The Knight Times / January 2026 Issue 6

THE KNIGHT TIMES

Interim Term takes Knights around the world

EHS offers new classes and trips for students to expand their horizons

ANYA PANT Co-Editor-in-Chief

During Interim Term, Knights were spread out all over the globe. From Belize, France, and Disney World to unique curriculum on campus, the EHS community used the time intentionally to provide students with new experiences. While underclassmen took exciting courses and traveled to eye-opening locations, seniors engaged in an impactful two weeks. Through Senior Outreach, seniors were sent into all areas of need in Houston to give back to the greater community.

Episcopal partnered with approximately 10 organizations spanning five areas of need. These areas were homelessness, hunger, community, environment, and education. To address hunger, Episcopal partnered with the Houston Food Bank and Kids Meals where seniors packed lunches for children and boxed pallets of food to be sent into the community. For homelessness, Knights partnered with the Beacon where they sorted and passed out clean laundry while also cooking and serving meals. For community, Outreach participants teamed with Brookdale and Guild Shop and worked with senior citizens. Hermann Park was the site for environmental partnership where students worked to beautify the park. In the area of education, students collaborated with Small Steps, spending time with preschool children. The seniors found Outreach to be an eyeopening experience.

Senior Kendal Thompson, who spent her time at Kids Meals, shared, “I like that I was able to talk to people I’ve never talked to,” adding that she learned that many “kids that need meals are the ones in Pre-K because they are in school less.”

Senior Brooklyn Hermance shared, “I learned about the significance of active volunteers within certain organizations because that is how they are able to remain productive and make so much impact.”

In the community area of need, Isabelle DeGrange said, “I liked getting to have face to face interactions with people and learning that even mundane things can brighten up other people’s day.”

Learn

“Interim Term at EHS is a two-week program held after winter break for students to immerse themselves in exciting classes and experiences. Students study in grade-level learning programs and either travel or take elective courses. The Senior Class served in an outreach opportunity across many Houston sites. The trips this year were to Belize, France, and Disney World.”

EHS opens Crain-Galloway Arts Center

HIMALI WICKRAMASINGHE Staff Writer

The Crain-Galloway Arts Center is open for business. For the last five years, arts teachers and school administrators have been tirelessly planning to bring to EHS one of the finest additions to the school to date. Construction began in December of 2023 after the former band hall was closed.

Dean of Arts Mr. Paul Revaz considers the new building “special” and stated, “The project provides 60,000 square feet of space designed for arts specific uses. It highlights the EHS commitment to the Four Pillar philosophy and the great work done by our students and faculty.”

When asked to consider his favorite part of the building, Mr. Revaz did not hesitate:

“The ability to see students working in Ceramics and Mixed Media as you walk in!”

Of course, there are some big surprises with the new site. Mr. Revaz pointed to the study bridge on the second floor, along with the incredible new upgrades to the moviemaking and broadcast studio.

“So much incredible engineering went into the building,” Mr. Revaz explained.

“The movie/broadcast studio sits directly below the sculpture tool shop, but it is designed so that there is no sound transferred between them.”

“The theatre and music room have awesome acoustics tuned to how they will be used, and the Wenger rehearsal/recording

suites are awesome additions to music and broadcast areas.”

Whether taking a class in the new space or having some free time, students are encouraged to explore the incredible environment that is Crain-Galloway.

According to Mr. Revaz, “This building was conceived and completed with student arts experience in mind. The new spaces are meant to inspire and encourage student artists and create new opportunities for collaboration between the disciplines.”

ANYA PANT Co-Editor in Chief

The spring semester is upon us! This period inevitably brings stress for all of us: seniors deciding where to go to college while simultaneously battling severe cases of senioritis; juniors enduring ACT’s and SAT’s and keeping up with sports and schoolwork; sophomores readying themselves for junior research; and freshmen preparing for the stark jump in coursework difficulty. Though it can be difficult to power through this semester with Spring Break and summer looming over our heads, the activities occurring during this semester are some of the most engaging and impactful. More specifically, the EHS Culture Fest is a recurring exposition in which Knights have a space to share their culture with the rest of the community.

Culture Fest is the annual event held by EHS’ Diversity in Action. Culture Fest will be held in April during A and B lunch

periods. Last year, over 25 tables in the courtyard represented cultures from 6 out of the 7 continents. Any student can sign up to create a booth, no matter the culture represented. Once you find a teacher sponsor and create an informational slide, you may submit your booth proposal through a link DIA will send out soon to secure a spot at Culture Fest.

In the past, booths have been immersive experiences, allowing students and faculty to truly understand a culture beyond the facts. Through music, artwork, and a fan favorite - the food - Knights are given a unique opportunity to connect with their peers. For example, the past Greece booth served souvlaki, the India booth had a henna artist, and the Mexico booth had a Mariachi band to serenade students.

