors: Olivia Thompson, Nikala Cunningham, Alyssa Taylor, Colin Sevely-Ortiz, and Bobby Eubanks; and asked eight questions each. 1.Are you going directly to a school next year or are you taking a gap year? 2.Where are you planning on attending? 3.Do you plan to play sports there? 4.Is your school a two-year or a fouryear college? 5.Do you plan to join a sorority/fraternity? 6.What do you plan to major in? 7.What is one word you'd use to sum up the whole application experience? 8.Do you have any advice to underclassmen? Olivia Thompson 1. I'm going directly to college next year. I think if I took a gap year, I'd probably never end up going back to school. 2. UC Santa Barbara! 3. Probably not, but I hear they have Intramural Quidditch so who knows! 4. UCSB is a four-year university. 5. I'm not really sure if I want to join a
sorority yet. The whole rushing process seems pretty intense, but I feel like it could end up being really fun, too! I'm going to decide over summer. 6. I'm most likely going to major in Anthropology with a minor in Psychology. I have a lot of interests though, so I'm not totally set on what I'll end up doing! 7. Suspenseful. 8. Apply to a wide range of colleges! I always thought I'd go to a small, private, out-of-state school and now I'm so excited to be going to a big, public, in-state school. Don't trap yourself in one type of college! Nikala Cunningham 1. I am going to school next year. 2. I am going to Emerson College in Boston. 3. Yes, I will be playing on the school’s soccer team. 4. It is a four year college. 5. No, I do not plan on joining a sorority. 6. My major is going to be Business of Creative Enterprises. 7. Tedious. 8. Do you have any advice to underclassmen? Start early on applications and get them all in by November 1st! Alyssa Taylor 1. I am going directly to college. 2. I am planning on attending RoseHulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Indiana. 3. I will be playing soccer. 4. It is a four year college. 5. No, I do not plan on joining a sorority.
6. I will major as an electrical engineer. 7. STRESSFUL. 8. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE: senioritis is a real thing! Do your best to not let it get to you! Colin Sevely-Ortiz 1. I am going directly to school next year. 2. NYU Film School! 3. Sports, heck no. Clubs, perhaps an improv or film team or club. 4. NYU is a four-year college. 5. No, because I’m not a stereotype. 6. I’m going to major in film and television production. 7. Degrading. 8. Try to join clubs and find your own family here. If you’re applying to an art school, your counselors might say that your choices are top-heavy but that’s not necessarily true.
Right: Sabina DiPadua ‘18 and Ethan Roberts “18 show off their college pride on their sweatshirts.
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Bobby Eubanks 1. I am going directly to a school. 2. I plan on attending El Camino Junior College. 3. No, I don't plan on playing any sports, I just plan on having a good time. 4. A two-year school. 5. I don't really know yet… whatever fits my schedule, really. 6. I plan to major in sports management. 7. Well I didn't really apply anywhere because I knew where I was going, but my friends all did and they couldn't hang out sometimes because their parents wouldn't let them go out until they finished them. 8. Enjoy these moments in high school because soon you’re waking up the next morning after the prom and you’re like, “Wow, that was prom. We're almost done!” Soak it all in!
Student Life
Advice for Freshmen Written by Natalia Cortes
As the old dogs roll out, fresh meat arrives. Yeah, that's right, I'm talking about you freshmen. Well first of all, let me congratulate you on leaving your doorstep and making it here, hopefully, on time. I also hope that I speak on behalf of the Bishop Community when I say this but, welcome and have a fantastic next four years at this amazing school. So you guys are probably wondering what high
school is all about? I gathered all of the research that you would do well to remember. Here is Josie Debelis’ advice, a senior graduating to Mount St. Mary's University. She said to “talk to your peers, and to remember that high school is only a blip in time, plus there are only 4 years. So make the most of it.” She got through high school because of her friends, and she stressed the importance on reaching out, and that's also
Above: Emi Doyle ‘18 and Jonathan De Arruda ‘18 are excited about going to college but will miss all their underclassmen friends at Bishop.
what made her high school experience “pretty good.” Katherine Hernandez, another graduating senior attending Mount St. Mary's University said, “get good friends that will stick with you for 4 years, people will switch up.” She also exclaimed, “if you want to do something, just do it. Get a new experience, and new perspective.” What got her through high school was Tyler the Creator, and seriously where would we be without him, and her friends. Not only should you be friends with your peers, you should also be friends with your teachers. They´ll like you more and don´t be afraid to ask questions. This is what Edward Boseman, who is going to attend El Camino, said, what motivated him was that he “wants to be successful, and to make an impact. I want to be remembered after I die.” He also said to get a car ASAP, since he used to take a 2-3 hour bus ride in the morning to get here. Dedication, am I right? Last but not least, senior David Flores, who is attending
Boulder, Colorado said to “be a good student, pay attention in class. TUCK YOUR SHIRT IN.” What motivated him was that later in life he wants a beautiful wife and kids. He enjoyed his high school experience saying it was “pretty lit. I enjoyed every year and by far my senior year has been my best year.” There you have it freshmen, high school veterans have bestowed upon you their wisdom . Enjoy yourself by reaching out, and never be afraid of trying something new and gaining new experiences and a valuable new perspective. Make sure to get your license soon. The freedom is awesome and be a GREAT student. And always, make sure to have your shirt tucked in.
