PAIGE PAN Staff Writer
THE KNIGHT TIMES
On October 25, the Episcopal High School community gathered for its annual Founders Day Chapel service, a longstanding tradition that honors the founders who established the school. Students, faculty, and alumni came together to commemorate the vision and sacrifices that built the foundation of Episcopal, making it a day of both reflection and celebration. As the community marked 42 years since the school’s founding, the event offered a meaningful opportunity to remember how far EHS had come and to celebrate its enduring mission.
A highlight of the day was the moments of reflection that filled the service. Through carefully planned elements, the EHS community was invited to pause and consider the journey of the school’s founders. The service thoughtfully intertwined music, prayer, and moments of silence to guide those in attendance in honoring the vision and dedication that led to the creation of EHS. These moments of reflection helped the gathered community appreciate the sacrifices made by the founders and the enduring values that continue to shape the school today. In the weeks leading up to Founders Day, students and faculty worked together to prepare for the event, ensuring the service would be a memorable one. The Chapel service itself captured the spirit of the day, combining moments of reflection with a sense of collective celebration. It was a chance to honor the values and mission that continue to guide the school today, while also fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Founders Day proved once again to be more than just a historical observance; it was a powerful reminder of the community’s roots and the strength of the bonds that continue to unite the EHS family.
CATHERINE MILLER Staff Writer
“The blending of the two classic styles, 1950’s America and the Shakespearean era, allowed for a brilliant performance filled with witty comedy, romance, rivalries, and everything else teenagers seem to endure during their high school years.”
ANYA PANT Managing Editor
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) governs college sports across the United States, offering studentathletes the opportunity to compete at a high level while pursuing their education. For high school athletes, committing to an NCAA program is a significant milestone, marking years of dedication, hard work, and ambition.
On Wednesday, November 13 at 3:15 in Alkek Gym, Episcopal High School celebrated this achievement by honoring six seniors who signed their commitments to play at NCAA schools. Each studentathlete will bring his and her unique skills and competitive spirit to future teams, continuing Episcopal’s tradition of excellence both on and off the field.
Gianna Lewis will join the softball team at Stephen F. Austin University, where her talent and hard work promise to shine on the collegiate field. Francesca Johnson and Arianna Espana, both committed soccer players, will take their skills to Southern University and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi respectively, bringing competitive spirit to their new teams. Meanwhile, Abby Ross will play soccer for Lipscomb University, where her leadership and game sense will be valuable assets.
In baseball, Preston Sullivan is set to
join the University of Houston Cougars, a school known for its strong baseball program. Aidan Eshelman will head to the University of Texas at San Antonio, where he aims to make an impact with the Roadrunners.
These talented seniors represent the first group of Episcopal High School athletes celebrated this year. On February 5, the school will honor football players receiving scholarships and those committing to
Ivy League institutions. Later, in late April, Episcopal will celebrate D-III and nonscholarship commits, ensuring that every athlete’s hard work and dedication receives the recognition it deserves.
Congratulations to Gianna, Francesca, Arianna, Abby, Preston, and Aidan for their commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics. Episcopal High School is proud of your achievements and excited to watch your journeys at the next level.
Seniors (L-R) Gianna Lewis, Abby Ross, Francesca Johnson, Arianna Espana, Preston Sullivan, and Aidan Eshelman commit to D1 schools. Photo by Charles Holt.
Joaquin Hartsfield, Hannah Smith, Campbell Richardson, and Patrick Wailes perform in Much Ado About Nothing, EHS Onstage's winter play, in Underwood Theater. Photo by Avalon Bell.
EHS Onstage adapts Much Ado About Nothing to 50’s high school
CATHERINE MILLER Staff Writer
On November 15, EHS Onstage debuted its winter play Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare. Mr. George Brock, director of the play, took creative liberty and set the winter production in Messina High School during the 1950s. The blend of the two classic styles, 1950s America and Shakespearean times, allowed for a brilliant performance filled with witty comedy, romance, rivalries, and everything else teenagers seem to endure during their high school years.
The play follows two enemies, Beatrice and Benedict, as their hatred for each other continues to get in the way of their loved ones. The solution to stop their petty fights is simple: make the two fall in love with each other. Their techniques are sneaky, ridiculous, and promise a good laugh. The plot of Much Ado About Nothing might sound familiar. Earlier this year, Anyone but You, starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, was released as a modern adaptation of this timeless classic.
The production includes three performances, and cast and crew members worked on Much Ado About Nothing since early September. The process consisted of eight weeks of rehearsals. Every week, rehearsals were held in the Underwood Theater from 4:00 - 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The extreme effort put into the play can easily be seen within the outstanding production. The cast was incredibly talented with actors Brooke Crabtree (‘25) and Henry Harkins (‘26) filling the lead
roles of Beatrice and Benedict. On the technical side of the show, Lindsey Levan (‘25) took on the role of Production Stage Manager, which consists of being responsible for everything behind-the-scenes.
Red Cross Club organizes Blood Drive for EHS students to give back to the community
MIMI
WRIGHT Staff Writer
The annual Blood Drive, held on November 5 in Scurlock Gym, provided Episcopal High School students an impactful opportunity to give back through blood donations. Organized by the EHS Campus Clinic and the Red Cross Club in collaboration with the Gulf Coast Blood Bank, the event ran from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., allowing numerous students to participate in this life-saving cause as Thanksgiving and the season of gratitude approach. This year, 56 donors plus additional walk-ins contributed to a meaningful event, even though the goal of surpassing
last year’s 80 donors was not reached.
Red Cross Club President Andrew Fertitta emphasized drive’s significance, describing it as “an easy way to impact the lives of sick people in a positive way… especially during the holiday season.”
