Volume 32 Issue 2 by The Sidekick

COPPELLSTUDENTMEDIA.COM

NOVEMBER 2020

C O P P E L L H I G H S C H O O L 1 8 5 W. PA R K W AY B LV D . C O P P E L L , T X 7 5 0 1 9

Adding texture to paint COPPELL’S EVOLVING, UNIFYING ARTISTIC PRESENCE

VOLUME 32 • ISSUE 2

S TO R Y BY AVANI KAS HYAP / P HOTO S BY LI LLY G ORMAN AND SAMANTH A FREEMAN / PAGES 12 - 13

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E

BRIDGING BARRIERS

PG. 5

C H S 9 Spanish teacher Rosa Brown cultivates dream of breaking stereotypes through education.

DON’T MESS WITH ZHANG

PG. 16

E N T E R T A I N M E N T Sophomore’s artwork earns place in 2021 statewide calendar.

news

Letter from the Editor

When you talk to as many athletes as I do, you get the idea of just how important team dinners are. A million times I have asked an athlete about their favorite memory with the team and while the responses vary, a common answer is some form of a team dinner. I’ve heard the answer so many times that when a player said his favorite memory with a team had been at Jerry’s World, my first assumption was that it had been a team dinner at some vintage ice cream parlor or a knock-off Chuck E. Cheese (turns out it’s just another name for AT&T Stadium). The simple idea of being around people they connect with - even for a quick meal at Whataburger is enough to stick. Humans are social creatures. One beauty of the modern world is how we are able to connect with other people. I don’t mean through social media, though that is a major factor as well, but through storytelling and the ways in which people can connect with each other without even meeting them. The news provides more than information, it brings to life stories of people who one would not have known much about were it not for articles called human interest or feature stories. They are my favorite kind to write. I’m a person who feels what other people feel, taking in emotion from my interviews and emulating it in the stories I produce. Think of the pride a parent has when talking about their child. Think of the adrenaline coursing through the veins of an athlete describing the heat of the moment. Think of the ache echoing in a distant voice of someone who experienced heart wrenching tragedy. The sparkle in people’s eyes and the change of inflection in their voices as they begin to talk about something or someone they love - that will never grow old. Though perhaps not in the same context or to the same degree, we all share the same emotions. We know what it’s like to feel delight, energy and grief. Stories simply provide the avenue to relate to others and the method in which the web of interconnectedness grows. Connections to other people are the key to happiness, not in the sense of advancing through networking, but in how being around other people produces some of the best memories people have in their lives. No story is solely a single person’s. In the way the modern world allows stories to spread, each experience touches a wide audience and builds those connections to complete strangers through emotion alone. It might not be the exact team dinner atmosphere of being around a second family, but it’s a distant sensation of existing in a place with people you connect with simply through shared feelings. Stories draw us closer, especially in times where we seem physically further apart than ever.

NOVEMBER 2020

A Sidekick series in which executive news editor Shivi Sharma profiles a Coppell business owner to spotlight community-based establishments.

t popular New Orleans restaurant Gambino’s in the 1970s, Coppell parent and Missy’s Cottage Bakery owner Michelle Zenici fostered her love for baking by teaching cookie classes to Girls Scouts. Last September, a revision to the Texas Cottage Food Law allowed bakers to sell goods without working out of a commercial kitchen, within certain guidelines. After receiving a certification to work under the law, Zenici established Missy’s Cottage Bakery on July 3. In nearly six months, her Facebook business page has become a thriving hub for customers and photos of her delectable cakes and cookies, which she bakes fresh daily.

How do you balance working in the airline industry with your baking business? I’ve been a flight attendant for 28 years, and I’ve been with [Southwest Airlines] for 26. I usually work two to three days a week. My initial concept was to do Missy’s Cottage Bakery on my days off, but since the airline has offered some leave to reduce headcount, I’ve been able to take advantage of that to see if I could get the business to get a footing. It really has, so I’ve been excited about that. I’ve been able to alter my schedule a bit to have more time off from the airline industry. The holidays are coming up, and people are already wanting to order.

What is your favorite recipe? King cake. It took me a long time to get a recipe that I really like and that reminds me of home. My top ones are that and then my birthday cakes that I bake. It's a triple-layer almond cake with one layer of pineapple and one layer of strawberry with buttercream. It's the cake I bake for myself every year because I could not get a bakery here to do it for me.

Coppell parent and Missy’s Cottage Bakery owner Michelle Zenici packages cookies at her home on Oct. 24. Zenici established Missy’s Cottage Bakery after a change in the Texas Cottage Food Law allowing bakers to produce and sell goods from home in July. Photo by Precious Onalaja

EDITOR- IN-CHIEF

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THE SIDEKICK GREETING WITH JOY P. 4

SEWING UP A STORM P. 4

CROSSING COUNTRIES AND CULTURES P. 5

Deinhammer featured by Apple for CMS East gardening class Anjali Vishwanath STAFF WRITER @viola_swan

he Coppell Middle School East course guide has expanded to include one new elective course: seventh grade science teacher Jodie Deinhammer’s gardening class. Deinhammer also leads the CMS East Sustainability Club, which provides students with the opportunity to participate in fundraising activities and events to benefit the environment. The inspiration for the club is a rubric that scored schools based on their sustainability. When Deinhammer came across this rubric, she noticed that CMSE fell short of many of its standards. This led her to consult with former CMSE Principal and current Coppell High School Principal Laura Springer to form the Sustainability Club in 2018. “We had like 150 signups,” Deinhammer said. “It was amazing. We still have close to that many enrolled in the club, and we probably have about 60 or 70 that are very active.” Students in the club pushed to open the school garden. When it was built two years later, the idea of a gardening class emerged. “The district wanted to use the produce from the garden to give to other organizations and serve in our cafeteria,” CMSE Principal Steve Glover said. “We also have had several students that really enjoy gardening, and

this would give them a creative outlet to learn and help others.” Due to the split between virtual and face-to-face instruction, Deinhammer created a new class format. In-person students take care of physical work in the garden, while virtual students work on ideas for the growth and expansion of the garden. Deinhammer implemented the district-issued iPads and Apple apps, such as Keynote for presentations and Numbers for spreadsheets, to further the experience of virtual students. She has tasked her classes with creating several educational iBooks over the years and now has her gardening students using Keynote to track the growth of the garden. This use of Apple technology brought her recognition in an Apple Newsroom feature story. The food grown in the garden is partially used in the school kitchen to make healthy school lunches, but is also donated to Metrocrest, a local charity. “Over time, I hope to grow [the garden] quite a bit.” Deinhammer said. “I would love to have like a little native Texas plant garden with cacti and things like that out there.”

Coppell Middle School East eighth grader Rylan Hoeing trims branches in the Coppell East garden on Oct. 9. Coppell Middle School East science teacher Jodie Deinhammer created this garden to help foster students’ learning. ANJALI ‘22 can be reached at Photos by Blanche Harris axv0529@g.coppellisd.com

Seniors celebrating Cowboy spirit Tr a c y Tr a n

PHOTO ASSIGNMENT EDITOR @AnhImtracy With the cancellation of anticipated events for the 2020-21 school year such as senior prom and spring sporting events due to COVID-19, the class of 2020 ended its four years at high school in an unexpected way. This year, with the world still in a pandemic, the question arises from the class of 2021: will high school end the same way as last year with the absence of memorable events and traditions? However, at Coppell High School, the Cowboys are finding ways to not let that happen. CHS seniors make overalls and jorts (jean shorts) to wear to football home games annually. Many seniors spend a significant amount of time choosing fabrics and designing their overalls. 2012 CHS graduate and algebra II and honors pre-calculus teacher Lucy Grimmett experienced the same traditions as today’s seniors, including making overalls, attending football games and decorating parking spots. “Things I can remember that were super fun were overalls,” Grimmett said. “I remember taking pictures with all of my friends in the big hallway, under the senior bridge and on the senior bridge with my favorite teachers.” With 27% of students attending in-person school at CHS campus, the

tradition of seniors making and wearing overalls and jorts is still being celebrated. “Overalls represent people’s personalities,” CHS senior Maggie Castranova said. “It gives them a chance to express what they’ve been involved in throughout high school, who they are, the vibrant colors each person chooses and what patches they choose. It’s really reflective of who they are.” The spirit of senior year can still be seen around campus despite the differences from previous years. “It’s just a little more humbling this year and kind of sad because it’s the last year but you’re not getting to fully enjoy [games] like we used to,” Grimmett said. “It’s very exciting to be a senior in general, but it’s different in the way that [they] are able to celebrate being seniors this year.”

Twitter: @CHSCampusNews

Coppell High School seniors Tallulah Rushton, Maura Valentine and Maggie Castranova wear their senior overalls for the 2020-2021 school year. Despite COVID-19, seniors are still making their senior overalls to keep the Coppell tradition going. Photos by Lilly Gorman

TRACY ‘22 can be reached at alt0592@g.coppellisd.com Instagram: thesidekickcoppell

Facebook: Sidekick Online

news

NOVEMBER

FALL FROLIC // 11 A.M.- 1:30 P.M. // NOV. 7

CITY COUNCIL MEETING // 5:30 - 11 P.M. // NOV. 11

Smile behind the mask

Wilson’s positivity motivating to all during difficult times Angelina Liu STAFF WRITER @angelinaliiu

Coppell High School receptionist Julie Wilson is the first face visitors see when walking into campus. She provides support for parents and students, as well as facilitates communication through CHS. With new COVID-19 guidelines, Wilson has found ways to overcome challenges with a smile on her face. “A lot of people think that a reception-

ist just sits and eats bonbons all day and does their nails,” Wilson said. “I come in, open up the office, get my computer plugged in and then the phone starts ringing nonstop. It’s busy, all day long, every day. I like to treat everyone who comes through [CHS’s front doors] like they’re a guest coming into my living room.” Wilson’s daily tasks include making sure all visitors wear masks, students and faculty are social distancing and ensuring they know where hand sanitizer stations are located by her desk.

“I am a very easy, go-with-the-flow kind of person so [dealing with COVID-19] hasn’t been bad for me,” Wilson said. “If we go by these guidelines and follow them now, the sooner we will be out of this.” The new mask mandate may be more difficult for others to handle, but this experience is not a new one for Wilson. “When I first moved to [Dallas from Illinois], I worked as a receptionist at the Medical City of Lewisville in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU), so I am used to wearing a mask,” Wilson said.

“I got to teach parents how to wash their hands and be sterile so that they could be with their babies. I’m a people person. Anytime I can help anyone or just get to chat with someone, I’m a happy camper.” Teachers and students enjoy interacting with Wilson. “She always has a huge smile,” CHS art teacher Michelle Hauske said. “She’s always positive, even in instances when she is overwhelmed. She greets you with a smile and sends out daily emails to the staff with positive comments and wishes.” CHS principal Laura Springer believes Wilson exemplifies the Fish Philosophy. “There are some people who come in and are extremely rude,” Springer said. “They take it out on Ms. Wilson and I have to give her kudos because she handles the anger while doing it all with grace. She is one of my Fish Philosophy examples I use in staff meetings.” With all of the changes occurring because of COVID-19, one thing remains the same: Wilson’s love and devotion to her job. “I’m very blessed to be able to come here everyday and work with this amazing staff,” Wilson said. “I would be devastated and I’m not sure what I would do if I didn’t have this job. This is my element and where I belong.”

