the official student-produced news site for Saint Stephen's Episcopal School

the Gauntlet
Global Education Coordinator Mrs. Jennifer Hambrick announces this year's Sister School Exchange Programs at an Upper School assembly.
Sister School visits unveiled, applications now available
November 12, 2024
StuCo announced that Homecoming Spirit Week has been postponed at a school assembly on Monday
Spirit Week postponed due to Hurricane Milton
October 23, 2024
Juniors Nadia Grubbs and George Frano spending time with their Falcon Friends.
First Falcon Friend event brings community together
October 4, 2024
The long-awaited Dr. Janet S. Pullen S.T.E.A.M. Center, located on 41st Street by the Campus Center, is currently under construction but is expected to be a part of campus life next school year.
S.T.E.A.M Center set to open in July 2025
September 25, 2024
This summer, hospitals reported an almost 25% increase in emergency cases relating to the coronavirus. As a tourist destination, Florida is vulnerable to waves of the disease. Art by Al Lombardi
Resurgence of Covid impacts academics, athletics
September 24, 2024
Matthew Christian prepares for take off at SRQ International Airport, where he is close to obtaining his private piloting license.
Junior Matthew Christian is ready to take flight
November 7, 2024
The Harkness Discussion method utilizes a roundtable, around which students must lead discussions while the teacher observes. Art by Al Lombardi
Harkness Discussions are what English class is all about
November 1, 2024
This house was completely destroyed by Hurricane Milton.
Unbroken by Milton
October 25, 2024
Coach Cole Hudson soars into his new position as AD
Coach Cole Hudson soars into his new position as AD
October 17, 2024
Ms. Gillard (pictured second from the right) at a friend's 8th-grade graduation in Austin, Texas.
10 Questions in 10 Minutes with Gabrielle Gillard
August 23, 2024
The album cover for Will Wood's "The Normal Album"
A Musical Enigma: A Look Into Will Wood’s Dynamic Career
November 15, 2024
Girls as young as 11 are buying retinols and other skincare products that do more harm than help to their face.
The real issue with the Sephora Kid skincare craze
November 4, 2024
Notifications from Snapchat, Instagram, and Messages pelt students during classes, resulting in distraction. Art by Al Lombardi
Reading this title will likely be interrupted by a Snapchat notification
October 25, 2024
Poster for the Beetlejuice Beetlejuice movie. Movie poster from TV insider 2024 https://www.tvinsider.com/show/beetlejuice-2/
Review: Is Beetlejuice Beetlejuice worth watching?
October 22, 2024
Senior Jack Horne signs in late. This year, three tardies result in a 30-minute, after-school detention.
The new Tardy Policy was needed, but it goes too far
October 4, 2024
The album cover for Will Wood's "The Normal Album"
A Musical Enigma: A Look Into Will Wood’s Dynamic Career
November 15, 2024
Poster for the Beetlejuice Beetlejuice movie. Movie poster from TV insider 2024 https://www.tvinsider.com/show/beetlejuice-2/
Review: Is Beetlejuice Beetlejuice worth watching?
October 22, 2024
Ranking the top senior parking spots
Ranking the top senior parking spots
September 19, 2024
The Hosts with their exchange students.
Sister school visitors reflect on their time at SSES
March 22, 2024
Three Honors Marine 3 students(Jake Seubert, Madison McAvoy, and Will Schindler), suited in their wetsuits, prepare to explore the great wonders of the Key Largo reefs.
Marine Science program proves that firsthand experience is the way to go
February 16, 2024
Austin is leading his team to victory.
Junior Austin Carr travels to the State Championships Saturday
November 15, 2024
A shot of the junior boy's volleyball team playing in a match at lunch.
