Coppell High School 185 W Parkway Blvd Coppell TX 75019 VOLUME 26
ISSUE 2
November 2014
Pg 12-13
Pg 17
Pg 20-21
Preventing sexual assault
Mockingjay Madness
Winter sports preview
www.coppellstudentmedia.com
Against the odds
IN ISSUE
CHS alum battles rare autoimmune disease STEM class awarded $10,000 grant MIT announces STEM Academy as one of 15 prestigious winners of InvenTeam grant. NEWS Page 4
Biased view of history Staff writer Thomas Rousseau emphasizes that schools should teach the good, bad and ugly of American history. OPINIONS Page 8
Student with condition shares experience Senior Brianna Haynie has ability to taste names, words. STUDENT LIFE Page 11
Curtain call: Tech theatre teacher to retire Bill Ballard enters final year of teaching, makes every day count with students. ENTERTAINMENT Page 16
Day in the life: Sports Trainers Sports writer Marcus Krum follows athletic trainers on a game-day to get behind-the-scenes look at what all they do. SPORTS Page 23
SARAH VANDERPOL Photographer @SarahVanderPol
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or new college student Mikayla Bass, life was good. Stepping into college as a junior and receiving a scholarship to play college volleyball at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Mikayla couldn’t have been happier. However, in January, Mikayla’s world took an unexpected turn, causing her life to completely change. “In November, our mindset was that she was as happy as she could be, in a wonderful place, playing on the court, loving life, doing her college kid thing, president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, just really blossoming as a young lady. Two months later she was too weak to brush her own teeth and we didn’t know why,” Kelly Bass, Mikayla’s mother, said. Mikayla, a 2012 Coppell High School graduate, had begun experiencing unusual symptoms while at St. Mary’s, such as trouble eating, trouble with her vision, and the temporary paralyzation of her finger but dismissed them. After they continued, she called her mom. Together, they went to the doctor only to be told that Mikayla was on drugs, which was far from the truth. Mikayla went about her college kid life and returned to school. After returning to practice with her team at St. Mary’s after Christmas break, Mikayla was unable to complete the warm
up without beginning to wheeze and hyperventilate. At that point, she knew that the strange symptoms she had been experiencing were serious and something was wrong. She called her mother and they found another doctor; this one knew exactly what was going on. After only a few minutes, he diagnosed Mikayla with Myasthenia Gravis. “I had never heard of MG so at the time I just thought it was a bunch of mumbo jumbo and I was going to be fine,” Mikayla said. “When reality set in, it became extremely hard to deal with because I realized that the person I had been was now dead, and I was having to start all over.” Myasthenia Gravis is a rare autoimmune disease attacking the receptors of the muscles that only 25,000 Americans have. When one’s brain tells the muscles to move, it communicates through a connector point. With Myasthenia, that connector point is damaged. Since the connector is damaged, the effects fluctuate. “I could be normal now, and in two minutes I could be paralyzed. It’s minute to minute, hour to hour, day to day. It changes all the time,” Mikayla said. The disease affects one’s ability to move any of their voluntary muscles. The scariest part of it all is that the disease has no known cure. In fact, the mainstream medical system knows hardly anything about Myasthenia Gravis at all. > see Bass page 10
Photo Courtesy // Kelly Bass Coppell graduate and setter Mikayla Bass was a two-time champion at Coppell. In 2009, she was part of the Class 5A CHS state championship girls soccer team and in 2011, she was part of the Class 5A CHS state championship volleyball team.
DEA hosts informative parent seminar SUMMER CRAWFORD News Editor @summercrawfordd
The Sidekick // Amanda Hair
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eroin, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamines, ecstasy, hydrocodone: these are all drugs that have become norms for society members to abuse. Not only are these drugs affecting high school students, but they are also impacting college students. Coppell is no exception to this drug plague. Assistant Special Agent Calvin Bond in the Dallas Field Division led a drug awareness seminar on Oct. 28. Bond is in charge of four enforcement groups in Dallas of police officers and Drug Enforcement Agency members. This event was sponsored by the Coppell Independent School District, City of Coppell and the DEA in order to inform both students and parents of drug use, abuse and their consequences.
Assistant superintendent Brad Hunt facilitates a question regarding the drug awareness presentation in the Coppell Middle School West auditorium on Oct. 28, 2014. “We want to make sure that the perintendent Brad Hunt said. “It’s drugs and alcohol is the first students have the armor that they really important that at first we step to helping us empower ourneed to fend off and deal with have an awareness and an under- selves with how to deal with it.” issues that might be related to standing of what is going on, and drugs and alcohol,” Assistant Su- a realization that talking about > see Up page 5
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Miranda Portteus
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Teacher of the Issue: Ecnomics instructor prioritizes student interests, learning ALEX DALTON Staff Writer @alex_dalton04 Influenced by social studies teachers she had in her childhood, Miranda Portteus teaches AP Micro/Macro economics and AP U.S. history, practicing importance on a variety of learning styles, something she learned from her teachers. These styles of learning include lectures, independent work, group projects, high usage of technology, multiple online resources and app activities. The Sidekick staff would like to recognize Miranda Portteus as the Teacher of the Issue. As a teacher at Coppell High School for three years, Portteus has been a teacher for eight years and loves making sure her students are getting something important out of her classes. “Getting to know my students a little bit better when they are doing independent work helps me teach them because I know what they are interested in and the kinds of things they are trying to get out of the class,” Portteus said. A keen eye for her students makes Portteus the staff ’s choice for Teacher of the Issue, thank you for all that you do.
The Sidekick // Aubrie Sisk
Medal of Honor recipients visit CHS, offer patriotic insight
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SAI SESHADRI Staff Writer @Saisailu97
he highest military honor that can be earned in the United States of America is the Congressional Military Honor. Created during the Civil War, and awarded by the President on behalf of Congress, the Medal of Honor is given to individuals that have gone above and
beyond. On Oct. 18, Coppell High School students and teachers were given the chance to meet three former military personnel who won this prestigious award. Lieutenant Colonel Joe Jackson was the first one to say a few words to the crowd. Born in Georgia, Jackson was, at first denied a spot in Aviation Cadet Training due to not having a college degree. However, he was
eventually called back and went on to become a well-known pilot during the Vietnam War. “Later on in life, I realized the necessity of having an education when I was being passed up for promotions because of not having a college degree,” Jackson said. “Right now at your age and position, is the time to get an education.” After Jackson came Corporal Hershell Williams, known for
being a demolition sergeant in World War II. Williams reflected on what he learned during his time in the United States Marine Corps. “When we were born, we were handed the two best gifts - one was the gift of life, and the other was the gift of freedom,” Williams said. “It was up to me whether I wanted to serve my country, and I did, because my freedom was that precious to me.”
Captain Robert Modrejewski joked about what he thought was the hardest part about being Marine Corps. “We had to wear these old war uniforms, and the girls used to laugh,” Modrejewski said. “The real heroes are the people buried in Arlington Cemetery. The 58,000 people from the Vietnam War, the people in the national and state cemeteries, they’re the real heroes.”
The Sidekick // Amanda Hair Medal of Honor recipients Lieutenant Colonel Joe Jackson, Corporal Hershell Williams and Captain Robert Modrejewski visited CHS to talk about their experiences on Oct. 18.
The Sidekick // Amanda Hair CHS social studies teacher John Harris introduces Medal of Honor recipients. The recipients visted CHS on Oct. 18 to share their stories with the school.
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CISD expands iPad initiative
Middle schools transitioning to more technology based opportunities
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CHLOE MOINO Staff Writer @_chloechristine
he Coppell ISD middle schools and a portion of the elementary schools are moving toward an education similar to what Coppell High School and New Tech High@Coppell are providing their kids with: learn-
ing with the support of technology. With the 1:1 iPad Initiative, the CISD is now issuing iPads to every learner at Coppell Middle School East, North and West, and also to the fourth and fifth graders at Austin Elementary, Richard J. Lee Elementary and Valley Ranch Elementary. This initiative began six years
The Sidekick // Chelsea Banks Sophomores Briauna Butler and Lara Collins work together in Kristia Leyendecker’s U.S. history class by using their iPads to help them label an assignment.
ago with the opening of New Tech High@Coppell, when all students received a MacBook laptop. Then in 2011, CISD launched the program “Bring Your Own Device” for teachers and students. CHS learners were issued iPads, laptops were provided to eighth graders in the iWest Blending Learning pilot program and fourth and fifth graders were provided with iPads at Cottonwood Creek and Wilson Elementary. “The long term vision has been for all CISD learners to have access to the tools of technology and to use those tools in learning and communication,” CISD Chief Technology Officer Dr. Sam Farsaii said. “Overall this has been a successful implementation.” CHS learners were the first to benefit from the operation. CISD is taking what it learned from the CHS rollout last year to establish distribution of iPads to other district campuses. “Educators have completed a required Information literacy course at the start of the school year that will help them to guide their learners to understand and apply online research skills,” Farsaii said. “A companion parent course will also be offered. “With additional staff and student training coupled with Responsible Use policies and further management and control, we hope for CHS to become a mod-
el for other districts to replicate,” Farsaii said. New improvements include: The CISD Internet filter will now go beyond the walls of the school. Anytime the Internet is accessed on a CISD issued iPad off-campus, the access will go through the CISD filter. If an app is loaded on an iPad that does not follow the Responsible Use Policy for Technology, the learner will be asked to remove it. If the violation persists the campus can lock the device and/or take disciplinary action. All educators will complete a required information literacy course at the start of the school year that will help them to guide their learners to understand and apply online research skills. A new instructional technology website, currently under development, will include access to online learning opportunities, FAQs, videos and other helpful resources for parents, students and staff. To collect the data used to evaluate the success, CISD will conduct an external Technology Audit which is due in late October. “Triangulation of data from student, parent and staff surveys and focus group feedback from students, teachers, parents and administrators have helped address this initiative,” Farsaii said.