ANGELINA ‘23 can be reached at axl0728@g.coppellisd.com. Coppell High School receptionist Juile Wilson prepares for the morning bell on Oct. 1 at the CHS reception office. With students coming to school during COVID-19, Wilson’s job is very different as she ensures the safety of students and visitors. Photo by Nandini Muresh

Sew many masks, so little time for senior knitters A n e t t e Va r g h e s e STAFF WRITER @AnetteVarghese

When the community calls, the ladies of the Coppell Senior and Community Center group called Knit Wits answer, whether it be in the form of crocheting baby products or making masks for a global pandemic. The Knit Wits were created in 2014 after being introduced to knitting through a round loom and a simple hat-making class. Over time, this group of 85 women has jumped from one project to another, making sure to meet needs in the Coppell community. The club has donated more than 60,000 sewn and crocheted products since 2014, including baby products and masks. During the coronavirus pandemic, the Knit Wits have sewn more than 5,000 masks to sell and donate. Members came together and made hats, some crochet blankets, some sew. “Some of the ladies were wanting to do something to help because of the shortage of masks and other things the hospitals and children’s centers needed.” Knit

Wits member Kathy McCoy said. “We had a lot of masks that had patriotic patterns on them and I gave [my husband] some to take to the VA [Veterans Health Administration Hospital]. They were so appreciative and it made us feel good.” The Senior Center club began selling at the Coppell Farmers Market to pay for supplies and buy more fabric to make functional masks. While only about 25 of the club members worked on sewing masks, others took up ironing and cutting fabric. At the Farmers Market, McCoy realized the public wanted masks made with specialty fabric. The more functional masks were still being donated to hospitals and first responders, but the more design-based masks were sold. The Knit Wits, abiding by COVID-19 regulations, made sure to maintain and encourage social distancing around their booth and used kitchen tongs to flip masks. “I never thought that my sewing ability was going to help save lives,” club member Trudy White said. ANETTE ‘22 can be reached at atv3765@g.coppellisd.com.

YouTube: Coppell Student Media

The Knit Wits, a Coppell Senior Center club, has created and distributed more than 8,000 masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. They distribute their masks at the Coppell Farmers Market every month while following precautions put in place to ensure others’ safety. Photo by Aliya Zakir Daily News: coppellstudentmedia.com

THE SIDEKICK CITY COUNCIL MEETING // 5:30 - 11 P.M. // NOV.10

GOBBLE WOBBLE VIRTUAL RUN // NOV. 26 - NOV. 29

THE BEAT FROM CHS9

Latina and beyond Brown uses background to make difference Sreeja Mudumby

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER @sreejamudumby As she waves goodbye to the beaches and swaying trees of Mexico, her eyes dart at the big red, white and blue flag. A tingle occurs, followed by a shiver. Woman. Doesn’t know English. No paternal support. One big dream. Is it worth it? CHS9 Spanish II teacher Rosa Brown immigrated from Chihuahua, Mexico when she was 19. Brown sought new opportunities and a chance to display her worth in the United States. Though her father was against her moving overseas, Brown continued her journey with her mother’s bank loans and endless support. “It was not easy,” Brown said. “There was a language and culture barrier, and just being alone. But I had a dream. My dream was, I want to be able to be someone in life, and do it on my own.” Being very unfamiliar with English, Brown faced more obstacles than the typical university student. Attending Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, Brown learned to adapt as best as she could, recording her lectures and listening to them over and over again in order to grasp all the knowledge she could. “There were a lot of times when I was ready to give up,” Brown said. “But I remember thinking if I give up, my dad is

going to win. I was not ready for that. I was going to prove to him that I [could] do it on my own, and when you have a goal in your mind, it can be moving.” When she came to the United States, Brown was appalled by the negative attitude she had seen in the news and television shows about Hispanics, such as making them unintelligent sitstill characters. She committed to changing such stereotypes through her career. “By teaching the passion and pride that I have for my culture, I feel that I can contribute to society,” Brown said. “I can show people how Mexican people really are. That’s how I decided to [pursue] education.” Implementing moral values with academic lessons remains significant to Brown. In her classroom, respect is the most important quality, as that en- CHS9 Spanish teacher Rosa Brown explains an upcoming project to a sures a safe environment where student during fifth period on Oct. 2. Brown immigrated from Chihuahua, Mexico. Photo by Samantha Freeman students can openly talk. “You don’t have to have a have a lot of things outside of school, so want. That’s the goal, to show students Ph.D., just have empathy,” Brown said. she tries to help us as much as she can in that Hispanics are not as stereotypical “Have empathy and respect for others. school and in class.” as seen on TV. Hispanics are engineers, You can create the best lesson plan, but Brown teaches her students more than painters, scientists, writers and activif you don’t make a connection with the Spanish, and leaves them with lessons of ists. They’re anyone.” kids, then that’s different.” a lifetime. According to CHS9 student Spoorthi “It’s important for me to see that not Sadasivuni, Brown does exactly this. only one race will succeed in this coun“She is a really compassionate teacher,” try,” Brown said. “Looking at other people SREEJA ‘22 can be reached at Sadasivuni said. “She understands that we sxm4577@g.coppellisd.com like me, they can achieve whatever they

Won continues mother’s love for music Tr a c y Tr a n

PHOTO ASSIGNMENT EDITOR @AnhImtracy

CHS9 freshman Lindsey Won practices her solo piece at Buddy Echols Field during seventh period on Oct. 15. Won is the only freshman in Coppell High School’s Wind Symphony Band. Photo Lilly Gorman Twitter: @CHSCampusNews

After years of practicing, months of sitting in front of sheet music and hours of practice, CHS9 student Lindsey Won finally saw her hard work pay off with an open seat for her in the Coppell High School Wind Symphony, the top concert ensemble in Coppell ISD. “My mom [Eunyoung Kim] used to play flute so she had an extra flute on hand and that’s how I [got into playing flute],” Won said. “When I was in fourth grade, I only played flute for two months because I hated it. [I know that when] I got to middle school, I had to do an elective and so I started [playing flute again] for a few months before sixth grade. I started loving it because I got a teacher [personal flute teacher Monica Song] who really supported me and challenged me in ways that I didn’t get before.” With experiences from playing flute throughout middle school, Won made it her goal to join the high school band. “I worked really hard,” Won said. “I practiced for the audition a lot because I really wanted to make it to the top band. I

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tried to work harder than everybody else.” Being the only freshman in the wind symphony, Won receives accolades from band directors. “She’s a very diligent and organized player,” CHS Band director Gerry Miller said. “We’re fortunate to have lots of really talented students. But what our very best of the best figure out early on is how to organize their practice, like in seventh grade. That translates really well. Having that level of severity was what she [did], I think it’s just become a habit for her and that’s how she became the only freshman [in wind symphony].” With the world still in the pandemic, bringing limitations due to the COVID-19, Won still manages to make things work with help from the other flute players in her section. “Everybody already knows what they’re doing and are already adapted to the environment,” Won said. “It’s a little bit confusing but other people help me out a lot and since [COVID-19] is new for everyone, we all help each other.” TRACY‘22 can be reached at alt0592@g.coppellisd.com

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6 THE SIDEKICK

NOVEMBER 2020

2020-2021

Staff

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP CHASE WOFFORD Staff Adviser SALLY PARAMPOTTIL Editor-in-Chief* SHIVI SHARMA News Editor SAMANTHA FREEMAN Design Editor* SHREYA BELDONA Enterprise Editor CAMILA VILLARREAL Editorial Page Editor EDITORIAL LEADERSHIP AVANI KASHYAP Daily News Editor AKHILA GUNTURU CHS9 Editor* VICTORIA HERTEL Student Life Editor NEHA DESARAJU Entertainment Editor* ANJALI KRISHNA Co-Sports Editor MEER MAHFUZ Co-Sports Editor LILLY GORMAN Visual Media Editor TRACY TRAN Photo Assignment Editor COMMUNICATIONS AND BUSINESS TEAM TRISHA ATLURI Advertising/Circulation Manager* BLANCHE HARRIS Social Media Manager SREEJA MUDUMBY Communications Manager WRITERS ANETTE VARGHESE ANGELINA LIU* ANJALI VISHWANATH ANUSHA PANDA DRISHTI GUPTA EVA WHEELER INIYA NATHAN JACOB MUNIZ JOANNE KIM MANASA MOHAN

MEL VENEGAS NANDHITHA NAGAVISHNU PRECIOUS ONALAJA SAPNA AMIN SARAH HABIB SHRIKA VURIMI SREEHITHA MORAVANENI TORIE PECK VARSHITHA KORRAPOLU YASEMIN RAGLAND

PHOTOGRAPHERS AVA GILLIS* CAMILA FLORES JADEN MOORE KYAH JONES NANDINI MURESH NANDINI PAIDESETTY*

NEVEAH JONES NICK LARRY OLIVIA COOPER PRANATI KANDI SANNIDHI ARIMANDA SNEHA SASH TANVEE PATIL

DESIGNERS ALEJANDRO JIMENEZ ENERO DIVYA JOSHI ALIYA ZAKIR* JOSH CAMPBELL AYANE KOBAYASHI SRIHARI YECHANGUNJA *Indicates Volume 32 issue No. 2 page designer

THE SIDEKICK is the official student newspaper for Coppell High School. Its purpose is to inform, entertain and provide an educational resource for its readers. This newspaper is a public forum for student expression with staff members (with assistance from their adviser) making content decisions. The editorials and columns in this paper reflect the view of their writers. The Sidekick is a member of Interscholastic League Press Conference (ILPC), National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA), Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) and Southern Interscholastic Press Association (SIPA). The Sidekick welcomes all letters to the editor, but letters must be signed before consideration for publication. Send letters to cwofford@coppellisd.com of bring them by D115. Advertisements are sold as full, 1/2 page, 1/4 page, 1/8 page sizes in black and white or color.

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STAFF EDITORIAL Ignorance is not bliss, particularly when it compromises the safety and well being of others. Given that the only sex education we have had in Coppell is the puberty video in elementary school and the ‘Aim for Success’ program in seventh grade, it is clear that students aren’t provided with sufficient or consistent information or support. As more generations shift to technologyled lives, the concept can become desensitized for adolescents, and the need for sex education increases. In Texas public schools, sex education is not required. However, if a school chooses to partake in sex edcaution, they are required to emphasize abstinence as the preferred choice, which many groups have stated is ineffective and avoids many key discussions about HIV, contraceptives and more. The word “sex” is passed through whispers or murmured behind closed doors, as it’s actively avoided in discussion. Most adolescents lack the resources at home or aren’t comfortable openly discussing sex with their parents, which forces them to turn to the internet, their peers or other unreliable sources. School has the potential to be that safe space where students have access to facts about birth control methods, pregnancy, infections that spread through sex, and more by a certified expert who can answer questions and address topics like consent. Students’ questions never leave their lips out of fear. The implementation of sex education is often narrowmindedly associated with encouraging sex; however, its purpose is to educate and steer students away from the dangers

that could arise from misinformation. Sex is a part of life and no preventative measure will erase its existence. Sex education does not encourage sexual behavior; it teaches students about their rights, the potential dangers of sex and how to practice safe sex. Students should be exposed to age appropriate sex education throughout their adolescence. This process should begin as early as possible to properly acclimate students to the topic and make it less foreign. Students need to be able to set boundaries, respect the boundaries of others. Sexuality has become weaponized by bullies, making it increasingly important to address sexual orientation, gender identity and n o n - h e t e r o n o r m a t i ve guidelines. The LGBTQ+ community has the basic human right to inquire about these things without being afraid of scrutiny. A judgment-free zone enables students to knock down the barrier in the way of general public health. Discussing sex doesn’t compromise the innocence of our youth; it makes youth less ignorant and sets them up for a lifetime of success. Safety is the most important concern when it comes to sex, and being equipped with knowledge of risks, preventative measures and skills will lead students to make healthy decisions. Instead of tip-toeing around the issue, it’s time for the education system to hit the nail on the head. As the CHS student body, we need to be the driving force behind the hammer and advocate for the education system to implement sex education. Whether that means pleading your case to the state representative, signing a petition or encouraging friends and family to open the discussion, there is something we can all do to destigmatize the word “sex.”