Volleyball team launches school-wide tournament as fundraiser for prom
October 23, 2024
The seniors will look to celebrate their years of commitment this Friday for Senior Night.
Pack the MAC for Senior Night this Friday
October 3, 2024
The Boys Cross Country Team flicking up after a great win.
On your mark, Get set, Go
September 27, 2024
There are some big match-ups in college football, especially a duel between second-ranked Georgia and fourth-ranked Alabama. Art by Al Lombardi
Bo’s Picks: The best college football games to watch in Week 5
September 25, 2024
Seniors Jackie Rappold, Victoria Neiva, and Jeremy Stroh celebrate a big finish.
2024 Homecoming Dance-Off Video
November 6, 2024
Upper School Director Mrs. Conn reviews the Future White Coats club poster
The Club Fair Offers Avenues for Students to Explore Their Passions
October 21, 2024
Streets are flooded and many signs are knocked down on AMI.
Hurricane Milton impacts AMI with 1-2 punch
October 18, 2024
Pictured is the Rod and Reel Pier, which was severely impacted by the storm
The Anna Maria Island community comes together after Hurricane Helene
October 16, 2024
The first Falcon Friend Event of the year saw students brainstorming potential future FF events.
Falcon Friends: Past, Present, and Future
October 3, 2024
Seniors Jackie Rappold, Victoria Neiva, and Jeremy Stroh celebrate a big finish.
2024 Homecoming Dance-Off Video
November 6, 2024
Upper School Director Mrs. Conn reviews the Future White Coats club poster
The Club Fair Offers Avenues for Students to Explore Their Passions
October 21, 2024
Pictured is the Rod and Reel Pier, which was severely impacted by the storm
The Anna Maria Island community comes together after Hurricane Helene
October 16, 2024
The first Falcon Friend Event of the year saw students brainstorming potential future FF events.
Falcon Friends: Past, Present, and Future
October 3, 2024
English Teacher Mr. David Johnson shared that his favorite new policy has been the attendance policy.
Favorite changes on campus this year
September 11, 2024
Spread a little kindness everywhere you go.
Share Your Voice S4 E2- Kindness is Always in Full Bloom
July 29, 2024
Click the image for the episode! We cover everything from college applications, to what seniors wish they knew before applying.
College Pod E2
April 30, 2024
Click the image for the episode! We cover everything from college applications, to what seniors wish they knew before applying.
The College Pod E1
April 29, 2024
Mr. Cotton alongside colleague and spouse Mrs. Cotton
Conversations with Ricardo
November 29, 2023
Conversations with Ricardo
Conversations with Ricardo
November 3, 2023
The senior class debuts their creative float to the audience
Pep Rally Photo Gallery
November 8, 2024
Seniors end their dance off with a confetti canon.
Photo Gallery: Dance Off 2024-2025
November 6, 2024
Streets are flooded and many signs are knocked down on AMI.
Hurricane Milton impacts AMI with 1-2 punch
October 18, 2024
Three friends grin big while celebrating the blessing of their stuffed animals and dog.
Photo Gallery: Blessing of the Animals
October 17, 2024
Mrs. Conn checked out the Future White Coats Club, started by Christina Collazo '25.
Photo Gallery: 2024-2025 Annual Club Fair
September 5, 2024
Reese Williams delivered her senior speech.
Reese Williams Senior Speech
March 27, 2024
Theo Frano delivered his Senior speech.
Theo Frano Senior Speech
March 27, 2024
Sam Mascera delivers her senior speech.
Sam Mascera’s Senior Speech
March 22, 2024
Alex Long delivers his Senior Speech
Alex Long’s Senior Speech
March 22, 2024
Madelyn Cox delivers her Senior Speech
Madelyn Cox’s Senior Speech
March 22, 2024
the official student-produced news site for Saint Stephen's Episcopal School