Fertitta also noted that each blood donation can save up to three lives, providing a powerful reminder of the community’s influence on the lives of others in need.
The drive beautifully reflects Episcopal High School’s mission to prepare students for meaningful lives of service, a core value shared by both EHS and the Red Cross Club. Since resuming post-pandemic, the drive has grown in impact, reaching 42 donors in 2022, expanding to 80 in 2023,
and remaining a pivotal event that fosters community engagement. Fertitta added that even for those who could not donate, the success of the event could inspire future involvement and raise awareness about the importance of blood donation. For those eager to continue supporting this cause, the Red Cross Club has organized additional events. This semester, they have held bake sales to fundraise, and next semester, they will host a CPR certification class. Through these initiatives, the club continues to provide students with various ways to contribute to health, safety, and emergency preparedness, fully embodying gratitude and service through meaningful actions.
Thanksgiving dessert: Honey coated biscuits
IZZIE SONG
Production Editor
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 tsp of salt (save half for the honey)
- 1 tsp cream of tartar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1-1 ½ tbsp of cane sugar
- 1 stick of unsalted butter, left in freezer
- 2/3 cup of whole milk
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
1. Prep the butter by putting it in the freezer for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to cut into the mixture.
2. In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients, and whisk to combine.
3. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F
4. Take the cold butter and cut it into the dry mixture until blended, avoiding any leftover large chunks. To cut the butter, you may use a butter cutter, a grater, or two knives.
5. Add the milk and mix by folding the mixture in on itself. The mixture may still
appear dry, but that is OK.
6. Transfer the dough and any leftover dry mix onto a large, lightly floured surface. Knead the dough until well combined with no visible dryness.
7. Separate the dough into 10-11 balls. Compress these balls with the palm of your hand to ½ inch thickness.
8. Combine your melted butter, honey, and ½ tsp of salt in a small pot. Bring this pot to a light simmer and stir. Be careful not
to burn the mixture.
9. Transfer the honey onto the biscuits by brushing or spooning the mixture onto each surface.
10. Wipe the bottom of the honey-covered biscuits using a clean paper towel to avoid burning.
11. Transfer the biscuits onto a parchmentlined baking sheet and transfer to the oven.
12. Bake biscuits for 10-11 minutes.
The winter play is yet another example of Episcopal’s amazing Theatre Program and Arts Pillar. If you missed this show, come see the next amazing performance in the upcoming spring musical, Matilda
Fall Recital showcases student talent
PAIGE PAN Staff Writer
On November 20, the annual Fall Music Recital took place in the school’s Alumni Room, where students taking private music lessons and guitar classes had the opportunity to showcase their progress for this semester. This special event highlighted the dedication and hard work of these aspiring musicians across various skill levels, from beginners to advanced students. The recital offered students an opportunity to perform in a supportive environment, putting the skills they’ve worked so diligently to hone into the spotlight for friends and family to enjoy.
This year’s recital saw the presence of experienced, talented musicians who were invited to accompany student performers. This addition not only enhanced the sound and depth of each performance but also provided students with the chance to collaborate with seasoned players, making their experience memorable and boosting their confidence on stage. The recital also serves as an invaluable experience for students to develop their stage presence and overcome performance nerves, preparing them for future musical endeavors.
Held in the spacious Alumni Room, the space had the perfect atmosphere for friends, family, and music enthusiasts to gather and appreciate the talent and growth of each performer. Everyone was welcome to attend this noteworthy event and witness the fruition of the musicians’ hard work and dedication. Attendees marked their calendars to come together to support the talented students as they shared their passion for music.
The Fall Music Recital proved to be a perfect way to enjoy an evening of live music while encouraging the next generation of musicians on their musical journey.
Actors Elizabeth Bucy (‘27), Himali Wickramasinghe (‘28), and Sarah Bezemeck (‘26) play partygoers at the Messina High School Prom. Photo by Avalon Bell.
Honey coated biscuits make for a wonderful dessert for Thanksgiving. Photo courtesy of youtube.com.
Slice of π
AIDAN MURPHY Guest Writer
Hi everyone! My name is Aidan Murphy, and I am so excited to be a member of the Math Club and Mu Alpha Theta this year! It has been a very busy month!
I want to congratulate all the D1 Mathletes who have been competing in the weekly national Math Madness bracket competition. These students have been solving challenging math problems and have lasted seven weeks thus far without being eliminated. Special recognition goes to the 20 students who took the prestigious American Math Competition AMC 10/ AMC 12 after school on November 12. The AMC is a 25-question, 75-minute, multiple-choice examination in high school mathematics designed to promote the development and enhancement of problem-solving skills. On November 20, the Math Club and Mu Alpha Theta hosted its annual school-wide Fibonacci Day Celebration. You could learn more about the Fibonacci Sequence, do puzzles, and play math games to win cool prizes all
while supporting the Math Club and Mu Alpha Theta. Thank you to everyone who participated, making it a success!
We also had teams participate in the 27th HiMCM (COMAP’S High School Mathematical Contest in Modeling), an international two-week contest designed that provides students with the opportunity to work as team members to engage in and improve their modeling, problem solving, and writing skills while creating a solution to a real-world problem. We are eagerly awaiting the results.
Our teams are still competing in the Wharton Global High School Investment Competition, going strong after six weeks. Don’t forget to follow Math Club on both Instagram and Twitter (X) under the user @ehsmathclub for quality memes, updates on meetings/events, and thoughtprovoking puzzles and interesting math tidbits. It is never too late to join the Math Club, so if you want to join, please contact Dr. Papakonstantinou and Marie Knolle to be added to the Math Club CANVAS page and Microsoft Team. We hope you had a good Thanksgiving and never forget to be thankful for math!