Valley Ranch Elementary Principal Cynthia Arterbery is excited for this initiative. “The 1:1 Initiative is going to help the kids integrate technology with their day-to-day learning and researching while allowing them to collaborate,” Arterbery said. “This will help a great deal. We met with the parents back in the spring about 1:1 and will also be sending them a survey soon to get feedback about the initiative.” There is always a concern with younger kids handling technology, but Arterbery says this should not be an issue. “We have strategically planned and designed lessons to incorporate the technology responsibly and to also balance it out. We don’t use the technology 100% of the time. We’ve taught our kids how to correctly use certain softwares and apps and they know when to use them,” Arterbery said. Middle school devices will be distributed to eighth grade students as follows: CMS West the week of Oct. 27, CMS North the week of Nov. 3, CMS East the week of Nov. 10. The seventh grade distribution will start Dec. 1 while sixth grade starts at the end of January. The selected elementary schools are receiving iPads in phases. The first phase was in August, and the next phase will be in December and January.
Karmany Yoga offers cost effective innovation to owner, client PRANATHI CHITTA Staff Writer @prannydacheetah
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fter opening two branches in Dallas and Fort Worth, the Karmany Yoga Center is now open in Coppell. The new center took over an existing studio in May and developed over the summer to become Karmany Yoga. “I’m happy that we’re expanding,” Karmany Yoga owner Audrey Woods said. Woods has been practicing yoga for 16 years. A couple years ago, Woods went to California and visited Brian Kest’s yoga studio. The yoga studio not only taught Woods yoga, but she also learned a new way of managing Karmany Yoga. “At [Brian Kest’s] studio, a method called revenue sharing was used where no membership is needed and people who come pay what they can afford,” Woods said. Although membership is not needed, there has been over 1,600 people who have attended classes since the opening of the studio. “We use a lot of social media to publish what’s going on at the studio,” Woods said. The classes at the studio are taught by seven teachers, many of whom have a yoga background of 10 years. “Shortly after completing my yoga training, I became a yoga teacher,” yoga instructor Leanne Hutcherson said. “It was the best career choice of my life.” Hutcherson discovered yoga
about 15 years ago and fell in love with it. Since then, she has not only learned a plethora of yoga skills, but has also been teaching it for 12 years. “With my background in ballet, health and wellness, it just felt amazing to integrate breath with movement in yoga class,” Hutcherson said. “Then I was inspired to start teaching.” Before teaching at Karmany Yoga, Hutcherson taught at Castle Hills Yoga, Krama Yoga and Lifetime Fitness in Flower Mound. “One of my yoga friends told me about the newest location coming to Coppell,” Hutcherson said. “So I contacted them, and after meeting up with the Karmany team, things began to transpire.” Hutcherson teaches Power Flow, Slow Flow and Meditation classes and workshops. The Power Flow classes try to achieve strength and flexibility through flowing poses and sequences with more balance and concentration. The Slow Flow class is designed for slower movements to increase flexibility and range of motion. “I enjoy the smaller, more intimate rooms and the teachers have a balance of spiritual, emotional and physical features which is hard to find.” Karmany Yoga attendee Brenda Lizzi said. The revenue sharing has also proved a success with Hutcherson and Lizzi. “I think this is the best idea ever for the client and the teacher,” Lizzi said. “It really embraces what yoga is about and the teachers are truly appreciated.”
Lizzi began practicing yoga at the beginning of the year. She came across Karmany Yoga through previously practicing with a few teachers from the studio. “The revenue sharing process is helpful for students to not have a long term contract, so they can pay as they go,” Hutcherson said. “It all balances out in the long run and helps pay the bills.” Karmany Yoga has also won three Best of Big D awards from 2010 to 2012. “Having the studio, we get to meet highly trained instructors and [experience] many types of yoga,” Woods said. “It really broadens the view of yoga.”
The Sidekick // Stephanie Alexander Yoga class attendees wait for instruction and warm up before morning class at Karmany Yoga on Oct 25.
The Sidekick // Stephanie Alexander Yoga class attendees stretch before their class at Karmany Yoga which opened Oct. 25. Karmany Yoga does not require membership and customers pay only for the classes they take.
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An idea translates into reality
STEM program awarded InvenTeam grant, continues on journey to create unique invention for special education students SUMMER CRAWFORD News Editor @summercrawfordd
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hen students walk by the Special Education room at Coppell High School, they are unaware of the complex, intricate activities taking place. The work going on in the room is far more than what meets the eye. Five years ago students from the CHS Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Academy were looking for a capstone project and spoke with the Special Education department. The 2010 senior engineering class was asked to come up with a way to help the CHS special education students with the “clutter and chaos” in the room. STEM decided to help organize the Special Education room and install an activity wall for them to use. STEM students realized that while the special needs students have extreme and incurable impairments, it can be managed through their activity wall in teacher Eileen Higgins’ room. The activity wall is designed to help with the organization of the room and created a new way for students to work. “As the [Special Education] teachers, they have to collect a lot of information about how the students are using the devices in the room and the progress they are making. But with these students, the reaction times might be as long as 10 minutes and they have to sit there and wait. Any distraction will stop them from it,” STEM Academy lead Mike Yakubovsky said. “What we are trying to do is come up with a system that will help [Higgins] with that monitoring to find out how well they are progressing, so that they can progress faster and we can make a bigger difference in their life. “They are looking at all kinds of activities, from things like working with iPads, swiping things, pushing buttons, turning knobs. They are learning how to do things that our kids typically do when they are 1 and 2-yearsold and these students who are 18 or 19 are learning to do that now. Those are the types of motor skills that we are helping them learn and develop so that they can be more active and be more engaged with the world around them.” In response to wanting to update the wall, Yakubovsky assembled a team of junior and senior STEM students in April to begin working on an invention called Gateways, which will provide personalized learning for CHS special education students. This team is called the 2014-15 CHS Disruptive Innovation Team, consisting of seniors Braddock Bresnahan, Erin Payne, Mark Sowders, Phillip Sowders, STEM president Olivia West and juniors Zane Erickson, Ruth Fernandes, Elbio Guedilla, Nino Teruya and Ran Trakhtengerts. Erickson is team leader, Fernandes is historian, Guedilla
The Sidekick // Sarah VanderPol Senior Erin Payne works with fellow STEM junior Ran Trakhtengerts on the development of new technologies the academy is producing to assist in the mental and physical development of the special needs students at Coppell High School. is treasurer and Payne is secretary. The team applied, along with 300 other applicants, for a grant to further their project. On Oct. 15, Lemelson-MIT publicized that CHS was one of 15 winners of the $10,000 InvenTeam grant. This program celebrates inventors, and according to the Lemelson-MIT program, the “InvenTeam grant is for high school students and mentors to invent solutions to real world problems.” “My initial reaction when I was chosen to be the team leader was I was really excited,” Erickson said. “Knowing that I was going to be there to get this project off the ground and make it a real thing. I was just so happy to be one of the people who was going to make this happen for our team.” Many of the team members are passionate about helping these students because they see the value in helping them improve their lives. “I am passionate about this project because a couple of summers ago I worked with Special Olympics to train special needs kids to help them swim,” Fernandes said. “It is a great project because they are not at the level that we are currently at, so this will help them get to the level.” Yakubovsky is also thrilled to be continuing the invention with the help of the grant. The grant will prove to be highly beneficial, as it will cover a large portion of expenses. “This grant is going to go a long way to help the project. First off, $10,000 is going to help us get a lot of the materials we need to make this happen. There is going to be a lot of work that goes into it, so even providing things like meals will help,”
Yakubovsky said. “The grant helps give the team exposure and get more resources and more support to go into areas that they are not as familiar with, and get help from professionals in those areas just like they would in the real world.” Not only is this project going to benefit special needs students, but it will also provide leadership and real world engineering experience needed for college. “This has prepared me for
college because this project has given me a lot of experience in different types of engineering because there are so many different aspects,” West said. “There’s the programming, the mechaninical, the electrical and then you actually have a literal client. It is a great feeling knowing that we are doing some really awesome things in the community around us and seeing it, it not just in the Coppell community, but it is going to be the entire world seeing
The Sidekick // Sarah VanderPol In 2012, STEM built an interactive activity wall to aid the mental development of the special needs students at Coppell High School. Lemelson-MIT has granted the academy $10,000 for new technologies to continue assisting them with both their physical and mental development.