Seniors... Where are they going?
This year, Bishop seniors are headed to # colleges and universities after graduation. Here’s a closer look at where they are headed.
Aceves, Diane Acuna, Nicole Alcedo, Matthew Alexander, Angela An, Zeming (Jerry) Anderson, Jackson Annett, Natalie Arce, Gloria Arthur, Jackson Atkinson, Erin Bach, Sean Bae, Austin Barfield, Rebbecca Barrera, Keisha Baylis, Jordan Bealey, Ahmad Bell, Jordan Blood, Shannon Bodden, Detriana Alese Bozeman, Edward Brabson, Kenneth Taylor Brandt, Aryana Brent, Genea'Vi Buenaventura, Ara Nicole Bustillos, Emily Cai, Yuhao (Charles) Caldwell, Corey Cao (Tsao), Shu-yan (Zandra) Capicoy, Joseph Carroll, David Carroll, Sophia Castillo, Jacen Chang, Marcus Chavez, Frank Chen, Yuran (Monica) Choi, Andrew Chu, Yikai (Kevin) Cicchini, Anthony Contreras, Sebastian Corona, Gisel Coyne, Hallie Cunningham, Nikala Curnutte, Catherine Darby, Quentin Davis, Mia Dawson, Lydia De Arruda, Jonathan Akira de Castro, Derek De La Cruz, Natalia
CSU, Fullerton CSU, Long Beach UC, Los Angeles CSU, Dominguez Hills Indiana University at Bloomington Claremont McKenna College Santa Monica College El Camino College San Jose State University UC, Berkeley UC, Riverside University of Rochester El Camino College University of La Verne Cal Poly Pomona UC, Berkeley UC, Santa Barbara El Camino College CSU, East Bay Arizona State University El Camino College Mount Saint Mary's University Los Angeles Harbor College UC, Santa Cruz George Fox University UC, San Diego United States Naval Academy UC, Santa Cruz CSU, Bakersfield CSU, Long Beach University of San Francisco Pennsylvania State University United States Air Force Academy Boston University University of San Diego El Camino College CSU, Long Beach UC, Santa Cruz Emerson College Colorado State University Shaw University El Camino College UC, Santa Cruz El Camino College El Camino College Long Beach City College
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DeBellis, Josie Defterios, Archer Foti DeRusha, Nicolas Diggs, JaShaun Ding, Guanyu (Dylan) DiPadua, Sabina Dong, Ao (Zoe) Doyle, Emi Eaves, George Eubanks, Robert Farr, Austin Felix, Jack Fifer, Alexandria Finley, Micah Aaron Flores, Anthony Flores, Crystabel Flores, David Foley, Caitlin Fraley, Nicholas Garcia, Giovanni Garcia, Lyanna Garunkstis, Julija Garvey, Jamie Germany, Terron Gonzalez, Carolina Gooding, Brianna Gregoris, Francesca Guo, Yuefan (Tiffany) Design Gutierrez, Carla Gutierrez, Elizabeth Guzman, David Hadnett, Elizabeth Hall, Erin Harris, Isaiah Hayes, Samuel Hebson, Layne Hermoso, Jason Nicholas Hernandez, Katherine Hess, Conner Hewitt, Ariel Hickerson, Ben Hines, Jalen House, Daniel Hugo, David Irvine, Allison Isozaki, Samantha Jacobs, Kaeli James, Sienna
Mount Saint Mary's University Santa Monica College CSU, Dominguez Hills El Camino College California College of the Arts UC, San Diego UC, Davis University of San Diego CSU, Bakersfield El Camino College University of Tennessee, Knoxville Long Beach City College Loyola Marymount University University of Notre Dame El Camino College El Camino College University of Colorado at Boulder San Francisco State University California Lutheran University Concordia University - Irvine Emerson College CSU, Dominguez Hills San Jose State University UC, Riverside El Camino College Washington State University Savannah College of Art and Santa Monica College Cal Poly - Pomona El Camino College Villanova University UC, Los Angeles El Camino College UC, San Diego Belmont University CSU, Dominguez Hills Mount Saint Mary's University Grand Canyon University Grand Canyon University University of Oregon San Francisco State University CSU, Fullerton Loyola Marymount University Azusa Pacific University Mount Saint Mary's University Loyola Marymount University University of Oregon