the Gauntlet
the official student-produced news site for Saint Stephen's Episcopal School

the Gauntlet
Sarabeth Wester

Sarabeth Wester, Creative Director/Artist

Sarabeth Wester is a senior on The Gauntlet with four years under her belt of hard work in the newsroom as our Creative Director. Her favorite color is purple, she has a cat and a dog who she loves dearly, and she plays video games in her free time – her favorite being Fallout 4 even with it’s imperfections. Her favorite movies are Days of Thunder, Top Gun, and Wall-E – she believes everyone should watch them at least once.

 

All content by Sarabeth Wester
A reflection of my time in high school.

[Photo] Dear Sophomores, it’s me again

Reese Williams, Associate Editor
May 14, 2024
I feel as though I'm running towards a void, with my only guide being a clock, counting down till the life I've known slips from my fingers.

[Photo] The paradoxical reality of graduating high school: am I ready?

Alex McLemore, Editor-in-Chief
May 10, 2024
Screenshot 2024-05-07 at 10.49.24 AM

[Photo] Is the SAT’s shift to digital a good thing?

Laila Yavalar, Associate Editor
May 7, 2024
At a crossroads

[Photo] How to take the road less traveled

Cassidy Miller, Associate Editor/ Podcaster/ Staff Writer
May 7, 2024
Mosaics are often used as metaphors to describe people's lives; Life is made up of many individual, unique moments and experiences, and, when all pieced together, they create a beautiful portrait of an individual's life-- just like a mosaic.

[Photo] To be or to become?

Alex McLemore, Editor-in-Chief
May 1, 2024
With 38 days till graduation, let student voices be heard. We want the ability to decorate our grad caps; we want the ability to be authentically ourselves on graduation day.

[Photo] Let us be individuals, let us decorate our grad caps

Alex McLemore, Editor-in-Chief
April 18, 2024
Mr. Paoletti in his environment on the softball field

[Photo] The Journey of Coach Lenny Paoletti

Bode LaBelle, Staff Writer
April 10, 2024
Understanding the reason for the "no's" can help ease the heartache involved and give you a better outlook on your decision.

[Photo] Understanding the changing college admission scene

Alex McLemore, Editor-in-Chief
March 25, 2024
Screenshot 2024-03-08 at 1.04.19 PM

[Photo] The abundance of A’s: Grade inflation is weakening the once-coveted grade

Laila Yavalar, Associate Editor
March 11, 2024
If you follow my five tactics, I'm sure the ref will be blushing so hard he'll be as red as a tomato.

[Photo] Your guide to getting along with high school referees

George Frano, Staff Writer
February 14, 2024
The beloved Mr Holt, making sure all students are where they are supposed to be.

[Photo] Study-out revoked for students with 10 or more absences

Yara Nimer, Staff Writer
January 26, 2024
Psychology is an important facet in becoming a true scholar, so why do schools not offer this course?

[Photo] Every school needs a psychology course

Milaan Smith, Associate Editor
January 23, 2024
The recent uptick of alumni entering the field means one thing: high school journalism opens doors.

[Photo] High school journalism opens doors

Reese Williams, Associate Editor
January 18, 2024
This spring, come out to a baseball game to experience the new, faster paced game.

[Photo] A new era of baseball

Derek Aroyan, Staff writer
January 15, 2024
The weight of the curriculum on students can be incredibly heavy. However, striking a balance is important.

[Photo] Schools should prioritize wellness over curriculum

Sarah Black, Staff Writer
January 9, 2024
Exam week can be stressful. But there are ways to mitigate that stress.

[Photo] Overview of the Stress-Less Week

Andrei Black, Alex McLemore
December 4, 2023
What better way to join in the festivities than to wear your most festive ugly holiday sweater ?

[Photo] Stress-Less Week

December 4, 2023
Screenshot 2023-11-13 at 10.34.46 AM

[Photo] Quit wasting your College Weekends

Laila Yavalar, Staff Writer
November 13, 2023
With the right nutrition you'll feel more alive, which will allow you to have a more exciting life.

[Photo] Why all schools should have a health & nutrition classes

Ariana "Ari" Chapman, Staff Writer
January 16, 2024
We can't settle for last place every year.