[the new invention].” Using the grant as inspiration and fuel for their invention, Disruptive Innovation will continue working on the project until June when they present a prototype at EurekaFest at MIT. EurekaFest is a “multi-day celebration designed to empower a legacy of inventors through activities that inspire youth, honor role models, and encourage creativity and problem solving. They will continue creating something that has never before been attempted.” “They are inventing something that does not exist right now. So that problem solving mindset is huge because they are going to come up with all kinds of problems that nobody has solved yet,” Yakubovsky said. “It is going to push them because there is not a textbook to go to; [they] can’t look to the back and look at the answers to see if [they] are doing it right. They are defining the book themselves.” Disruptive Innovation is well on its way to completing the new invention and becoming leaders in not only the community, but also in the engineering world. “It is showing them what it is like because they are going to do things that most college students will never do. College kids don’t normally invent things, they work on normal class projects, and we have pushed [Disruptive Innovation] into something totally new,” Yakubovsky said. “We are helping someone that we live with and [who] is one of our neighbors. I wouldn’t be able to do this if it wasn’t this group of students. [Receiving the InvenTeam grant] says a lot about Coppell High School as well, that this is typical of our students here.”
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Saving lives a pint at a time
Student ambassadors take lead of annual campus blood drive PRIYA DESAI Staff Writer @priusdasani
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n Oct. 29, the Red Jackets, for the first time ever, hosted an all day blood drive event in partner with Carter BloodCare. The small gym was buzzing with talks of worthy causes, good deeds and free juice boxes. From 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Red Jackets manned their stations to put on a successful blood drive. It was a busy day with over 200 people who had signed up ahead of time to donate, not including those that were walk-ups totalling to 249 students attempting to donate. Some were turned away due to factors such as low iron count, not weighing enough, or recent international travels. The Red Jackets decided early last year to take charge of the semi-annual blood drives held at Coppell High School. Senior Peter Leach was the Red Jacket student leader for the drive and explained the organization and work that went into planning such a large, school-wide event. “This year the incoming Red Jackets decided together that we wanted to be a part of something like the blood drives,” Leach said. “I was asked by [Red Jackets sponsor Shelly Redding] in May of 2014 to help run [the event]. I took
that on graciously and since then, what was required of me was to create committees [for the blood drive] of Red Jackets which included themes [and] decorations, advertisement, assessment committee who handled scheduling and gradations cords and those that would
handle escorts and snacks for the day.” Throughout the day, students lined up to donate. Incentives were provided, such as the opportunity to receive a red cord if students participate in both blood drives held each semester and a free T-shirt and
snack for before and after donation. These were not the only reasons that students decided to donate. Senior Akhil Chamarthy felt the urge to help those in need from the community. “I wanted to experience the process at least once and
The Sidekick // Sarah VanderPol Senior Red Jacket Jacob Self gets his blood drawn during the Carter Blood Drive hosted by the Red Jackets on Oct. 29 in the small gym at Coppell High School with over 200 others.
I wanted to help people in a more personal and direct way,” Chamarthy said. “I heard that one [pint] of blood can save three lives, and today I was told we had close to 300 people. That is saving almost 900 lives. These drives really can make a difference and I am very proud of our school for hosting one.” Those that donated were not alone in feeling their impact on the community. Red Jacket senior Annie Xie felt her impact through being a part of hosting the event, in addition to her donation. “It has been interesting to see how this entire process has worked and how [the blood drive] was able to come together,” Xie said. “It is a great experience to see how it feels to give blood and just to feel good to be able to donate and contribute to this cause for the community.” The effect of blood drives, like the ones at CHS, make a significant impact on the community. According to Carter Blood nurse Donee Ward, all of the blood collected Wednesday will be supplied to local hospitals to help assist with their lasting need. “The more donors we have the more blood we get, and with school blood drives like this it is starting [students] off young to create a habit to donate blood,” Ward said.
Up, close look at drugs
Awareness, consequences of illegal substances revealed in Drug Enforcement Agency presentation for parents, students > from pg 1 Bond discussed a large variety of popular drugs being trafficked throughout Texas and supplied to teenagers and informed parents of the most common diversion methods. These methods include prescription forgeries, internet pharmacies, “doctor shopping,” pharmacy thefts and adolescents stealing prescription drugs from household medicine cabinets. According to Bond, the biggest threat to anyone in the room is prescription drugs. A big issue that was stressed was the age at which students are affected by drugs for the first time. “Across the U.S. the statistic for when kids are first ever offered any type of drug is the fifth grade,” Bond said. “For younger aged kids, it’s alcohol, marijuana and then if they go further it is a decision: is it pills, is it meth, is it heroine.” Another common problem is that students think they do not need to tell anyone about what they are seeing or hearing. “Kids are ver y good at covering up and for each other, that’s a problem,” Hunt said.
“We do have crime stoppers and other parents and anonymous tips through parent link, and we follow up on ever y single tip that we are given. People are tr ying to help each other, they are tr ying to help a friend, so we have to work through that so that people realize you have to come tell someone so kids can get help.” Bond shared common signs of drug use in order to inform and warn any parents who attended of what to be looking for. “The first thing you want to look for is a change in their character and their behavior,” Bond said. “Also you will see a change in friends and a change in times where they are either away from you or they are quitting their extracurricular activities. You can see it in the eyes in the dilatation [and] you need to be going through their vehicle, in their backpack [and] in their room.” Drugs are in almost ever y state, in any town. Bond discussed how drugs can follow people no matter where they move. “It doesn’t matter where you live, there are drugs
available,” Bond said. “They are available in the most affluent neighborhood in the Dallas Fort Worth area and they are available in the poorest neighborhood in the Dallas Fort Worth area. Education and communication from the parents and the teachers and the coaches, that is the critical thing.” Living in Texas, students have a high chance of running across any type of drug, due to the primar y source of The Sidekick // Amanda Hair drugs being right next door. “Where we live is a spring- Special Agent Calvin Bond presents to Coppell parents reboard where there is not only garding different types of illegal drugs abused by teenagers. a lot of drugs coming to this area to stay, but it is going across the entire U.S. from here,” Bond said. “Mexico is our primar y source countr y : heroin, meth, marijuana.” Bond reminded parents and students that they have the power to choose not to be involved. Parents have the power to see signs in their children and find them help, and students have the power to stay drug and alcohol free. couraged ever yone to submit an anonymous tip to Coppell The Sidekick // Amanda Hair Crime Stoppers if they see or hear about suspicious activ- Brad Hunt (left) and Calvin Bond (right) educate the parents ity involving drugs or alco- of Coppell about many different aspects of drugs among teenagers on Oct. 28, 2014 at Coppell Middle School West. hol.
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editorial
The Sidekick // Aubrie Sisk
Staff encourages reciprocating thankfulness through giving
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hough the turkeys may no longer gobble gobble on the fourth Thursday of November, millions of families will be celebrating the largest feast of the year. Family, friends and fortuity is what the holiday is centered around. However, in a time full of thankfulness, there is also an abundance of need in our country and our local communities. According to Feeding America, Texas is above the national household food insecurity rate (14.6 percent) with an 18 percent household food insecurity amongst the population. With roughly 26.5 million residents in Texas, it is an enormous amount of people who do not have something so basic. Even though our community is affluent, there is hunger very near. However, Coppell should not feel guilty for being so fortunate. Instead, we
need to pass on the gift by being generous to others, and what an incredible opportunity and realization it is that we can make such an impactful difference in a person’s life. Money may be tight for others, but we encourage each individual to examine their life and see what luxuries they have. For example, you may purchase a Starbucks drink daily, which could range from $3 to $7. Give that up for a few days and you would be able to afford a turkey. Small sacrifices can develop into greater outcomes. For seniors applying to college, if you are not seriously considering attending the school you have applied to or the tuition is so outrageous to the point you cannot afford it should you be admitted, save the $100 from the application process and use it for those that cannot afford to eat. While we understand life is busy, forgetting also shows
Executive Editors
Editorial Editors
Summer Crawford News Editor Allie Arnold Student Life Editor Stephanie Alexander Entertainment Editor
Rachel Buigas-Lopez Design Editor Josh Martin Graphics Editor Nicole Messer Photography Editor
Business/PR Staff
Tuulia Koponen Business/Public Relations Manager
Photographers
Chelsea Banks Amanda Hair Mallorie Munoz
Kelly Monaghan Aubrie Sisk Sarah VanderPol
banks is just as admirable. Many canned foods are $1 per can. There is also the opportunity to volunteer at a soup kitchen or food bank. Also, many organizations compile a Thanksgiving dinner basket with all of the necessities for the feast: the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and other tasty traditional dishes. In reality, it only takes $10 to $20 to buy a turkey or a few dollars for other food items to positively impact someone’s life, and that is priceless. On the topic of giving, Keith Health said it best, “Wherever there is a human in need, there is an opportunity for kindness and to make a difference.” We can be that difference. With those wise words in mind, The Sidekick staff hopes readers will enter the holiday season full of the spirit of giving. To the right is a list of places that readers can donate cash, canned goods and other items for those in need.
