Among the cities in America, it has often seemed paradoxical that civic engagement in New York is so low. In fact, turnout for city mayoral elections has gone consistently downhill since the 2000s, a trend that underscores a growing threat of disengagement that could perhaps shake the foundations of our political system. But 2025 seemed to prove different.

Despite the results of the mayoral election attracting much interest as to the future of the city, one thing is clear — that at Browning, a spirit of civil discourse remains present and thriving. 

For thirty-one years now, Browning’s Sanford Pelz has led our juniors and seniors to college campuses across America. Though discontinued for some time in light of the COVID pandemic, since 2021 the program has continued to thrive as a time-honored tradition, with the goal of enriching Browning students’ understanding of the college admissions process through exposure to an assortment of schools. 

Kirk’s work received mixed responses from America, with some appreciating his message of productive debate while others viewing it as overly aggressive and forceful. Regardless of where Americans may feel about Kirk's legacy, it is undoubtedly clear that Kirk’s death was incredibly tragic and a reminder of the immense political division our nation continues to face.

It’s not every day you’re invited into the home of a former Fortune 500 CEO, especially to interview the founder of Peloton. But somehow, I managed to find myself sitting in John Foley's living room, drinking Spindrift seltzer and talking about entrepreneurship and different kinds of businesses with him.

Over 365 days after 10/7/23, a lot has changed. Constant discourse and protest have followed the deadliest event in modern Jewish history, its survivors sharing their stories to the world. Various exhibits centered on capturing the harrowing moments of that fated day have swept the world, forcing all to bear eye and ear to the tragic events that occurred on that fated dawn following Sukkot. We can only heal after we’ve understood, no matter how brutal the subject matter is.

In the wake of increasing socio-political tensions regarding the institution of slavery, then-candidate Abraham Lincoln remarked that “a house divided against itself cannot stand.” 166 years later, that historic statement could not be more relevant. 

The 2024-25 season brought immense change to America’s favorite Saturday sport as College Football officially transitioned to the 12-team playoff format. As we look ahead to the National Championship matchup, it’s time to reflect on the change brought by the new format, along with where the future of the sport is headed.

The Varsity Squash team finished the 2024 side of the season with a 6-2 overall record and a 4-1 record in the ACIS League. Despite a narrow loss against Avenues where, due to an injury, the full roster was not playing, Junior Captain Ali H. ‘26 continues to believe the team has what it takes to win the league: “This season our goal is to win the league. Last year we finished as runners up, but I have tons of confidence that this team has both the talent and work ethic to go all the way.” 

Throughout his 6+ years at Browning, Pierce W. ‘25 has contributed to his school and larger tri-state area community with an emphasis on applying his command of computers and coding to ameliorate the lives of those around him. Whether volunteering with EMS, conducting award-winning research, or leading the Robotics team, Pierce pours himself into his work. The Grytte sat down with Pierce and discussed his contributions both in and out of school. 

Lonnie M. does not just play table tennis—he dominates it. With a record of 43-0 during his first high school career as a Browning Athlete, the undefeated senior is not done yet.