October 2014 edition

in sight issue 1, volume 1 |

bishop Alemany Student Magazine

+

bucket challenge

students and teachers join for ALS cure

EXCLuSIVE INTERVIEw

David Chambers: a few moments with the man with a mission

IMPRESSING COLLEGES

A look at the prep work expected to get into today’s universities

the doc is in!

in search of dreams

David Blatter wows America and inspires students to pursue their dreams

Finding the cure for Senioritis

First Edition insight | to subscribe to this magazine, please contact us at yearbook@alemany.org | website: http://www.alemany.org/ |

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First Edition

CONTENTS 6.

Voices As One

Jacob & Matthew return to celebrated love and life through the power of music and prayer.

7.

Speakers for the House

Members of the Academic Decathlon team prepare for the Upcoming school year.

10.

BACKpack TO SCHOOL

Backpacks define student personalities

11.

Blatter’s Got Talent

Philosophy teacher competes in America’s Got Talent

12.

Unmasking the Peace Festival

sculpture class create projects for the October Peace Festival

16.

Faceblocked

Will blocking social media help students increase academic focus?

17.

Curing the Contagion

Senioritis is a virus attacking many seniors

18.

Hit With Me With Your Best Shot Fall athletes share their secrets to their success and motivation on the field and the classroom 2|

insight First Edition

insight

bishop alemany student magazine

editors Giselly Bonilla Andrea Garcia Hazel Salvador copy editor Taylor Barnett writers and photographers Yzabel Arambulo Amanda Battle Morgan Bilinski Gillian Buhlman Juliana Carbon Jarel Dadula Anjalisha Delgado Belen Garcia Lorenzo Gingco Miranda Kral Samantha Montes de Oca Kim Nuval Shana Rasho John Tannous Marielle Villacastin Xiaoyu (Lorraine) Zhang adviser Paul Apolinario Insight magazine attempts to cover the people and events of the school community as fairly, impartially, and accurately as possible. The contents of the publication focuses on coverage that will meet the interests, wants and needs of the majority of the target audience (the students and staff of Bishop Alemany High School).

The editors, staff members, and advisor reserve the right to select content and determine priorities in both photographs and written material.

They never knowingly libel, invade the privacy of, deny the rights of, or ridicule or mock an individual or group. No material that is libelous, irresponsible, and/or advocates illegal activity will be published. No material the editors or the adviser deem to be in poor taste will be printed.

Copyright © 2014 BAHS

from the editor Welcome to the first edition of Insight Insight happens when an individual begins to understand the true nature of a thing, especially through intuitive understanding

Giselly Bonilla / Editor-in-Chief For several years, Recuerdos has been a medium for covering

noticing the details around the school and amongst the students.

the events, activities, and facts concerning Bishop Alemany High School. As Editor-in-Chief of a student produced publication,

Insight’s goal is to observe the Alemany community, share

I want to share with the student body the experiences and

its wonder and provide a better understanding of its people

memories of our school beyond the annual.

and activities. It will uncover bonds, provide recognition,and constantly allow the student body to be up to date as to which

Insight is a free monthly magazine focused on the essence of the

direction our school is going towards.

unity, pride, and spirit of Bishop Alemany High School. Readers can see that the magazine is divided into six categories: News,

Here is a new medium for individuals, groups, teams, programs

Arts and Culture, Review, Commentary, and Sports. Within each

and organizations to place themselves and share their

category, there are article(s) for everyone to read and enjoy. Take

memorable experiences and give a little insight as to why their

into account that these stories are told through the eyes of our

value to Bishop Alemany High School community.

students, faculty, and staff who have a unique perspective of campus life as they share their thoughts and experiences.

Remember, each day that you step foot onto this campus will be different and be filled with life and as you embrace it today,

As the year goes by, the Insight school magazine will attempt

remember it tomorrow, and cherish it in the future.

to capture the small things done on campus, recognizing and

student magazine of alemany high school Coverage Insight covers topics, issues, events and opinions of relevance and interest to the Bishop Alemany High School community Letters Send submissions to the editor at 11111 North Alemany Drive, Mission Hills, CA 91350 or via email at yearbook@ alemany.org. Letters should be brief and signed. Letters may be rejected if libelous or obscene material is contained therin.

mission hills, california 91350 Editorials The magazine staff’s opinions will be presented in each issue in the form of editorials, which are clearly labeled and appear on the commentary pages Columns Personal opinion of the students/ staff/ faculty are expressed through by-lined columns which appear throughout the publication.

818.365.3925 Distribution Each issue of Insight can be viewed online at the school’s website, www. alemany.org. An archival copy is placed on the websiite and with the storage archives of the yearbook.

Membership Insight maintains membership with the Columbia Scholastic Press Association New York City, NY

www.alemany.org Reader Involvement Insight encourages the reader inpt through letters, guest columns and story ideas. Contact the appropriate editor for submissions. Suggestions will be given due consideration for future publication.

Copyright © 2014 BAHS

First Edition

insight | 3

September Edition

NEWS

around caMpus

upcoming

newsfeed

this week

next week

after that

It’s a busy week people!