If you have a passion to share your culture, I implore you to sign up for a booth this year. Or if you want to enjoy good food and music, participate by stopping by as many booths as possible to show your support!

Slice of π

TAFT MOHAIR III

Guest Writer

Hello, I am Taft Mohair III, the Secretary of Mu Alpha Theta. January marked an exciting return for the EHS math community as students came back from winter break and eased into the new semester through Interim Term. These two weeks gave students the opportunity to explore fun, creative classes before returning to their regular course loads. There were so many math-related courses offered. Among them were Dr. P’s beloved course, The Art of Math and Problem Solving: That Puzzle Is Really a Math Problem, where students investigated some of the classic mathematics problems, explored their solutions, and learned how resulting discoveries are the foundations that underlie current research and still have a profound impact on current real-

world applications in a variety of industries. Others included Mr. Duncan’s How to Build Your Own Computer, Mr. Barnham’s Robotics class where students learned to design, build, and program robots for racing and competition, and more. As Interim Term came to a close, students transitioned back into their core math classes, refreshed and ready for the spring semester. On Saturday, January 31, 2026, mathletes competed in the University of Houston virtual contest and are now gearing up for upcoming competitions and activities, excited to dive back into collaboration and challenge. If you are interested in joining Math Club or getting more involved, talk to one of the Math Club or MAT officers - we are always happy to help you take advantage of the mathematical opportunities Episcopal offers. You can also stay up to date on math club events by following @ehsmathclub on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

McCord realizes passion for nature

DARIA MASSEY Production Editor

Imagine a school curriculum that includes camping, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving off an island in the Bahamas called Eleuthera. Cell phones are not permitted, mail takes nearly five weeks to arrive, and students are allowed just one 15-minute phone call home each week. This was junior Malin McCord’s reality for 100 days during her semester at The Island School.

“I have always been an adventurous person with a huge love for travel,” Malin said. “Living on a tropical island and getting to spend a semester with other high schoolers from all over the world who share similar interests really appealed to me.”

The Island School is a semester-long program focused on marine science, environmental studies, and sustainability. Learning extends far beyond the classroom, as students participate in outdoor activities and hands-on fieldwork. Key elements of the program, such as a 48-hour solo camping experience and a four-mile open-water swim Malin trained for daily, pushed her beyond her limits.

“They helped me grow into the person I am now,” she added.

A typical day for Malin began at 6:30 a.m., when she and her classmates gathered around the flagpole to sing the

Bahamian national anthem. She then completed her morning swim in preparation for the four-mile open-water swim at the end of the semester. Classes began around 9 a.m., ranging from creative writing and ecology to Malin’s favorite: research. Through these courses, she scuba-dived with sharks, explored mangroves, and observed marine species up close. After dinner, Malin spent her evenings fishing off the docks, socializing with friends, and working on assignments.

Malin’s semester on Eleuthera was more than just an academic experience; it was a lesson in independence, resilience, and self-discovery. Removed from the distractions of everyday life, she returned with a deeper appreciation for the environment and a clearer sense of who she is.

Faculty compete in exciting campus pickleball tournament

Coordinator

Pickleball has become a strong and exciting tradition at Episcopal High School over the past few years. What started as a simple game has grown into something teachers enjoy regularly.

According to Senior Dean Mr. Tom Bove, pickleball is growing in popularity each year. One of the most well-known players in the Episcopal pickleball scene is Mr. John Drexel. Mr. Bove shared that, if there is a pickleball leader at EHS, it is definitely Mr. Drexel. He is extremely skilled and known for being very difficult to beat. In fact, Mr. Bove joked that Mr. Drexel has beaten him “with his nondominant hand more times than I’m willing to admit.” This says much about Mr. Drexel’s talent and also highlights the fun and competitive energy of the games.

While pickleball can be competitive, it is also a great way to stay active and enjoy time outside. Games are often played during the week and on weekends, giving teachers a chance to move around and take a break from busy schedules. Being outdoors and playing a fast-paced game makes pickleball both energizing and satisfying.

Pickleball at Episcopal is about more than just winning matches. It represents balance, wellness, and school spirit. It gives teachers an opportunity to challenge themselves physically while also having fun. Students may not always see this side of campus life, but pickleball has become an important part of the community.

With dedicated players like Mr. Drexel and enthusiastic participants like Mr. Bove, pickleball will continue to be a fun and meaningful activity at EHS for years to come.

New Chapel construction begins following completion of arts building

MIMI WRIGHT

Opinions Editor

As Episcopal High School continues to grow, so does the heart of its campus. With the recent completion of the new arts building, another major project is now taking shape - the new chapel. After nearly a decade of planning by the Board of Trustees, the chapel represents both the school’s growth and its dedication to community, worship, and hospitality.

