As the Golden Hawks enter the second half of the year, they show no sign of slowing down. From retreats to science and the arts, they continue to put their best foot forward.

A new activity introduced to our school this year was the Kairos retreat. For the first time, 22 students set out to the Malvern Retreat house for three days. It gave the senior class an opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and focus on themselves and those around them. They spent three days becoming closer to God and their peers.

One of the group leaders, Audrey VanHaute, class of 2026, recounts, “I think everyone should experience this. It was so much fun and a nice break from school and work life!”

With the positive response from this trip, the school has planned another one from April 29 to May 1. Planners hope more students will attend the next, and that it will remain a tradition for years to come. Audrey, class of 2026, states “I think this experience made me a better person and helped me understand the people around me better.”

On Feb. 28, 10 Beca students participated in regionals at Northampton Community College for the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS). Of the 10 presenters, nine qualified to enter the state competition at Penn State May 17-19. This competition gives high schoolers the opportunity to learn more about the scientific fields they are interested in, as well as prepare them for college life. Not only do they have to properly conduct their experiments, they also must present their findings to a panel of judges.

Madison Araniego, class of 2026, has been a part of PJAS for the past five years, making it to states four times. She said, “The experience of living on campus gave me an early taste of what dorm life in college was going to be like.”

Beyond the scientific endeavors, PJAS shows the students the importance of independence and working hard.

This year, Beca Theatre proudly presents “Bye Bye Birdie” which follows Albert Peterson, played by Tyler Alonge, class of 2026, and Rose Alverez, Theresa Ruhl, class of 2026, as they attempt to bolster the fame of Conrad Birdie, plated by Matthew Oviedo, class of 2028, before he leaves for the army.

With opening night right around the corner, the cast and crew continue to work hard to put on another amazing show. Practicing hard for the past few months, they are excited to see their rehearsals pay off.

One of the directors, Marcie Mulligan said, “Everyone works their hardest to put on the best show possible, and the students involved are just in high school trying to do their best for the audience.” A

new addition to the team, Mrs. Mulligan is doing a fantastic job with the show with the help of everyone involved. Students run the technical side, help build the sets and give input on dances. It is a great way to become a part of the Becahi community and learn various skills. “Being involved with a show teaches you an appreciation for theatre ... self-confidence, and creativity,” the director says.

The show will be on April 10-12, 17 and 18. Tickets may be purchased at https://buy.ticketstothecity.com/purchase.php?event_id=18364 or at the door.

Even with the end of the year in sight, Bethlehem Catholic students are not stopping until they round the final corner.