[Photo] Step up, sophomores

Grace Baxendale, Staff Writer
November 6, 2023
Halloween was a time of community and love, in recent years, it seems this feeling has dimmed; I say, it is time we go back to it's roots.

[Photo] Halloween is for high schoolers, too

Andrei Black, Associate Editor
October 31, 2023
Imagining Freddy Falcon with a piercing. Art by Sarabeth Wester

[Photo] The point of piercing

Grey Klein, Staff Writer
October 27, 2023
A student feels like she is walking on a tightrope due to the stress of school and life.

[Photo] Finding your balance

Reese Williams, Associate Editor
October 23, 2023
A piece by Sarabeth Wester depicting a chubby bear and it's cub.

All about Fat Bear Week and how to enter your vote

Sarabeth Wester, Creative Director
October 9, 2023
Screenshot 2023-10-09 at 10.21.52 AM

[Photo] The art of being grateful

Laila Yavalar, Staff Writer
October 9, 2023
You've probably heard the saying "there's two sides to every coin." While we've seen the bleak side of the world recently, we can still flip it to a colorful, lively one.

[Photo] The end of individualism

Grace Baxendale, Staff Writer
October 9, 2023
Michelango once said, "every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it." I believe our lives are like stone, we must see the life we want and chisel it into existence.

[Photo] Nothing is set in stone

Alex McLemore, Editor in chief
September 18, 2023
Singing my way through the college applications.

[Photo] How to take the road less traveled

Cassidy Miller, Podcaster/Staff Writer
September 11, 2023
Being in dress code isn't that hard, so why not follow it?

[Photo] Updating the (dress) code

Laila Yavalar, Staff Writer
September 1, 2023
Supplements can improve your gym performance if used correctly and in moderation.

[Photo] Know what you’re adding: gym supplements

Laila Yavalar, Staff writer
May 2, 2023
What's stopping you? Go out and see a show today!

[Photo] How we can revitalize theater

April 12, 2023
Homebodyness has plagued American minds and as a result, theater attendance has lowered.

[Photo] Why live art is suffering

April 12, 2023
The attendance rates for theater have plummeted and here are the consequences.

[Photo] The death of theater

April 12, 2023
Performing to an empty audience is disheartening because the art that you are sharing is not being received.

[Photo] Noticing the lack of attendees

April 12, 2023
Performance arts are only fully appreciated when it is seen live. Find a local theater and see the wonder that is performing art.

[Photo] Live art is dying

Alex McLemore, Editor in Chief
April 12, 2023
Junior Danny Dodaj and Sophomore Andrei Black dap up in the halls.

[Photo] The art of dap

Andrei Black, Staff Writer
March 21, 2023
This year’s StuCo elections on April 13 will feature the introduction of ranked choice voting

[Photo] StuCo Election details announced; major process changes to go in effect

Jackson Nealis
March 17, 2023
Art by Creative Director Sarabeth Wester showing a jersey that could have been worn.

[Photo] Should athletes be allowed to wear jerseys on gamedays?

Daniel Schnur, Staff Writer
March 7, 2023
Thalia and Melpomene are the Ancient Greek theatrical masks. They represent the greek theater genres of tragedy(drama) and satire(comedy).

[Photo] Which movie genre is better: Comedy or Drama?

March 23, 2023
Showing Chat GPT and how easily this tool can be accessed.

[Photo] What is Saint Stephen’s doing about ChatGPT?

Adam Graf
March 2, 2023
An artistic representation of the contemplation of the effect of TV by Sarabeth Wester.

[Photo] Don’t believe what they say: TV can be good for you

Laila Yavalar, Staff Writer
March 2, 2023
Art done by Creative Director Sarabeth Wester of a paper sack lunch brought from home.

[Photo] Benefits of bringing a lunch from home

Alyson Folkens, Staff Writer
January 23, 2023
A twist on a sun chips to show my distain for the snack . Art by Gauntlet Creative Director, Sarabeth Wester.