ASB has a great Spirit Week ahead with the theme of African Safari 2014. Be there for the Pep Rally, Bonfire, Homecoming court announcements, Homecoming game vs. Bishop Amat & the Homecoming dance.

No school on Columbus Day,

< Crystal got her date, do you?

17 (periods 2,4, & 6).

October 21 - Seniors leave for

Kairos 129 Oct 23 - Great California Shakeout Oct 24 - Seniors take the

ASVAB test Oct 25 - ACT will be at Alemany Oct 27-31 Red Ribbon week Oct 27 - Juniors leave for

Discipleship retreeat Oct 28 Exceptional Halloween Dance

insight First Edition

October 13, but its not a day to relax. Underclassmen have the APIRE & PSAT, while seniors attend career talks.

On Wednesday, there is a WOLF CREEK family dinner night. Quarter exams are scheduled for October 16 (periods 1,3, & 5) and October

A QUICK LOOK AROUND CAMPUS

School began on August 13 for the class of 2018. The latest first years of Alemany were escorted to classes by the members of the Be My Buddy program as well as teachers, faculty and staff whom they met along the way to their classrooms. The all student orientation came on the following day. *** ASB organized another successful backto-school Luau on Sept 16 from 7:3010:30 pm. This annual event is a great social kick-off for so many students who may not have seen each other since the end of the school year in June. *** On August 23, 2014, the Alemany Football Boosters kicked off their 2nd Annual BBQ fundraiser. 400 people attended this fun-filled event for all ages which included a jumper, mechanical bull, and a silent auction. The event started off with the blessing of the food

by Mr. David Urbach, Alemany’s Athletic Director. Mr. Chambers, Alemany’s new principal, then proceeded with an speech to pique everyone’s excitement for the upcoming football season. Attendees, which included football players, 4|

THINGS TO DO IN THE WEEKS AHEAD

cheerleaders, the coaches, and their families, enjoyed catered food which consisted of barbecued chicken, ribs, and roast beef. *** On September 9, Kairos 128 lef the Alemany Campus with 44 seniors, 4 teachers, & Fr. Norm to meet Mr. Coito and the rest of the peer leaders for the senior four-day retreat at St. Mary’s Seminary in Santa Barbara, CA. *** Mary Chase’s 1944 Pulitzer prize winning play “Harvey” opened on September 26. The Alemay Players, directed by Mr. Lowell Thomas and Mrs. Virginia Alkazian, tell the story of Elwood P. Dowd who claims to be friends with a “pooka,” a tall imaginary rabbit whom he calls Harvey. In this comedy of errors the

audience is greeted with a heartwarming and funny tale that, in the end, changes the family for the better. *** We had a very successful Back-toSchool-Night. Our faculty, staff, and alog with the students helped new and returning parents find their way around our huge campus. *** Sept 29- Oct 1 opened the eyes and hearts of many juniors who attended the Discipleship retreat. *** Amit Dodani, founder of My Name, My Story, shares the inspirations behind his goal to create “One Million Stories that Inspire!” during a special assembly on on October 1 as part of the St. Francis Peace Festival.

Harvey is a pooka, which is primarily a creature of Irish folklore. Harvey is considered to be a messenger of both of good and bad fortune. Pooka creatures were said to be shape changers which could take the appearance of black horses, goats and rabbits.

NEWS | Around Campus

the appointment of the newest principal at bishop alemany high school

Our best days are ahead of us

THE MOMENT

I have never felt so welcomed in my life as I have since I began here at Bishop Alemany. Mrs. Galla and Mr. Thompson have been a tremendous help to me by allowing me to settle in while learning all about our Alemany environment. I am very blessed to have such a talented professional staff.

THE MAN

This is my eighteenth year as a principal. As weird as it seems, I have been a principal longer than most students in the school have been alive. I started teaching in 1982 and became a principal in 1997.

I was an English teacher for seven years and I was a yearbook moderator for three years, back in the late 1980s, before computer support.

THE MISSION

Mr. David Chambers welcomed Editor-in-chief Giselly Bonilla a wonderful interview where she learned about the man who now heads the community of 11111 Alemany Drive.

We should always grow in every aspect of our lives. Our spiritual life is our foundation.

Everything flows from that.

From the start of each day and each class and through to the last bell, we are a Catholic high school, proud of our values and faith. No high school does that better than Bishop Alemany.

We will always grow in our faith and tradition, and we are on a wonderful spiritual trajectory.

First Edition

insight | 5

NEWS | Around Campus

Voices as One J acob and matthew return to B ishop alemany to celebrate who we love , who we live for and who loves us back The September fourth mass brought such vibrant and energetic sounds by the Jacob and Matthew Band.

For fifive years, the band has been returning back each year to play at our masses. Through their soothing tunes and lyrics they teach our students their bands ministry,and lead us to become closer with God at mass.

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insight First Edition

The band closes the mass off with a spirited and lively song,as the whole student body gets involved with their resounding chants “We all had great energy and you could feel the students were involved with the song” said

by Ellie Dever. The bands songs give glory to God, and are inspired by the bands personal journeys and struggles.