Episcopal Quiz Bowl teams dominate their competition
CAROLINE JOHNSON Opinion Editor
Already surpassing its total number of wins last year in only three months, the Episcopal Quiz Bowl team marked its forty-second victory of the season at a November 2 contest at the Village School. The four teams that represented EHS combined for 23 wins, including an overall championship.
There were many dramatic moments among the day’s matches. During one semifinal round, the Episcopal D team played against a fierce competitor from Cy-Fair High School. At halftime, EHS was behind by over 100 points, but in an extremely rare comeback, the team answered eight of the remaining ten questions and secured themselves a place in the championship. During the other semifinal match, Episcopal A played against an undefeated group from Awty. It was a knock-out win for the proud Knights. Team captain Carson Kotlarz said the key to their success was dancing and playing music before the match.
“It just brings us good luck,” he said. In another upset, the EHS B team (junior Andrew Fertitta and sophomores
Agyeman-Yeboah epitomizes the makeup of a well-rounded student
SIMONA KARNANI Copy Editor
Junior Richard Agyeman-Yeboah is the perfect representation of what an Episcopal Knight embodies – a student who stands out, radiates positivity, and is well rounded in all Four Pillars.
A dedicated athlete, Richard has been playing soccer since he was very young. He has been on the varsity boys soccer team since his freshman year, contributing to their back-to-back SPC titles. He is “grateful and happy that he has been given the opportunity to play with such a great team and coaching staff.” He also plays soccer on the club level outside of school.
Richard is a perfect representation of how a Knight can be an athlete as well as an artist. He has immersed himself in the photography curriculum at EHS and taken his knowledge and skills from inside the classroom to the real world where he shoots athlete photos.
Gwen Leach, Julia Levan, and Casey Cochran) was accused of cheating by their competitors from Debakey High School. Episcopal’s total integrity was verified, and Debakey ended the match as the EHS team’s fourth consecutive victim despite its attempts to falsely accuse the students of stepping around the rules.
In a nerve-wracking final match (with over a dozen spectators), the Episcopal A and Episcopal D teams battled it out for first place in an epic final round. In the end, first place in the entire division was awarded to the A team (seniors Carson Kotlarz, Maddy Morgan, Eva Misso, and Dylan Quan), while second place went to the D team (senior Benjy David, juniors Priya Parekh and Taylor Jones, and freshman Jenna Li). Less than 50 points separated first and second place.
Episcopal also saw some of its best personal performances during the contest. The most successful overall player of the day, Gwen Leach of Episcopal B, correctly answered over 20 questions, earning bonus points for speed on five of them. With their next tournament scheduled for January, the Quiz Bowl teams plan to continue their weekly practices in preparation for bigger competitions to come.
Class co-vice president and enjoys this role because he gets to represent and be the voice of his fellow classmates. He is involved in academic organizations and clubs like Math Club and one of the male representatives for the Women Empowerment Club. He stays involved on campus
Richard - a service leader for SOS - has found a calling toward service in the Religion Pillar this year. He is at service projects almost every weekend with his friends and finds it a good way to give back to the community. His favorite place to do service is the food bank.
Academically, Richard excels in his classes, making As and Bs, and likes to challenge himself. He is the Junior
Eby being on the DIA Steering Committee, Admission Council, Service Analysis Committee, and is a FAM leader. This goes to show that teachers and students around campus enjoy his presence and know that he is someone they can count on. Richard was on Homecoming Court two years in a row.
Block Talk
with Thompson White
“Do clubs ever do anything?”
It’s a question that every freshman inevitably ends up asking after a few months into the school year, and one that the administration has been actively working to address.
From Fashion in Literature Club to Cornhole Club, Episcopal offers a diverse array of student interests, which allow students to explore new interests and bond with others over shared passion. Yet, after the energetic honeymoon phase of Club Fair begins to fade, some students find themselves disappointed by the gap between idealistic promises and the oftenmonotonous reality of club life.
Clubs dissipate for several reasons. For one, students often have commitments like tutorials or sports practices that end up taking priority over club activities. And for others, these clubs aren’t driven by genuine interest but serve more as resume builders. Out of the 61 clubs pitched at Club Fair, 35 remain active as the others fade due to inactivity. To address this, Mrs.
Courtney Lindloff, Director of Student Activities, enforces a clear ruling: If a club fails to meet at least once a semester, then they are disbanded. This standard motivates leaders to take ownership of their club, ensuring that the most engaged remain part of the school’s community. Those that survived tended to thrive. Math Club president Marie Knolle explains that Math Club, one of the most vibrant communities on campus, “keeps students engaged because of its consistent structure and its ability to spark curiosity, encouraging members to join club-sponsored events.”
Clubs with a connection to classroom subjects often thrive. For instance, Chinese Club raises thousands of dollars through its boba sales, while Math Club sustains interest through guest speakers. If the more spontaneous clubs like Dodgeball and Pickleball clubs could channel this same energy, then maybe students wouldn’t have to wonder whether “clubs do anything.”
Agyeman-Yeboah plays striker in the Episcopal vs. St. John’s matchup last soccer season at St. John’s. He contributed to an SPC win. Photo courtesy of Richard Agyeman-Yeboah.
Examining love in One Day
LULU GIBELLINI Features Editor
I recently watched One Day, and I was moved by the way it captures the highs and lows of life and relationships. Based on David Nicholls’ novel, the TV series follows Emma and Dexter, two people whose bond unfolds over decades as they reconnect on the same day each year. The storytelling format felt unique, and it kept me hooked, making me eager to see how their lives would change with each episode. It’s the kind of show that pulls you in and stays with you long after.