“It does not encourage sexual behavior; it teaches students about their rights, the potential dangers of sex and how to practice safe sex.”

Daily News: coppellstudentmedia.com

opinions

Addressing Asian privilege in our society Joanne Kim STAFF WRITER @joan_kimm

s an East Asian girl living in America, getting good grades was practically a personality trait. I was the kid everyone came to for answers, the kid who cried if I forgot to bring my homework, the kid who never got anything below an A. But there was a certain point where I stopped and had a realization. Yes, I was getting good grades, but that didn’t mean I was good at school, nor did I enjoy it. It was what was expected of me. Somehow, unwittingly and unwillingly, I had been conditioned by the model minority stereotype. According to Harvard University, the term “model minority” is “used to refer to a minority group perceived as particularly successful, especially in a manner that contrasts with other minority groups,” and that “in particular, the model minority designation is often applied to Asian Americans.” The term “Asian American” itself is convoluted. While Chinese, Korean and Japanese Americans often live as privileged

name: Michelle Tack ethnicity: Asian American grade: senior height: 5’ 7” status: approved

middle and upper-class citizens, other Asian American subgroups such as the Hmong or Bhutanese have poverty levels higher than the U.S. average. In this column, I will be referring to the former, more privileged group. The stereotype that Asians are smart and successful did not come from nowhere. Our graduation rates from college are high, our divorce rates are low, and overall, we rank as the highest earning ethnic group in the United States. Where fact becomes fiction is when people assume that this label is a result of us being naturally smarter or naturally “less problematic.” This is an issue not only because it erases the diversity of Asian Americans, but also because it can be used as an excuse to demean other minorities. But the fact of the matter is, the reason we are depicted as “good” has nothing to do with our biology and everything to do with the placement of our ethnicity and race in America’s history. We were never taken to America as slaves. Our lands were never invaded and overrun by western colonizers. Yes, there was conflict amongst Asian countries, and yes, there were instances of discrimination such as the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and the Japanese internment camps. However, we weren’t thoroughly invaded and colonized by white people, we weren’t the victims of mass genocide at any point in American history and we don’t live on reservations. Right now, Asians are coming into the United States generally of our own accord. The brightest and the best from overseas choose to come here. They received top tier education, they are bilingual and they work in impressive fields like medicine, law and technology. So no wonder they are seen to be so brilliant, so smart and so ambitious. It is true that the reason why many of us go on to be successful is because we have a hard working culture, but it is also because we have many tools at our disposal. Most of our families prioritize education, and that in itself is huge. For a lot of other minorities, education is a luxury. You get if you can afford it. Whereas for Asian people, we cry if we don’t get into an Ivy League. The standards are completely different. TO READ MORE, VISIT COPPELLSTUDENTMEDIA.COM

Photos by Lilly Gorman

Twitter: @CHSCampusNews

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JOANNE ‘22 can be reached at jkk3282@g.coppellisd.com.

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opinions

NOVEMBER 2020

Keeping the seasonal spirit alive Enjoying autumn during gloomy times of COVID-19 Camila Villarreal EXECUTIVE EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

@fliipthewriter

he season of fall always lets you know when it has arrived. The wind smells crisp and flavorful. The trees begin to yellow and a gentle cascade of leaves sprinkles the ground. Suddenly, the sun doesn’t beat down so hard on your neck and a wonderful period of rain serves as the perfect transition into chillier weather. Fall is my favorite se ason for reasons beyond that. Besides turning one year older, it reminds me of late nights with my friends, with no expectations for what the evening will bring us except for joy and entertainment. It reminds me of being 10 years old again, running through pumpkin patches with my friends and playing outside until our shoes were worn and our feet sore. It reminds me of my grandma coming to visit, settling into a rhythm in The Sidekick as well as theater and watching everyone around me embrace the sweater weather. Fall is just perfect. There is no changing my mind about that. But you can’t really do anything this year without mentioning COVID-19. It has taken away a lot of those seaosnal

Photo by Pranati Kandi

The Sidekick executive editorial page editor Camila Villarreal enjoys the fall season as an 8-year-old and again at the Flower Mound Pumpkin Patch. Due to COVID-19, fall has felt gloomy, but Villareal emphasizes the importance of keeping the spirit alove. Right photo by Pranati Kandi joys and special annual moments in general. My favorite season is going to be watered down to the pandemic version of it, just like everything else. I should be bummed about it. Everyone else is. I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of being sad about everything all the time. I’m not saying that fall automatically eradicates the virus, but it can be an opportunity to eliminate the constant pessimistic view we have learned to take since early March. I hear a lot of talk about how 2020 is the worst year ever, and while it is unfortunate that so many dreary events were crammed into one year, that doesn’t mean we need to surrender to that mindset. If COVID-19 stole so much from us, would it not make more sense to steal the end of the year back and enjoy it to the fullest? While I love my generation, I find that a big component of what makes ourgenerational culture unique is that drive for wanting to be as gloomy about everything

as possible. We’re a “cup half empty” kind of group. Since a lot of my life has been transferred to pixels on a screen because there is little else to occupy my time, I unwittingly participated in that insistence on being sad. With the world in the state that it’s in, we can’t be dragging ourselves down. It has taken me embarrassingly long to realize how much that was holding me back. But no longer. Our efforts are better spent on making this the best last three months of the year than already predicting that it will get worse. Put the phone down and go outside. Pick a pumpkin at a pumpkin patch. Have a socially distanced picnic with your friends. Play some holiday music and boogie until you’re out of breath. There is a middle ground between enjoying yourself and staying safe in a pandemic. CAMILA ‘21 can be reached at cxv8266@g.coppellisd.com.

Struggle is real:We have suffered enough People of Color, Women still facing discrimination globally Varshitha Korrapolu STAFF WRITER @varshitha1128

We are all human beings. We all bleed the same. People of color have taken risks in attempt to achieve equal opportunities just like anyone else. Their fight has inspired women and other groups to take action. Oppressed. Suffering. Inferior. Why are these words used to describe people who are no different from others? A vital turning point in this fight for equality in America occurred during the 1960s when the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed in order to curtail discrimination in public. The second wave of feminism, which was an era when women started to defy the stereotypical image of what a woman should be, also peaked during this time. Some may argue that there is no need for protests since movements have already occurred to help people of color and women. However, these efforts have not solved the problem of inferiority associated with people of color and women. “Maybe [people of color] are different from [others], but at the same time [people of color] don’t mean to cause any harm,” Coppell High School junior Jasime Durrant said. “We want

“We want to just live, we just want to live in this country that we call America.” Jasmine Durrant Junior

Graphic by Alex Jimenez Enero

YouTube: Coppell Student Media

to just live, we just want to live in his country that we call America. We don’t want to cause any trouble, we don’t want to stirrup any trouble and [hate against people of of color has] just been going on for too long.” The inhumane, unjust murder of George Floyd has contributed to the Black Lives Matter protests, which have acted as an outlet for Black voices to be heard. According to Victory Place @ Coppell junior Grace Christopher, the BLM protests occurring in Coppell have caused a much needed wake up call. “We have been less tolerant of racist incidents in Coppell and helped the Black community feel more welcome,” Christopher said. “There is still work we need to do, this is just a step that Coppell made that helped Black lives become more valued.” Not only have the BLM protests helped the Black community feel more accepted for who they are, the protests have inserted a sense of confidence and uplifted other minorities. Women and other groups, such as the LGBTQ+, have gained the bravery to speak up. TO READ MORE VISIT COPPELLSTUDENTMEDIA.COM VARSHITHA ‘23 can be reached at vsk5901@g.coppellisd.com.

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LGBT community welcomed by Pope Reassuring children of faith that they are loved by God M e l Ve n e g a s STAFF WRITER @melllvenegas

Children are flowers, unique and a blessing to their families, regardless of their identities. This sentiment was shared by Pope Francis on Sept. 16 after meeting with an Italian LGBT Christian group. In this meeting, he preached love and acceptance, reassuring children and parents alike that, “the church loves [their] children as they are because they are children of God.” Since assuming his position as Pope in 2013, he has been obvious about his belief that being gay and a good Christian are not mutually exclusive; no matter what type of flowers you are, you belong in God’s garden as much as anyone else. Despite growing support from religious communities, people in the LGBT community tend to show less support for religious institutions than their straight, cisgender peers. As a whole, LGBT individuals also have significantly more people that do not identify with any religion despite consisting of only 4.5% of the population. Though the decrease in religion is more apparent in younger generations, being LGBT can affect how you are treated in religious spaces and can make it harder to feel a

alwyas been a struggle with the risk it brings; mean the world when you feel alone. sense of community. “It’s very common for kids to struggle though you may no longer have to fear losing TO READ MORE VISIT with wanting to come out to their parents your job or being sentenced with homosexualCOPPELLSTUDENTMEDIA.COM or feeling supported,” CHS LOTE teacher ity, there is still the change of rejection from Emily Holmes said. “And a lot of times not only family and close friends, but society MEL ‘23 can be reached at that does come back to religion or their and role models as well. Being welcomed from communities that already cared for you can mxv9640@g.coppellisd.com. parents’ beliefs.” Anti-LGBT sentiment is not exclusive to religious groups. Global opinion has sided against LGBT people for decades and it can be a struggle to find sympathy depending on location. Countries such as Russia and Egypt still criminalize being gay, with it being declared a mental illness for more than two decades in Russia, and expressing being gay allowing for up to three years in jail and thousands in fines. This is mild in comparison to countries such as Sudan, where being gay can lead to a life spent in jail. With vocal push- Pope Francis declares his support of the LGBT community after years of controversy in the church. back from government The Sidekick staff writer Mel Venegas shares her opinion on LGBT youth turning from religion after and religous commu- years of being taught to change their identity in order to fall in line with a set of beliefs. Graphic by nities, being gay hads Olivia Cooper.