As a band they have been together for ten years “We’ve had a lot of growth and experiences, and are always excited to lead teens, young adults into a deeper understanding of what their ministry is and leading them closer to Christ through music and with our prayer” says Jacob Villalobos.

NEWS | Around Campus

speakers for the house M embers of A lemany ’ s D ecathlon T eam give their take on early preparations for the upcoming year In the first week of June, Alemany students rejoiced as they began their summer vacation. However, the next school year was just beginning for prospective decathletes.

The decathletes had a long summer ahead of them. “It was definitely tough having to apply myself during the summer,” says Frank Parra (12). “I didn’t know if I had the discipline to do it, but I did it.”

Summer has passed and the pressure is on for those trying to make the team. Imagine several brilliant students all vying for three

the subject

“New Alternatives in Energy: Ingenuity and Innovation”: this year’s theme entails an ever-evolving world in the subjects of science, literature, art, music, social science,economics, and mathematics.

spots in each division of the team.

Senior Johnny Johnson acknowledges this in reference to the B-team.

“The competition is definitely stiff, especially with people like Carter (Randolph)and Mitchell (Riek) on the team,” says Johnny. “They’re like the leaders of the team but I’m doing my best to match up.”

(12). “If I put in the same amount of work into Acadeca, I’m confident that I can earn a spot in the team.”

Inside of those abnormally large binders that they carry around contains the information they need to make the team. Determination is what gets them to open up those binders and study. “I put a lot of work into cross country,”says Jack Brady

By the looks of it, the coaches surely have some tough decisions to make with regards to who makes the team. Without a doubt,they have a lot of options to choose from in order to build a dream team of scholars and have yet another successful year.

the

curricul um

A

the teams

Those who excel in academics fit the Honors category.

Knowledge is the name of the game. Knowledge is what they crave for. A GPA of 3.75 and above is necessary.

the instructors

Ryan Songco - AP English Michael Taylor - AP Physics/ Calculus Sharon Veenhof - Science department Chair, AP Chemistry

C

Veterans of the Decathlon team are also taking notice of the hard work being put in. “Their work ethic is impressive,” says Mitchell Riek(12).

“We’re definitely in for a great year.”

B

In order to fit the Scholastic category, a GPA between 3.00-3.74 is required. They are determined to win. Their mental stamina is spectacular.

Anyone with a GPA below 3.00 fits this category.

However, grades do not define intelligence; this bunch is every bit as astute as the other decathletes. This is the Varsity category.

First Edition

insight | 7

NEWS | Around Campus The new

Chambers’ appointment signals a THE MOMENT

I h a ve n ever seen a ca mp u s so bea u t i f u l a n d con du ci ve to l ea r n i n g . . . a n a t m os p here where ever y st u d ent i s su p p or ted sp i r i t u a l l y, p hys i ca l l y, a ca d em i ca l l y, c rea t i vel y, a n d e m ot i on a l l y.

W ho ca n b l a m e me for b ei n g e xci ted a bou t th e yea r s a hea d ?

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insight First Edition

I felt humbled, excited, and challenged. You see, Bishop Alemany is the largest Archdiocesan high school in Los Angeles. It’s what we call the “flagship” school of the Archdiocese. So here we have Alemany, the largest school in the largest Archdiocesan high school district in the United States. Who wouldn’t be excited and humbled? I was also a little nervous. I was at

THE MAN I am a very collaborative principal.

I believe that every teacher, staff member, and student is excellent and has a unique perspective on how things should get done. My job as principal is not to come up with all the answers but to organize this superb group of professionals, students, and parents to capture all of their gifts and allow them to be brought to bear on the challenges

THE MISSION With the guidance of Father Norm, our Campus Ministry, Christian Leadership, Religion faculty, student body, I see our faith exceeding throughout the years ahead.

Academically, we are on the move.

Our AP scores and the percentage of our students taking them are the highest in the San Fernando Valley. Our acceptances to four-year universities and colleges are second

Getting to know the new principal

principal

In his own words...

a new era for Alemany

Favorite restaurant?

Ruby’s Best vacation?

Yellowstone Park

my previous school for 26 years. I hoped that the teachers and students at Bishop Alemany would welcome me, and wow…they certainly did, everyone. Also, I worked with my wife at my previous school for all of those years. For the first time since we met we now work in different places. Driving into work alone is a very new experience and I knew I would miss that. However, I have to say, I wouldn’t trade being at Bishop Alemany for any position in the world.

I am very grateful that I have the opportunity to be here with all of you.

It’s you who make this position so fulfilling.

The road to the principal’s office

Favorite artist Andrew Wyeth (Painter) Beatles / Tom Petty / Bruce Springsteen / Cowboy Junkies Favorite movie I love too many to choose…but my favorite TV is Breaking Bad & The Border

•

Graduate of Arcadia High School

•

Received bachelor’s and master’s

People you admire most (historical

degree on Speech pathology and

and current)

audiology at Cal State L.A

Martin Luther King, Mother Theresa,

Currently working on his doctoral

Father Richard Rohr, Abraham Lincoln

•

degree on Educational Leadership at

that we face. Most people will not be surprised by my decisions because I have worked with people to arrive to that conclusion. All of us alone are smart…All of us together are brilliant and cannot be defeated because we present to any challenge the very best of ourselves. Alone we may be a good student, teacher, or principal…but together, we are the Alemany Warriors who collectively clear a path to the brightest future possible for everyone here.