Reverend Art Callaham explained that the vision for a new chapel came from a

HIMALI

WICKRAMASINGHE

Staff Writer

On January 6, students returned to school after a restful winter break to begin one of the most memorable times of year for many EHS Knights - Interim Term.

Interim Term is an annual two-week period, after winter break, when freshmen, sophomores, and juniors get the opportunity to learn and develop new skills through various classes that aren’t part of the regular curriculum, at school or through one of the different trips offered.

Interim Term encourages students to try things they’ve never tried before and discover new hobbies and interests.

This year brought new and old classes like Becoming A Grill Master, a hands on experience that allowed students to experiment with new flavors and grilling techniques, Build Your Own Electric Guitar, a creative class that allowed students to design and craft their own guitar, Ask Away: Exploring Your Questions About

practical and spiritual need. As the school expanded to more than 800 students and over 150 faculty and staff, leaders recognized that the current space could no longer support the entire community.

Callaham described Daily Chapel as the “beating heart” of Episcopal High School, emphasizing that the new chapel is meant to serve as a central gathering place for worship and connection. He noted that it reflects the school’s mission and its commitment to being a “joyful and inclusive Christian community.”

One of the most noticeable changes will

be the size. The new chapel will seat about 30 percent more people and will be nearly twice as tall as the current chapel. This added height allows space for a world class pipe organ that has been donated to the school. Additional features include a new altar and baptismal font, larger transepts, and nearly 40 new stained-glass windows that will fill the space with light and color.

Despite its larger scale, comfort and familiarity were central to the design. Seating areas were planned with more room between rows, and even students

Interim Term Summed Up

Christianity, a class designed to help students explore and understand Christianity on a deeper level, Glow up: Craft Your Aesthetic, a class that allowed students to express themselves through small crafts and Knightcore, and a Pilates class where students explore the evolution of Pilates and are encouraged to get active.

Along with many new classes came three new trips: Disney, a science field trip that allowed students to have a behindthe-scenes experience to explore the physics and science behind their favorite Disney rides; Belize, a vibrant cultural experience where students engaged in activities such as mini service projects, hiking, and learning about different aspects of Belizean culture; and France, a historical adventure where students learned about Normandy, D-Day, and Joan of Arc.

Whether through a trip and elective classes or in the advisory challenges, Interim Term is truly a remarkable, memorable time of year that brings the community closer together.

in the back will be closer to the altar than they are now. The chapel also honors its past by reusing meaningful elements from the old space, including stained glass windows, the altar, and the stations of the cross.

Callahan hopes students’ first reaction will be excitement. “I hope that their first response is WOW,” he said, while also hoping that feeling quickly turns into comfort. He emphasized that the chapel will remain “our chapel,” a spiritual home where the community can gather, celebrate, and feel truly valued.

KARIANA CARLSON Managing Editor

For my family, Café Rabelais is a tradition. We return for special occasions, celebrations, and nights when we want to slow down and enjoy a meal that feels intentional. Café Rabelais is a quiet and cozy place to relax and enjoy some delicious food.

Someone at our table always begins with the Soupe à l’Oignon, a must-order appetizer that never disappoints. The broth is rich and savory, topped with a very thick layer of melted Gruyère cheese that makes it the perfect start to the meal. My mother often orders the Moules Rabelais, and the mussels arrive tender and flavorful, soaked in a creamy white-wine sauce that pairs perfectly with fries on the side. For the main course, Café Rabelais shines through its French simplicity.

Whether it’s a perfectly cooked steak or one of the restaurant’s many fish dishes, the entrees feel classic and comforting without being overly heavy. The focus is always on simple quality ingredients rather than overcomplication.

Finally, dessert is never skipped. The Crème Brûlée, a fan favorite, cracks with a spoon, revealing a smooth vanilla custard beneath. For a fruity option, the Poire Belle-Hélène is another favorite, combining poached pear, vanilla ice cream, and warm chocolate sauce for a perfectly balanced dessert. For any chocolate lover, the Mousse au Chocolat is rich and deeply satisfying.

Café Rabelais, tucked in the heart of Rice Village, is not flashy or loud. That is exactly why we keep coming back. It’s a place to celebrate, savor each course, and enjoy the comfort of a French meal done right.

ALL THINGZ fashion

DARIA MASSEY Production Editor

For my family, Café Rabelais is a tradition. We return for special occasions, celebrations, and nights when we want to slow down and enjoy a meal that feels intentional. Café Rabelais is a quiet and cozy place to relax and enjoy some delicious food.