Rain: the sign of balance, not dispair Beldona thinks it should be viewed as positive, despite its negative connatations Shreya Beldona

EXECUTIVE ENTERPRISE EDITOR @BeldonaShreya

As soon as I wake up, before I even open my eyes, I can feel it. My room, lacking proper insulation, is colder than normal. When I open my eyes, the sunlight no longer streams into my room through the blinds. Instead, there are dark clouds outside. In that moment, I hope that the dark skies above hold true to their promise, the promise of rain. I have always felt alone in my love for this seemingly mundane event. However, there is a word that describes people like me: ceraunophile. Rain, thunder and cloudy skies have always been vilified. When I look outside and see dark clouds, I smile, yet I know that many do not feel this way. I find how rain is viewed as ironic. For some reason, “rain” is viewed as inherently negative, but dancing in the rain is positive. Too often, I have heard, “It’s gonna be a bad day because it’s gonna rain.” Though I am not an individual who actively “starts the day on the right foot,” the statement brings a twinge to my heart. How can something as simple as water falling from

the sky equate to a subpar day? It is this sentiment, not rain, that contributes to a “bad” day. I understand the thought process. When it rains, the skies become dark, the clouds no longer wisps of white contrasting the brilliant blue sky. The sun hides behind the now gray clouds, afraid to cast its almost ethereal beams onto the Earth below. To feel melancholy is not unreasonable. But it is this that brings me joy. The realization that all moments in life will not be filled with sunshine, with impecably white clouds, with skies so blue they seem artificial. It is a reminder that I am human. A constant feeling of happiness is not realistic How can one be appreciative of the beautiful days when it is all you are used to? Loneliness feeds off of discontent and unrealistic expectations. Rain is the antithesis. Rain is the cue of inclusion, of the understanding that jubialnce must be contrasted with being pensive. With the Texas climate, rain does not visit me as much as I’d like. Similar to the love interest in a cheesy rom-com movie, it knocks on my window, hoping to catch my attention when I least expect it, and I,

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eager to relieve my stress, excitedly peer out, thankful for the break I have been given. Though I wish rain frequently saw me, I understand why it does not. Like me, it too needs a break. Rain has become a friend of mine. The friend you rarely see, yet somehow they are always there when you need it. The friend with open arms, ready to accept you. If I fail to find the strength to get through the day, the sound of water falling onto my window comforts me. When my day is good, the same sound assure me, helping me know I am on the right track.

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When rain showers you, think of it not as the universe burdening you, but as the universe reminding you to let go. Do what you need to rid yourself of loneliness and impracticality. Do the things that make you happy and grounded. Do the things that make you human. SHREYA ‘21 can be reached at sxb4151@g.coppellisd.com.

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student life

2020

Unity, love in every bite Sophomore using baked sweet for greater good Camila Villarreal

EXECUTIVE OPINIONS EDITOR @fliipthewriter

Coppell High School sophomore Isabelle Beach raised around $1,200 in donations for the North Texas Food Bank over the summer by selling her baked goods to her community. Beach provided 7,200 meals to those in need in the North Texas area. Photo by Camila Villarreal

ecause of COVID-19, while some have turned to exploring new hobbies, others work on personal growth and helping those in need. Yet, Coppell High School sophomore Isabelle Beach has done both. Beach finds happiness in making fresh batches of macarons and chocolate chip cookies. Her mother introduced her to the hobby, but it was not until Beach began baking for her Buddhist Youth Association group’s festivities that she began to realize her love for it. Staying indoors allowed Beach to pursue baking to another level. “When I started baking a whole bunch at the beginning of summer, my family wasn’t able to eat [as] much [as I made],” Beach said. “A lot of my friends told me they would pay to eat my food, so I decided to take their word for it and start selling.” As her baking business took off, Beach turned it into a nonprofit organization. By doing so, her baking could benefit others. Beach selected the North Texas Food Bank – a charity intended to reduce hunger in northern Texas – to donate all the money she raised. “When COVID-19 hit, I noticed a lot of people were out of a job and many were tossed into food insecurity,” Beach said. “It was kind of ironic that I would sell food to buy food for other people, but I figured it was a good outlet for [baking] instead of buying canned food and donating it that way.” Beach’s relatives and youth group friends came together to help make, package and deliver the food around the Dallas-Fort Worth area. To promote her organization, Beach

created an Instagram account called “Izzy’s Sweets,” tracking her profits and displaying photos of her baked goods. Beach has been strongly supported by her friends who purchase and promote her business. “I was Isabelle’s biggest customer,” CHS sophomore Sumita Bhattacharyya said. “I was glad that I could get [baked goods] and that my money would be going towards a good cause. I am very proud of her because I know she worked hard on top of everything else she does.” Through her efforts, Beach raised $1,200 in donations. The North Texas Food Bank allowed a sponsor to match Beach’s donation, resulting in a total of $2,400. Every dollar donated to the North Texas Food Bank provides three meals, translating the complete contribution to 7,200 meals for people in need in the North Texas area. To show their gratitude, the North Texas Food Bank sent Beach a receipt and thank you note. “I was pleased to hear what Isabelle was doing with her [Summer],” Buddhist youth leader Anna Chi said. “When I found out about her business, I started buying from her and sharing her [baked goods] with friends. It is nice to know how far my money can go.” For Beach, the happiness of baking does not stop at simply making the food. She finds satisfaction in sharing it with others and hearing positive feedback from her friends. Beach hopes to continue unifying the people around her through baking in the future. From working with charities to making coffee-infused treats for students during exam week, baking is Beach’s superpower and a very yummy one at that. CAMILA ‘21 can be reached at cxv8266@g.coppellisd.com.

Shultz designing final year of high school Tr i s h a A t l u r i

ADVERTISING MANAGER @trishatluri Since sophomore year, Coppell High School senior Riley Shultz has been a staff member of the CHS yearbook, The Round-Up. This year, she earned a position in top tier as the managing editor for the people and sports section. Her responsibilities entail editing stories and guiding staffers in producing content. What’s your favorite part of yearbook? Yearbook is like a big family, we’re all really close with one another. I like how organized the schedule is and how aesthetically appealing the designs are. What is the hardest part favorite part of being a leader on staff? The hardest part right now is adjusting [to] yearbook because of COVID-19. It’s hard to communicate and be on the same page all the time because we all have different schedules and a lot going on right now. It’s also hard to make choices for myself because before I had someone above me, correcting me, but now I’m that person.

What are some of your interests outside of yearbook? I’m an instructor at Coppell Taekwondo Academy and I work at Calloway’s Nursery. I like to stay busy, because if I’m not doing anything, I’m lost in my own mind. I also do photography for fun, because my sister likes to model for me. I like cooking. Whatever I find on Pinterest that looks edible, I’ll make it. Who is your role model and why? For most of my childhood, my role model was Bethany Hamilton, the girl who got her arm bit off by a shark. My sisters and I watched the movie when we were little and we got to meet in her real life. Actually seeing her made me look up to her even more. She’s been a big inspiration and she taught me to never give up and go after my dreams. What is the biggest misconception about the program? The biggest misconception is that it’s just for girls. There are only two guys in yearbook even though it’s not just a girl thing. We’re not that scary, so I would encourage more guys to join. What have you learned from yearbook? Overall, it’s a good life experience. It’s

YouTube: Coppell Student Media

Seniors Riley Shultz and Emily Settle make comments on the color palettes in the 2021 Jostens Yearbook Lookbook in the yearbook room during seventh period on Oct. 1. Shultz is the managing editor for the people and sports section of the Coppell High School yearbook, The Round-Up. Photo by Samantha Freeman like a small business. We do a lot of advertising and social media. Yearbook is like a job in that sense and it provides a lot of valuable experiences. There’s a lot of collaboration and teamwork you learn

that will carry through in other aspects of life. TRISHA ‘22 can be reached at tra2735@g.coppellisd.com.

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THE SIDEKICK PLUNGER BOY CHEERING DESPITE PANDEMIC P. 15

CRAFTING FOR A CHANGE P. 14

PATINO MOVING FROM UTD TO CHS P. 14

Sapna Amin STAFF WRITER @sapnaamin6

Whether your mask has a sports team or your favorite band, it has the possibility to tell a story and spark conversation. People say the eyes are the windows to the soul. Masks bring out the eyes and can connect people at first glance. David Bearden, a Coppell High School art teacher, was inspired by the coronavirus pandemic and hosted a mask competition where students were able to submit any design to be on a mask. CHS freshman Amolika Kondapalli and CHS senior Roshni Patel won the mask contest. “I wanted it to be student made and student-run,” Bearden said. “As an art teacher, I’m always looking to do contests that bring art and the student body together.” Votes were collected through an online form showcasing each submission. The winning designs will be printed on masks and sold for $5 at CHS. “I saw a lot of people get creative with the competition and incorporate their personal style,” Patel said. “I wouldn’t want to wear [an] over the top mask, so I created a design that was more simplistic and something I would want to wear.” Due to the coronavirus, this is an opportunity for students to express themselves without guidelines or rules to follow. “I bought black cotton masks and within a week I wanted to put designs on them,” Bearden said. “There is a natural instinct for most people to put designs and decorate things.”

Coppell High School sculpture and AP 3D art teacher David Bearden peels the details off the freshly cut vinyl in his classroom on Wednesday. Bearden held a mask design contest and CHS senior Roshni Patel’s mask won and will be sold at CHS. Photo by Lilly Gorman Even students not taking art were welcome to participate, giving the student body 24 designs to choose from. “It’s not every day that we have the opportunity to enter a contest,” CHS junior participant Tulsi Patel said. “It feels good to have a creative outlet because it’s a break from school to just be free and express myself.” Teaming up with CHS Principal Laura Springer, Bearden will buy gift cards for Coppell families who have fallen on tough times, some due to the coronavirus and some not, without exposing confidentiality.

“Masks with designs will encourage people to be willing to wear them because, like clothing, a mask can reflect and represent someone’s style and personality,” Tulsi Patel said. The coronavirus has increasingly affected the economy and families in Coppell through jobs. Though this project may seem small, any money they raise will benefit Coppell greatly because every cent makes a difference. “When you add the element of competition it sparks people’s interest,” Bearden said. “There are all kinds of groups on campus that compete, so I hoped to involve students who don’t have that competitive experience.”

The selling process created a cycle: students design the masks, CHS staff and students can purchase them and the money is put back in the community. “Whoever wins will have their art [worn] all over Coppell,” Roshni Patel said. “It will encourage them to make more art because people are actively appreciating their art.” The mask contest united the school with the community through the shared experience of the pandemic. SAPNA ‘21 can be reached at saa6871@g.coppellisd.com.

“It feels good to take what we do in our small world and involve the whole school and community in being Coppell High School sculpture and AP 3D art teacher David Bearden has his workstation set with an iron press and laser cutter to make masks in his classroom on Wednesday. Bearden held a mask design contest, and CHS senior Roshni Patel’s mask won and will be sold at CHS. Photo by Lilly Gorman Twitter: @CHSCampusNews

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D AV I D B E A R D E N ART TEACHER Facebook: Sidekick Online

on its way to becoming an Historical roots, multicultural arts fostering city’s unique artistic blend Story by Avani Kashyap

Pictured: Jacob Dashner (12)

n 1999, a small, unused fire station was converted to Coppell’s first Center for the Arts. Twenty-one years later, in the midst of a pandemic, the first, brand new Coppell Arts Center had its opening ceremony. The establishment of fine arts in Coppell originates from Pete Wilson, a life-long Coppell resident and founder of Theatre Coppell. Wilson, who was part of Coppell High School’s first graduating class in 1965, created the city’s first theater program in 1988 after an increased demand for local arts. “When I started teaching in 1972 at the high school, there was no theater program,” Wilson said. “We were still a very small school, and we only did one or two extracurricular shows a year, but then it grew and we eventually got classes. When I retired in 2008, we had gotten much bigger and had three drama teachers, which is typical of many big schools.” Throughout the 1990s, the arts presence grew as the Coppell Community Chorale and community band established themselves alongside Theatre Coppell. As the groups, originally performing at what is currently the Coppell High School Ninth Grade Campus, gained membership, the need for an arts center increased, and Coppell Center for the Arts was founded. Since, the population and artistic presence of Coppell have rapidly grown, and the city is now home to five resident art groups: Theatre Coppell, Coppell Community Chorale, Coppell Community Orchestra, Coppell Creatives and the Ballet Ensemble of Texas. The creation of the new Coppell Arts Center had been in the works for more than 10 years, with the finalized architectural plan approved in 2017. Equipped with art galleries, theater halls and a performance plaza, the new center provides all five groups a new place to practice. “The new arts center will be a source

mu si c

Pictured: Cameron Reid (12)

of education and will give people the opportunity to come out and observe the arts,” Wilson said. “It’s going to support the local groups, and gives some of us a home we didn’t have at all.”