•

Loyola Marymount University

Favorite sport to play

Became principal at Cantwell-

Basketball

Sacred Heart of Mary High School •

in 1997

Book/s on your nightstand

As a principal he increased enroll-

Right now…all Educational journals &

ment from 380 to 650 after a 20

school books

year decline.

• •

Revitalization of academic program

Best place to relax

and campus ministry.

At home with my wife

Revitalization of athletic programs, winning three Cantwell CiF Cham-

Favorite sport to watch

pionships for the first time in the

Football

school’s 50 year history Dream job as a kid?

Teacher

to none. Our Academic Decathlon continues to be a powerhouse along with our Speech and Debate teams.

Our accreditations have consistently been for a full 6-year term, the longest allowed by the Western Association of Schoos and Colleges and the Western Catholic Educational Association. We will continue to look at assessment data and grow each and every year as our accreditation has shown we continue to do. In Athletics, Bishop Alemany have the highest

ranked teams in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and in the top ten in the State of California. We will continue to grow in every sport establish new ones down the line. We are consistently Division One in more sports than any other school. From Football to Softball, we are determined to offer the finest offering of athletics of any school anywhere, now and forever. I will continue to expand the legacy Bishop Alemany High School has created for themselves.

Favorite quote of all time?

It’s never too late in the day to start over.

Favorite fictional character?

Sherlock Holmes Favorite genre of music?

Rock Favorite historical character?

Theodore Roosevelt

First Edition

insight | 9

bACKPACKS IN STyLE

CULTURE | Around Campus

By Gillian BUhlman

I T I S SA I D T H AT “ I T ’ S W H AT O N T H E I N S I D E T H AT CO U N T S ” A N D T H I S I S S O T R U E O F T H E M A N Y B AC K PAC K S T H AT H E L P D E F I N E T H E P E R S O N A L I T Y O F A S T U D E N T To most of us, our backpacks are just what we

helped him minimize the amount of unneeded

carry our school supplies in. They’re where we

items in his bag.

keep our iPads, notebooks, and pens, but we don’t usually give backpacks muchthought. To

Alex Otto loves her mickey mouse inspired

seniors natalia mendoza, Garrett Hernandez,

backpack because it lets people know how much

Alex Otto, keenan O’Connell, and roxanne Baker,

she loves Disney. Asfor her favorite feature, Alex

however, their unique backpacks are a way of

exclaims, “the mickey ears are pockets!”

expressing themselves andstanding out. keenan O’Connell onlywears his Adventure Since natalia mendoza only had to carry around her iPad this year, she decided togo for a

Time backpack on Wednesdays because he borrows it from his friend incollege.

smaller bag. In regards to choosing her dinosaur backpack, natalia says “I saw it andthought it

roxanne Baker explained that senior year

was funny. And I like to stand out. It also came

helped motivate her to get her kitten backpack.

with a matching lunchbox, so I thoughtit was

“Freshman year I was probably a little scared to

cute.”

do something like this, but it’s my last year so why not?” Although it’s their last year in high

Garret Hernandez also went for a backpack which he described as “tiny andpetite,” that 10 |

insight First Edition

school, these seniors aren’t afraid togo out in style.

by kim nuval and marielle Villacastin

Blatter’s got talent

culture | Around Campus

P hilosophy T eacher by Day, M agician by N ight David Blatter is not your ordinary philosophy

that he has always been regardless if be became

teacher, Blatter works side by side with his

famous or not.” Said Ladage. He wasn’t so focused

fellow magician friend, Leeman Parker. Together

on strictly magic, but found a way to make the

they are David and Leeman! These two men

audience laugh as well. Blatter also collaborated a

are talented magicians that had the opportunity to

way to incorporate the judges into his tricks

share their passion for magic live on America’s

which was a big crowd pleaser. One trick that

Got Talent. Their tricks are more than what what

was performed made one of the judges, Howie

meets the eye. They boggle your mind! Blatter

illiterate.

is a former alumni and has been a teacher at the

Carter Yankee (12) adds, “It was exciting to

Alemany campus for many years. As a teacher

see his tricks, and even more exciting to see my

he is able to collaborate both his teaching skills

freshman religion teacher on live television!”

with his magic skills, making his performances

Watching Blatter on television was exciting for

breath taking. Blatter has impressed thousands of

many of the Alemany faculty and students! Blatter

fans with his tricks, one of those fans happens

and Parker were able to combine comedy and

to be our very own, Holland Ladage (12).

magic brilliantly. With full support from family,

Although Holland did not have Blatter as a

friends, and the Alemany community our love was

teacher she watched every performance on

evident through weekly votes. Fortunate enough

TV and learned more about Blatter and Leeman

to make it through the semi-finals, Blatter’s

through their personal twitter and the Alemany

performance truly inspires people to chase after

Instagram page. “Seeing him on television

their dreams and go for what they want to do in

honestly didn’t change my opinion of him. I still

life. We are so proud to have Blatter as a part of

thought he was the amazing and funny person

our Alemany Family.

watching him

perform truly inspired not only me, but other people

to chase after their dreams David and L eeman http://www.davidandleeman.com/ First Edition

insight | 11

FINE ARTS | Around Campus

It’s More than Every year around October, the St. Francis Peace Festival happens thanks to Mr. Crespo and his sculpture class.