Jimenez, Cristian Los Angeles Harbor College Kall, Brennan Santa Clara University Kallenback, Brandon El Camino College Kang, Kyoung (Sean) UC, Santa Cruz Kester, Caitlyn UC, Irvine Kim, Jun Young (Joshua) UC, Santa Cruz King, Amy Mannes College of Music King, Liam Alejandro Klein, Allison Saint Martin's University Kuang, Junshen (Michealson) Arizona State University Kwon, Tae Hyung (Daniel) Purdue University Lababit, Jerrod CSU, Dominguez Hills Larquier, Megan University of Colorado at Boulder Lee, Woo Hyoun (Ryan) New York University Li, Sijia (Angela) UC, San Diego Lidy, Caylea Cal Poly Pomona Lidzbarski, Diego UC, Merced Linan, Valeria UC, Merced Lino, Kaleel Arizona State University Lipp, Matthew UC, Santa Cruz Liu, Siqi (Cathy) UC, Davis Llorens, Cole Northwestern State University of Louisiana Lopez, Daniel El Camino College Lopez, Hannah Arizona State University Lopez, Katheryn El Camino College Luhrsen, James El Camino College Lyons, Sarah El Camino College Mansilla, Andrea UC, San Diego Mao, YiYue (Maggie) UC, San Diego Marafino, Nicole Seattle University Marrero, Jalen Collin County Community College District Martinez, Kristin El Camino College Matheney, Anthony Daniel UC, Los Angeles Meza, Yesenia El Camino College Miller, Nicole Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Montoya, Steve UC, San Diego Moon, Kyeongdeuk (Aiden) El Camino College Morales, Emily Cal Poly Pomona Moran, Julian Arizona State University Nguyen, An The University of Arizona Nguyen, Bao Tran UC, San Diego Nguyen, Eric CSU, Long Beach Nguyen, Mary Mount Saint Mary's University O'Donnell, Kevin UC, Los Angeles Olsen, Erica UC, Los Angeles Pajaron, Meagan Mount Saint Mary's University Park, Joshua Park, Seonghyun (Matthew) El Camino College Parker, Riley Saint Mary's College of California Perez, Brian El Camino College Petach, Kate CSU, Fullerton Petroni, Camille Purdue University Pickering, Thomas Cal Poly Pomona Pilon, Isabella University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Pistole, Jacqueline UC, Santa Cruz Pope, Katherine University of Oregon Pope, Olivia Santa Clara University Quast, Anna University of Notre Dame Quino, Adrian San Francisco State University Raad, Markus UC, Los Angeles Reis, John-Paul NewSchool of Architecture & Design Ren, Yichao (Chris) The University of Arizona Ricketts, Cory El Camino College Rideaux, Monique Texas Southern University Rivera, Estevan El Camino College Roberts, Ethan UC, Santa Barbara Rodriguez, Alexis Communications Rodriguez, Deziree Long Beach City College Rodriguez, Michael El Camino College Rodriguez, Salvador Robert CSU, Dominguez Hills Santos, Ruth El Camino College
Sarhaya, Kunaal CSU, Long Beach Sarti, Nathan La Sierra University Schiappa, Gianna CSU, San Marcos Schmieder, Adam UC, Santa Barbara Scott, Jalaysia Clark Atlanta University Sevely-Ortiz, Colin Vincent New York University Sgro, Elizabeth Modesto Junior College Shapiro, Sophie UC, Los Angeles Sharpe, Tessa Seattle University Simien, Myles Cal Poly Pomona Simone, Ryan Joseph UC, Santa Barbara Singleton, David UC, Los Angeles Singson, Christian UC, Los Angeles Soqui, Bella Spears, Jason Anthony CSU, Channel Islands Stadvec, Arabella Kent State University Starkey, Brenna Gonzaga University Stinson, Keith Loyola Marymount University Sullivan, Nicholas UC, Santa Cruz Sutton, Katherine UC, Los Angeles Takeuchi, Ken Loyola Marymount University Tang, Kaixuan (Victor) University of Maryland, College Park Taylor, Alyssa Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Taylor, Jacob Los Angeles Harbor College Tena, Melanie Biola University Thatcher, Jack UC, Santa Cruz Thomas, Kristina Rose K Ottawa University Thomas, Yocaisha CSU, Dominguez Hills Thompson, Olivia UC, Santa Barbara Thornton, Hailey San Francisco State University Tokuhara, Paige San Francisco State University Tomanek, Katelyn Isabel El Camino College Tramel, Naomi San Francisco State University Trejo, Alejandro CSU, Channel Islands Truong, Christina CSU, Dominguez Hills Tyler, Ryan Arizona State University Tynen, Fletcher Edward Boston University Vaimoso, Carolyn Emerson College Vargas, Stephanie Los Angeles Harbor College Vargas, Willi Velasco, Drake University of Southern California Vicelja, Allison Oregon State University Vinasco, Valeria CSU, Northridge Wang, Chongru (Neil) University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign Wang, Haolin (Raymond) UC, Santa Cruz Wang, Yashu (Sharon) Indiana University at Bloomington Ward, Cian University of Nebraska at Lincoln Washington, Jalen Cerritos College Wei, Ziqian (Wendy) El Camino College Welch, Paul CSU, Fullerton Wilkinson, Emilyn University of Colorado at Boulder Williams, Larell El Camino College Willoughby, Denise Danielle UC, Los Angeles Woods, Jason El Camino College Wright, Taylor Nova Southeastern University Xue, Huifangyu (Irene) Pennsylvania State University Yaccarino, Julia Loyola University Chicago Yang, Ziming (Michael) University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign You, Shiyang (Ryan) Binghamton University Yu, Jianing (Jenna) UC, Berkeley Zhang, Yuhan (Teresa) University of Washington Zhang, Yuming (Nikola) UC, Santa Cruz Zhang, Zhengdong (Norman) UC, Santa Cruz Zhao, Zhuangrongwei (Christine) New York University Zhou, Nuo (Raven) Pennsylvania State University Zhou, Shenghua (Steven) CSU, Dominguez Hills Zhu, Yan (Iris) The New School - All Divisions Zhu, Yinan (Vicky) Boston University *this list was updated from the Counseling office on 5/17/18
Student Life
Letter from the Editors
Written by Jackie Pistole and Erin Hall Photographed by Jackie PIstole
To the students, teachers, administration, and all of our Knightlife readers, It’s incredible for us to think that in just a few days, we will no longer be considered BMHS students, but alumni. Knightlife has been such a big part of our lives, so it’s hard to imagine not covering all of the sports games, spirit weeks, drama productions, band competitions, and such. As presidents and longtime members of Knightlife, it is our sincere hope that this newspaper has affected you in some shape or form, even if it was just in the slightest way. Maybe you didn’t know anything about your teacher until you read about them in one of the Teacher Trivia sections. Or you weren’t too sure about starting a new show until you read one of our reviews on the latest Netflix shows. Whatever your motivation, we thank you for taking the time to read Knightlife! We are honored to have been members, let alone leaders of Knightlife, because the way we see it, this club allows us to connect the many aspects of the BMHS community through one newspaper. Knightlife fosters the talent of young writers, photographers, and artists, and it has given us all a means of expressing ourselves creatively. Also we would like to give a huge thank you to Mr. Hong, our moderator for Knightlife. He has offered us unfailing support and guidance, and Knightlife wouldn’t be possible without him. We know that Knightlife will continue to grow with the leadership of the new editors-in-chief Liliana Linan ‘19 and Angelika Esteban ‘19, and we’d like to welcome any of you who would like to join the team next year! So here it is,
Above: Your Knightlife co-editors, Erin Hall ‘18 and Jackie Pistole ‘18. we present you with the last Knightlife publication of the 2017-2018 school year. Love, Jackie Pistole ‘18 & Erin Hall ‘18
Senior Feels Comic by Anna Quast
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Student Life
What is Composting? Keeping Earth Day Relevant Written and Photographed by Jackie Pistole
Earth Day doesn’t have to be on just one day. Keeping the earth healthy is a lifelong process that should be practiced everyday to make an effect on the world! Something that you can do to make a better, greener planet is to start composting in your backyard. You may be wondering, what even is compost? So it’s basically this organic matter that has been decomposed in a process called, you guessed it, composting. When you compost, you’re recycling organic materials--which were once thought of as waste products--into a rich, nutritious, soil conditioner. But what things can you compost? You can compost a lot of things, but here are the basics: 1. Fruit and vegetable scraps 2. Crushed egg shells 3. Coffee grounds 4. Loose leaf tea 5. Used paper napkins/towels 6. Pencil shavings 7. Shredded toilet paper rolls 8. Dried twigs/leaves 9. Dryer lint (from 100% natural fabrics only) 10. A lot more!