New, diverse artistic presence

a fourth theater director and expanding the types of classes a few years down the line. “We cast, create, rehearse and perform our UIL one act play within this class,” Ruth said. “It’s a collaborative class that includes technicians and performers. I would love a comedy class and a specific theater history class in the future.” As diversity in Coppell’s population has increased over the years, so has the

As the painting of the city’s art scene continues to develop, new colors and texture are being added at increasing rates. In recent years, Coppell has also seen the development of new arts programs such as Coppell Creatives, which was established to support and highlight visual art in 2015, and Coppell CHS Class of 2010 Community Orchestra, BA in Theater Performance and created in 2017. Within CHS, Directing from University of theater director Karen North Texas Ruth has noticed increased involvement Teaching artist at Bethel Woods in the arts, specifically Center for the Arts theater, as the number of students pursuing creative arts in college has increased from two to 10 over the past two years. CHS Class of 2010 In the last 20 Emmy-award winner for years, there has been increased integration Outstanding Younger Actress in of digital art with a Drama Series performance art, and through the rise of the internet, many young creatives have been able to produce their own art through nonCHS Class of 2013 traditional mediums. Bachelor of Science in Advertising “Even when I got my master’s degree in at University of Texas at Austin acting, we didn’t have Art Director for The Integer Group half of the technology at my university that we do now, here in a high school program,” presence of it’s multicultural art forms. Ruth said. “There has been a big shift “When I started teaching in Coppell in people making their own art through 15 years ago, there were six kids,” said having their own YouTube channels and Vani Iswara, founder of Ellora Center TikTok. It’s fascinating and gives us even for Performing Arts, an Indian classical more places to go.” dance/Bharatanatyam institute. “Now, the This year, Ruth got her first new majority of my over 200 students come theater class: the In Production University from the Coppell area. I’m also seeing more Interscholastic League (UIL) One Act kids continuing dance in college because Play class, which combines different there are more opportunities. More people roles within the program, in addition with similar interests are coming together, to the already present theater classes so they don’t feel odd or uncomfortable of Spotlight Theatre I, Broadway Bound talking about classical dance.” Theatre II, Studio Premier Theatre III and At CHS, the annual Heritage Night IV and Fame Musical Theatre I, II and III. encourages students to come together to Enrollment in Ruth’s classes have perform multicultural art forms, including increased from 120 to 160 over the past but not limited to Bollywood, K-pop and two years, and CHS9 has had to turn hip-hop. The Cozby Library and Community students away due to being at full capacity Commons is a hub for many multicultural of around 200. As the CHS theater program arts by hosting events such as the Cultural continues to grow, Ruth anticipates getting

JAKEMcCREADY McCREADY JAKE

CHLOELANIER LANIER CHLOE

MEREDITHGROOM GROOM MEREDITH

Fair, in which various international art forms are displayed. CHS senior Kirti Chamkura uses her experiences learning Indian classical music, choir and western music to integrate styles and create her own original songs. Chamkura, who was scouted by the talent agency Septien Entertainment Company (SEC) two years ago and now performs gigs around the Dallas-Fort Worth area, has had multicultural art influences throughout her entire life. “I used to keep them really separate, but there are a lot of similarities,” Chamkura said. “Classical Indian singing is very technical and goes back generations, so it’s hard to manipulate it because that’s disrespectful in a way. The great thing about western art is that you can play your own original music and change your covers to be something more reflective of you, so I’m trying to involve my Indian singing into my western music to create fusion.”

COVID-19 changes the game “As Coppell grows and as people want more close-to-home opportunities, more is going to come and evolve,” Coppell Arts Center Foundation board president Penelope Furry said. “People have a lot more time now because so many folks are working from home, so rather than commuting two hours a day, you have two hours a day to pursue your art.” COVID-19 has had a drastic impact on the artistic presence in Coppell. The opening of the Coppell Arts Center was delayed, performances and tours have been canceled, and organizations, such as Theatre Coppell, have halted production. However, the new circumstances have given way to unique opportunities such as digital performances and outdoor concerts. “The creative community has gotten even more creative,” Furry said. “They come up with additional offerings and are able to market to a bigger audience. Rather than just your community, you can target anybody in the world now. The whole notion of digital is here to stay, and so that’s going to be a pivot that a lot of groups are going to have to make.” Despite COVID-19, CHS and the city continue to create new classes that bolster Coppell’s artistic presence. “A real high school that cares about kids is going to offer many different outlets for them,” CHS Principal Laura Springer said. “It gives kids a chance to find a passion that they never knew they had and I’m so thankful for the many programs we have here that touch kids’ hearts and make them better.” Since the 1980s, Coppell has been a place of artistic development. As the diversity and presence of arts groups continues to grow, the influence and appreciation of the arts is expected to follow. At first glance, Coppell may not seem like an artistic city. But peeling back the layers, it is clear that the arts have become cemented in the town’s history.

Pictured: Tamara Chowdury (12)

Pictured: Janna Tidwell

Photos by Lilly Gorman and Samantha Freeman

student life VIRTUAL TEDX EVENT // 2-5PM // NOV.7

NOVEMBER COPPELL DEBATE TOURNAMENT // NOV. 13-14

Sophomores crocheting for good To r i e P e c k STAFF WRITER @torielpeck

New Tech High @ Coppell sophomore Payton Hoenig and CHS sophomore Reagann Stolar launched their business, Coppell Crafted, after Hoenig created a scrunchie based off of a how-to video on YouTube. Stolar, realizing they could take handmade creations to a whole new level, brought the idea of Coppell Crafted to light. Through lots of hard work, creativity and passion, the girls have built a successful small-business and donate a portion of their profits to charities. They began their launch via Instagram, their website, coppellcrafted. com, and advertising on social media. However, as happens with many startups, there were a few bumps in the road. “We created a website and built [it in] about a month and a half.” Stolar said. “But, when we finally launched our website it crashed. [The] crash [happened] the day after we launched. We then made a new [website] in two days.” Coppell Crafted’s social media accounts contain photos of their products, special giveaways, videos and information about upcoming events. Hoenig and Stolar have posted images of their modeled products with the help of their friends: CHS junior Abby Hendricks, CHS sophomore Grace Kates, CHS sophomore Belen Campos and CHS9 student Aria Jumas. Along with running their company, Hoenig and Stolar are involved in many extracurriculars.

New Tech High @ Coppell sophomore Payton Hoenig and Coppell High School sophomore Reagann Stolar sell handmade products for their business, Coppell Crafted, on Saturday at Old Town Coppell. Stolar and Hoenig started Coppell Crafted as a hobby and developed it to help the city by donating a portion of profits to various charities and movements. Photo by Nandini Muresh

TEACHER OF THE ISSUE

Both girls participate in Taekwondo at Coppell Taekwondo Academy. Hoenig has been in Taekwondo for seven years and is a third degree black belt. She is also in DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), YAFF (Youth Action Film Festival) and Yoga Club. Stolar has participated in Taekwondo for nine years and is a third degree black belt. She is also involved in theatre and golf. “It’s hard [to balance my schedule],” Hoenig said.” “It’s hard balancing classes, clubs and school.

By selling charm scrunchies, the girls donate money to charities. For each of these scrunchies bought, the company donates a dollar to the corresponding organization. Stolar and Hoenig donate to Christian Charities USA, ASPCA and Doctors Without Borders. Hoenig and Stolar chose these organizations to allow for a broad coverage of charitable missions. As dog owners, ASPCA became a clear choice. They also chose Doctors Without Borders due to the recent

Graphic by Divya Joshi

COVID-19 pandemic to help those on the front lines and Christian Charities Association, which helps many charities and spreads Christianity throughout the world.“[Hoenig and Stolar] have great character,” Campos said. “I think it’s good what they’re doing - donating some of [their] profits. Whatever you buy from them, you know you’re putting your money to a good cause.” TORIE’23 can be reached at vlp0601@g.coppellisd.com

High praise for Patino

Former college educator brings his skills to high school English classroom Blanche Harris

during my senior year of high school at Carroll Senior High School. I haven’t been able to go there again, but it is one of my favorite places in the world.

Coming from University of Texas at Dallas, Coppell High School English teacher Stephen Patino has taught for two years. With this year being his first year teaching at CHS, Patino is excited to get to know his students and create a positive environment for everyone.

If you could have another career, what would it be? Well, if I had the skills, the NBA. But, wow, I don’t know. Probably a doctor so I could help more people. I would probably specialize in oncology so I could help fight cancer. It would enable me to help more people, and touching peoples’ lives is very important to me.

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER @blanchegang

Why did you become a teacher? It’s where I’m happiest. Before this, I wanted to be a college professor, I was at UT Dallas, but there were so many responsibilities that got tacked to the job. With conferences, researching, publishing and labs, it sucked the fun away from it, and I wasn’t in my element. I knew I wanted to teach, so I decided [to teach at] the high school level. I could still be happy, but without the added pressures on the job. What is your favorite experience with a student? [There are] a bunch that stand out. There are a lot of moments that don’t seem huge, but they meant a

Coppell High School English II teacher Stephen Patino engages with sophomore Madison Larson during fifth period in his classroom on Oct.19. Patino is a first-year teacher at CHS and was selected as the Sidekick November Teacher of the Issue. Photo by Sreehitha Moravaneni. lot to me. Any time a student opens up to me, saying that my teaching helped them understand a topic or that they were able to connect with me. Talking with my students about their interests like movies, music, food, that is what means a lot to me.