The class spends weeks upon weeks sculpting the masks out of clay, paper mâché-ing, and painting. So much hard work goes into these masks for an unforgettable mass. “I love working with clay because it is something you can literally make into any shape you want making such useful material for modeling these masks,” says Nolan Shaffer (12.) the students work in partners to speed the process up. “My favorite part of the project is working with my good friend,” adds Shaffer.

The students are all so eager to see their masterpieces on display for the entire student body and staff. “I know I’ll be very proud to see my project on display,” says Nayelii Mejia (11.) Although this process and presentation is new to freshman, they are excited as well.

“I don’t know what to expect,” says Blake Bilinski (9.) “It will be cool to see what the hype is all about,”adds Bilinski.

The students work harder and harder as the days go by to prepare for the festival. Countless hours are put into these masks and the artists all can’t wait to see their finished project being presented.

12 |

insight First Edition

come support

WATER

wARRIOR ATHLETICS football Oct 02

vs. Chaminade

Oct 10

vs bishop Amat

Oct 17

vs Loyola @ LA Valley College

Oct 24

vs Serra

Oct 31

vs Notre Dame @ NDHS

water Polo Oct 02

vs beverly Hills

Oct 08

vs Notre Dame @NDHS

Oct 15

vs Harvard/ westlake

Oct 22

vs Loyola

Oct 29

vs Crespi @ Crespi

Girls Golf

Shaffer says, “I am absolutely excited for it. It

Oct 02

vs. fHSA

will be awesome to see my hard work being

Oct 09

vs. NDHS @ Hansen Dam

used during the mass as a way to express

Oct 16

vs. Louisville

the word of God in a more visual aspect

Oct 20

versus just hearing the priest or deacon reading it to us.”

Brandon Ponticelli (12,) says “Yes, I am excited for the Peace Festival because I am going to be a part of it by presenting my project in the mass.”

Team final/ Individual Qualifier

Oct 23

vs. Mission League finals

Cross Country Oct 02

Cluster Meet @ CV Park

Oct 04

vs. San Gabriel @ Mt. Sac

Oct 11

vs. Clovis or Santa Clarita

Oct 24

vs. Mt. Sac Invitational

mr. Don Levan said that, “each year I look

Girls Tennis

forward to the short play we do about some

Oct 02

aspect of the life of St. Francis. His life was

vs. Immaculate Heart @ Riverside Courts

so impactful upon the earth and the church

Oct 07

vs. Chaminade @ warner Ctr

and I love getting to know more about him.

Oct 13

vs. fHSA @freemont Park

He was truly Christian in the way he lived as

Oct 16

vs. Chaminade

Jesus did.”

Oct 23

vs. ND Academy @ Culver

Oct 28

vs. Immaculate Heart

The day is coming closer and closer and the

Oct 30

vs. flintridge

student body has no idea what to expect from the work that the class has been doing.

The class is excited and cannot wait to show everyone the hard work and dedication they have put into these masks.

Girls Volleyball Oct 01

vs. Chaminade

Oct 07

vs. Immaculate Heart @IH

Oct 09

vs. ND Academy

Oct 14

vs. Louisville @ Louisville

Oct 21

vs. Chaminade @ Chaminade

Oct 23

vs. Immaculate Heart

Oct 28

vs. ND Academy @ NHA

Oct 30

vs. Louisville

First Edition

insight | 13

PERSPECTIVES | On Key Issues

By JarEl dadUla

IMPRESSING THE COLLEGES Taking an advanced placement

in A.P. Spanish Language,she sees

student is required take are

course can stress out anyone, but

it as a way of bettering herself in

upon many of us. The Scholastic

so many are willing do it. You go

the future. She passionately holds

Aptitude, commonly known as

into the class knowing that you

this an opportunity that allows her

the SAT, or the American College

have to take a long examination

to openly expose herself to the

Test, ACT, is coming closer than

that requires at least a score of

new language.

you expect it is and, we need to prepare. This mostly determines

three to pass. On top of that, your teacher gives you a massive

Alyssa Villela (11) says, “It

the future college that will be

amount of work that is suppose to

forces me to think critically and

attending and, each individual has

prepare you. Lastly, you have the

allows me to test myself and my

their own techniques in studying

extra after school and Saturday

skills. It also gives me that extra

for the exam. As a high school

classes that you need to attend.

boost I need when I am applying

students, we need all the help

now, why would students take the

to colleges.” The way the courses

we get can get. We have so many

risk of stressing themselves out so

challenges students changes their

available resources that we can

much?

mind set to think critically and

take advantage of, which includes

analytically, which benefits the

prep books, extra classes, tutors,

person. If students pass the A.P

or even talking to your counselor

like to push myself to see what

exam in the spring, it does appeal

about it. You also cannot forget

I am capable of... What better

to many colleges and gives the

about PSAT you take during school

way to live than to learn about

applicants the upper hand when

as a benefit of being a junior. The

life and what it holds, including

applying to them but, it won’t be

SAT and ACT are approaching and,

that doorway to the new world

the only major exam students

we must be ready for when it

otherwise known as a new

take.

finally arrives.