So where and how do you compost? The process is simple! First of all, it’s best to do it outside. The smell that decomposing food creates is not a pleasant one. A dry, shady location that’s near a water source is a good place to set up either your compost bin or pile. Remember that ventilation is very important. For instance, if you compost in a box, make sure to drill holes or leave openings to allow for proper ventilation, because oxygen is an important factor to support the breakdown of plant material by bacteria and little microbes. There also needs to be an equal balance between food scraps and natural foliage, like crushed leaves. Moisture is also a key factor to composting; make sure that you add water when it looks to dry, and makes sure to turn over the compost every 2-4 weeks to allow for ventilation and to speed up the process. Depending on how much oxygen it has and how long it takes the compost to decompose, your compost will be ready in a few months to a year. It is important to note that while we can compost a lot of things, there
Above: Jackie Pistole ‘18 composts at home and uses vegetable scraps and paper towels. are some things we should never compost, which include, and are not limited to: 1. Pet droppings (contain disease organisms and make your compost toxic) 2. Meat, bones, fish, dairy (these can overheat your compost, attract rodents and other pests, and make your compost smell really bad, which will annoy you and your neighbors) 3. Coal ash (contain sulfur and iron which is damaging to plants) 4. Colored paper (contains toxins) 5. Walnuts 6. Bread products (these can attract rodents and pests as well) 7. Cooking oils (again, it can attract unwanted pests, because it smells like food) 8. Sawdust If in doubt, look it up. There
are many articles that include full lists of things you can and cannot compost. So what’s the deal with composting anyway? Why is it important? Well, statistically speaking, food scraps and yard waste make up about 20 to 50 percent of what we throw away. This “trash” sit in landfills and not only take up space, but they also release methane, which is a greenhouse gas and damaging to the environment. It reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Composting also gives you the privilege of making your own soil right in the backyard for free. Also, many colleges encourage composting on campus, so you might as well begin early! Start composting today and reduce your carbon footprint on earth!
Prom: A Sparkling Night
Left: Hannah Lopez ‘18 and Christian Singson ‘18 are crowned Prom Queen and King.
Above: Emilyn Wilkinson ‘18 and her date enjoy their time at prom.
Above: A group of seniors look stunning in their suits and dresses.
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Campus Life
Mama Knows Best Written by Skyler Lamar Illustrated by Cindy Peng
Mothers - the one person that will never let you forget that you could not be in this world if it was not for them. Even if the person who gave birth to you is not currently in your life, almost everyone has a mother type figure in their life that they are thankful for, whether it be a family friend, a teacher, an older sibling or even a friend the same age that just has those mature qualities. A Bishop tradition is that the last formal mass of the year is the Mother’s Day Mass - a day where all the seniors can bring their mothers or mother figures to the mass to celebrate and also be celebrated. This year’s Mother’s Day Mass was one of the most fun that I have experienced in my three years at Bishop Montgomery. When everyone comes in and the mothers begin to arrive to the mass, one feels a sense of love and comfort from the seniors since a lot of them have their mothers there with them and are able to come together to worship God. The opening song was “Holy Spirit, You Are Welcome Here” and it was a short opening, yet it brought into the atmosphere that the Holy Spirit was with us and welcome in the gym to fulfill us. The Psalm was read and the Psalm that was sung was “Hail Mary, Gentle Woman.” This song seemed to fit because it was not just the words of the Hail Mary being put int song form, it also talked about how gentle, graceful and kind Mary was and how much of a role model she can be to women all around the world. Just like how in the Catholic faith, Mary is seen as a mother figure, one can think these things about their mother or mother figure and how much of a gentle yet strong woman she is. The lyrics of the song are so fitting for anyone with a mother in their life when it says, “Gentle woman, quiet light, morning star, so strong and bright, gentle Mother peaceful dove, teach us wisdom; teach us love.” The choir also sang this softly yet
strong so everyone could take in the words and think about who this is tru to in their lives. After the final readings, the sermon began and Father Ken talked about how much mothers and mother figures are important to one’s life and how we should all be so thankful that that person is patient and willing to do what they need for us to be happy and safe. After this there was communion where the “Revelation Song” was sung. Next was the part of the Mother’s Day mass that usually makes some people cry, and that was when some of the seniors said a message to their mothers. During the Meditation, three seniors Kaeli Jacobs, Sienna James and Carolyn Vaimoso - sang in a trio the song “A Song For Mama” originally by Boyz II Men in a soft and harmonic tone that made everyone really feel what they are saying. The lyrics are definitely relatable when thinking of someone who you look up to and/or that raised you: “You were there for me to love and care for me, When skies were grey, Whenever I was down, You were always there to comfort me, And no one else can be what you have been to me.” Then two seniors went up and read a letter to their mothers which definitely got some people glassy-eyed. The first was Erin Atkinson, who gave a very heartfelt message about how much of a rock that her mother is in her life and how not for a single second had she taken for granted all that her mother had done for her, from being at all of her soccer games to just in general being patient with her. The second tear-jerking letter to their mother was given by senior Bella Pilon, who I got to interview about her relationship with her mom. She gave a very moving speech about how even though she had been somewhat not the easiest to handle after the divorce between her mother and her father and that her relationship with her mom was not like