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They aren’t once in blue moon, it’s the everyday things. Where is your favorite place in the world? Madrid, Spain. I have family up there, and I got to visit there once

What is your favorite movie? Rear Window by Alfred Hitchcock. I love that movie so much, it’s perfect. It kind of fits COVID-19. Jimmy Stewart is just sitting in his room watching his neighbors, so it’s a movie about watching people watching movies. It has that element of, is your neighbor a killer or not, so it’s amazing. Hitchcock is my favorite director, Stewart is one of my favorite actors and Bernard Herman does the score. It hits all three of my favorite things, and it is just such an amazing movie. BLANCHE’21 can be reached at bxh2578@g.coppellisd.com

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THE SIDEKICK THANKSGIVING BREAK // NOV. 23-27

THANKSGIVING DAY // NOV.26

Plunger Boy Tompkins takes over as new face of student section Shrika Vurimi STAFF WRITER @shrikavurimi

With the large, white megaphone in his left hand, Coppell High School senior Ryan Tompkins fires up the crowd and cheers for the Cowboys to win the game. Two weeks before the 2020-2021 school year began, Tompkins received a call from last year’s Plunger Boy, CHS 2020 graduate Leo Swaldi, asking him to become the new Plunger Boy for the student section and carry on the CHS tradition. “From the very beginning, Ryan expressed interest in becoming the next Plunger Boy,” Swaldi said. “Seeing Ryan at every game last year, yelling out every chant, affirmed my thought that he should be the next student to carry the plunger at Coppell High School.” The role of Plunger Boy dates back to 1998, where the rivalry between Southlake Carroll High School and CHS was prominent. The first Plunger Boy Luke Pierson was introduced as a way to cheer on the Cowboys to victory while riveting the other team because CHS was considered a “lower class” school compared to Southlake Carroll. The Plunger Boy hands down the plunger to someone in the class below them so that the tradition is carried on each year. “It’s been kind of funny to watch, and we have had some remarkable kids

being Plunger Boys,” CHS Principal Laura Springer said. “They’ve done a great job of getting a school spirit, Tompkins is cheering the student section on this year during the COVID-19 pandemic, where limited amounts of students and teachers are allowed to attend football games.“I think about how we can make the student section as loud as possible,” Tompkins said. “We are doing a good job as a lot of people have shown up to Highland Park.” Not only is Tompkins known for his position of Plunger Boy, but he is a Coppell baseball player and a member of the IB [International Baccalaureate] program. “Especially with IB involved, it has definitely been a challenge,” Tompkins said. “Thankfully, my teachers assign less work on Friday’s when I have football games, so I can do both.” As the Plunger Boy for CHS during COVID-19, Tompkins still plans on continuing student section events. He hopes to keep the games as entertaining as possible, despite procedures and regulations. “All the traditions are going to continue,” Tompkins said. “We are doing blackouts, powder games and themed events for the football games. Since a lot of people are showing up and people are having fun, we are going to keep trying as much as we can.” SHRIKA’23 can be reached at sxv1088@g.coppellisd.com

Coppell High School senior Plunger Boy Ryan Tompkins cheers from the sidelines during Coppell’s game against Highland Park on Oct. 9 at Highlander Stadium. In the midst of a pandemic, Tompkins leads the student section and cheers Coppell in their victory. Photo by Blanche Harris.

Youth Politics Collective

amplifying students voices for a change

Coppell High School sophomores Shrayes Gunna, Zachary Li, Siya Sangani, Hunniya Ahmad and Alexis Sibanda hold up voting forms used at voting drives at Andy Brown East on Saturday. They are all founders of the Coppell High School Youth Politics Club, dedicated to discussing political opinions while hosting voting drives. Photo by Blanche Harris.

Angelina Liu STAFF WRITER @angelinaliiu

With increasing civil unrest over multiple topics, students at Coppell High School have begun posting their thoughts on social media, hoping to become politically involved and voice their opinions to politicians who can make a difference. Coppell High School sophomores Alexis Sibanda, Siya Sangani, Shrayes Gunna, Hunniya Ahmad and Zachary Li founded the Twitter: @CHSCampusNews

Youth Politics Collective (YPC). This club fosters discussion about varying political opinions and works closely with political institutions to host voting drives. With 66 members, the club is growing fast as many recognize its potential. “They were quickly able to spread their reach,” YPC member and CHS sophomore William Li said. “They managed to get [Texas State Representative for District 115] Julie Johnson so quickly, and they seem very professional.” The group met with Johnson and

began to explore what politics could offer them and how they could be advocates for political involvement. The YPC had a Zoom forum with Johnson on Sept. 1. “A club like the YPC when I was in high school would have been wonderful.” Johnson said. “When I was a senior, in my government class, we went to the capital in Montgomery, Alabama and I played legislature for a weekend, but it was just a one time thing, not an ongoing club opportunity. Opportunities like this for young people are so important.”

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While the founders’ plans for the future of the YPC are not solidified, they have a vision of what it may become. “Our ultimate goal is to make a difference,” Li said. “Whether it be locally or in the state, however we go [about] that is up to us.” Editor’s note: Youth Politics Collective is not associated or listed as an official club by Coppell High School. ANGELINA’23 can be reached at axl0728@g.coppellisd.com

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entertainment

2020

Art keeping state beautiful

Zhang wins statewide art spot in Don’t Mess With Texas calendar I n i y a Na t h a n STAFF WRITER @iniya_v

“

Art has always been a thing I can go to when I’m feeling down. It’s a homey feeling, and it’s just been always something I’ve been comfortable with. It’s very relaxing and nice to do art.” Coppell High School sophomore Ashley Zhang is one of 14 students across the state of Texas to have her art chosen for the 2021 Don’t Mess with Texas calendar. It started as a simple assignment for class. CHS9 art teacher Elsa Reynolds asked her Art II class to make a piece that fit the guidelines of the Don’t Mess With Texas K-12 Art Contest and some of her own. Submitting their piece for the contest was optional. Zhang submitted for fun—she did not think she would win. Don’t Mess With Texas K-12 Art Contest was statewide. She and her parents were very surprised and excited when her dad got the email about her artwork being on the calendar. “I wouldn’t say I expected [any of my students to win] because it was a competition for the entire state of Texas,” Reynolds said, “And then it was all of the grades, so I knew there would be a lot of competitors, but it didn’t surprise me that Ashley won.” Zhang does not plan on pursuing art in the future as a career, instead keeping it as a fun hobby or incorporating it into her career. This year, she has not taken any art classes, but still does art in her free time. Coppell High School sophomore Ashley Zhang was chosen as one of 14 Texan students who will have their art featured on the 2021 Don’t Mess with Texas calendar. Texas artists from kindergarten to 12th grade compete in the statewide art contest. Graphic by Josh Campbell. “I really like impressionistic art and surrealistic art,” Zhang said. “I don’t think I have a set art style but more of a personal style. I am inspired by Claude Monet, Salvador Dali, Francisco Goya and other artists.” Her parents enjoy watching her artistic progress with each piece. “We’re not paying too much [attention] to the [results],” Zhang’s mom, Yuhua Zou, said. “She really enjoys the process. [Her father and I] also enjoy the process of watching her [be happy].” When Zhang was younger, she wanted to be an artist in New York. While her thoughts on a career are different now, her parents are supportive and proud of the work she does. They see her joy in art. “Art is a part of life,” Zou said, “So that’s why I watch her enjoy [art]. She creates things [and she’s] also very good at it.” “She had been producing some really awesome work during the year that I had her. I was very excited [that] she decided to submit [her art to the competition],” Reynolds said, “I’m super proud of all the work she did in my class.” Art is something that is close to Zhang’s heart. While not being in any art classes this year, she continues to appreciate and create good art despite. “I really like art because it is comforting to me,” Zhang said. I also like art because I get to think about things that I have never thought about before. Mainly, I just do art because it is fun.”

“I really enjoy the creative process of designing and working. It is a way to express my imagination and my view about the world.” ASHLEY ZHANG SOPHOMORE

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INIYA’23 can be reached at ixn3618@g.coppellisd.com.

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THE SIDEKICK SPACE BINARY P. 18

COMIC: ZOOM UNIVERSITY P. 18

RECIPE: EASY AS PIE P. 19

Unmasking new fashion statements I n i y a Na t h a n STAFF WRITER @iniya_v

Clothes are an important part of our everyday life; they are a form of expression and make people feel more confident, comfortable and in control. What we wear can help us feel positive despite the challenges we face. And as we are amid a worldwide pandemic, positivity is more important than ever before and choosing what you wear can help you feel more comfortable and confident. Masks can be the key to that self-confidence and positivity. At the start of the pandemic, people used masks to protect themselves. Now, masks are a necessity. Along with gloves, goggles and other forms of PPE, they are used to help us protect ourselves and others against the virus. However, masks can also be used to protect ourselves from the negativity that seems to come from the internet and news. As the demand for masks became higher, people used ski masks, gas masks, surgical masks, face shields and masks made of bedsheets and old cloths to protect themselves. Though there are numerous masks made for our protection, the ones that catch my attention are the ones with flowers, the tie dye and glitter, the puns and patterns. These masks have

more than just design, they have a personality, making them seem more like an article of clothing than other masks. These masks have positive words, cute animals and so much more. There’s masks for everyone and anyone. Many of us are heading back to school where it is required to wear masks. So why not wear a mask that makes you feel more confident as you walk around those halls? Some of us feel like we should turn masks into fashion statements. “If you dress confidently you feel good about yourself,” Coppell High School sophomore Mytri Nair said. “And making a statement with a cute mask would help me feel more confident than to have a general boring surgical mask that everyone has and wears.” While this may be true for her and others, some seemed to disagree with her statement. “I would rather wear a standard mask,” CHS junior Geeth Gunnampalli said. “I would feel more embarrassed wearing a cooler mask than a normal mask.” In the end, the importance of a mask is to make people feel safer. However, whether it be leopard print, glitter, science puns, or an ordinary mask, when you walk outside in the middle of a pandemic with a mask on, it also can help you feel positive. So as you walk onto campus, feel confident in the mask you’re wearing. INIYA ‘23 can be reached at ixn3618@g.coppellisd.com.

Coppell High School junior Davion Belford wears a Black Lives Matter mask in the Horseshoe during C lunch on Sept. 30. CHS students have been using masks as a form of self expression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by Lilly Gorman

Myers’ technical experience fueling journey to drama club president

Meer Mahfuz

CO-SPORTS EDITOR @meer_mahfuz Coppell High School senior drama club president Lauren Myers’ ardor for theater started when she moved from East Dallas and joined the program at Coppell Middle School West in eighth grade but has since propelled her into the world of technical theater and stage management. After serving as the CHS theater department secretary during her junior year, Myers took on the responsibility of drama club president – with CHS senior co-president Xander Davila – for her senior year in a pathway that she adores. With her zeal for theater, Myers plans on studying stage management or technical design in college and pursuing a career in it. What is your favorite part about technical theater? [Technical theater] gives my life

focus because [it’s] something I never really had. Before I really got into technical theater, I just kind of went through life and didn’t really know what I wanted to do. Technical theater just gives me motivation and purpose, motivat[ing] me to try to be better in all other areas of my life. Do you prefer acting or technical theater? I’d definitely do technical theater over acting. Even though it can take up a lot of time, I like having

Coppell High School senior Lauren Myers puts together the set for her scene in Texas Terrifying Tales at her house on Sunday. Myers has been heavily involved in the Cowboy Theatre Company throughout all four years of high school. Photo by Lilly Gorman Twitter: @CHSCampusNews

my hand in everything, seeing the big picture, being part of the artistic choices for the show, [seeing] how it’s going to look on stage and working with all the different teams as a stage manager. What are your plans as drama club president? My goal is to make sure everybody feels welcome in the department. [Theater] is not a place for judgment, and everybody who is new or s t u c k around [should know] they don’t have to be afraid to be themselves. [If they have

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any concerns, they should] reach out to me and my co-president Xander or if they don’t feel welcome or safe in the department. We’ll change what needs to be changed to make [theater] a welcoming place for everybody. Who inspires you? Within theater, I definitely think I wouldn’t have grown as much or gotten to where I am without [CHS theater director Karen] Ruth and [CHS9 theater director Lauren] Holt just because, when I came in sophomore year, they boosted my confidence and everybody in the department’s confidence. They just made it such a welcoming place and inspired me to also make it a welcoming place and to also encourage others to do what they want to do. I help train other students and get them to where they need to be when I’m gone, so without them, I don’t think I would’ve been able to help other people grow as much as I have. MEER ‘22 can be reached at mmm0332@g.coppellisd.com.