Places to give this holiday season CHS’s Turkey Drive: Nov. 21 2014 North Texas Food Bank: web.ntfb.org Salvation Army: www. salvationarmydfw.org Meals on Wheels: www.vnatexas.org Austin Street Center: www.austinstreet.org
2014-2015 Sidekick Staff
Jena Seidemann Managing Editor Kara Hallam Enterprise Editor
Chase Wofford Adviser Alex Nicoll Editor-In-Chief
a lack of care. It may take an extra reminder on your phone or note on the refrigerator to donate and give back during the holiday season, but it will be worth it. The earth will not suddenly become a fairytale land of goodness, but it will make someone’s world better, even if it is for a day. We also do not believe in the excuse of “having no time” as a legitimate reason for not being involved because Coppell ISD offers the opportunity to donate turkeys online. In just a few clicks you can buy a turkey; it is as convenient as it gets. Truly, donating, in any shape, form or amount, is significant. The Sidekick staff encourages faculty and students to bring a frozen turkey to contribute to the 14th annual Kids for Turkeys drive on Nov. 21. For those that cannot afford to give a turkey, donating canned food to local food
Staff Writers
Shivani Burra Pranathi Chitta Emma Cummins Alexandra Dalton Priya Desai Aisha Espinosa Nicholas Henderson Alex Irizarry Meara Isenberg Joseph Krum Marcus Krum Chloe Moino
Shannon Morgan Shruthika Pochampally Amy Roh Tommy Rousseau Gabby Sahm Sloane Samberson Sai Seshadri Hailey Siegrist Chris Sheldon Chisom Ukoha Sakshi Venkatraman
Graphic Designers Taylor Bond Manu Garikipati
Christianna Haas
The Sidekick is the student newspaper for Coppell High School and is published six times per school year. The newspaper is a member of National Scholastic Press Association, Journalism Education Association and Interscholastic League Press Conference. The editorials and columns presented in this paper reflect the views of their student writers and not Coppell High Schoool or Coppell Independent School District.
Adverstisements are sold as full, 1/2 page, 1/4 page and 1/8 page sizes in black and white or color. The Sidekick welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters can be emailed to cwofford@coppellisd. com or delivered to the D115 newsroom at Coppell High School. A current email address and first and last name for the writer must be included for the letter to be considered for publication. Contact The Sidekick: 214-496-6239 cwofford@coppellisd.com
opinions
7
Praying for permanent peace
Censorship of religion in schools causes rampant cultural ignorance
SAKSHI VENKATRAMAN Staff Writer @oompapa1
“A
re you a Muslim terrorist?” In a country that is labeled a “melting pot” for cultures and religions, it is shocking to see how ignorant some citizens really are of the people that live just next-door to them. As a third grader, this innocent query from my peer took me by surprise. Even with my limited knowledge of what terrorism entailed, I knew the assumption was not positive. First, I am not a Muslim, but that allegation was minute in comparison to the one that followed. The assertion that anyone with brown skin who is of the Islamic faith is automatically a terrorist was what confused me. Growing up with the Indian culture, I was accustomed to an assimilation of many religions in one area, and I had certainly met many nice Muslims. Although in the moment I was hurt, I quickly disregarded the comment, like any distracted third grader would. As I matured,
I came to discover the painful reality behind this question. Now I feel nothing but pity for the boy who asked me. We are raised in a society that is ripping at the seams with culture, yet it is not just the kids, but the adults as well, that are ignorant of the different beliefs and customs that fill this country. Religious and cultural stereotyping is the first obvious issue. For example, Muslims have been labeled as terrorists and Christians have been labeled as homophobic. Why stereotypes exist can be due to multiple things, from the way a person was raised to their own life experience. But the main problem (and potential solution) is education. When children are never taught about the concept of extremism in religions, they grow up with negative images of an entire people instead of just the radical parties that exist in every faith. The biases of friends and parents can brand a child with a very one-sided view of a group of people. This is where educators need to take the wheel. Because of the separation of church and state, teachers often get awkward in the wake of religious topics. In attempts to avoid offending anyone, instructors and administrators dance around important subjects (often shutting down religous discussions) that could ultimately create a generation that is more aware of the world and its people.
Schools’ censorship of religious simple option schools can do to topics is the birthing ground for remove the barriers between faiths unknowledgeable citizens who and instill a well rounded underwill raise their kids in the same standing of culture and religion unknowledgeable way. It is the at a young age. perfect way for history’s religious In most situand cultural dilemmas to repeat ations I would themselves. jump on the The world is getting smaller, “do not and the inability of some Ameri- force kids cans to catch into up is giving us a serious disadvantage in many aspects of our life; social or job-oriented. ‘ In Coppell itself, it is clear that our suburban bubble is being exposed to numerous races, cultures, and religions of the world. Even in Coppell High School, any given class contains at least three or four different ethnicities. The reason that generations are ignorant is because we have less desire to learn on our own,;yet another reason world religions should be taught in school. Public school districts should offer a ‘World Religions’ elective where students discuss and learn to communicate with their peers of different faiths. It is a The Sidekick // Josh Martin
subjects” bandwagon, but we need to face the facts; there may be a Muslim living in the house next door to you, a Buddhist two doors down and possibly even a Zoroastrian in the house at the end of the block. So why silently resent each other for things you are uneducated about?
I believe censoring religion from schools is the equivalent of blurring out the face of every person in the world that a child does not know about. If educators continue to sit idly by while Americans drift further and further from the rest of the world, then eventually, the only thing we will be melting in our “melting pot” is the well being of our own posterity.
The Sidekick // Manu Garikipati
opinions
8
America the not so great Schools teaching biased view of history creates misguided patriotism
THOMAS ROUSSEAU Staff Writer
“A
merica the great”, we say. “Land of the free, home of the brave”, we shout. Encased in pride we forget that there is no coin without two sides. Lost in the cry of patriotism are the dark stains scattered across the red, white and blue. New pending legislation has caused an uproar in Denver starting on Sept. 23. Hundreds of students and many staff from several Denver area high schools, some of which were forced to close, walked out or claimed to be “sick”. They walked out into the streets surrounding the schools with signs and banners to grab the attention of passing cars and pedestrians. The newly elected school board delegating what goes on in the Denver school district started this initiative as its starting plan. This was in the hope to follow in the footsteps of states like Texas, which has already approved ideas of that nature in curriculum changes. According to some, these changes might go through unabated in spite of all the efforts of the community. This is due to the fact that the school board members are elected, but after that whatever they choose to do does not fall under the same set of precautions. These new laws will alter the standing curriculum to portray patriotism, and law abidingness more prominently, while
smoothing over large periods of civil disobedience. Arguably the most famous ones being the Civil Rights Movement, the Civil War and potentially the countries created via revolution. I can speak for most, if not all, when I say that very, very few people would like to live in this world 100 or more years ago. This proves even more true if you happen to be in any part of the world that would not accept your current financial standing, gender, race, sexuality, hair color, eye color and toe size during that time period. This is where we came from. This world we inhabit has scars upon scars built over time and time again throughout the centuries. On some patches of soil, there have been fights throughout the centuries. They were, and are, all very different. However, they all share one un-
canny common characteristic and desire. Freedom. American revolutionaries fought for their freedom from sinister tea taxation, and won. The Union fought for slaves and eventually won. The Confederates fought for their freedom, and lost. Those involved in the Civil Rights Movement fought for their freedom, and eventually won as well. All these conflicts are acts of the very same “civil disobedience” that the school boards in Denver wish to skim over. They want to paint over a series of cracks in the wall of America’s history in the hopes that they can ignore it as much as they wish to ignore the protestors themselves by plugging their ears with their fingers and singing. My point is that the world is not perfect, far from it, actually. Our country may be great indeed, but only for those who know that creating any infallible figure or set of ideals only speeds the process of history’s seemingly inevitable habit
Information from cbslocal.com
of repeating itself. A habit which certain flavors of ignorance seems to feed. Now, “what does this have to do with me?” you may or may not be asking. Since this is a hypothetical question asked by a hypothetical person, I will choose to assume you are either a hypothetical student or a hypothetical parent with a hypothetical student. We are all affected directly or indirectly from the schooling of children and young adults. I can relate to this especially well since I have taken a class on U.S. history in the past, and I will take one again next year. I can say with a reasonable amount of certainty that I felt an almost abnormally strong bias displayed towards the acts of civil disobedience in the past. The colonists killed at The Boston Massacre were murderers, and the soldiers simply misunderstood. For better or worse, a bias surely existed. And who’s to say this is only in
regards to U.S. history? I am sure the jump from skimming over the Boston Tea Party to skimming over all the world’s revolutions and periods of unrest throughout history can not be that big of a jump. When you clean a stain on a carpet of otherwise average cleanliness, you are left with an abnormally bright patch. From then on, why not whitewash it all? In this day and age, education is more important than ever. We are living in a smarter world with smart phones, smart technology and smart bombs, so let’s not make it one full of dumb people. The amount of gigabytes in your pocket should not be proportional to the amount of IQ points you lack. If school boards start to change the curriculum to highlight the following of rules, laws and societal norms, it becomes a basis for the indoctrination of students. That, however, overlooks the fact that Texas itself already has curriculum changes like these in place. Many schools and teachers refuse to adopt new course materials, dubbing them “Unamerican”, or for the truly misguided “promoting extremism”. Fortunately, in this particular situation, it seems as though the protestors and their motives will prevail due to the overwhelming support of the teachers and the parents of the students. Or so I, along with those protesting, hope. It might be easy to dismiss this event as singular and specific in nature, but it is not only the regression of learning material those students are protesting. In times such as these, with certain fleeting issues brought to the front of everyone’s minds, we need to take this opportunity to further improve the learning standard for the future. It is not just a few pages of a textbook they are taking out, but rather ideas and principles that are core to American values.
