Author: Karen Hiles

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2026 Downe House Students

By Khloe Koontz and Chloe Bressler

Photo 1: Willow, Tilly, Carlota, and Uwai smile for a picture at Carmel Beach.

Each year, students at Catalina can apply to several exchange programs that, if accepted, can take them thousands of miles away from home. These programs are an amazing opportunity for students to experience a completely different country and culture. Not only do students get to be an exchange student at another school, but they also have the privilege of hosting their exchange sister in Monterey and showing her around our very own Santa Catalina!

One exchange happening this year is with one of Catalina’s sister schools, Downe House. Downe House is an independent boarding and day all-girls school in Cold Ash, near Newbury inBerkshire, England. Carlota, Tilly, Uwai, and Willow are the four Downe House exchange students this year, and they’re paired with sophomores Chloe, Effie, Isabel, and Khloe, respectively.

All of the students participating in the exchange have had an exciting few weeks, trying to fit in as many classic American experiences as possible. To find out more about the perspective of an exchange student from a different country, and really hear how experiencing Catalina, as well as California, for the first time feels, we sat down with the Downe House girls to hear a little bit more about what it’s really like to trade the English countryside for the Monterey coast.

What were you most excited about when coming to America?

Tilly: “When I first came to America, I was excited to meet all the new people, and try all of the new foods that I can’t get in England, as well as being in a different school and seeing the differences between ours and theirs […] I also heard that there was an aquarium, and I wanted to go there– and we did! So, I was very excited to see all the otters!”

What’s the biggest difference you’ve noticed between American and British schools?

Willow: “I think the biggest difference I’ve noticed was how different the lesson style is. Everyone works a lot more collaboratively; you focus more on working in groups, and your teachers talk to you more in lessons, so you are kinda all working together. In England, […] the teacher just talks to you, and you just have to fill in the worksheets.”

What has been your favorite food that you have tried while you have been here?

Carlota: “I really liked the corn dogs we tried at the Wharf.”

Uwai: “For school food, it would be the orange chicken, but for fast food, definitely Chick-fil-A!”

Tilly: “In-N-Out for sure, but I also really liked the school’s poke bowls!”

Photo 2: Willow, Isabel (host), Carlota, Uwai, and Tilly try In-N-Out for the first time in Seaside.

What are some of the most asked questions while you’ve been here?

Willow: “We get asked about our different phrases and language. A lot of people have asked us to say things like ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘bottle of water.’ We also get asked how long we are staying in America, our school food in the UK vs. the US, how much phone time we have in the dorms at home, school life in the UK, and about where we live and how England is different from America.”

What are you most excited to tell your friends and family about your exchange when you get back to England?

Tilly: “I’m excited to tell them about all the friends and memories I’ve made, along with all the foods I’ve tried. I also can’t wait to bring back all my souvenirs from the trip, including some saltwater taffy I bought for my dad to try! Also, I can’t wait to tell them about all the weekend activities we did in more detail than over the phone, how different the curriculum is, and how beautiful the school is.”

What has been the biggest culture shock while you have been here?

Uwai: “The biggest culture shock since being here has probably just been the way that you guys do school here. For example, you guys do algebra, geometry, and calculus. While in the UK, we just do math. Also, in England we drive on the left side of the road, but here in America you drive on the right. Also, especially in the area you live in around Monterey, there’s a lot more scenery to see, whereas in England we have more cities and more London-like areas. And I love that in this school you are allowed to go out!”

What has been the most unexpected thing that you have witnessed in America?

Carlota: “The most unexpected thing from America is the food portions. There is no way people actually finish those in one sitting.”

What do you miss most about England that we don’t have here in the US?

Uwai: “Everything in America is better! I can’t think of anything I miss.”

Tilly: “I like my cups of tea, okay!”

Willow: “I miss the countryside and the woods.”

What will you miss most when you leave America?

Uwai: “When I leave America, I will miss all the food you have here, all the people I’ve made friends with, all the memories here, and everything in America that is so great. These past two weeks have genuinely been so exciting, and we thank everyone who has made this experience heartfelt and wonderful.”

Willow: “I’m gonna miss all my friends I’ve made, and I’m also gonna miss all the opportunities you guys have here. Like all the American things! And yeah!”

Uwai: “Yeah, we have met so many people here, and they are all so nice!”

As the Downe house girls prepare to return to England, they bring with them more than just souvenirs and jetlag. From new friendships to experiences that they may never have had back home, their exchange has given them a glimpse into a different way of life, and hopefully, a reason to return someday.

Photo 3: Willow, Tilly, Uwai, and Carlota look at jellyfish at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

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Exotic Pets on Campus

By Elianna Guadalupe

We have all gotten the opportunity to greet the pets (mostly dogs) on our campus now and then, and we can all agree that they are some of the cutest things to roam the earth! So many shapes, sizes, and breeds to hug and squeeze and—ahem…back to the topic. Of course, each of these beautiful creatures has their own unique characteristics, starting with their names! Yes, names! Have you ever walked up to someone and asked what their dog’s name was? Surely you have! And you would usually only get one name in reply, correct? Well, at first, you would receive the same type of answer from Ms. Young, one of our fantastic teachers in the history department. If you asked her about her dog’s name, she would tell you the name “Pip.” What some might not know is that Pip is only his nickname, and if you then ask for his full name, she will tell you that his actual, full, government-licensed name is Agrippa Pepin-the-Short Young!