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entertainment

INDIE AUTHOR DAY AT COZBY LIBRARY // NOV. 7

THE STRUGGLES OF ONLINE SCHOOL

NOVEMBER CHS THEATER VIRTUAL SILENT AUCTION //6:30PM // NOV. 7

McKenna’s ‘Zeros’

tours the galaxy

Anjali Krishna CO-SPORTS EDITOR @anjalikrishna_

ked

YouTube: Coppell Student Media

.S. heat c har t

albu m charts

Peaked at nint

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In a world in which Declan McKenna had no interest in singing, Zeros would still exist; not as an album but as the script for the best sort of a Netflix drama. A ragtag team of misfits searching for the meaning of existence as they scour the galaxy come to life under McKenna’s craft. Three years following his debut album, “What Do You Think About The Car?” that cemented him as a rising star in Brit-Pop, Zeros is far more mature, though lacking the radio-playability of some of McKenna’s earlier songs. Wholly, Zeros serves as a metaphor for the confusing life on earth as a young person. Directed through a hazily described unlikely leader, Daniel, named first on the daunting “Be An Astronaut” and alluded to throughout, boils down to a man young, lost and overwhelmed. Thrusting into McKenna’s dystopia, the opener “You Better Believe!!!” is shatteringly aggressive. Destruction of the world he has built is already underway: “Oh, I’m sorry, my dear / The asteroid’s here.” That intensity continues throughout the album and at times, edges on too much with its massive drum lines and minute-long guitar solos. Had there been something slower and less volatile, the subtle emphases and changeability on the other tracks would have been easier to catch and appreciate, rather than being overwhelming. Certain elements, like the abrupt changes in pace, keep things spontaneous, energetic and on-theme, but make listening to Zeros in full a challenge. “Rapture”, for example, is a masterpiece at the end of the album. When finally reached, the many unique inflections to the song are ironically tiring. If “You Better Believe!!!” is the exposition of the album’s storyline, setting up a spacey background with lines “fastest gun in the solar system” and “What do you think about the rocket I built?”, “Be An Astronaut” is the inciting incident, flashing back to the blooming interest in space, or more literally, changing

the world. Those dreams are quickly crushed by conflict, the suburban divisions on “The Key to Life on Earth” and the social media mess on “Beautiful Faces.” A continuation of the environmental discussion in “Twice Your Size”, “Rapture” is about seeing “all sorts of crap on the TV these days,” and being helpless when it comes to acting on it. Expressing the young people of today’s largest issue in exactly four minutes seems a heavy task, but McKenna manages it remarkably well. “Daniel, You’re Still a Child” is what goes on after that helplessness: feeling lost and alienated, coupled with darker undertones of heading in more sinister directions. Leaving almost everything open to interpretation, it is perhaps the album’s best track. And at last, the climatically satisfying “Sagittarius A*” is where everything goes wrong because the long mentioned doom is finally here. Some change, some hope, something should have come to turn the tide by now but instead, the prescient first line,“You’re gonna get yourself killed” comes true as a black hole takes everything. As cleanly and piercingly as an unfeeling star would, McKenna elegantly sweeps up the world he’s made and bins it. “Eventually, Darling” is the seemingly tragic ending as the dust settles, the music playing behind the moment the army behind the main characters realize their frontmen are gone and the fighting stops. What’s done is done and change has happened, whether that be for better or worse. Reminiscent of David Bowie and the Beatles, particularly in the earliest tracks, the entirety of British rock has a pinch of influence in his album. While McKenna’s nods to his idols are anything but subtle, Zeros is far from imitatory. Modern takes on modern problems carefully allow him to instead weave his own brand, a new take on music, one reflecting the paradoxical youthful helplessness and hope of a generation just coming of age.

eU h t at second on

.K.

ANJALI ‘22 can be reached at axk8800@g.coppellisd.com

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THE SIDEKICK DIGILAND EXPERIENCE AT THE COPPELL ARTS CENTER // NOV. 5-DEC. 12

CHS THEATER WINTER SHOW // 7PM // DEC. 4-6

Blanche Harris

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER @blanchegang

INGREDIENTS Crust • 2 cups flour • Pinch of salt • 1 cup unsalted butter • ½ cups cold water

PERFECT FALL RECIPE TO BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY

American as Apple

Pie

Photo by Blanche Harris

Filling • 6-8 Granny Smith apples • 1 lemon, juiced • About 1 cup sugar, or to taste • 1-2 tbsp cinnamon, or to taste • ½ cup of butter • Pinch of salt • 1-2 tbsp cinnamon-sugar mixture (use a teaspoon of cinnamon and sugar and mix)

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees and set aside a 9-inch pie dish. 2. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Cut in the butter until it starts to resemble crumbs. Slowly add in water and incorporate until the ingredients are mixed in without being completely wet. 3. Divide in half and set the remaining dough in the refrigerator. 4. Roll out the first half on a lightly floured surface and cover the bottom and sides of the pan. 5. In a large bowl, toss apples, lemon juice, sugar, salt and cinnamon together. Next, add butter slices to the top, making sure to spread them out evenly. 6. Roll out the remaining dough on a lightly floured surface and lay on top of the filling. Crimp (press with a fork) the dough on the bottom of the pan (step 3) around the edges. Cut slits in the center of the pie to allow it to vent. Finally, lightly sprinkle with cinnamon or sugar. 7. Bake for 15 minutes at (temperature), then reduce the heat to 375 degrees for another 30-45 minutes until the crust is golden and juices are bubbling (it will depend on how thick/thin apples were sliced). Cover the top with foil if the pie is browning too quickly. 8. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve with vanilla ice cream, heavy whipping cream or milk.

Lil’s Libs

As I ___________________ VERB ENDING IN -ED into the doors of Hogwarts

School of __________ and Wizardry, I could smell NOUN fresh _______________. The Grand Hall had floating PLURAL NOUN _______________, ______________________ up the PLURAL NOUN VERB ENDING IN -ING room of laughing students. As Headmaster _____________ CELBRITY silenced us all, us first-years stepped up to the front to be sorted into our houses. I was placed into __________________, the HOGWARTS HOUSE ___________ house. A wizard named _____________ was also ADJECTIVE CELEBRITY placed into that house. After, we ate ___________ legs, ANIMAL ______________, and __________ cakes. ProfesPLURAL FOOD NOUN sor _____________ told us about the prohibited CELEBRITY __________________floor because of _______________. ORDINAL NUMBER PLURAL NOUN After dinner they showed us to the common room. I thought my dorm was ___________. I finally feel at home and am ADJECTIVE excited to attend Hogwarts this year!

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sports

NOVEMBER 2020

Understanding distance racing Pacing patterns surfacing in mental, physical aspects of various sports

1stth 4 &

quarters of a race are the fastest

The average speed of a Coppell runner during the mile is fastest during the first and fourth quarters of a race. Both track and swimming data indicate the fastest speeds are at the beginning and end, while the slowest speeds are around the middle. in long distance races.

Anjali Krishna CO-SPORTS EDITOR @anjalikrishna_

hether pushing off the starting block for a 500-yard freestyle or starting a 5K run alongside many others, distinct patterns emerge as long-distance racers compete using various strategies tailored to improve performance. Coppell’s long-distance racing and The training strategies in swim are designed to avoid buildup of lactic acid. Typically, the human body gets its energy aerobically (with oxygen) but when unable to are fastest in races get that energy as quickly as necessary through aerobic respiration during in-

START &

END

tense activity, the body will switch over to anaerobic respiration. This is the use of lactic acid that builds up in the blood as the strain of activity increases. Eventually, the acid reaches a threshold and at this point, the amount of lactate in the blood is overwhelming and a racer is forced to stop. “It’s very scientific, it’s pure physiology,” Coppell swim coach Marieke Maestebroek said. “[When] I talk about a longer race like a 500 [yards], [a swimmer] has to stay out of that oxygen deprivation zone where they don’t build up that lactic acid early on in the race in their muscles, because they won’t get through the whole 500 yards. Now if you do a shorter race, they’re going to get [lactic acid building] in the start, but if they get too crazy with it in the beginning, they won’t get through the race in a decent way.” Coppell’s strategies for racing the 5K in cross country are derived from personal mile times. In order to avoid reaching a lactic acid threshold too quickly, runners practice with tempo runs to increase the threshold, allowing the body to more effectively clear lactate. “Let’s say you have five miles,” Coppell cross country coach Nick Benton said. “If we were doing a tempo run, it would be about 40 seconds slower than your mile time, which would then get you ready for a race. In your races,

you’re trying to go below that 40 seconds.” Beginning any race, the immediate starting speed is typically the fastest a racer will go throughout. Common belief holds that the end of any race is the toughest but in reality, the quarter of a race end of races often turn out to have the second fastest is the slowest paces. Instead, the third quarter of any race tends to be the hardest and slowest as racers feel their top speed has already been met. “There’s a few people who are mentally talented that can bite through that difficult part of the race,” Maestebroek said. “You can train yourself to get tougher in practice to get through that uncomfortable part of the race better but some people are mentally tougher and able to ignore it and cut through it better than others.”

3rd

ANJALI ‘22 can be reached at axk8800@g.coppellisd.com.

The middle

is paced

BELOW absolute speed in races

The average splits for the boys 500yard freestyle for the Coppell swim team range from 28 to 32 seconds. Both track and swimming data indicate the fastest speeds are at the beginning and end, while the slowest speeds are around the middle in long distance races..

Graphics by Srihari Yechangunja YouTube: Coppell Student Media

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THE SIDEKICK SPORTS MED MAYHEM P. 22

LIVE FROM KCBY P. 23

DESTINED TO PLAY P. 23

The bottom line: Linemen essential yet unappreciated components of football S a l l y Pa ra m p o t t i l EDITOR-IN-CHIEF @SParampottil

The modern perception of football would not exist without linemen. The thuds of bodies slamming into one another, the grunts and huffs of players as they grapple, the iconic row of squat poses as the ball snaps and the play begins - the imagery most people associate with football is all dependent on the existence of linemen. However, despite their importance to the game, linemen often go underappreciated and underrepresented in the media. “They add so much more than people think,” Coppell junior defensive lineman Sammy Hernandez said. “Everyone outside football thinks linemen are the least important in how ‘they’re just big guys, they’re not skilled guys,’ but we’re honestly one of the biggest impacts of the game.” Even the average person could probably give a general idea of what the quarterback does and take an accurate guess at what a running back or receiver does just by the name alone. In contrast, most non-football fans probably would not be able to define the role of a lineman other than they stand in a line. To many, the large, not-too-smart athlete is the stereotype given to linemen. “Yes, we are strong, yes, we are big, but we are more than that,” Hernandez said. “We are part of the team, even if people don’t realize because we don’t score points. We just don’t get enough credit for what we do in the game and how our positions show us to the public.” Defensive linemen are tasked with trying to take down the quarterback. When one breaks through

the offensive line and knocks him down behind the yards, you can easily measure that. We don’t really line of scrimmage before he throws the ball, it is called have anything we can measure, and the things we can measure can obviously be skewed based off of a sack, which is a major defensive statistic. Though this objective measurement exists for de- what kind of offense we’re running.” Coppell football has two graduates currently fensive linemen, it is often unnoticed by the media, playing in the NFL - both specifically local media. of them linemen. Class of The Dallas Morning 2014 graduate Solomon News’ high school sports Thomas plays for the San section has a page for inFrancisco 49ers as a defendividual rankings with sive lineman (who played football statistics. On in the 2020 Super Bowl) that page is a list of the and class of 2015 graduate leading players for rushConnor Williams plays for ing, passing and receivthe Dallas Cowboys as an ing yards in the North offensive linemen. Texas area. While there If not through media are team stats for leading and statistics, linemen deoffenses and defenses, serve positive recognition there are no individual from the public. Without defensive stats. their contributions to the “It’s not fair for us,” game in terms of raising Hernandez said. “I unSAMMY HERNANDEZ the stakes and adding that derstand [the quarterfamous football physicaliback, running backs and JUNIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN ty, the game just would not receivers] get most of the be the same. glory all the time, but we “The general perception is that we’re just big are really huge factors - the defensive line - in how if we sack that quarterback for negative yards, that can guys who just hit people. There’s more to the perturn into a third and long or a second and long or even son, to the offensive line, than just that,” Oh said. make them punt. They should add sacks because it’s just “If someone were to sit in one of my meeting rooms during an offensive line meeting and go through all like scoring a touchdown.” The offensive line has a similar problem in lack the different looks and blocking schemes and they of media recognition, but it stems also from a lack of were to see how our kids answer those questions, they would be so shocked and impressed by how statistics to use. “It’s hard to gage statistics for offensive linemen fast they have to think and act and do the job.” because each coach has a different definition of what SALLY ‘21 can be reached at a pancake is or what a domination block is,” Coppell scp7918@g.coppellisd.com. offensive line coach Allen Oh said. “With rushing

“We’re honestly one of the biggest impacts of the game.”