Someone at our table always begins with the Soupe à l’Oignon, a must-order appetizer that never disappoints. The broth is rich and savory, topped with a very thick layer of melted Gruyère cheese that makes it the perfect start to the meal. My mother often orders the Moules Rabelais, and the mussels arrive tender and flavorful, soaked in a creamy white-wine sauce that pairs perfectly with fries on the side. For the main course, Café Rabelais shines through its French simplicity. Whether it’s a perfectly cooked steak or one of the restaurant’s many fish dishes, the entrees feel classic and comforting without being overly heavy. The focus is always on simple quality ingredients rather than overcomplication.

Finally, dessert is never skipped. The

Crème Brûlée, a fan favorite, cracks with a spoon, revealing a smooth vanilla custard beneath. For a fruity option, the Poire Belle-Hélène is another favorite, combining poached pear, vanilla ice cream, and warm chocolate sauce for a perfectly balanced dessert. For any chocolate lover, the Mousse au Chocolat is rich and deeply satisfying.

Café Rabelais, tucked in the heart of Rice Village, is not flashy or loud. That is exactly why we keep coming back. It’s a place to celebrate, savor each course, and enjoy the comfort of a French meal done right.

Welcome back to Book Nook! Today, I present you with a novel considered one of the greatest literary works from the Harlem Renaissance - Their Eyes Were Watching God - by American writer Zora Neale Hurston.

Published in 1937, the novel is the story of a young girl named Janie Crawford and her journey to find fulfillment. The novel focuses primarily on Janie’s three marriages and the hardships that she experienced in each one. However, the most remarkable part of Janie’s journey to fulfillment isn’t the challenges she faces but rather her incredible character development throughout the story. As a reader, observing how Janie went from a naïve, innocent girl to a strong, confident woman was almost as magical as watching a child

Editor

On January 11, the streets of Houston were filled with energy and determination as the Chevron Houston Marathon drew 25,000 runners from around the world. Athletes of all ages and abilities gathered early on a cool Sunday morning to push through 26.2 miles of pavement, weaving through neighborhoods like Midtown, Montrose, and The Heights in a celebration of sport, perseverance, and community pride. For many runners, this race marked the start of a new year built on hard work and personal goals.

Running a marathon is never easy, but for 30-year-old Zouhair Talbi, it was a truly historic day. Talbi claimed first place with a time of 2 hours, 5 minutes, and 45 seconds, setting a new course record in the process. The victory meant even more because it was his first major race since becoming a United States citizen. Crossing the finish line while representing his

new country made the moment emotional and powerful.

In an interview with Adam Zuvanich published in Houston Public Media, Talbi describes the overwhelming specialness of the moment. He expressed, “This is a country that gives me a lot of opportunity as a citizen, and it was great to represent America in the big city. Today was my first time winning a race and carrying the flag, and it felt like such a special moment.”

On the women’s side, Calli HaugerThackery of Great Britain won the marathon in 2 hours, 24 minutes, and 17 seconds, an impressive feat just four weeks after her victory at the Honolulu Marathon. Her performance highlighted both her physical strength and her ability to push through fatigue at the elite level. Whether runners were chasing records or simply chasing their personal best, the 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon showed the strength, determination, and unity that define the spirit of Houston.

who you’ve known your whole life grow up to be an amazing adult.

While Janie’s story may not be the most relatable, it is certainly very interesting, and Hurston’s use of vivid imagery makes you feel as if you were Janie, experiencing what she is going through in her crazy adventure.

This was truly an amazing read. It’s extremely eventful and heartwarming and has powerful themes such as identity, love, and faith; most importantly, it gives you the opportunity to explore aspects of life in America during the Harlem Renaissance - a pivotal moment in American history. It is the kind of novel that is a new adventure in each chapter, so be ready for a different adventure, a new experience, or maybe even an insane plot twist.

Every December, Rolling Stone releases its top 100 songs of the year. As an avid listener, I thought that this year, I would create my own list. Including new tracks and old favorites. my best plays of 2025 are surefire favorites.

Hear me Out

with Caroline Johnson

minded me of what a great play this 2002 song really is.

One of my most recent discoveries, the best song to come from a movie soundtrack, has to be “Dream As One” by Miley Cyrus. Featured on Avatar: Fire and Ash, Cyrus’s song was the perfect track for the movie’s end credits. The best TV soundtrack has to go to I Love LA, a new series starring Rachel Sennott and Josh Hutcherson. When the first episode featured the song “Tear You Apart” by She Wants Revenge, I knew I was in for a season of great music. The notable music continued through the season finale, where “Oblivion” by Grimes and “Watch Your Step” by Bobby Parker played. Together, these songs gave I Love LA a standout sound.