[Photo] Settling for Sun Chips

Amelia Sabo, Staff Writer
January 12, 2023
04448110-1BB5-4CEF-8322-85D1E84D0E0D

[Photo] Christmas traditions around the world

Alyson Folkens, Staff Writer
December 12, 2022
Chess is rapidly becoming a phenomenon both at SSES and across the country.

[Photo] Why Chess is Cool

Adam Graf, Staff Writer
December 8, 2022
Not "belonging" to a faith can make you feel alone. You look around and everyone around you "belongs," but you.

[Photo] My personal struggle with faith

Alex McLemore, Associate Editor
November 16, 2022
The brains intrusive thoughts that lead to self deprecation.

[Photo] Being your own cheerleader

Reese Williams, Associate Editor
October 25, 2022
E7893358-F33C-4DC9-86EF-1ED436E9ECDE

[Photo] How to look comfortable while following the dress code

Alyson Folkens, Staff Writer
October 20, 2022
Music can change you life!

[Photo] Change your music habits

Laila Yavalar, Staff Writer
October 5, 2022
A student feeling the pressures if school related stress.

[Photo] Have no fear, your teachers are here

Reese Williams, associate editor
September 19, 2022
Being the golden child feels as though there are a million things trying to pull you down. Expectations from yourself and others can completely derail your sense of self.

[Photo] The harsh reality of being the golden child

Alex McLemore, Associate Editor
September 16, 2022
PTSD can come from any situation. It isn't a one size fits all term.

[Photo] Behind the wheel

Alex McLemore, Staff Writer
May 4, 2022
Knowledge is more important than just a number.

[Photo] Knowledge > Grades

Lauren Schindler, Staff Writer
May 2, 2022
The mirror's reflection of me vs how I truly appear

[Photo] Creature of Comparison

Alex McLemore, Staff Writer
March 16, 2022
Here are the details, and student opinions, about the recent changes made to the dress code this week.

[Photo] Major changes to the dress code announced

Sophia Berry, Editor
March 8, 2022
Gen Z and Baby Boomer members differ in aspects such as health and social media as shown by original art by Sarabeth Wester.

[Photo] Changing Priorities

March 15, 2022
You can tell a lot about a person by the shoes that they wear.

[Photo] Walk a mile in my shoes

Lauren Schindler, Staff Writer
February 1, 2022
B7E694F4-C5F3-47F4-A85D-0CE37BF6D37E

[Photo] Turkey or Tinsel?

Alex McLemore and Sophia Berry
November 19, 2021
Original art by Sarabeth Wester shows the positive effects walking can have as a form of exercise.

[Photo] Take a walk

Ansley Morris, Associate Editor
November 15, 2021
Rising prices have people worried. But should they be? Original artwork by Sarabeth Wester.

[Photo] Making ‘cents’ of inflation: rising prices explained

Jackson Nealis, Associate Editor
November 10, 2021
Original Art by Sarabeth Wester showing the pro's and con's of the emotional intelligence in Generation Z.

[Photo] Ansley’s column: Are we too fragile?

Ansley Morris, Associate Editor
November 3, 2021
Locals Own-ly Series: Truman’s Tap & Grill

Locals Own-ly Series: Truman’s Tap & Grill

Sarabeth Wester, Staff Artist
October 27, 2021
Although becoming an adult is a huge change, it can lead to many new life experiences.

[Photo] Becoming an adult

Lauren Schindler, Staff Writer
October 25, 2021
Comic: Welcoming in the new season

Comic: Welcoming in the new season

Sarabeth Wester, Staff Writer
October 12, 2021
An arena, collapsing down around someone. Their feet are stuck and they stand and watch as it all falls down.

[Photo] You aren’t alone

Alex McLemore, Staff Writer
September 30, 2021
Mrs. Pommer

Mrs. Pommer

Sarabeth Wester, Staff Artist
September 7, 2021
The top secret tips are concealed in folders pictured above.