The Sidekick // Rachel Buigas-Lopez
opinions
9
Actions create lasting reactions
Better future starts with thoughtful acts of kindness on personal level
I
JENA SEIDEMANN Managing Editor @Jena_Seidemann
n science, it takes one independent variable or factor to change the outcome of an experiment. For people, one tiny factor shapes and determines so many facets of their life: who they are, what they believe in, how they react to situations and so on. Outside our borders, there are places where women have no rights, no quality of life, no voice simply because she had two x chromosomes instead of one x and one y when she was conceived. Down the street, there is a person that feels ashamed to bring their friends over because their house and their lifestyle is not “grand enough,” and the child with special needs is treated kindly to their face, but behind their backs, they are cruelly ridiculed; the list goes on. What do they have in common? First and foremost, they are people who are in need of love and compassion. Secondly, they are the direct result of one thing that happened to them, one thing they could not control. It is injustice to blame someone for the circumstance that befalls them, yet we do it anyway because
as a society, as a whole, and as humans, we have to have an upper edge. We have to be competitive; we have to be the best. Life can be happy and meaningful regardless of where you were born or how much money you have (shocker), but it makes it easier if people are more uplifting. I do not know about you, but I am always disappointed whenever I hear someone say so and so did one good thing so his or her “faith in humanity is restored.” There is more good in this world, but it takes effort to find it and make sure that it continues, and if you truly have “lost” faith in humanity, then do something to restore it; waiting will not do or solve anything. The best way to foster a better local and global community is to stop being so competitive by clawing your way to the top to be the best stop and start caring about others. It needs to be a priority. Actions do speak louder than words and they determine our future. If we want “world peace” and a better life for our children and their children, it starts with one. That individual is you, me, he, she, we. How crazy is it that each individual has the vulnerability to be changed by another so easily and the power to influence others greatly? We are small in the seven billion on this Earth but not to the people around us. For example, there was a little girl who was given up for adoption because she was not a boy, not “good” enough. She was placed on the doorstep of her city police and for two years, she wait-
ed for a family. Her family finally came and now she is writing this column as a testament to how destructive one bad action can be to a life and how one act of kindness made the world, especially her world, better. Sir Isaac Newton was correct in two of his laws of motion, an object at rest will stay at rest until it is acted upon. There will be no change until someone intiates it. In the same way, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Positivity is just as contagious as negativity, so share the love, and even if the person does not reciprocate kindness towards you, we have this hope that they will continue the chain with other people. Maybe people have told you that one out of seven billion is insignificant and they are right to some extent. However, the kindness you share with those around you is priceless. As individual, average citizens, our impact may be on the local level, but that is incredibly powerful and we should take pride when we have the opportunity to inspire and push others to be better. As sappy as all my advice is, it can shape a better future for our children, which is coming sooner than you think. Scary ? I know. So I ask of you, when you meet another person, love them, learn about them, and accept them, and should this be the only time you ever meet, let it be a good one because where we invest our kindness, we plant seeds of hope for a generation built on love. And goodness, that is what this world needs.
Information from emmaseppala.com
The Sidekick // Rachel Buigas-Lopez
10
student life
More than meets the eye
Cheerleader excels in academics, sports regardless of presumptions
J
SHIVANI BURRA Staff Writer @shiviburra
ocks, nerds, theatre kids and cheerleaders. We all know stereotypes fill any high schools hall, but they are not often valid. Today’s society has given teens the impression and set the stereotype that all cheerleaders only care about backflips, boys and their hair. Senior Tori Zettle proves the cheerleading stereotype is all wrong by excelling in both academics and sports. Zettle takes AP classes, is a varsity cheer captain and is in the top ten percent at Coppell High School. Renee Zettle, Tori’s mother, believes that her daughter’s self-motivation is the reason she is able to handle all the things she does. “Tori’s greatest strength is her self-motivation and drive,” Mrs. Zettle said. “She has always set goals and challenges for herself and meets or exceeds them. A great example is when we toured the high school when she was in eighth grade preparing to come to CHS. She told her dad and I that she planned on graduating in the top 10% and make varsity cheer.” Zettle had been a competitive
dancer for eight years, but began taking tumbling classes at the end of middle school to prepare for cheer tryouts. And making the cheer team has helped her gain valuable skills. “Tori absolutely loves cheering for CHS. She is a great football fan and says she has the best seat in the house,” Mrs. Zettle said. Cheer can be quite time-consuming with football games, volleyball games, pep rallies, painting run-through signs and long practices for the high school competitive team. This has helped her learn how to manage her time.” Balancing cheer, school, and her social life has been a difficult task for Zettle however she has learned how to overcome it. “It is hard to balance everything. I just have to come home from practice and do my homework,” Zettle said. “We always have random events to go to. We are doing a lot more than what people think we are doing. It is a lot and I definitely have to pull a lot of late nighters and wake up
early for school.” Varsity cheer coach Tiffany Ganss sees important strengths in Zettle that will help her succeed in the future. “She is very driven and dedicated to whatever she chooses to be a part of in any area of her life, I think those characteristics help her be successful at whatever she chooses to do,” Ganss said.“She is an amazing leader and her peers respect her tremendously as a cheer captain.” “She shows enthusiasm and dedication and her fellow cheerleaders are able to see the hard work she puts in.” Zettle hopes to attend the University of Texas at Austin and pursue a major in accounting. “I do a lot of hard stuff here at CHS and I want to go to a good college so that will prepare me,” Zettle said. “Knowing that I have so much stuff to do currently I
feel like I can take on a lot in college. I want to do pom squad and other activities when I get to college and cheer along with Coppell High School has helped me prepare for that.” Zettle, as well as the other cheerleaders, continue to defy the stereotype.