What I loved most were the performances. Emma’s clever humor, warmth, and determination made her such a relatable and inspiring character. Dexter’s carefree spirit, which later evolves as he faces real struggles, added depth to his journey, and I found myself connecting with both in different ways. Their chemistry felt authentic, and I found myself laughing, tearing up, and rooting for them throughout. Even the minor characters add meaningful layers, contributing to the richness and complexity of the story.
The series does a fantastic job of bringing each time period to life with era-appropriate music, fashion, and set designs.
The attention to detail made me feel immersed in each stage of their journey. There were moments when I had to pause and reflect, thinking about how quickly life moves and the ways meaningful connections shape who we are. While a few episodes focused more on character devel-
Leads Dexter and Emma kiss in episode
opment and felt slower, I appreciated how it made the emotional impact even deeper. I highly recommend One Day if you love stories about love, friendship, and the journey of growing and changing over time. It’s a beautifully told, heartfelt experience that left me thinking long after the final scene.
HEAR ME OUT with Caroline Johnson
Straight out of his teenage years, Alex Turner (the “Fluorescent Adolescent”) and his band started churning out English garage-rock hits unlike anyone before. Most known for their strange name and unexpectedly beautiful lyrics, the Arctic Monkeys are one-of-a-kind.
Their first (and greatest) release, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, is the epitome of a great grunge album. Strangely underrated by listeners, “I Bet You Look Good on the Dance Floor,” “Fake Tales of San Francisco,” and “From the Ritz to the Rubble” are three of the band’s best songs ever. Especially due to their frequent Shakespeare references, the group sounds so undoubtably British, a feature that their music lost as time went on.
Just a year after that, in 2007, Turner dropped the group’s second and infi-
nitely more popular album Favorite Worst Nightmare. Mainly due to their many-times viral (and deservedly so!!) song “505,” FWN is how many listeners are introduced to the Arctic Monkeys. I understand the band’s desire to branch out into more popish or romantic styles, but their “garage” sound was nowhere to be found here.
It wasn’t until 2013 until they recorded anything notable after their first two albums. AM features some of their most loved hits, arguably some of the best music to come from England this century. Obviously, I can appreciate a listen to “Do I Wanna Know?,” “Arabella,” and “Knee Socks,” but until recently, the lyrical genius behind their songs “No. 1 Party Anthem” and “I Want It All” hadn’t been recognized; there are seriously no skips on this track.
Since 2007, the band has also been a part of the psychedelic pop supergroup The Last Shadow Puppets. Taking heavy inspiration from David Bowie, the Arctic Monkeys, in collaboration with the Rascals and the Mini Mansions, joined to record an album.
To be honest, none of their songs could top the Arctic Monkeys personal music, but rumors of an unreleased collaboration with Lana Del Rey give me hope for an eventual interesting release from The Last Shadow Puppets.
Although they have released new music since AM, nothing tops the sounds of their first recordings. Their 2022 studio album The Car is certainly worth a try, though. On a “seven hour flight or a forty-five minute drive,” “when the zeroes line up on the 24-hour clock,” or when you’re “landed in a very common crisis,” you’re certainly in for a good listen with the Arctic Monkeys.
Catherine’s Cinema
CATHERINE MILLER Staff Writer
A24 released We Live in Time this past fall. The film, which premiered in theaters on October 17, stars Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh as Tobias and Almut.
A mix of serendipity and heartbreak are found within Almut and Tobias’ relationship. The story follows them through the early stages of their relationship, through having a baby and Almut’s battle with ovarian cancer.
The way We Live in Time is edited is unique in that it is a constant jump in time. It opens with the couple as they expect their first child, which is immediately followed by a scene depicting Almut and Tobias’ lives prior to meeting. The editing adds depth and signifies how parts of our
lives are lived through memories, and that our lives are not entirely summed up by one relationship or event.
In addition to the editing adding depth, the short run time of 104 minutes also allows viewers an experience other than just watching characters on a screen. The short movie gives a perspective into how quickly life can feel, especially to Almut and Tobias.
As the couple navigates hard sacrifices in their professions and personal lives amidst their love for each other, we see a wholesome story unfold about the importance of being there for those we love and cherishing every moment we have with them. I highly recommend watching We Live in Time and seeing its beautiful take on love and how limited our time is with those we love the most.
Tyler, the Creator redefines his artistic vision in new album
CAMPBELL RICHARDSON Co-Editor-in-Chief
Last month, Tyler, the Creator released Chromakopia, a fourteen-track album written, produced, and arranged by him following several weeks of eager anticipation from fans.
Featured artists included well established musicians like Lil Wayne and Daniel Caesar, alongside rising stars Doechii and GloRilla.
With this project, Tyler has showcased his talents and evolution as an artist, incorporating various musical and thematical elements from previous albums while innovating and pushing the genre and music forward. Musically, the album is beautifully produced, consisting of a blend of HipHop, Jazz, and R&B.
Promotion began with a short black and white music video set to a piece of the album’s first song, “St. Chroma,” with a masked Tyler leading the album’s features into a crate labeled after the album, withholding just enough to leave fans speculative and excited. Ten days later, he released another music video for “Noid,” the album’s lead single. “Noid” goes into the stress associated with celebrity status, as well as establishing the broader theme
of questioning identity seen throughout the album. Other promotional material teased a world tour, limited edition vinyl, and snippets of songs.