Photo 1: What a long, charming name for a short, charming dog.

The uniqueness of these lovely beings is not limited to names! Don’t worry, I won’t say their eye color. It’s more about what kind of creature they are. We don’t get to see many animals other than dogs and maybe a single cat (Ms. Jensen’s) on campus, but there’s no doubt there are other creatures who belong to our community, though they may live off campus. Did you know Mrs. Hinterman has all types of pets? All of the creatures below belong to her, ranging across a bunch of different species.

Photo 2: A dog named Mako that we get a chance to see during finals! The inspiration that keeps us fighting and working hard. We thank you deeply.

Photo 3: Two cockatiels named Juno (the gray one) and Eos (the white one), who are nearly ten years old. Apparently, they like listening to Tchaikovksy’s Nutcracker ballet (think you can do them a favor and sneak them into the upcoming performance?).

Photo 4: A gorgeous snake that went by the name Ortega passed away last year. She is loved very dearly to this day, and may we cherish her in our hearts.

Photo 5: Ms. Hinterman’s four ducks: Aspen, Rene, Bramble, and Goose. They are only a few months old.

Photo 6: A nocturnal crested gecko named Splop, who is now eleven years old.

Photo 7: Two poison dart frogs.

Photo 8: Draco, a red-eyed crocodile skink (a type of lizard).

Photo 9: A puffer fish Mrs. Hinterman named Boba due to his spots. He is known to jump up and out of the water for food.

Photo 10: Last but not least, one of her mudskippers. This kind of fish is special, as it lives a lot of its life on land and makes burrows in the mud. They are being trained to do the same thing as Boba, except in Mrs. Hinterman’s hand.

I suggest that you look up some of these creatures if you have not heard of them before, and reach out to the lovely owners for any questions you may have.

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Movie Review: Spider-Man: Brand New Day

By Crosley Roberts

From its debut on July 31, 2026, Spider-Man: Brand New Day broke box office records, grossing $168 million in the United States on its first day. It has now grossed close to $2.5 billion worldwide, and is marketed as the highest grossed domestic film of all time at the U.S. and Canadian box offices. Though these numbers reflect the long-awaited release of this film and the anticipation from the fans, The Lamplighter asks: Is this a movie worth the watch?

British movie star Tom Holland returns to his title role of Spider-Man (Peter Parker) after roughly five years. Also returning to this franchise is Zendaya playing MJ, and Jacob Batalon, as Ned Leeds. Sadie Sink also made an appearance as the story’s main antagonist, whose role fans eagerly theorized about until the film’s release. Shifting gears from the previous trilogy, Brand New Day has a new director, Destin Daniel Cretton.

The goal for the movie was to feel grounded and realistic, while holding onto the comic book aesthetic. The cinematography was photographed by Brett Pawlak. To showcase the four-year gap since the last movie, the montage of Spider-Man in the opening credits paid homage to the original comic book covers. The filmmakers achieved this effect using hyper-slow-motion shots, which gave the audience the feeling of flipping through a comic book.

This film jumps four years after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home and follows an isolated Peter Parker, living alone in New York City now that the whole world has forgotten who he was. Peter adopts his Spider-Man persona full time, watching his friends from afar and believing it is all for the best.

Brand New Day really emphasizes humanity and the danger of isolation. Peter completely cuts himself off from the rest of the world, devoting his life entirely to his superhero persona. He disregards his identity and fully believes his sole reason for existence is to serve others. However, through this lifestyle he loses the ability to control his shifting DNA, and it isn’t until he fully embraces his humanity that he is able to protect the people he loves.

Overall, this was a heroic feel-good story that had its comical moments, too. Though this movie was curated for the fans and watching it may not seem appealing if you haven’t seen the other movies about this character, it can work as a standalone film someone can see with little knowledge of the franchise. Spider-Man: Brand New Day will still be in theaters until November 16th, and once the credits roll you’ll be left with a feeling of understanding and experience you haven’t had before.

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It’s Squash & Gourd Time at Trader Joe’s

by Ellie Stallings

As the year continues and the seasons change, one thing remains constant: the delicious taste of all things Trader Joe’s! Fall is upon us, and Trader Joe’s has rolled out their new seasonal lineup. Stop by your local Trader Joe’s and pick up some of these seasonal favorites to spice up your fall foods!

  1. Butternut Squash Mac n’ Cheese

Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac n’ Cheese is comfort food without the effort. This dish blends creamy cheddar cheese with sweet butternut squash puree to create a cozy fall meal in one bowl. All you have to do is toss it in the microwave, and you get an easy meal in the dorms or a quick bite to eat for dinner.