TORI ZETTLE
The Sidekick // Mallorie Munoz
Diagnosis calls for desperation
Treatment in Russia may be only way back to normal life for Bass > from page 1 “She had an episode a couple of weeks ago where she went to the hospital and in the ambulance, I had to explain to the ER guy what it was, the side effects and other things they needed to know, look for, and understand. For example, she can’t have magnesium because it could make the muscles way too weak and they would just shut down and she would not be able to breath. I’m having to explain everything to EMTs, and thats nerve racking,” Mrs. Bass said. The only research the medical world has on Myasthenia is case studies. Since every Myasthenic patient is affected differently, these case studies tell them nothing. Due to the fact that Myasthenia does affect everyone differently, it is often referred to as the snowflake disease. Just as
every snowflake is shaped differently, every patient experiences different effects at different times. “There are days that she can appear pretty normal on the outside and then what people don’t realize is what’s going on in the inside. I call it the iceberg. The top of the iceberg you can see a little bit of what’s going on but underneath the water, theres all these things that are happening that you can’t see,” Mrs. Bass said. In the past few months, Mikayla, who many in Coppell remember as Bear Bass, has been on several different medicines and has had a Thymectomy, a robotic surgery in which her thymus, which is where your immune system comes from, was removed. The surgery had a 30 percent chance of remission, but that has not happened, and while the medicines have been helping
Information form canadianpharmacymeds.com
The Sidekick // Rachel Buigas-Lopez
some, they have also caused her to gain weight along with other unpleasant side effects. Their best shot now is a Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant in Russia. “I’m 20 years old, I could live another 60 years, I don’t want to have to be on drugs that may not always work for the rest of my life,” Mikayla said. “Even though Russia is going to be really tough and the stuff I’m going to go through is going to suck, that could be the end of it.” The Stem Cell Transplant, while risky, could also be Mikayla’s only shot at being “cured”. Once in Russia, Mikayla would have stem cells removed from her chest bones and frozen while she underwent four rounds of chemotherapy which would wipe out her immune system completely. She would then spend eight days in an isolation room until doctors reinserted the stem cells. Following that, she would spend the rest of her time in recovery, rebuilding and strengthening her new immune system. Another woman, Sheli Godbold, that the Bass’s had the opportunity to talk with, had the procedure and her story gave them hope. Godbold, a former police officer, went to Russia in a wheelchair and six weeks later donated that same wheelchair after walking out of the hospital. “The difference in her alone, her story alone, is miraculous to say the least,” Mrs. Bass said. “I do believe that this procedure is going to give Mikayla really the only shot that we can find for the cure.” While the procedure could be the cure Mikayla needs, it is expensive, $50,000. The Bass family
has started many fundraising efforts in an attempt to obtain the funds for the transplantation. The most recent fundraising effort is the new website, www.battleforbear.com. Donations along with T-shirt and bracelet purchases from the website are all going towards the procedure. One can also sign up for the upcoming golf tournament on November 10th, enter into a raffle to win a 2005 Mercedes, or donate items to the silent auction held in Mikayla’s honor. All the profits from these events will go directly towards Mikayla’s expenses for the procedure in Russia. “It is incredible to see all these people stepping up, everyone has such amazing hearts and there are so many people, so many I can’t even name them all, that have been nothing but amazing,” Mikayla said. Not only are people making an impact on Mikayla’s life, but she is making an impact on the lives of those around her as well. “Bear is one of the most hilarious, loving, Christ-like people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. She is a beautiful girl with a huge heart for others who inspires me to live as a fully devoted servant of the Lord,” said 2014 CHS graduate Lindsay Stivers, a friend and former Coppell volleyball teammate. “I know that I would not be the person I am today without Bear and the impact that she’s had on me. I feel so blessed to know her and to be able to say that she is my sister in Christ.” Mikayla also made a huge impact at Coppell High School. She made a name for herself both
academically and athletically. She graduated with not only her diploma, but her associates degree as well, and was a member of the Principal Advisory Committee. Mikayla is also the only Coppell athlete to ever win state in two sports, soccer and volleyball. She was a star athlete and it showed; she has two medals and rings along with her scholarship to prove it. “It has been tough and extremely sad having to let go of that part of my life. I wish I could go back to it but I don’t know if thats ever going to be able to be a part of my life again,” Mikayla said. “Not being able to work out makes me feel like a caged animal at times. I just want to be able to go for a run or something but if I do I know I will just eat it after the second step.” While the whole experience has been tough on the family, they are learning to make the best of it. “I learn daily from this experience. I’ve learned God’s grace and his comfort. I’ve had to learn that he loves her more than I do even though that doesn’t seem possible to me, but I know it’s true and I have to daily give it up. He is able to make things happen that I couldn’t even imagine,” Mrs. Bass said. “It’s been a long journey in a short amount of time. It’s hard for me to believe she hasn’t even been diagnosed a full year yet, I feel like we have lived a lifetime. It’s just been so overwhelming in so many ways, both good and bad… Even though it is incurable, God is not incurable. He can definitely overcome Myasthenia Gravis and much more.”
student life
11
Senses collide for synesthete
Unique condition leaves Haynie with words on tip of her tongue AMY ROH Staff Writer @rohmyboat
“Y
our first name tastes like M&M’s,” Coppell High School senior Brianna Haynie said. “And your last name tastes like brisket.” Needless to say, Haynie is used to the surprised looks she receives. After all, she is one of the very few who have synesthesia, a neurological condition in which multiple senses are fused together. When one sense is stimulated, another one is stimulated as well. As a result, a synesthete can taste colors and see sounds. Some can see numbers or abstract concepts in the form of a map, curved in differing angles. Haynie can taste words. “I’ve had it my whole life and I always thought that it was normal, like everybody else had it,” Haynie said. “I’d [think] ‘Hey doesn’t that word taste so good?’ and people would be looking at me like I was crazy.” This is how it works: in the brain, certain sensory functions are assigned to specific parts of the brain, with little communication between them. However, synesthesia is caused when the brain is equipped with more neural connection than the average person. This consequently fuses the senses together. Some can even feel, hear and smell pain
while others can see sounds. Synesthesia is said to affect ten out of every million, making up a fraction of the population with this unique condition. For Haynie, small signs of synesthesia began to appear when she was around the age of 3 and became more apparent as she grew older. “One day she told me that she didn’t like how some words tasted,” Brianna’s mother Sheridan Haynie said. “I kind of giggled and thought it was a funny thing to say, but didn’t think much of it. Then she told me that certain words tasted salty, sour, sweet and so on. It got to be kind of a game and because of that, I still thought it was kind of cute and nothing to really worry about. ” Haynie continued to express what she saw and tasted as she grew, which brought attention to a possible condition. “When she got to the point when she would ask me for other ways to say things, I knew there was more to this than a cute little game,” Mrs. Sheridan said. “I specifically remember her saying, ‘Mommy, what’s another word for rug?’. I said, ‘why do you want to know that?’ and she said, ‘because that word tastes bad’.” After talking to a doctor, Haynie and her family were able to properly understand the underlying reason behind her tasting words.
The Sidekick // Stephanie Alexander Senior Brianna Haynie, who has the condtion synesthesia, warms up her vocals at the beginning of choir class fifth period on Oct. 28. “I actually felt a sense of relief my stomach, I will literally have CHS senior Lauren Mack said. that it was a real thing with a real to leave or have people just not “‘Hand soap,’ she said.” Despite its unique charactername and that she wasn’t crazy talk because when you’re nauistics, Haynie insists that it is no or making it up and that it was seous, you don’t want to be tasting more than a different scope in relatively harmless,” Mrs. Haynie things,” Brianna said. “But that’s perspective. said. the only time it affects me.” “Some people think it’s like a Synesthesia has been a part Haynie is comfortable with it; superpower but the definition of of Brianna’s life for so long that however, others are still shocked it is the same as what I think it is,” it does not dramatically alter her to hear about such a condition. Haynie said. “It’s just your senses daily life. However, there are still “When I found out Brianna small barriers that come with it. had it, I was in disbelief and I are mended together. It doesn’t “The only thing is that when immediately asked her what my really add or subtract anything to I’m nauseous, like if I’m sick to name tasted like,” close friend and my life.”