Coppell senior offensive linemen Febechi Nwaiwu and Austin Darcy and sophomore offensive lineman Trevor Timmerman set on the line of scrimmage at Highlander Stadium on Oct. 9. The Sidekick editor-in-chief Sally Parampottil thinks linemen are essential to football but often go underappreciated. Photo by Blanche Harris Twitter: @CHSCampusNews

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sports

NOVEMBER

VARSITY FOOTBALL AT HOME // 7 P.M. // NOV. 6

VARSITY BOYS GOLF INVITATIONAL // 1 P.M. // NOV. 7

Female tennis players seeing more college scholarship opportunities To r i e P e c k STAFF WRITER @torielpeck

The Coppell High School Tennis Program has had nine student athletes commit to play tennis in college over the past ten years. With six of the nine having been women, CHS Tennis Coach Rich Foster says this is due in part to the larger number of girls college tennis teams and greater amount of competition for male athletes. With more opportunities, women athletes receive more scholarship opportunities. “Early on it was mainly boys that were committing, but in the last couple of years, it’s been mainly girls, ” Foster said. “I assume because of Title IX and not as many girls playing tennis. There seem to be more scholarship opportunities for girls and many were willing to go to smaller schools, whereas most of our guys were not interested in that route.” Title IX, passed in 1972, states “no person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” In college athletics, this calls for equal opportunities for both male and female athletes to equal play, provisions and scholarships. Many collegiate tennis programs have more women than men. University of Texas at Dallas with a Division III tennis program, currently has more women as well.

According to Coppell High School 2020 graduate and UTD tennis commit Aishwarya Kannan, this is due in part to the amount of scholarship money available and keeping it equal between genders. “There’s a trend among our students that they all seem to think they need to go to a big name school,” Foster said. “There are a lot of opportunities out there that go unused by some of our students who could go [to smaller schools].” Athletes of both genders who sign college scholarships for their sport tend to have similar traits. One of these traits is consistency. “You can be a really good tennis player, or really good at any sport, [but] if you were really good in ninth grade and you don’t keep working hard every day - that person who was consistently working that whole time will end up outshining the person who laid back after they achieved a little bit of success their freshman year,” Coppell senior tennis player Sonia Bhattacharyya said. Focusing on consistency, coachability, time and skill, can help student athletes receive scholarship offers. “If you stop playing for a month and come back, your form and stamina is going to go down,” Coppell junior tennis player Aryon Nath said. “If you’re going to play in college and be committed to tennis, then you might as well [have] a weekly or daily schedule to focus.” TORIE ‘23 can be reached at vlp0601@g.coppellisd.com. Graphics by Srihari Yechangunja

Sports trainers adapting to COVID-19 Sreeh i th a Mora v an en i STAFF WRITER @sreehithaMorav

Coppell High School senior London Hurt brings water to the Coppell football team during a timeout at Buddy Echols Field against Plano West on Oct. 30. The athletic trainers have experienced many changes due to COVID-19, such as wearing masks to follow the Centers of Disease Control Prevention guidelines to keep the staff and students safe. Photos by Sally Parampottil YouTube: Coppell Student Media

The days of meeting with athletes and making casual appearances in the training room have changed in hopes of keeping up with the safety of staff, students and athletes at Coppell High School. In order to meet COVID-19 guidelines held by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the sports medicine department has undergone several adjustments and challenges involving in-person/distance learner student training, workload and the athlete’s perspective towards the changes they must face now. A big change for the department is the role of the student trainers, who have been split into three categories: in person event/in person learner, in person event/ online learner and online learner only. For many of the online learners, fulfilling their roles as a student trainer is specifically difficult, as hands-on activity is limited. “There are some things you cannot replace. If I asked you to play the piano, you can practice playing the piano, but I won’t let you have the piano,” head athletic trainer Yvette Carson said. “Until you’re in the moment, and that kid has to get

back on the field, people are all around you, [you’re] in the hustling mindset - you can’t recreate that.” Not only has online learning been a challenge to face for athletic training, but so has satisfying the athlete’s needs. “There’s a bit more wait time. We’ve drastically reduced the number of people we allow in the training room at one time so we can ensure social distancing. Previous to the pandemic, athletes would come in and do a lot of their daily care,” Carson said. CHS senior football and wrestling student trainer Trish Nguyen - an in-person learner - senses a similar perspective when discussing the topic of hands-on learning in regards to newer student trainers learning to navigate the sports medicine field. “Within our first few years, we had an idea of how the [student training process] was going to be done,” Nguyen said. “Now, the underclassmen have to work more and end up getting an idea of how to work as a student trainer really quickly.” With the emphasis on adapting, CHS senior head volleyball student trainer Josh Finkle thinks the pace and workload certainly has a different impact. SREEHITHA ‘23 can be reached at sxm2793@g.coppellisd.com.

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THE SIDEKICK VARSITY VOLLEYBALL VS. LEWISVILLE // 6:30 P.M. // NOV. 10

GIRLS BASKETBALL VS. LEWISVILLE // 6:30 P.M, // NOV. 13

K C B Y L IV E S T R E A M S M A K IN G C O P P E L L S P O R T S A C L IC K A W AY Up ne x t

A U T O P L AY

Coppell High School junior Hally Leonard and CHS senior Rohan Jani operate cameras in the press box for the KCBY-TV livestream of the homecoming football game against Plano West at Buddy Echols Field on Oct. 30. This year, KCBY is livestreaming every home football, volleyball, soccer and basketball game for people to view. Photos by Sally Parampottil from the comfort and safety of their own homes during the pandemic. “Considering the circumstance of the coronavirus, the livestreams have been sufficient substitutes,” Coppell ISD Athletic Director Kit Pehl said. The athletics department is working closely and consistently with the KCBY special projects team to produce the livestreams. Equipment for Buddy Echols Field was purchased by 1 Vision Media, while CISD athletic department purchased the equipment for the CHS Arena, CHS main gym and CHS9 gym. KCBY then operates and manages the live production at subvarsity games,

Sapna Amin STAFF WRITER @sapnaamin6

With the subtle adjustment of a camera lens and the dedicated camera running alongside the ball, the cheer of the adoring crowd can come to life on a cell phone. Thanks to the KCBY-TV crew and special projects team, Coppell High School home football, volleyball, basketball and soccer games are being streamed live. This gives parents and the Coppell community the opportunity to watch

while filming the varsity games for 1 Vision Media. 1 Vision Media provides mentoring opportunities for KCBY students as they get to work alongside professionals. “I believe [KCBY] has a gift and skill,” KCBY adviser Irma Kennedy said. “I’m always looking for opportunities to partner with other programs at our school to utilize our skills and open doors for students. We’ve worked with the athletics department before, but [the livestreams] increase that partnership by 10.” Pehl and Kennedy have been working together in the past to involve and bring

together the two subsections of Coppell High School. The coronavirus has jumpstarted this process with livestreaming. “To be able to capture that moment and bring it to the viewer is the magic of video,” Kennedy said. “To be able to share those moments with parents or family members who can’t be there in person or don’t have access is special. We all want to be a part of the action and we have devices at our fingertips that can provide that for us.” SAPNA ‘21 can be reached at saa6871@g.coppellisd.com.

Game means friendship, fierceness for Gilliland Na n d i t h a Na g a v i s h n u STAFF WRITER @nanditha__N

Coppell senior middle hitter Madison Gilliland plays against Hebron at the CHS Arena. Gilliland will graduate early this December. Photos by Camila Flores and Samantha Freeman

Growing up in a family of athletes, it was almost fate that Coppell senior middle hitter Madison Gilliland got involved in sports. “My parents [Angela and James Gilliland] were athletes and that got me interested in sports,” Gilliland said. “I hated [softball and basketball]. My mom made me try volleyball and it clicked.” Her elder brother, Coppell High School 2015 graduate James Gilliland, played football for Coppell and graduated from Texas Tech University, where he didn’t take up a sport, this August. Her younger brother, Coppell High School 2020 graduate Ashton Gilliland, competes in Special Olympics. Her father played basketball at Wayland Baptist University in Plainview before ending his college sports life and transferring to Texas Tech, where her mother played volleyball. “She had a couple of other offers [from UNT, University of Wyoming, University of Arkansas, CBU, Rice University, Baylor University] and we were excit-

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ed she chose Tech,” Mrs. Gilliland said. “We helped her see the campus and meet coaches, but we let it be her decision.” As a four year varsity player for Coppell, Madison’s competitive quality and perseverance play a key role in her accomplishment. Described by her mom as a “fierce athlete,” Madison is a strong player and a prominent presence on court. “Madison has a brutal honesty about her,” Coppell coach Julie Price said. “She has high expectations for herself and her teammates and encourages open accountability within the team. This sets her apart. We’re a better team when we have her on court.” These qualities of Madison are also admirable in her personal and social life. “She’s very strong willed, and she is black and white, so you know where you stand with her, and she’s not fake,” Mrs. Gilliland said. “She’s just who she is; she doesn’t sugarcoat anything.” Madison can be succinctly defined as a competitor. “My ideology and mindset is like, ‘you got to win’ and ‘you got to put 100% of your effort,’” Madison said. “That’s what I live my life by. For this, my friends call me a competitor.”

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Volleyball demands strict practice hours and a lot of time spent with teammates. The bond formed while playing together, depending on and lifting each other up is dear to Madison. “I love the friendships we form on the team,” Madison said “You get to experience so much with them and develop a sort of sisterhood. They truly are my sisters because they mean so much to me and we spend so much time together. Character development comes along with that since we help and support each other.” Madison will graduate early on Dec. 18 and play in Texas Tech’s offseason volleyball program in January. Even though graduating early is a choice and not a requirement, Madison feels ready for college and believes it would help to develop her volleyball skills and allow adapting to college life early on. There, she is planning to major in psychology. NANDITHA ‘23 can be reached at nxn8271@g.coppellisd.com.

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