Another major track to gain popularity from a TV show was “All The Things She Said” by the Russian duo t.A.T.u., which famously played during an episode of Heated Rivalry. The song perfectly matched the tension of the episode and re-

My favorite genre of the year was nu-metal, as I rediscovered iconic tracks from this 1990s genre. My recommendations include “Somewhere I Belong” by Linkin Park, “Aerials” by System Of A Down, “Duality” by Slipknot, and “This Close” by Flyleaf. More broadly, the most worthwhile band in the rock genre goes to Paramore. Specifically, their song “The Only Exception” went platinum in my headphones. Their singer, Hayley Williams, released a solo album, Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party, which is also worth the listen. This album features her viral song “True Believer,” a dark, moody song inspired by Billie Holiday’s 1939 song “Strange Fruit,” exposing the reality of African-American lynchings in the Jim Crow Era. Williams’ voice does the story justice, and “True Believer” makes up for her more lackluster previous releases.

2025 was a monumental year for the music industry, even when it comes to the songs heard in TV and film. From old metal favorites to the modern retelling of historical songs, any of these tracks are worth the play.

ANYA KALE Staff Writer

A1 Cinema

with nightfall that evil comes in the form of vampires who go about slowly turning the patrons into vampires.

This month I watched the Ryan Coogler film Sinners ahead of the 2026 Oscar season.

The film stars Michael B. Jordan as WWI veterans and criminals Smoke and Stack Moore. The identical twins move back to their 1932 Delta Mississippi hometown after seven years to open a juke joint catering mainly to black people, only to face a supernatural evil. Jordan received an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of the troubled siblings.

The film focuses on themes of race, relationships, and religion, but its most prominent theme is music. Miles Caton plays the brothers’ cousin Sammie, a talented singer and guitarist hired to play at the juke joint. However, his pastor father warns him of the evils of Blues music, and

Although the plot of Sinners is relatively simple, its symbolism and overall metaphor is what make it my favorite release of 2025. The film’s score really set it over the top as it builds on the origins of blues music in black communities and the Jim Crow South.

My favorite sequence of this movie (and of the year) was the “music through time scene.” In it, Sammie reaches a flow state with his guitar, and we see musicians from different eras around him. They range from punk-rock musicians to African tribal dancers.

I found this sequence to be incredibly moving and telling of music’s ability to reach the farthest corners of our lives and how fundamental it is to religion, culture, prejudice, and other film themes.

JULIA LEVAN Staff Writer

Welcome to Stock Talk! Every month I will share things such as investing tips, finance books I read, accounting basics, and well performing stocks and ETF’s. This month, we will simply go over the investing Do’s and Don’ts.

Do start early and diversify your portfolio. Did you know that if you start investing $100 monthly in the S&P 500 starting at age 16 all the way until you turn 60 (44 years), you will have around $400,000 to over 1 million dollars? So, next time you get your work paycheck or allowance, think about setting it aside into a portfolio instead of spending all of it on Amazon.

Another key factor to investing is spreading your money around many different categories of stocks and as-

set classes. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket because the market can be so unpredictable. You could lose everything with one risky investment. Also, don’t let your emotions rule during a market crisis. At first, you may freak out when you see your stocks red and underperforming. Trust me, hold on to them and wait for green again. When I first learned this, it seemed unreasonable but there is a quote from Warren Buffet who said, “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.”

When markets are booming, and everyone is buying stocks, greed drives the stock prices up and it results in a lot of people overpaying. But during market downturns, panic selling happens, causing good stocks to be at an unfairly low price. This is when you, the intelligent investor, should buy those quality assets for cheap.

All Her Fault shocks audiences with its thrilling tale

KARIANA CARLSON Managing Editor

From the opening scene, All Her Fault pulls viewers into a tense mystery that never loses its grip. A young child, Milo, disappears, and what seems like a straightforward kidnapping quickly becomes something far more complicated. The show thrives on suspense and unsettling flashbacks, constantly revealing new pieces of information that shift what you think will happen. Just when the story seems to make sense, another door opens, changing everything.

The early episodes focus heavily on the night of the disappearance, particularly the two babysitters of the wealthy families involved. The series masterfully reveals information to the audience. Each episode introduces clues that feel significant yet rarely offers full answers to the mystery. This slow release keeps viewers engaged, encouraging them to form theories and predictions, sorting characters into guilty

or innocent piles. At the center of the story is a father whose role initially feels suspicious as he goes behind his wife’s back on multiple occasions. For much of the show, I was convinced he was behind everything, and that assumption added to the tension of every scene in which he appeared. While he is not responsible for the kidnapping itself, his role in the story is astonishing. His character adds an emotional weight and moral complexity, making him central to the show’s tension without being the main culprit.