Tyler has grown immensely as an artist since his fifth album, Flower Boy, which marked a shift from his previous intentionally offensive and crude projects to what he describes as more serious and meaningful art. Then, he took his music to new height with his next album, Igor, in which he deeply explored his singing voice and storytelling ability. Call Me If You Get Lost in 2021 represented a return to rap and included some of his most colorful production.
In Chromakopia, Tyler takes an introspective look into his struggles, focusing on his upbringing with many songs beginning with snippets of advice and narration from his mother. “Darling, I” covers his issues with commitment and the guilt, while “Hey, Jane” is a conversation between him and his partner’s perspective on the future of their relationship. Interspersed are more braggadocious and fast paced tracks, like “Rah Tah Tah” and “Thought I Was Dead.”
Throughout, Tyler is dealing with his fame, aging, and romance, and what it means for his identity.
Tyler, the Creator dresses as a soldier for his latest project. Photo courtesy of spotify.com.
one. Photo courtesy of vulutre.com.
The Artic Monkeys in a 2010s photoshoot. Photo courtesy of pinterest.com.
CAROLINE JOHNSON Opinions Editor
DIA celebrates unique cultures
LULU GIBELLINI Features Editor
This year, Diversity in Action has been working harder than ever to create meaningful conversations about inclusion, diversity, and community at Episcopal.
In October, DIA hosted a vibrant lunch program for Hispanic Heritage Month, where students were invited to experience and appreciate the rich cultural traditions of Hispanic and Latinx communities.
The Leadership Committee set up a table full of traditional snacks and candies for students to sample, sparking engaging discussions about diverse cultures, family traditions, and the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month in the broader context of American society. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to learn from one another and build connections.
Continuing its mission, Diversity in Action hosted another engaging booth during National Native American Heritage Month in November. This month-long celebration honors the history, cultures, and contributions of Native Americans, Alaska
Natives, Native Hawaiians, and affiliated Island communities. The booth encouraged students to reflect on the treatment of Indigenous people in American history while celebrating their enduring legacies and invaluable impact on the United States. Through these activities, DIA hopes to encourage greater awareness and appreciation of Native traditions and cultural practices.
DIA also hosts monthly meetings to discuss ongoing initiatives, share ideas, and plan upcoming events. The November 20 meeting brought together students to reflect on past events and discuss ways to further promote a sense of belonging on campus.
Looking ahead, Diversity in Action is thrilled to host a special and unique panel discussion featuring parents who have immigrated to the United States. This panel will give students the invaluable opportunity to hear firsthand stories of resilience, sacrifice, and hope. Parents will share their journeys, the challenges they faced in adjusting to a new life, and the significant moments that defined their experience.
MIMI WRIGHT Staff Writer
Looking for a New York-style deli experience in Houston? Look no further than Kenny and Ziggy’s, a Jewish deli located on Post Oak Boulevard and recognized as one of the top delis in the nation. From the moment you sit down, the experience begins with a plate of their famous pickles.
Episcopal High School’s only restaurant review
bound to enjoy the rich, hearty flavors. Many regulars rave about the Reuben, stacked high with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye. The portions are notoriously generous, so bring your appetite or be prepared to take some delicious leftovers home.
Founded by Ziggy Gruber, a third-generation deli man, Kenny & Ziggy’s brings the authentic taste of New York delis to
These crunchy, salty, sour bites are just a teaser of the savory flavors ahead.
At Kenny & Ziggy’s, you’ll find a menu prepared to provide you with a plethora of options covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring everything from towering sandwiches to Jewish classics like matzo ball soup, latkes, and knishes. The menu is expansive, so first-time visitors may feel a bit overwhelmed. But no worries, whatever you choose, you’re
IZZIE SONG Production Editor
Diversity in Action is EHS’s longestrunning and largest student-led organization. Its longevity is largely due to the robust leadership board that maintains its legacy.
2023 marked the first competitive elections for DIA, whose reach has only grown since its founding in “year.” The final results polled seniors Lulu Gibellini as President, Izzie Song as Vice President, Ethan Lahoti as Secretary, Rishabh Sharma as Director of Programming, and Lindsey Levan as Director of Communications. In addition, the board welcomed juniors Jocelyn Valencia and Brooklyn Hermance as Directors of Community Engagement and Social Media, respectively. Since last summer, these seven students have worked tirelessly to bring DIA’s current programming to the stage.
The change DIA’s Leadership Board pioneered began in the previous year. All seniors were integral to bringing back DIA’s annual Culture Fest, an event enjoyed by all of EHS’s community in the second semester. As a continuation of change,
the Leadership Board installed several new facets to DIA’s activities, including lunch booths, panels, and increased meeting cycles. This all comes with a shift in DIA’s foundation. Now, students are at the forefront more than ever before. The Leadership Board is the face of DIA, and their amplified presence on campus supports this.
While many new students may recognize them for their panel at Freshman Orientation, the Leadership Board’s visibility reaches far beyond their roles. All members involve themselves across EHS’s Four Pillars. Hermance and Lahoti can be found acting or singing on stage. Song and Levan dedicate their time to the arts and the National Chinese Honor Society. Valencia upholds our religious pillar by serving during Chapel, and Sharma maintains an impressive squash career as a part of our Athletics Pillar. Gibellini, also a member of STUCO, continues to lead our student body even outside her DIA operations.
Not only does their community engagement reflect a diverse student body, but it also fuels DIA’s mission of promoting inclusion across all walks of life.
Houston.
The décor, reminiscent of a classic deli with New York memorabilia, cozy booths, and a bustling atmosphere, adds to the charm, making it a favorite for those looking for a taste of the Big Apple. With rave reviews, massive sandwiches, and a reputation that extends beyond Texas, Kenny & Ziggy’s is a must-visit destination for deli lovers seeking bold flavors and a welcoming environment.