Scivitarro twins acknowledged as National Merit semifinalists Brothers compete for scholarship
T
ALEX IRIZARRY Staff Writer
o be recognized as a National Merit Semi-Finalist is a tremendous honor, and for twins Federico and Francesco Scivitaro it is an honor they share. During their junior year, students take a PSAT test in order to see if they are eligible for National Merit Scholarships. While many students were recognized The Sidekick // Allie Arnold as finalist, the Scivittaros are National Merit Francesco Scivittaro (left) and Scholar Federico (right) enjoy their lunch with friend Mubin Punjwani during unique. One half of the twin set is Fed- the National Merit Luncheon in the CHS library on Wednesday Oct. 8. erico Scivittaro, an active sports While both of them are player and a member of DECA. high on his PSAT exam that his happy for both the brothers, but brother. “Yeah we’re definitely ex- semi-finalists, Francesco has the Prior to the announcement of the being announced as a finalist was he also was not entirely surprised. “It doesn’t surprise me a bit tremely competitive, I would’ve advantage since he had a better semi-finalists, Federico had been not much of a shock to him or his brother. that both of them are National been very upset if he had [gotten score. As we get closer and closup in the air on where he stood “With the score I got it wasn’t Merit Semi-Finalists; its kind of in] and I hadn’t.” Federico said. er to the announcement of our with his score prior to the announcement of the semi-finalists. surprising that I was National amazing that as twins it worked “Even though we both made it, he National Merit Finalists and winHowever once the scores came in, Merit Semi-Finalist,” Francesco out with both of them.” Brock still has the advantage because he ners, the competition will heat up said “He [Federico] was more on said, “But they both are really got a better score.” and those differences in scores he could breath a sigh of relief. the fence. ” bright and it doesn’t surprise me Even Brock has noticed a sort will become more meaningful. “Probably the first thing I Upon realizing that his broth- a bit.” of competitive fire in both of the For now though, the brothers felt when I found out was relief,” er make it in as well, Francesco While both brothers are happy twins. are going have to wait a bit longer Federico said “because I already was elated for his accomplishthat they both made it in, there is “I don’t necessarily notice to find out who will win as the reknew that my brother did way ment. some sibling rivalry alive and well them being competitive with each ceivers of the scholarship will be better than I did on the PSAT and “When I found out that we between the twins. other, but they both have very announced on April 22 next year. I was worried that he’d win and I were both in I felt happy for him “We compete a lot but we competitive personalities any- Until then the competition bewouldn’t.” because I wouldn’t want to be the don’t wish badly on each other” way,” Brock said, “They do have tween them and the other semi-fiHis brother being Francesco only one who got in. ” Francesco said. that personality type, they both nalists continues as they wait to Scivittaro, also a sports lover, who IB instructor Michael Brock, However Federico has a much are very driven, and it doesn’t see in anticipation to see which currently competes as a member of the CHS debate team. Unlike who has the twins in his IB His- more aggressive viewpoint on surprise me at all that they’re very one will reach the level of finalist. his brother, Francesco scored so tory of the Americas II class, is the rivalry between him and his competitive with each other.”
in-depth
12
SEXUAL ASSAULT
13
ONE SEXUAL ASSAULT
TAKES PLACE EVERY
IS SEXUAL ASSAULT ACCEPTABLE UNDER SOME CIRCUMSTANCES?
2 MINUTES
80% ALCOHOL 50% OF ALL SEXUAL ASSAULTS
1 IN 3 SEXUALLY ABUSED 1 IN 4 SEXUALLY ABUSED 1 IN 6
NO MEANS NO “USUALLY
IT IS A BREAKDOWN
ASSAULT
HAPPENS
OR PREDATORS TARGET INDIVIDUALS. KNOW WHERE YOUR
FRIENDS ARE,
FOLLOW THE CORRECT PATHS
WHEN WALKING
AT NIGHT,
BE AWARE OF
YOUR SURROUNDINGS” - DIANE PATTERSON, SRO
ACQUAINTANCE
SEXUALLY ABUSED
OF THE VICTIM
IN THEIR LIFETIME WOMEN WILL BE
OF ALL SEXUAL ASSAULTS
ARE ASSOCIATED WITH
BEFORE THE AGE OF 18 MEN WILL BE
44% NO
56% GIRLS
YES
24% NO
BOYS 76%
USE
BEFORE THE AGE OF 18
YES
Information from rainn.org and ncvc.org
Administration, security encourage reporting, open environment
IN SAFETY F
WHEN SEXUAL
ARE COMMITED BY AN
AMERICAN WOMEN WILL BE
KARA HALLAM Enterprise Editor @KaraHallam
irst, the U.S Department of Justice announces that one in five women in college are sexually assaulted. Then, a list is released of colleges with ongoing federal sexual assault investigations and includes some of the top universities in the nation. The number of investigations increased by 50 percent within the past six months. Next, colleges are accused of misreporting and mishandling sexual assault cases, threatening student and campus safety. This sudden spark in sexual assault has caught Congress’ attention and that of students and parents alike. But most importantly, this shocking information has left the nation wondering, where did this all come from? *Stacey has experienced sexual harrassment. According to Student Resource Officer Diane Patterson, physical sexual harassment, especially forced touching, is a possible gateway to sexual assault. Although sexual assault does occur in the community, verbal and physical harassment is witnessed frequently by teens on and off campus. Several teens even face sexual harassment from their coworkers. “I think the guys who did things to my friends and me, just didn’t think they needed consent for what they were doing,” Stacey said. Other students blame ignorance or inexperience for their harass-
ment; which, has admittedly made them give leeway to their harassers or downplayed several situations. However, Patterson offers another explanation. “Rape and sexual assault is about power and control,” Patterson said. In a 20-year study on sexual assault, psychologist David Lisak found that young adults who commit sexual assault are over-confident and search for vulnerable women. This profile may reveal a darker side to sexual assault and harassment but also provides a method for protection. “A lot of times it’s going to start with the victim,” Patterson said. “It is so important to be aware of your surroundings and take care of yourself. Wherever you are make sure you are in control. You can’t predict what other people are going to do. If you have a strong defense it hurts their offense.” Patterson also discourages the use of intoxicants. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, only two percent of incapacitated sexual assault victims report the crime. “[Being intoxicated] has nothing to do with whether or not a crime has been committed and whether or not the accuser is going to be punished,” Patterson said. “Be honest with it and realize you are the victim.” Patterson also reminds victims that even in cases where one may not know who their attacker is or what they look like, there are other means of evidence that are sufficient for a conviction. “If you chose not to report then
atleast make sure you talk to somebody about it,” Patterson said. Students can talk to friends, parents, counselors and even the newly established iCare group at CHS. Founded by Associate Principal Kayla Brown, iCare is a program which helps students who are undergoing relationship problems, substance abuse, assault or abuse trauma and other struggles. “I want kids to know if its important to you, then its important to us,” Brown said. “We are not here to judge, we are here to listen and provide support because we care. I encourage anyone reading this article who needs help to contact his or her counselor or an adult they feel they can talk to. We have a crisis team equipped and ready to support kids in the healing process of abuse.” Brown has been a strong advocate throughout her career for programs like iCare. In 2001, she founded the nation-wide feeding program, The Backpack Buddy Club. She also authored the book, “Take the Blindfold Off ”, which encourages adults to look beyond the surface and consider student’s nonacademic struggles. Brown’s drive has already lead to great success in the CHS community and iCare group. One by one Brown hopes to change lives. “iCare is a process to not only help kids, but to educate educators on “look-fors” of kids in need of support,” Brown said. According to Brown, signs to watch for in sexual assault include “too perfect behavior”, withdrawal, depression and unexplained anger
and rebellion. Those who have been sexually abused or those who know someone who has should report it. “I believe the first step is to be educated on the topics such as sexual abuse and to then take the risk of stepping out of our comfort zones to make a report even if we are uncertain of the outcome,” Brown said. “The state of Texas now requires all staff to complete a Sexual Abuse training, which I believe is a big step in the right direction.” In fact, it might even be because of advocates like Brown that sexual assault rates on college campuses have become more prominent. “This is one of those crimes that goes so underreported If there is a spike in [sexual assault rates] it is probably a result of more opportunities for the victims to be able to report it,” Patterson said. Awareness, education and campus’ dedication to get victims to report assault and prevent it has inherently lead to a spike in attention, legislature and investigations of crimes that had already been underreported. “[We] have gotten more aware of it, and everyone learns from previous mistakes. [Campuses] are still not there yet but it’s still getting better over time,” Patterson said. Sexual crimes exist within high school and college culture. However, administrators and security forces have teamed up to create a safer and open environment for those like Stacey in hopes of a better future for their students.
NATIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT HOTLINE 1.800.656.HOPE(4673)
LOCAL SEXUAL ASSAULT HOTLINE
COPPELL HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELORS ARE AVAILABLE TO SPEAK TO STUDENTS IN NEED
972.641.RAPE(7273) The Sidekick // Rachel Buigas-Lopez
student life
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Spirit of debate alive and well
Speech team achieves high levels of success with legendary coach ALLIE ARNOLD Student Life Editor @_alliearnold
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hen people hear of debate club, they think of a bunch of kids in a room screaming and arguing with each other. However, there is a lot more strategy that goes into it. “There is a lot more to debate than what people think, sophomore Leila Kamel said. “It takes a lot of strategy and thought process as well as a lot of studying.” There are four different forms of debate, all of which cover different topics suiting each student’s interests. Policy debate involves two partners focusing on and study one certain topic all year. With topics ranging from oil to the current topic of trading overseas, the topics usually have to do with issues involving politics. Similar to policy is Lincoln Douglas, which takes political standpoints to a more philosophical level. It can be very intensive and difficult to study considering it is a solo form of debate and the topic changes every two to three months. Then there is Congressional Debate which is another solo debate. It is treated much like a congressional meeting lasting for three hours. The topic changes every couple of months, so the students are required to constantly change focus on what they are studying. Public Forum is different from the other forms because it deals with “real life issues.” In other words, issues people handle and deal with every day.