Milo’s mother is psychologically damaged through the entire season. Her grief turns into obsession, guilt, and paranoia, blurring the line between instinct and instability. As her mental state deteriorates, her actions become hard to justify.

All Her Fault, a true thriller, thrives on twists and turns that never allow viewers to feel settled. With each new reveal, the suspense deepens, keeping audiences on edge until the riveting climax.

Should authors stay clear of the sacred space of reader reviews?

CAROLINE JOHNSON Staff Writer

In an era when the internet connects people by giving them a platform to share their opinions, public criticism is expected whenever an author releases a book. Specifically, book review sites like Goodreads were created for readers to freely express their opinions to other readers. With this comes the unwritten, widely respected rule: authors are not to engage with reviews of their own work. This preserves the integrity of the reviews, protects the commentors, and maintains the long-standing boundary between readers and authors.

A recent breaking of this boundary sparked increased internet discourse over author etiquette. In October 2025, popular comedian and content creator Elyse Meyers released her debut novel, That’s a Great Question, I’d Love to Tell You. Upon its publishing, Meyers received mixed reviews with critics praising her relatable, down-to-earth descriptions of living with anxiety but noted that its structure was confusing, functioning more as a collection of vignettes than one cohesive story, making it a difficult read. Many believed that the book should have been more carefully edited before its release.

In early November 2025, one reader posted a polite but negative review on the Threads app. Surprisingly, Meyers herself responded, encouraging the commentor to return the book. Although neither post

was disrespectful, Meyers quickly received backlash. By entering the sacred “reader space” that online book discussions create, Meyers blurred the lines between critic and author.

Initially, this drew massive attention to the initial poster. Many of Meyers’ fans flocked to her defense, bombarding the unsuspecting commentor. Known as the Streisand Effect, responding to a negative review only drew more attention to it, creating an uncomfortable and potentially dangerous situation for the original poster. A secondary result of Meyers’ response was growing mistrust within the literary criticism community. What started as a casual conversation - a safe space for readers to share their opinions with one anotherwas infiltrated by someone who prevented honest discussion among the critics. Being reminded of Meyers’ imminent presence changed the environment of the discussion, leading readers to fear judgement for sharing their true opinions.

Coming from a first-time author, Meyers’ behavior may be explained by her lack of education on author-reader dynamics. However, her situation should be seen as a warning for future authors: book reviews are for the readers, not the writers. Keep in mind that reviews are published for the purpose of being shared with other readers, not to insult the author. Maintaining this distance preserves the sacred relationship between audiences and authors, protecting both the authors’ feelings and their critics’ freedom of speech.

SIMONA KARNANI Co-Editor in Chief

I go to Solidcore regularly. I did Solidays and I’m a big fan. I get the appeal, which is exactly why I find the concept of Solidays so fascinating and honestly a little crazy.

Every December, Solidcore rolls out Solidays, which is a limited time challenge that asks members to complete up to ten classes in roughly two weeks. If you complete it, you get the coveted Solidcore mockneck. On paper, it’s a fitness challenge. In reality, it’s one of the most impressive business strategies I’ve ever seen.

Taking ten classes in fourteen days is more than most people workout in a month. Yet people will happily rearrange their schedules, double up classes, take class at odd hours and spend hundreds of dollars to earn a sweatshirt (all of which I did).

This is where Solidays starts to feel cultish. Not in a sinister way, but in the way highly effective communities are. There’s exclusivity, shared suffering, proof of belonging, and social media. TikTok is flooded with Solidays tips, class updates, and vlogs. At this point, the workout is a collective experience that tells you you’re disciplined and different from others. What makes this even more genius is timing. Solidays happens before the new year, before the annual “new year, new me” gym surge that fizzles out a few weeks into January. People swear this is the year they’ll finally stick to their resolutions, go hard for a week, and then disappear. Resolutions are built on vague motivation and empty foals. Solidays, on the other hand, offers

The DRC cobalt mining supplies the global market

PAIGE PAN Features Editor

As the demand for renewable energy and electronics has increased in recent years, demand for cobalt has subsequently increased as well. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has become the world’s largest producer of cobalt, supplying the majority of the global market. While cobalt mining in the DRC is vital for the global economy, it raises serious ethical and economic concerns.

The DRC is home to nearly 75% of the world’s known cobalt reserves, and cobalt mining has become the country’s most valuable economic sector. It contributes significantly to national GDP and export revenue, generating approximately $2.4 billion in exports over the past 5 years. China is the primary destination for Congolese cobalt exports, making the DRC’s economy heavily dependent on both Chinese demand and cobalt’s global price. This dependence exposes the country to price volatility. Rising demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies can increase prices and temporarily benefit the DRC. However, price crashes, technological shifts that reduce cobalt use, or global economic downturns can severely damage revenue.

structure, urgency, and a prize. No wonder it works.