ALL THINGZ fashion
DARIA MASSEY Staff Writer
On November 2, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) hosted its 13th annual gala co-chaired by trustee Eva Chow and actor Leonardo DiCaprio. While the largest art museum in the western United States, the LACMA exhibits works of notable artists such as Pablo Picasso, Paul Suzanne, and Frida Kahlo and displays an impressive fashion collection.
Many well-dressed celebrities attended the gala, such as media personality and model Sofia Richie Grainge and actress and fashion icon Chloë Sevigny, who were both dressed in Saint Laurent. I was blown away by the number of tastefully put-together outfits; it was hard to pick my favorites. However, I decided that my
absolute favorite outfit had to be Charli XCX’s custom Gucci set with a cropped top embellished with large silver sequins and a matching maxi skirt. The look was accessorized with dainty jewelry by Simon G, which added a classy touch.
Another favorite was Kaia Gerber’s pistachio-colored Gucci gown. The dress was intricately beaded and adorned with feathers at the bottom. Blake Lively was dressed in a stunning pink, orange, and yellow Tamara Ralph chainmail mini dress paired with a dramatic orange cape. This handcrafted masterpiece is from the designer’s Fall 2023 couture collection and is even encrusted with topaz crystals. The look was tied together with a pair of pink Christian Louboutin heels and Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.
Safe to say the looks from this year’s gala did not disappoint!
Photo courtesy of houstonpress.com.
Kaia Gerber featured in her pistachio Gucci gown at the LACMA gala. Photo courtesy of instagram.com.
DIA members make decorative papel picado during a club meeting. Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Hermance.
pinions
World in Review
CAMPBELL RICHARDSON Co-Editor-in-Chief
President Donald Trump expressed a potential plan to severely cut or even eliminate income tax all together. Cutting taxes is very much in line with his 2017-2021 term and Republican platform in general. Raising tariffs to 10%, with an additional tariff on China of at least 60%, however, is quite a dramatic leap in policy. While the full extent of these plans would almost certainly meet roadblocks with Congress, a Trump presidency will no doubt mean a return to extensive tariffs. So how would this play out for both American citizens and the global economy?
Tariffs are essentially a tax on foreign trade, normally imports. When a foreign company sells a product in the United States, it pays a certain percentage of the revenue from the sale to the government. The producer is therefore forced to raise the price of the product in order to preserve their profits.
There are three reasons a government might place tariffs on another country. First and most obvious, they provide revenue. In 2023, tariffs produced $80 billion in revenue for the federal government. Secondly, they can protect local industry and jobs, as foreign companies will struggle to compete with domestic producers who do not have to deal with tariffs. Finally, they have the ability to act as a geopolitical bargaining chip by pressuring an international rival with trade barriers.
Historically, the American government relied on tariffs as its primary source of funding itself. A temporary income tax was established in the 1860s to finance
the American Civil War; however, it was not until the ratification of the Sixteenth Amendment in 1913 that income tax became fully constitutional and begin to replace tariffs. Nowadays, over $2 trillion per year, a little less than half of the federal revenue, comes from income taxes, compared to only 1% from tariffs.
Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminum can be looked at as a case study for how tariffs like his current proposal would turn out. Both materials are crucial to both auto and weapons manufacturing, the second being vital to national security should America ever end up confronting China.
At the time, American production was being outpaced by other countries, prompting Trump to place a 25% and 10% tariff on steel and aluminum respectively. As a result, there was a growth in domestic industry and therefore jobs as companies returned to the U.S. However, the prices of these materials rose, causing problems for industries that used them and the loss of 142,000 jobs, as well as costing U.S. households on average $625. These and many similar tariffs also prompted retaliatory tariffs by China on American goods, hurting the export economy.
Bringing jobs back to the United States is a more complicated ordeal than simply imposing tariffs though. For one, China and Mexico pay their workers wages lower than acceptable to Americans, meaning any return to domestic manufacturing would certainly hike prices. This is not to suggest there is no value in domestic manufacturing; these industries also would provide millions with well-paying jobs, but this is a delicate balance that has complicated ramifications across the whole economy.
Has abstract art lost its meaning?
ALEX GONZALES
Staff Writer
Abstract art emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as an evolution and extension of the post-impressionist movement, which introduced fully-fledged nonrepresentational art. Early 20th-century abstract artists such as Pollock, Rothko, and Mondrian focused on shapes, lines, and colors to evoke emotion. These artists were guided by an introspective process that centered their art on the medium of painting, challenging the conventional attitude toward art, which for so long had been determined by the representation of physical reality.
What is art? Contrary to the prosaic understanding of art as solely the mirroring of reality onto a physical medium, art isn't just the transferal of physical reality to a canvas; it is a selective and discriminating process whereby the artist finds something intriguing about reality and intends to highlight that through the representation of physical reality. Consider the difference between wax figures in a museum and sculptures. Wax figures are exact replications that mimic reality without offering deeper meaning. In contrast, sculptures embellish, magnify, and alter the subject to highlight specific qualities, allowing the artist to introduce the subject's personality and humanity. Art is deeply connected to the human experience and is often highlighted as a uniquely human endeavor because of its connection with human creativity. Understanding that creativity is the formation of coherent intangible ideas and not just picking up a paintbrush or pressing keys on a keyboard allows for a broader understanding of art, embodying the human capacity to cultivate abstractions and
reflect on reality.