Victoria rivas (11) responds, “I

language.” As she requires a tremendous amount of knowledge

14 |

insight First Edition

The dreadful exams that every

PERSPECTIVES | On Key Issues

d e k c o l facebook b

P rof ou nd changes with internet use “Knowing that I can’t use social media has helped me to focus more in my classes and I saw achange in my grades,” said Steven Valdez (12).

By Andrea Garcia and Hazel Salvador

With the blocking of social media

sites like Instagram and Pinterest

added distraction of social media,

at school, students and teachers

anymore,” said Kathryn Mendoza

students have been able to put in

have noticed striking changes in

(11).

more time into their schoolwork, although some teachers feel that

learning quality and academic performance. Social media sites

The benefits of the media block

more needs to be done about

like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,

are noticeable even to the

the distractions. “There are less

and Tumblr have become an

teachers, who sense a growth

distractions but it’s not gone.

outlet for people to engage

of productivity and focus in

There are fewer things that the

in various forms of personal

their students. “It does increase

students can do,” said Sharon

sharing through blog posts,

productivity because it helps

Veenhof.

status updates, and discussions.

keep students focused on

However, these mediums

what’s important - education

Nonetheless, students’ grades

can be a form of distraction

and learning. I think [the media

were still impacted positively

especially in the classroom.

block] is fair because it’s only

by the media block, and their

“After the technology group

blocked at school, so they can

attention and focus will only

blocked those websites, I was

have a social life on their own

continue to grow from there.

not tempted to use my iPad for

time” said Nick Sithi. Without the

First Edition

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REVIEWS | [ Concert Reviews ]

TICKETS TO JAM In early April, Krysta Salas (11) and four of her friends bought tickets to Panic! At the Disco and excitedly waited four months for the day of the concert to come. She remembers that “I had a lot of homework that night and then a test the day after the concert. My friends and I did some work before going to the Emily Borchardt(10) set aside

Greek Theatre and then afterwards we all slept over at my friend’s

her homework and went to see

houseand studied all night.”

One Direction at the RoseBowl in early September with her longtime friends April Adams (11) and

Justin Tannous (11) and his brother, John Tannous (12) made

Taylor Adams (11). “We got front

the most of their last weeks of summer and went to an

row seats and it was the most

Eminem concert. The two brothers have loved the rapper since the

amazingexperience because I got to

release of “Drop the World” in 2009 and when Eminem walked on

see them performing up close.”

stage, John Tannous says, “I was frozen.

[ Television Reviews ]

[ Smart Phone Reviews ]

long

storyshort

the GOOD American Horror Story How to Get Away with Murder Gotham Modern Family

the So-SO Duck Dynasty Catfish Grey’s Anatomy Big Bang Theory Scorpion the bAD Vampire Diaries Keeping Up with the Kardasians Teen Wolf Real Housewives Survivor

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galaxy s5 vs iphone 6

  

DESIGN

Although it lacks the aluminium case, the slightly heavier galaxy boast a Android TouchWiz UI and is water and dust resistant.

DISPLAy

With a comfortable 5.1 inch display and a higher resolution and pixel densitiy the galaxy outclasses the iPhone CAMERA

Although both have similar features, the Galaxy’s 16 megapixels dominates the iPhone’ 8 megapixels

COMMENTARy | On student affairs

CURING THE CONTAGION

T H E R E A L R E M E DY FO R CO M BAT T I N G SENIORITIS

By Taylor BarnETT

Se n ior itis : n o u n. A c rippling d isease t h at st r i kes h i gh s ch o ol s eniors. Sy mpt oms may in c l ude, b ut are n ot l im ited to, ext remelaziness, excessi ve use o f swea tp a nts , a nd serious procrast inat i o n . T h e o n l y k n ow n cu re s o f ar is Grad uat ion.

However, some students

the inevitable laziness of senior

at Bishop Alemany High

year she insists that with all of

School have discovered a

her extracurricular activities she

cure: determination. Senior,

does not have time to slack off.

karen reyes, aspires to be a

Another senior, nick Olesh who

biochemical engineer. With her

wants to be an entrepreneur,

eyes set on schools like rice

swears that extracurricular are

university and university of

the key to not having senioritis.

Pennsylvania, her focus allows

Always busy with ASB, varsity

her to continue on such an

athletics, Christian leadership,

intense path. reyes insists that

and Alemany ambassadors,

motivation is key. Her motivation

Olesh insists that his

comes from telling herself “that

involvement in those activities

the feeling of getting accepted

is the reason for his success in

to college is going to be worth it

school. “By being more active at

all in the end.” When asked how

school, I am able to focus more

she has prevented herself from

in school.”