  1. Salted Maple Cold Foam Creamer

Spice up your morning latte with the Trader Joe’s Salted Maple Cold Foam Creamer. This addition to your coffee pairs the sweet and savory flavor of Salted Maple with the cool and fluffy texture of cold foam. Just shake the can and gently press the nozzle and you’ll have the perfect homemade drink.

  1. Pumpkin Spice Mini Sheet Cake

We know and love the vanilla and chocolate Trader Joe’s sheet cakes, and this delicious fall treat is a seasonal addition to the sheet cake family! This cake is soft, moist, and flavorfully infused with warm spices, with a generous layer of tasty cream cheese frosting on top. Whether served as the conclusion to a warm fall meal or just as an after school pick-me-up, this cake is a spectacular myriad of fall flavors.

  1. Glazed Pumpkin Pie Spice Donut Holes

Trader Joe’s Glazed Pumpkin Pie Spice Donut Holes are a perfect grab-n-go fall sweet treat. Light, fluffy and coated in a sweet pumpkin-spice glaze, these donut holes deliver a cozy autumn flavor with each bite. Serve them up with a hot mug of coffee or tea for a delicious fall snack.

  1. Honey Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli

Trader Joe’s Honey Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli are a standout seasonal meal of warm pumpkin and subtle sweetness. The pasta is filled with a smooth pumpkin puree blended with ricotta and mozzarella and that is complemented by a warm honey and molasses flavor. The unique flavor of Honey Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli are sufficiently adorned with butter and olive oil. This sweet-savory mixture can be an easy and flavorful fall dinner.

(all images are from the Trader Joe’s website)

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Santa Catalina Tennis Season: An Undefeated Start

by Eunice Lee

The 2026 Santa Catalina Varsity Tennis Team (photo by Coach Klein)

The Santa Catalina tennis team has made one thing clear this season: they are not planning on slowing down anytime soon. After opening the season with a 5-2 victory over Castilleja on Sept. 11, the Cougars went on to win their next nine matches, bringing their record to an undefeated 10-0 overall and 6-0 in league play.

The team’s success has come from both its depth and its ability to stay composed when matches get close. In the season opener against Castilleja, Alexia Robinson, Avani Singh, Jessica Urtusuastegui and Fiona Fang each won their singles matches in straight sets. At No. 1 doubles, Chloe Thompson and Stacey Kim battled through an early deficit and forced a match tiebreak after winning the second set. Although they ultimately fell short, their fight set the tone for a team willing to compete through every point.

The Cougars continued that momentum the following day at the Santa Catalina Tennis Invitational. Catalina defeated Mercy High School 7-0 before earning a 5-2 victory over Stevenson. Against Stevenson, Thompson and Kim dominated at No. 1 doubles, winning 6-1, 6-2 to secure the team victory. Regina Cajiga and Ivonne De La Vega Kastis also fought through a three-set doubles match, winning the deciding tiebreak 10-7.

League play brought more close competition, but Catalina continued to find ways to win. On Sept. 25, the Cougars defeated Carmel 6-1, highlighted by four straight-set singles victories. The No. 3 doubles team of Zamina Singh and Chloe Wigdahl provided one of the day’s closest finishes, winning a match tiebreak 14-12.

The team followed that performance with victories over Pacific Grove and Sacred Heart Prep. Against Pacific Grove, Catalina won 6-1, with strong doubles performances from Stacey Kim and Chloe Thompson, Zamina Singh and Chloe Wigdahl, and Zoey Schlenker and Ivonne De La Vega. The team also benefited from players on the sidelines, including Avani Singh, Georgia Dotto, Taelen Jones, Magdalena Pablos and Andrea Fernandez Coppel, whose support and match scouting contributed to the team effort.

Ivonna De La Vega Kastis serves in a doubles match.

The Cougars continued their winning streak with a 7-0 sweep of Carmel on Sept. 29. One of the day’s biggest comebacks came from Magdalena Pablos at No. 4 singles. After dropping the first set 2-6, Pablos fought back to win the second 6-2 before taking the match tiebreak 10-8.

The next day, Catalina defeated Salinas 7-0. Avani Singh returned to the singles lineup with a 6-0, 6-1 victory, while Andrea Fernandez Coppel and Zoey Schlenker stepped in at No. 2 doubles and earned a 6-3, 6-0 win. Georgia Dotto and Taelen Jones also closed out a 6-3, 6-2 victory at No. 3 doubles.

Most recently, Catalina defeated Pacific Grove 7-0 on Oct. 5. Alexia Robinson Bours battled through a tight match at No. 1 singles, winning a deciding match tiebreak 10-8. Meanwhile, Thompson and Kim controlled their No. 1 doubles match from the beginning, winning 6-1, 6-3, and Fiona Fang continued her dominant season with a 6-0, 6-0 victory at No. 4 singles.

With ten wins and no losses, Catalina’s strongest advantage may be its depth. Different players have stepped into different positions, close matches have been fought through, and teammates have continued supporting one another from the sidelines. With their consistency and strong spirit, the Cougars are well positioned to build on their undefeated start.