everyone else’s, she would not be who she was without her mother in her life. I asked her what made her want to write a letter in the first place: “I’ve always wanted to express to my mom how much I love her, and I thought the Mother’s Day Mass speech would be a great way to do it.” Since I myself would have a hard time putting all I would want to say to my other in a page and a half, I asked how she went about writing the speech and she said, “It was hard to figure out what to say, but I actually wrote the speech a month ago and just wrote whatever came to mind.” For those of you who do not know, Bella’s mother is Ms. Meehan, who teaches junior and senior religion classes at Bishop. I asked her if it was ever weird in a way that her mother was a teacher because I was curious: “I’ve always loved that my mom is a teacher because I can go to her for anything at school and it’s comforting knowing she’s there.” Lastly, I asked her when she feels closest to her mother: “I feel closest to her after we had one of our talks or whenever we do something together, just the two of us.” I can definitely relate to what she was saying and could feel the love that Erin and Bella have for their mothers and I am sure that their mothers do too. After these wonderful speeches,
Music Ministry sang “Where You Lead” as the second song for Meditation. During the second verse of the song, people began to stand up with their mothers and dance with them and it was a very nice sight. Everyone seemed to be having so much fun whether watching, dancing or both. The rest of mass went on with the same happy attitude as Ms. Libbon thanked all those, excluding herself, who have reached milestones this year and/or are retiring this year : Father Ken, Mrs. Svarda, Ms. Wilbanks, Ms. Klein, Mrs. Vigon and Ms. Dippel. The mass ended with Music Ministry singing “Home” by Phillip Phillips which felt very special because when it says “Just know you’re not alone, ‘cause I’m gonna make this place your home.” Students can think of Bishop being their home, but also having a home in the hearts of your mother or mother figure. All in all, this mass was very heartwarming and fun and is always usually one of the favorite masses at Bishop and one can see why. The moral is to never take a parental figure in your life for granted and that you should be as patient with your parent as they are with you.
Spring Sports: A Photo Story
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Entertainment/ Pop culture
Infinite Possibilities Written by Julija Garunkstis
(WARNING: CONTAINS SPOILERS) Many, if not all, of us have seen at least one action film at some point in our lives. They all seem to follow the same “cookie-cutter” pattern: bad guy does something bad, hero is born, hero almost fails, hero doesn’t fail, we all live happily ever after. And of course, there are plenty of action and CGI sequences throughout. Setting all DC Comics vs. Marvel Studios rivalries aside, I think it’s safe to say that Avengers: Infinity War breaks free from that “cookiecutter” mold. Unless you’ve seen any of the previous Marvel/Avenger movies, some of the little storylines in Infinity War will be difficult to follow, but despite this, it has something for everyone. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic, a comedy lover, an adrenaline junkie, or even a simple comic book nerd, you can find elements of this movie to enjoy. This film is also a sort of reunion in the Marvel universe as many characters
from different movies such as T’Challa from Black Panther, Peter Quill and his gang from Guardians of the Galaxy, Dr. Strange from Doctor Strange, and Peter Parker from SpiderMan: Homecoming join forces with the Avengers to fight the evil Thanos who strives to collect the Infinity Stones in order to take over the universe. Does it have a typical fantastical action-movie storyline? Absolutely. But does it break from the typical, cookie-cutter action-movie timeline? Sure. Let’s break it down. Step 1 for an action movie: Bad guy does something bad. We already find a difference here. Thanos the villain, technically hasn’t done anything particularly “bad” by the beginning of the movie. Yes, he killed a beloved character, favored by most audiences, (gasp!) but he hasn’t destroyed or put the world in any danger quite yet. Step 2: Hero is born. Well, the film is titled Avengers: Infinity War, so we already know that the Avengers will be the heroes, and the other heroes men-
Above: Mr. Scheckler aka Thor, is ecstatic about the “Avengers: Infinity War” movie.
tioned before already have their own movies about how they were born heroes, so I guess they’re more like heroes just at another day of work. Step 3 and 4: Hero almost fails. Hero doesn’t fail. In Infinity War, I’d say it’s the complete opposite. The heroes get extremely close to winning. In fact, they do...only for a split second though. In this story, the heroes don’t win in the end and they don’t live happily ever after. As depressing as that sounds, that’s sort of the reason I enjoy and recommend this film. Anyone that knows me, knows that I hate unorigi-
nal films (so pretty much every action movie). I think it’s important to portray the bad as much as the good, because it makes the happier endings more happy and less predictable, which brings me to my next point. Avengers: Infinity War is set up for a sequel perfectly. It ends in an incredible cliff-hanger that really leaves the audience saddened, confused, and disappointed. I think the writers did this in order to make the sequel’s ending a more satisfying and happy one. The sad endings that we endure in life and in the movies work to make the happy ones more special.
“Dreamy Galaxy” by Selina Hu ‘20
“The Vast Beyond” by Thomas Van Schoor ‘19
Arts Fest Gallery
“Muhammed Ali” by Juliana Zovak ‘19
“Phoenix” by Drake Velasco ‘18
Left: Student artworks are displayed in the library during Arts Fest week.