5 steps to stop senioritis 1. Stay Focused! Se

nior year still matte

2. Get involved on

rs.

activities there wo

campus. With all of nt be anytime to be

3. Don’t procrasti

nate! Work out a tim

lazy.

e

schedule so every

thing isn’t done all

once.

those

at

4. Be surrounded

by motivated peop le.

Their motivation wi ll be inspiring!

5. Don’t regret the report card- work hard to keep up those grades!

Tryouts will be on

Alemany Players

Winter Theatrical Performance

October 29, 30, 31 contact Mr. Thomas & Mrs Alkazian for more information

First Edition

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First Edition

SPORTS

HIT ME WITH fAL L ATHL ET ES SH ARE TH E SECRETS TO T HE I R S u C C ES S ON T HE f I EL D AN D I N T HE C L ASS R O O M

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challenge on the field It’s my mental game. It’s hard to keep focused sometimes especially if I make a bad shot. I always try to stay positive and it helps when my team mates are there for me keeping my spirits up.

challenge on the field to stay positive no matter what and lead the team by example. I am challenged every practice and pushed to be the best I can be.

challenge on the field The greatest challenge while running is ignoring the pain you feel to keep on going and finish the race.

challenge in the class Not only is balancing my classes, homework, and golf hard, but I’m always trying to catch up with meetings, events, and even friends.

challenge in the class As a student athlete I have to manage my time and plan wisely to make sure I have enough homework time and study time. It is challenging to balance school and sports.

challenge in the class My challenges of balancing school and my sport is setting aside the time when I get home to finish my homework every day after practice.

Looking forward I am really looking forward to trying to make the CIF playoffs, not only individually but with my team. I feel that this year there is a really good chance of us going to the playoffs.

I’m so excited and I really hope we can pull through!

Looking forward The seniors are sad its our last year but are working so hard to make it an amazing. We are so excited and thankful for all the new coaches who push us and believe in us.

Looking forward This season I am looking forward to CIF prelims because this is one of the best cross country teams Alemany has ever seen and we might just make it to CIF finals.

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your best shot

By Amanda Battle & Belen Garcia

Challenge on the field Since I injured my right shoulder, I am challenged with learning to use my left arm. I have had to learn to defend, pass, and shoot with my left and being that I am not used to it, it makes it harder to keep up in the pool.

Challenge on the field On the field I move too fast and sometimes my linemen can’t keep up with me, so my coach always reminds me to be more patient.

Challenge on the field Tennis is a mental game, you have to think one step ahead of your opponent.I play doubles so my partner and I have some miscommunications but in the end we work it out and play our hearts out.

Challenge in the class Juggling homework and water polo is a difficult task, having a primary class as my 6th period, I have often found myself working twice as hard just to keep up.

Challenge in the class Balancing my school work and sport is probably the most difficult because as you know we get out late and it leaves us minimum time to do our homework

Challenge in the class Having enough time and energy to study and do homework after a practice or game is always a challenge.

Looking forward I am looking forward to league, our team is doing better this year than it has in a long time, we are all hoping for a shot at CIF which Alemany water polo has not been to in years.

Looking forward I’m excited about helping my teammates get recruited by doing well in the games. Another thing would have to be finally reaching CIF and THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP. I think our team has what it takes this year to make history.

Looking forward I’m looking forward to getting closer with my team. I can’t wait to work hard with my doubles partner and dominate on the courts. I just want to make my last season the best!

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SPORTS | On Campus

PIXARperfect pep RALLY “I can ’t b elieve it has finally all come together ,” Y za b el Aram b u lo,1 1 , say s as she admires all the work that has gone into this rally f rom the b leachers .

As Alex Otto (12), dressed up as a lovable

last year as treasurer of the senior class.

laughing about it afterwards, so it’s a lot

Pixar character from the movie Up, looks

However, it wasn’t exactly a one-person

of fun.” Between the giant letters, videos,

over the gym minutes before the kick

job. Alemany’s associated student body

character posters, and themed games, it’s

off pep-rally of the fall season, her smile

worked tirelessly before and after school

obvious that Alemany doesn’t do things

widens. She, along with many other

for weeks before the rally, making sure that

half way. All in

dedicated ASB officers, has been out of

every detail was perfect.

all, ASB’s hard

class all day, hanging posters, checking videos, and doing dry runs to make sure

work resulted Carissa Awakian, (11) said how she liked

in a great kick

the set up, “We all have to work together

off to a soon to

been dreaming of this moment since she

to accomplish something, and we drive

be successful

won student elections back in May of

each other crazy, but we always end up

season.