The issue with abstract art is that it alleges to be art or something more than aesthetic designs, and from a glance, it seems a more advanced or deconstructed form of art that our minds aren't accustomed to, for it uses the many of the same materials as traditional art - canvas, paint, paint brushes - while being unbounded by the obligation to depict reality.
However, the principal distinction that disqualifies abstract art as true art lies between representation and non-representation. A painting that centers solely on the medium of brushstrokes and without representation has no inherent significance. Colors and shapes alone lack artistic meaning unless arranged in patterns that mimic reality or denote non-physical perceptions.
Abstract art, therefore, reflects a paucity of meaning and a regression of human expression. Most importantly, it does not even involve the process of abstraction seen in representational works of art. The viewer of the works will quickly find that the experience involved is like looking out of a plane window and seeing clouds resembling familiar objects. The problem with calling non-representational works art is that it blurs the qualitative barrier that a word like art contains. It erodes the meaning and significance of the word to the point that there is no material definitional difference between a child's fingerpainting and, say, the works of Michelangelo. When viewers struggle to extract meaning from abstract art, which can often feel like noise, the artist relinquishes its purpose to communicate a message to the viewer, leaving the witness to impose arbitrary interpretations. This burdens the viewer and undermines the essence of art, reducing it to pretentious visual puzzles.
In recent years, resident physician strikes have brought into focus the systemic issues plaguing the healthcare industry. The grueling hours, overwhelming workloads, and small pay for young doctors are longstanding problems. Yet, the recent strikes reveal a deeper issue: the system itself is driving many to reconsider their commitment to healthcare altogether. With residents increasingly feeling overworked, undervalued, and unsupported, the toll on both mental and physical health has left many student residents questioning whether a career in medicine is worth the sacrifice. To put into perspective the mental toll it takes to pursue a career in healthcare, you would simply have to look at the data, which shows the number of pre-meds that become doctors, 7%. This is because of the many years of schooling coupled with the fierce competition to get into medical school and residency programs. The treatment of residents specifically has become a highly-debated topic in the medical field. The outrage against the treatment of residents can be observed in the recent Buffalo University residents' strike. These residents, who have been negotiating for fair pay and safer working conditions, represent a broader trend of healthcare workers standing up against an industry that has too often exploited their dedication. In Buffalo, young doctors brought to light the unsustainable and often unsafe conditions they face daily. From staffing shortages to inadequate mental health support, the residents’ concerns echo those of healthcare workers across the country. Despite being essential to hospital operations and patient care, residents at Catholic Health were compensated at a level that many described as unlivable. This is a reality for residents across the country as the highest earners make up to $66,000 a year (around $32 an hour) and the lowest earners make $40,000 a year (around $21 an hour), which is classified as barely a livable wage when also trying to pay off debts from undergrad and medical school.
Residency is often romanticized as a rite of passage for healthcare workers, a rigorous system that molds young doctors into resilient, capable physicians. However, this notion hides the reality that residents routinely work 80-hour weeks or more, sacrificing sleep, personal relationships, and even their health. The psychological impact of these demands cannot be overstated. Studies consistently show that residents experience high rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout, all of which are exascerbated by a lack of support and meaningful work-life balance. The thought of "toughing it out" has long been part of the healthcare culture, but this mentality has severe consequences. Exhausted, burned-out doctors are far more likely to make mistakes, which poses a significant risk to patient safety. As more residents reach their breaking point, it becomes clear that the current model does not serve anyone - patients or providers.
Striking medical students gather in Buffalo, New York, in protest. Photo courtesy of spectrumlocalnews.com.
Fall SPC Sports
Four-peat secured as girls runners prevail
CHARLOTTE MEHNERT Staff Writer
In a dominant performance during the SPC Cross Country Championships in Dallas, the girls team repeated as SPC champions with 41 points, 35 less than second place St. John’s.
There were amazing performances from both the boys and girls teams. Their hard work and dedication were highlighted at the meet, making it a special one. The five-kilometer, 4A race allowed the runners to display their skills and it paid off.
Huntley Buckingham led the girls, finishing third with a time of 19:20:64 at an average pace of 6:14 miles per hour. Georgia Bass and Madison Morgan also showcased their talent by placing in the top ten of the 5K, helping lead the team to victory.
The boys placed third overall with 73 points behind St. John’s and St. Stephen’s.
Will Pacey placed second with a time of 16:18:86 and a per mile average of 5:15. Although the boys did not win SPC, they still showcased their hard work and effort
they have put in all season. The athletes’ performances at the SPC Championships were incredible, showing teamwork and perseverance.
Boys volleyball serves a second place finish
KARIANA CARLSON
Staff Writer
The Episcopal High School boys came out strong in the two-day SPC tournament, sweeping their first two opponents
in three straight sets before Saturday’s finale.
The tournament began on Friday for the Knights against Trinity Valley of Forth Worth in the quarterfinal match. From the start, EHS dominated the court, winning
Field hockey brings home the bronze
PORTER MILLER
Social Media Coordinator
The Knights field hockey teams had an unforgettable season full of teamwork and energy that culminated with a third place finish in SPC. In wrapping up their season at the SPC Tournament, the varsity demonstrated hard work as their final matches included a 1-0 win over Greenhill with sophomore Sophia Ibarra’s goal, a 4-0 loss to 13th-ranked St. John’s, and a 2-1 win against St. Stephen’s, with goals scored by juniors Sela Provenzano and
Kate Lahoti.
JV team showed improvement, earning a 4-2 win over St. Agnes and a 6-0 win against Memorial. They closed the season with a 3-0 win over Duchesne.
As seniors Greer Fuselier and Cati Stabell get ready to graduate, they leave big shoes to fill.