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Student Life
Best Buddies Friendship Walk Written by Annaliese Kaxon-Rupp
On Saturday, May 5, 2018, there was a Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Shoreline Village, Long Beach, California. The Best Buddies Friendship Walk is where people from all over Southern California walk to bring attention to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Furthermore, the Friendship Walk focuses on fundraising money for Best Buddies’ programs, which “create opportunities for one-toone friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development for people with IDD.” Friendships between individuals with and without IDD ensure that people with IDD receive the high quality of life and inclusion they deserve. This is fulfilled with Best Buddies programs in middle schools, high schools, and colleges. Sadly, an approximation of 81% of adults with developmental disabilities (DD) lack a paying job in their community. Therefore, Best Buddies guides and supports these bright individuals to find a job, so they can receive an income, pay taxes, and learn to help themselves independently.
Lastly, this non-profit organization helps individuals with and without IDD to achieve proficient speaking skills and writing skills and to deepen their confidence in themselves through the Best Buddies Ambassadors Program. The Long Beach Friendship Walk raised over $95,000, which will tremendously help the lives of numerous people with IDD. At the end of the walk, there was a dancing party to celebrate and have fun! Every year there is a local Best Buddies Friendship Walk, and you should go to walk or fundraise money to support these amazing individuals. Also, there are many other Friendship Walks around the world that focus on achieving the same things. If you want to learn more about Best Buddies or participate in any events at the Bishop Montgomery chapter, come to meetings on Tuesdays at lunch in Room 317. Come and learn to discover how to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities!
An Expedition into Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun Written and Photographed by David Carroll
Japan, land of the rising sun: here the music department ventured for a full week in a rather unique country. After touching down after an eleven hour plane ride we arrived at our home for the week: the sprawling Shinagawa Prince Hotel and that was only just the beginning. Japan is a country of lush countryside and extremely packed cities full of wonderful sights to see. The movement along the highways exemplified this change of scenery. We came to Japan to perform at Kashiwa, because it is the sister city to Torrance. Specifically, we performed at the Kashiwa High School which is the sister school to Bishop Montgomery. On the way to the school we met Allison Abraham, a Bishop alumna who taught English at Kawshiwa. The high school is four stories high and is in the shape of a rectangle with a courtyard in the center. The band members practiced in harmony with the Kashiwa students in preparation for the big performance. Both bands performed their own
pieces and in unison for the wonderment of the audience. The next day we arrived at Hiroshima where we took a tour around the Hiroshima Memorial Peace Park. There, three Bishop Montgomery students gave their respects through art. Adam Schmieder and Angelina Herrera each composed their own reflections and recited them in front of the Memorial. Victoria Strauss sang “How Great Thou Art.” The group went through the Hiroshima Museum which documented the stories of the nuclear bombing. We also heard from a survivor of the bombing who told us his story of the horrors of war. Afterwards we went to the Meiji Shrine Buddhist temple and to Harajuku, the fashion district. Within which we found that shop keepers had very specific rules. For example, the sign that said “do not eat crepes here” and someone nearby was eating a crepe. We met three Bishop Alumni who were vacationing in Japan at Harajuku just as we were. We then left for home the following day. Many of
Above: Students visited the Kabuki Theater during the trip. the students found the vending machines and public transportation to be far superior to our US infrastructure. Everyone really liked the architecture of the many streets and liked having coins ranging from one cent to five dollars. It allowed money to be circulated very easily. We all enjoyed ourselves touring such a lovely country.
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Student Life
APs and Finals Stress Tips Written and Photographed by Liliana Linan
It is finally May, which means the countdown to summer, but also the countdown to AP tests and class finals. There is a lot of pressure to do well on standardized tests-by teachers, parents, and oneself-but students believe that tests are the end of the world, and they tend fall down a slippery slope of failure, and allow stress to consume their lives. Stress from school, especially during finals season can lead to frustration, heightened anxiety, acne breakouts, hair loss, headaches, insomnia, and even long term mental and physical health problems. To tackle school stress I recommend: 1. Organize your schedule-make sure to plan enough days to study so that you won’t cram studying the day before, the studying will not seem as much and you will remember topics better. 2. Study effectively-put your phone on silent, and study somewhere where you are not distracted by noise or other people. Or, study with a group! It can be fun and productive, if you stay on task...