Starting OFF Right

everything goes off without a hitch. She’d

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Girl’s volleyball initiate their season with challenging practices and practiced sportsmanship volleyball teams looks bright.Student, Lauren Panganiban (10), shares her opinion on the new coaches by saying, “They are dedicated to winning and they’re determined to give us the best season they can.” On September 20, the girls frosh/soph team had a tournament at Burbank high school where they made it to the Gold level. During their last set, libero Ileana Gacyk (10) suddenly sprained her ankle and had to sit out the rest of the game, get still managed to show true sportsmanship even with The start of the season for the girls volleyball teams so far has proven to be both challenging yet rewarding for the girls. They work extremely hard at each practice performing drills such as wall touches, suicides, and the Frosh Soph team’s favorite: Monday “Fun” Run Day. With new coaches this year, the future for all of the girls

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tears running from her eyes from the pain. She claims, “When I sprained my ankle I didn’t know what to feel but I immediately knew that I was hurt but it was really important for me to continue cheering my team on because they’re like my second family and I know I should always support them”.

SPORTS | On Campus

fREEZING fOR CHARITy C O A C HES AN D STuDENTS GET TH EIR fREEzE ON TO HE L P f I N D A CuRE f OR ALS A trend that was started in late 2014 by Pete

ALS have to take in their lives. However some

Frates known as the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

students here at Alemany have seen ALS first

has Alemany students, coaches, and teachers

hand in their own homes and had a reasoning

throwing buckets of cold icy water on each

behind why they did this challenge. Xiomara

other almost every day. norman randall

Vidal-marquez (10) and hercousins all did

DuBois III (12) who was one of the students

the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge in memory

who was seen on the Alemany Instagram

of her lategrandfather who suffered from

nominated “the man himself” mr. Chambers

ALS. “A year ago today no one knew what

states, “This was a challenge designed to

ALS was but because of this challenge, my

raise awareness and funds for a good cause.”

grandfather’s passing didn’t go out in silence,”

The whole idea of this challenge is for others

said Vidal-marquez.

to experience the challenge that people with

MORNING WAffLES C ROSS C OuN T Ry'STASTy MO RNING TRA D I T I ON After they run in the cool brisk

“neumann likes to put a bunch of oats

morning, the cross country team

andbananas in them which makes

returns to school to be greeted by

them tastedelicious and extra healthy”.

a nice warm shower and a delicious

new runners are surprised when they

crisp waffle. Like most runners

find out about theseglorious wafles

on Alemany’s Cross country team

first time runner Jack Gillespie said “I

Andrew Garza(10) tells us as he takes

was happy I didn’t know we got wafles

his first bite into his waffle that they

my first time”. These magicalwafles

are “the highlight of my day”. not

encourage more runners to join

only are these wafles deliciously

crosscountry and inspire to exercise

good but also incredibly healthyCross

and fall in lovewith the sport.

Country Captain Jack Brady(12) tellsus

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Back to School!

Q S E T U S N W H I S S W B Z Q U B K T G K Z T B J A

E J T B X U D F E M J Q A O V K K M E T R Z E J W J U

S S O N C J X N J F Y W R H Z O P B R O J A H M N I G

Y K I G E P I W E Z U C R Q W M W B A U C H Q G D A O

R M C J I D H N O I Y W I L B I Q P S H U T Y Z R W C

ALEMANY APPLE ART AUTUMN BACKPACKS BOOKS CHAMBERS COLD ENGLISH ERASERS

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O I C A V O U P E Q R Q O E Z F Y H E X Z A N L B M X

T F P F P K V T Q N E F R P W V Y R R B C M W Y E G C

S O C X P K N N S K H R S N U V S M S M D C T Z P J W

I Y M E T S C U O S O O F L V D E P T L T X J P B L B

H K N P L M G A M R M Z B M E Q W B O D H X E I T X M

C D B B U R S O B E D X Y C C J H C Q A Q B O M U Q G

A V W G K O S C I E N C E F U J C E B V U H S Z A M W

Q L T U P F L I J R W C N G A Q G K R D S M O Z H M V

I K E W E I H E K M X R Y J N Z B H U I D H S F X X G

FOOTBALL FRIENDS HISTORY LUNCHBOX MASCOT MATH PENCILS PEPRALLY RELIGION SCIENCE

T I E M R N N T M W K U C O M W K O L H B R W V G T Y

O N P Z A U H F G F R C I H P I T G K G C F L E G K D

W H R M M N S B P T L G J Z Y M N X L Z I U P D C K J

S N E K I S Y C P W I X V B T E L P U A Q E M U F K Y

L W N N P O T V U L Q H I E Z N L X B R N A A H G P G

K Q E O O E E V E E C A H S L M F P V C I H S O S V J

A F R W G S L R W I G Z P M X A M O I C C U C Z L R J

W T M N B O O K S S G Z K P R S A L O Q D Z O U Y K Z

S D N I Z X O B H C N U L M L Q S N M T D D T V U O E

SPORTS STUDENTS TEACHERS UNIFORMS WARRIORS Â

N M U T U A I C J L C I L G X E O D W X B H S J Z I S

R Z H O J M B M V G I F S O R Q T N C W K A K K C Z I

W Q N K Y T J F U R X Y S F I G H C E L H I L E A Z M

P E P R A L L Y H Z E C S Z L S R E B M A H C L Z G S