But that’s also the irony. We mock new year’s resolutions because they’re unserious, yet we praise challenges like Solidays without questioning whether this level of intensity is sustainable. In December, I had to book my Solidcore classes weeks in advance. In January, I can get into a class the night before or even day off. I’m sure regulars at the gym would agree. Are people building long term habits or are they chasing the dopamine hit of completion?

Still, I can’t fully criticize it because it works. Solidcore has figured out what most fitness brands haven’t; people don’t just want to work out. They want a community and proof that they showed up. If that proof comes in the form of a sweatshirt earned through insane effort, so be it.

The problem isn’t Solidays, it’s that we swing between two extremes and aren’t taught sustainability. A better approach would meet people in the middle. Instead of rewarding intensity alone, individuals should prioritize consistency. Progress doesn’t happen in fourteen days; habits do. On a personal level, the solution might reframe why we show up at all. If the only thing getting someone to workout is a sweatshirt, that motivation will disappear when the challenge ends. Solidcore has already proven they know how to motivate. If they use that influence to normalize sustainable fitness the cultish energy won’t disappear, but it will evolve. Maybe then, “new year, new me” wouldn’t be a joke, not because we’d be pushing harder, but because we’d finally be aiming smarter.

Despite the wealth generated by cobalt exports, the profits are not distributed equally among the Congolese. State-run and foreign corporations dominate the mining industry, controlling half of all cobalt production. One prominent example is CMOC Group Limited, formerly known as China Molybdenum. CMOC holds a significant stake in the Tenke Fungurume Mine in the Katanga region, one of the largest cobalt mines in the world. Although the mine produces hundred of millions of dollars annually, much of the profit goes to company headquarters in China. The DRC receives only a small share through taxes and royalties.

Multi-national technology companies such as Apple, Tesla, and Samsung also play a role in sustaining these inequalities. The widespread use of lithium ion batteries in smartphones and electric vehicles has sharply increased demand for cobalt. While these corporations are often not directly involved in mining, they rely on complex supply chains that distance them from labor practices at the extraction level. This separation allows companies to avoid accountability for poor working conditions and human rights abuses in Congolese mines.

Glencore operates large industrial mines such as Mutanda and Katanga, where workers have reported dangerous conditions and extremely low wages, Although Tesla has publicly claimed efforts to reduce cobalt use, it continues to rely on Glencore’s supply, ensuring continued involvement in Congolese cobalt extraction.

While cobalt mining in the DRC supports global technological advancement and renewable energy goals, it comes at a high ethical and economic cost. The country’s dependence on cobalt exports leaves it vulnerable to global market instability, while foreign corporate dominance prevents mining wealth from benefiting most Congolese citizens. Addressing these issues requires stronger regulation and increased corporate transparency to ensure that progress toward clean energy does not come at the expense of human rights and economic justice in the DRC.

Swimmers make waves

BENTLEY BEICH Staff Writer

The girls and boys swim and dive team is hitting its stride as the season moves toward championship competition. With demanding morning and afternoon practices, athletes are putting in some serious work both in the pool and the weight room. Morning sessions take place at the YMCA, usually with swimmers who participate in swimming outside of school, while afternoon practices are held at the Bellaire pool, creating a rigorous schedule that tests both physical and mental endurance. According to Coach Brittany Pike, the team is tired and exactly where it should be at this point in the season, with some hard training ahead before tapering off for SPC.

Early results point to a strong and

competitive year. Grant Evans set a new school record in the 100 butterfly, and the girls’ team earned a second-place finish at their most recent meet in Pearland. The team’s growth and potential continue as the season goes on.

Beyond the results, team culture has been a major strength. Swimmers like Lillian Schulz, Ryan Lyda, Kieran O’Mally, and Cate Cunningham describe a closeknit group that bonds through shared routines, yoga, stretching, and plenty of inside jokes. Raegan Champion noted that the upcoming SPC South Zones meet at the University of Houstonbwill provide an important benchmark, helping the team gauge where they stand against key SPC competitors.

With strong chemistry and momentum building, the team is poised for an exciting finish to the season.

Preparation underway for SPC

CHARLOTTE

MEHNERT Copy Editor

The boys basketball team is on its way to the top with several players emerging in their roles on the court through impactful and consistent play. Nyle Harrison, Caleb Clay, Jordan Goffney, and Alim Olajuwon have stood out statistically, while Reid Sasser has provided vital senior leadership. Game after game, the players were tested against elite competition creating an environment for growth and toughness. Through challenging workouts and practices, the team has created an identity full of resilience in preparation for conference action.