Greer shared, “The season has been so much fun so far. We worked really hard to earn third in SPC, and I am excited to see what its store for these impressive underclassmen next year...This team is something I am really going to miss.”
Runner-up finish for football team in SPC title game
THOMPSON WHITE Co-Editor-in-Chief
Defying the odds and battling through injuries, the Knights football team clinched an impressive second-place finish in the highly competitive SPC conference. Their path to the championship game included a thrilling 48-45 win over the St. John’s Mavericks, a team led by Cole Allen, the nation’s top-ranked player in touchdowns.
Captain Brooks Edwards, alongside most of the team, called it his “most memorable game of the year.”
the first match decisively 3-0. Acrossthe-board player contribution kept the momentum rolling and helping to secure the sweep.
Building on the excitement and prior success, EHS entered its second match with great confidence. In the semifinal match against Greenhill School of Dallas, the boys again claimed a three-set sweep. Day 2 arrived bringing intense energy to the court. In a nail-biting game, the EHS volleyball team fell just short in its quest for a repeat title, losing to St. Mark’s School of Dallas in an exciting five-set match. Each set was hard-fought and filled with intense rallies. St. Mark’s took the win in the first two sets of the game, but EHS pushed back to secure the third and fourth.
The teams battled with everything they had in the fifth set. EHS was down 9-11 but was able to tie it up at 11. They fell 12-15 to end the match and tournament, placing them as the SPC Conference Runner-Ups.
The boys finished their season 11-1 with a conference record of 7-1. They will be losing a total of six key seniors - Ethan Lahoti, Austin Conte, Benjamin David, Evan Bellinger-Spivey, Alfredo Bolado, and Calder Tribble. As EHS looks ahead, the team carries valuable experience and a strong sense of unity built during the season.
With this pivotal victory, the Knights punched their ticket to the SPC championship to face off against the SPCundefeated Kinkaid Falcons. However, the game took a difficult turn, as the Knights fell behind early, trailing 35-3 at halftime. Unlike their previous close match up with the Falcons - a narrow two-point loss - the Knights struggled to close the gap and ultimately fell 49-10. Though they came up short in the final, the “team was relentless throughout the season,” says Coach Moynahan, “that [gritty] mindset and leadership were key factors in [the team’s] success.”
Reflecting on the unfortunate outcome, senior captain Tate Organ stated, “Even though the championship did not go the way we wanted it to, I am super proud of everything our team accomplished and would not want to experience my senior year with any other team.”
The Knights will lose 17 impactful seniors next season, but with a strong underclass group ready to carry on this legacy and an experienced coaching staff, the Knights look to an optimistic future.
Third place finish for resilient team
VANESSA REED Sports Editor
The 2024 season was a veritable rollercoaster for the girls varsity volleyball program. Although the team has taken on several challenges throughout the season and adjusted to many changes, every girl persevered and overcame these challenges.
At the SPC tournament, the girls faced yet another challenge. While battling in a tough and intense game against the Hockaday School, starting outside Laci Schoen rolled her ankle mid-set, resulting in a complete lineup switch. Unfortunately, the girls lost the game but put up a hard fight regardless of the results.
In the final game against Greenhill
High School, freshman Reese Moriarty stepped up as the new outside and got 11 kills. With a neck-to-neck, four-set match against Greenhill, every single one of the girls filled her role on the team and stepped up with the intent to compete and reach for success. Although the girls varsity volleyball team’s overall result was a fourth place finish in SPC, their commitment and determination throughout the whole season will not be undermined as they have had immense growth as a team.
As Coach McMillian says, “The easy bus never comes; you just get better at handling the hard.”
This motto was used throughout the whole season as the girls were faced with a difficult schedule against competitive public and private schools to get used to “handling the hard.”
DJ Taylor has been a force on all sides of the ball this year, earning him MVP.
Photo by Sloane Wallace.
Members of the boys volleyball team suit up in formal attire for a SPC “business trip” to Dallas. And yes, the boys took care of business, earning Runner-Up in SPC. Photo courtesy of Coach Rocha.
Madison Morgan (fourth from the left) has been a inspiring captain for the cross country team. Her impact as a mentor earned her the Leadership Award. Photo courtesy of Episcopal Knights Athletics Instagram.
Senior captain Greer Fuselier, who was the recipient of the Leadership Award, navigates through a sea of Pride field hockey players Photo by Libby Davis.
Speaks Out
“What are you thankful for?”
HART HOUSTON “Everything”
CYRUS DAVOUDI “My dogs”
“My family”
“For
“The
NEEVA DESAI “My friends”
JULIA LEVAN “My house”
“My friends”
KEELY CARR “My parents”
MRS. YEN “My husband”
Prints Charming
Celebrity Sighting
We know, we know. They’re both celebrities, so how do they even qualify for the monthly feature? They cancel each other out, right? Well ... have you ever walked into your Publications or English class and mistaken your teacher for the
ing King? You may want to look again because the similarities between
and
are
to determine the
Cartoon by Izzie Song.
PhotoJ Photo of the Month
KENDALL THOMPSON
TRAVIS JOHNSON
Impact dancers Abby Horn, Ella Bennett, and Alexa Choi perform their routine during a pep rally. Photo by Libby Davis.
MR. AVERA
support at EHS”
HASHIM SAEED
Gracie”
Homecom-
Thompson White
Mr. Framel
eerie. Many struggle
difference between the two, especially with their identical hair style. Students have reportedly done double takes in the student section thinking that Mr. Framel had joined the Gong Squad while Thompson was working with coaches in the press box. From the hair to the stare, there is no denying that these two must be related. Photo by Anya Pant.