3. Listen to music-I live by a mantra that music can make any situation better, so I always study with music. I make my own playlists of composed of classical music, or I listen to the classical study music station on Pandora. You can also look up study music playlists on Youtube. 4. Take a break, and treat yourself!Trying to study all day without any breaks is impossible. You will only tire yourself out and become unfocused and tired. After an hour of studying take a 15 minute break. Watch a bit of television, read, write, clean, listen to music, or go on social media. Taking breaks will motivate you to keep studying if you can control your time. 5. Exercise-Doing some physical activity like running or yoga will cause your body to produce endorphins, neurotransmitters that make you feel happy. You easily can release anger and stress by getting fresh air and moving around. 6. Get enough sleep-I know teachers love to jampack our last weeks of school with assignments, projects,
Alex Somme, Class of 2021, stresses about AP exams and finals. tests, and finals which lead us to feel overcome with anxiety. All this work may take up our day, especially since most students have extracurricular activities during the week. 7. Drink water and eat breakfastBreakfast is the most important meal of the day, and researchers at Cardiff University found that kids who eat breakfast are twice as likely to score higher in tests than those who do not. Water also helps because it hydrates your body and helps you stay alert and concentrated. Whole wheat bread, fruit, cereal, oatmeal, milk, and yogurt.
Who in Bishop?
8. Don’t compare yourself and your scores to others-My friends are all very intelligent, which leads me to compare myself to them and lowers my self esteem. It will only cause anxiety and stress to ask others about their study time and scores. Remember, tests are important but are not a demonstration of your intelligence. Do not put too much pressure on yourself, and take time to take care of your mental and physical health. Put in the time to study, without overwhelming yourself, and you will be satisfied with your results.
Photographed by Erin Hall
We are putting a little spin on our “Where in Bishop” contest this issue. Who are the faculty members these photos were taken of? The first three students who can correctly identify the faculty member of each photo will receive a voucher to the Snack Bar for free food! Bring your answers to Mr. Hong in room 205. Be sure to search for these special people to win Knightlife’s “Who in Bishop?” *Knightlife staff and faculty members are ineligible for this contest. Do not disrupt any classes to look for these people. Special thanks to Mr. McGoldrick for suggesting this contest!
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The Knightlife newspaper is published by the Knightlife club of Bishop Montgomery High School, 5430 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503. Opinions expressed in this paper do not reflect those of Bishop Montgomery High School.
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Knightlife 2017-2018 Board Editors-in-Chief: Jackie Pistole & Erin Hall Vice Presidents: Liliana Linan & Anjelika Esteban Photography Executives: Jenna Yu & Amanda Ye Treasurer/Advertising: Henry Hasnah Clubs: Nicole Barragan Campus Life: Sklyer Lamar Art: Anna Quast Student Life: Matt Alcedo Entertainment/Culture: Julija Garunkstis Sports: Katie Tomanek Staff Writers: Anna Kortenkamp, Julia Hadnett, Sean Calub, Julia Keller, Sarah Oppenheim, Amanda Gonzalez, Anjelika Esteban, Annaliese Rupp, Annie Elming, Arabella Stadvec, Gabrielle Mata, Hailey Rodriguez, Joie Littleton, Liliana Linan, Natalie Cortes, Nicole Barragan, Skyler Lamar, Anna Quast, Audrey Egekeze, David Carroll, Erin Hall, Jacqueline Pistole, Julija Garunkstis, Matt Alcedo, Olivia Thompson Staff Photographers: Andrew Astorga, Anna Kortenkamp, Ariana Vargas, Corey Mostero, Darcy Campos, Dylan Peiris, Henry Hasnah, Ian Kenneally, Julia Hadnett, Markus Trotter, Ryan Hall, Samara Guillory, Sean Calub, Yuta Yamada, Anastacia Washington, Amanda Gonzalez, Amanda Ye, Annie Elming, Bessy Zhou, Bonny You, Cortland Foster, Gabrielle Mata, Hailey Rodriguez, Julia Bae, Liliana Linan, Natalia Cortes, Rebecca Julifs, Sonia Kortenkamp, Audrey Egekeze, Cristian Jimenez, Jacquelin Pistole, Jenna Yu, Julija Garunkstis, Libby Hadnett, Olivia Thompson, Vicky Zhu, Zandra Tsao Interviewers: Andrew Astorga, Henry Hasnah, Julia Hadnett, Markus Trotter, Samara Guillory, Yuta Yamada, Anastacia Washington, Amanda Gonzalez, Annie Elming, Arabella Stadvec, Hailey Rodriguez, Joie Littleton, Liliana Linan, Natalia Cortes, Sonia Kortenkamp, Audrey Egekeze, Cristian Jimenez, Matt Alcedo, Riley Parker Peer Editors: Anjelika Esteban (1-4), Liliana Linan (5-8) Graphic Designers: Erin Hall (1-4), Anjelika Esteban (5-6), Liliana Linan (7-8) Advisor: Mr. Hong Proofreaders: Mr. Marafino, Ms. Vigon- Morffi Publisher: Ms. Libbon *Please contact jhong@bmhs-la.org if you would like to advertise in our monthly newspaper.
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