[Photo] Five secret tips to ace your college interviews

Lina Graf, Staff Writer
April 28, 2021
In the wake of Ms. Johnson's departure from the Visual Arts program, how have the new teachers changed the curriculum?

[Photo] What’s new in the Visual Arts Department?

Jules Pung, Associate Editor
April 21, 2021
Life in quarantine was hard, but there's finally some light at the end of the tunnel. Original artwork by Sarabeth Wester

[Photo] Looking back on the year that changed everything

Caroline Gans, Associate Editor
April 9, 2021
Aside from individual changes, this pandemic changed the world. In all likelihood, it will continue to do so. Original artwork by Sarabeth Wester

[Photo] Large-scale changes

Caroline Gans, Associate Editor
April 9, 2021
What changes did individuals undergo during quarantine? Original artwork by Sarabeth Wester

[Photo] Self-reflection and growth

Caroline Gans, Associate Editor
April 9, 2021
What can the century Spanish Flu pandemic tell us about a more modern one? Original art by Sarabeth Wester

[Photo] Life in pandemics throughout the ages

Caroline Gans, Associate Editor
April 9, 2021
Sarabeth Wester illustrates the scholarship bringing a brighter, clearer future.

[Photo] What is the Florida ‘Bright Futures’ Scholarship?

Lina Graf, Social Media Manager
April 12, 2021
Adventures of Octo: A Gauntlet comic

Adventures of Octo: A Gauntlet comic

Sarabeth Wester, Staff Artist/Graphic Designer
March 19, 2021
More time between the bells would mean more time to use the restroom, meet with friends, take a walk, and decompress.

[Photo] Is the five-minute break between periods enough?

Joseph Salu, Staff Writer
March 18, 2021
Some might see investing as a game or a meme, but actions in the market can have serious consequences.

[Photo] The GameStop Surge: Redditors and the Reckoning of Financial Markets

Jackson Nealis, Staff Writer
February 17, 2021
Many students are up all night due to homework and busy schedules.

[Photo] Are we getting enough sleep?

Lauren Schindler, Staff Writer
February 18, 2021
These five shows are a cure to boredom, and a recipe for greatness.

[Photo] Top 5 Netflix cooking shows you should watch now

Jordan Clark, Staff Writer
February 3, 2021
Creating a new class can be a way students can find their passions.

[Photo] AP Art History and the future of classes at Saint Stephen’s

Jackson Nealis, Staff Writer
February 2, 2021
This art piece by freshman Sarabeth Wester depicts a girl struggling to think because of music consuming her mind.

[Photo] Struggling with memorization? Here’s your answer.

Sanna Lexhed, Assosiate Editor
January 14, 2021
Election polls are more than just numbers and percentages.

[Photo] The controversy behind poll accuracy, explained

Lauren Schindler, Staff Writer
January 12, 2021
The 2020-2021 Gauntlet staff, as depicted by Sarabeth Wester.

[Photo] The best of the Gauntlet in the 2020 school year

Caroline Gans, Associate Editor
January 7, 2021
Doorways Of Problems is an artist representation of how the mind looks of someone when they face these issues, constantly opening and closing doors depending on the person.

Closed-door battles

Sarabeth Wester, Staff Writer
November 17, 2020
The democratic process in the US is a little more complex than you thought. Art by Sarabeth Wester

[Photo] Does your vote really count?

Lauren Schindler, Staff Writer
October 27, 2020
Drawing tips from a Gauntlet artist

Drawing tips from a Gauntlet artist

Sarabeth Wester, Staff Writer
October 6, 2020
Medical Art Improved

[Photo] Introducing school nurse, Mrs. Sierra Tomlinson

Jackson Nealis, Staff Writer
September 21, 2020
Fast fashion can and should be replaced by more sustainable shopping. Art by Sarabeth Wester

[Photo] Start shopping sustainably

Lina Graf, Staff Writer
September 17, 2020
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Sarabeth Wester