They have played one of the most challenging schedules in the state. Unfortunately, the scoreboard does not show their success, but their grit shines for 32-minute games and beyond. The team played its first conference game against the number 1 private school in the state on January 9 at Houston Christian.

The next game was a home matchup with Kinkaid on January 13. The Falcons came into Alkek Gym as the number 4 private school in the state. The Knights plucked the Falcons and came away with an overtime victory.

The players remarked that that the SPC games will be the toughest games yet, but they will continue to give 100 percent.

Boys soccer plucks the Falcons

SIMONA KARNANI

Co-Editor in Chief

January marked the start of SPC games and boys soccer remains undefeated. Conference play began at Houston Christian on January 9. The team won the SPC opener 12-0 against the Mustangs. Players Fernando, Grant and Gavin were awarded man of the match, and Richard scored five goals.

SPC counter season continued with a rivalry matchup against Kinkaid at Episcopal at 5:00. Episcopal and Kinkaid is a long-standing rivalry. Episcopal beat Kinkaid 1-0 with a dramatic, last minute header goal by Eli Holloway, who was also the man of the match. Both teams played most of the game with fewer play-

ers due to red cards.

Prior to SPC play, the Knights hit the road at the start of winter break and beat Parish Episcopal 4-0. The team hosted Kipp Houston on January 6 and won 3-0. Varsity boys have performed well all season, winning all their games except for a draw with Bellaire High School in December.

The Knights won against Awty International School on January 16 at Awty 2-0. The team has faced the Rams in multiple SPC championships. They hosted St. John’s at home on January 23. To finish out the month, the Knights played John Cooper School at home.

As the team preps for SPC, they have one home game in February before they head to the tournament.

Girls soccer shows consistency

ANYA KALE Staff Writer

Our girls soccer team has had a spirited and competitive season. Varsity soccer has an impressive 4-0-1 start, earning them solid rankings in the SPC.

Throughout the season, Episcopal has demonstrated strong offensive skills and defensive strength. Recent results include a 3-1 win over Kinkaid on January 13, which has only added to their winning momentum. Earlier in the year, the team scored an impressive 5-0 victory against St. John’s and a 3-0 knockout against Houston Christian.

Senior Nora Jordan reflected on the girl’s season so far, saying the season “is going well right now, and even though there’s room to improve, we’ll be ready for SPC”.

The team has worked tirelessly to start strong, keep pace within the middle of games, and finish even stronger. With a mix of experienced returners and emerging talent, Episcopal’s girls are building momentum in the SPC ahead of the championship in early February. The team’s extremely strong start and recent results show how the girls have translated their energy and commitment to hard work on the field.

Knights’ growth becoming evident

JULIA LEVAN Staff Writer

The girls varsity basketball team has faced a challenging start to January, battling tough opponents while continuing to build toward the postseason.

The Knights opened the month with a close home loss to Bishop Lynch, falling 52–47 in a game that stayed competitive until the final minutes. Three days later, Episcopal earned a hard-fought 29–22 road win over Concordia Lutheran, a low-scoring game defined by disciplined defense and consistent effort on both ends of the floor.

Despite losses to Houston Christian and The Kinkaid School, the team’s defensive intensity has remained a reliable strength throughout the month. Those matchups created areas for growth while reinforcing the Knights’ ability to bounce back. Episcopal has continued to pressure opposing offenses, forcing tough shots and working to limit second-chance opportunities, even against high-scoring teams.

With SPC approaching on February 1214 in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the girls

are focused on growth and preparation. A busy stretch of games lies ahead, with notable matchups including Awty International, St. John’s, and John Cooper, all of which will provide important opportunities to sharpen execution and build momentum.

The Knights’ defense seems to be their strength and has proven the team will be fierce competitors and a true force to be reckoned with heading into SPC.

Wrestlers consistently in top ten

MEHNERT Copy Editor

The wrestling team has found its groove as grapplers from the varsity team have shown strong performances and earned many podium places and top five finishes. On January 10, the team competed at the Katy Seven Lakes Tournament and finished fifth place overall. Thomas Dunlap placed first, while Henry Zamorano and Deacon Morgan earned runners-up, Madden Morgan secured third place, and James Brennan followed with a fourthplace finish. William Baker, Walker Evans, and Evan Zager rounded out the results with sixth place finishes in their

respective weight classes. The hard work and dedication from these athletes played a key role in scoring so highly in the tournament

Over Winter Break, the team traveled to Allen High School for a major tournament featuring teams from Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Tennessee. Dunlap and Madden Morgan both placed fifth in their weight classes. Zamorano placed twelfth, while Brennan finished thirteenth. While facing the tough teams from the different regions, the team gained valuable experience.

These tough meets proved the team’s dedication and steady improvement throughout the season.

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“Getting an A in my hardest class”

“Getting all As on my report card”

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