“Public Forum is fascinating to me because it has to do with things that more people can relate to just with life in general,” sophomore Leila Kamel said. “It gets down to what people believe in dealing with everyday issues that we all experience which makes it more interesting to me because I can relate to it.” With so many changing topics and an intensive amount of information on each one, it is important for each debate member to constantly study and update themselves on what is going on in the world around them. “I do my best to stay updated on current events but it can be difficult and time-consuming at times,” senior Sarina Naik said. “I watch the news and research articles in order to stay informed and prepared for tournaments.” Although keeping up with the constantly changing news can be stressful, Naik finds debate to be much more than research and arguing. “It gives me a way to express myself with my own opinions and teaches me to present myself with confidence,” Naik said. “It has allowed me to meet new people and learn different ideas and that is something I’ve loved doing over the years.” All of the research and countless hours of practice have paid off considering the success and nationwide recognition Coppell’s debate team has had over the years. In 2008, 2011 and 2012, the team qualified for the Tournament of Champions debate which is considered to be one of the most prestigious debate tourna-
Courtesy // Olivia Lommen Junior Brennan Jackson practices debate speech in front of teacher Glenda Ferguson during class on Oct. 3. Award winning program keeps updated on current events for speeches. ments in the country. They also country. She challenges them and teaches a student so many things placed second at the 5A UIL state offers them numerous opportuni- that they won’t learn anywhere tournament in 2012. ties to attend tournaments during else as far as putting what they With all of the success they the season.” have learned to the test. We are have had over the years, a lot of Ferguson has found a lot of fortunate at Coppell that they the credit is given to Coppell’s de- value in debate by participating in have learned so many things in bate teacher, Glenda Ferguson. it and teaching it through her 11 other classes. I also just love the “We are so lucky to have her,” years of teaching. kids because of their competitive speech teacher Maleda Kunkle “Debate may be the solution to nature. We spend so much time said. “She is one of the most re- the world’s problems,” Ferguson together that I can get to know nowned speech teachers in the said. “I truly believe that debate them and see their improvement.”
The girl inside of the costume
Jazzy Alvarez brings school spirit, pride as this year’s Cowboy Carl
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HAILEY SIEGRIST Staff Writer @Hailey_Siegrist
tudents and faculty all know Coppell High School mascot Cowboy Carl, but they do not often know who is inside the costume. Senior Jazzy Alvarez is Cowboy Carl for the 2014-2015 school year. “I thought about being Cowboy Carl in middle school.” Alvarez said. “I never thought that I would actually become [him].” Before her senior year, Alvarez had only attended one CHS football game. As Cowboy Carl, wants to work on this years school motto, “We Are One.” Unlike the football team, band, cheerleaders and Lariettes drill team, Alvarez is a team of one. “I do feel like I am alone being Cowboy Carl because it’s just me in a costume,” Alvarez said. Friends were excited about Alvarez taking over the important role of Cowboy Carl this season. “When she first told me about it, I didn’t expect that she would try out and I am happy that she had the guts to do it,” senior friend Marilyn Clark said. “It is awesome seeing her perform.” Alvarez attended a mascot camp last summer, much like a cheerleader would go to a cheer
camp to learn new cheers. Alvarez thinks many do not realize how much it takes to be the mascot. All she wants to do is put a smile on everyones face and get them pumped up for the game. But not everything is enjoyable
for Alvarez as Cowboy Carl. She said others can often be critical of her involvement or activities at pep rallies. In some ways, Alvarez considers herself an outcast rather than the center of attention. “I did not go to parties. I stayed
in my books and academics so the outcast aspect of that was more of me not necessiarily the mascot.” Alvarez said. “When I hear classmates hating on the pep rallies and talking about how stupid and a waste of time the pep rallies are
The Sidekick // Mallorie Munoz Coppell High School senior Jazzy Alvarez serves as Cowboy Carl during the homecoming game against Richland onOct. 17 at Buddy Echols Field. Alvarez will perform as Cowboy Carl for the 2014-2015 school year. She is seen at the majority of football games and pep rallies.
when they did not even know that I stayed up super late working on my skit and music.” Cowboy Carl has encourage Alvarez to get involved in other activities with friends. “Cowboy Carl has taught me how to be more social.” Alvarez said. “There are a lot of struggles at school, but if you do what makes you happy then you are doing a good job.” She does have a great support system from friends and family. Alvarez parents made shirts, her friends support her. “The school gives me mixed signals.” Alvarez said. “I still go to some classes where they tell me that pep rallies are not fun to go to and that I’m not doing a good job being Carl. I still continue to be Cowboy Carl because if I can make at least one person smile than I did my job. “Making someone laugh or smile is my favorite part and that is why I am Cowboy Carl.” Clark remains proud and supportive of her close friend. “I think it is great that Jazzy is Cowboy Carl, because when I met her freshman year I saw her as this loud, outgoing girl,” Clark said. “I think that really helps with her being Cowboy Carl. She is great to hang out with and always makes me happy.”
student life
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Historical centers mark Coppell
Markers designated by state and county, keep history alive and well NICOLAS HENDERSON Staff Writer @happenstance98
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n a typical north Texas summer afternoon, Coppell residents may find themselves enjoying nature under the shade of a beautiful oak tree at Grapevine Springs Park. What they may not realize is that Sam Houston camped under that very same tree in 1836. In a town known for constant growth and development, Coppell residents often forget about the city’s history. In fact, while we might not talk about it much in class, Coppell has a very distinct past of its own. The Texas Historical Commission has been honoring the state’s most unique and historic sites since 1962 with its historical marker program, which has become the most prolific marker program in the country. As of January 1, 2013, there are 15,828 markers in the state with markers in all of Texas’s 254 counties. Dallas County alone has over 300 markers. If you dig deep enough, you’ll learn this extremely modernized town, Coppell, boasts three markers itself. While Coppell was not incorporated until 1955, its history dates back over 100 years earlier. The area now known as Dallas-Ft. Worth was first settled by German and French immigrants in the 1840s, when the area was known as “Peters Colony.” It was not until 1848 that Coppell began to really take shape. That was the year that James Parrish and his family established a homestead along present day Moore Road. Before his October 1853 death, Parrish established two future Texas Historical Marker sites: Bethel Cemetery (originally named Sands Cemetery), which was used as the community cemetery, and Parrish Family Cemetery. The most interesting of the two is Bethel. While the cemetery currently is only about a half acre, it once was around two acres, with over two hundred graves. Now sadly due to robber-
The Sidekick // Sarah VanderPol Parrish Family Cemetery, home to one of Coppell’s historical markers, is located on Cardinal Lane. The James Parrish family, who also developed Bethel Cemetery for passerby friends and family, are all buried in the Parrish Family Cemetery which was set aside by James wife, Eliza. ies and suburban development, a the builder to stop building long the unveiling of the Parrish Fam- recognition,” Wilson said. “But mere two marked graves remain. enough to do an archeological ily Cemetery historical marker the documentation required to The two remaining graves survey. It revealed many, many in 1991. While this cemetery is get a state marker, plus the cost belong to 1-day-old Oda Kirby, graves in the area, some already slightly smaller than Bethel, the (about $2,000), limit the numwho died in 1909, and 3-year-old underneath new homes. When two locations have an abundance ber of state markers that a local Ervin Wickersham (1910-1913). all was said and done, a compro- of similarities. For instance, both community can get for itself. Al“In the 1960s, our may- mise was reached between the are now completely surround- though the state handles approvor, W.T. Cozby, (who Coppell city and the developer who, after ed by residential development, ing a marker and the final wordnamed its library after), his sis- all, had paid a lot of money for though Parrish has not had near- ing on it, locals have to do all the ter, and others realized what was the land he intended to develop. ly as many development issues as documentation and pay for it. happening to the cemetery and Whether or not the developer Bethel, and the cemetery is well “In the last few years, towns took steps to stop its destruc- knew about the cemetery he was preserved to this day. The cem- have started making their own tion,” Coppell Historical Society destroying remains a mystery. etery was also founded the same local historical markers, and they Recording Secretary Pete Wil- Many of us believe that he hoped year as Bethel, by the same family. have total control over the entire son said. “By state law, nothing he could complete development The third spot in Coppell process. That’s what our Copcan be built over a cemetery.” before anyone became savvy.” to claim a historical marker is pell Historical Society is doing But unfortunately the damIn 1989, Bethel Cemetery was Grapevine Springs Park. Grape- now. As a result, we will probably age had already been done. the first of the historical mark- vine Springs is probably the most equestrian fewer state markers.” “By that time, homes were ers in Coppell to be designated. unique of the three locations, The Coppell Historical Socialready being built in the area,” The second marker designa- simply because its history goes ety has already started its marker Wilson said. “The city required tion in Coppell took place with beyond the Parrish family era. program, with markers at locaThe Republic of Texas President tions such as the barber shop in Sam Houston camped here for downtown and Pinkerton Eleweeks in 1836 during treaty ne- mentary School. President of the gotiations with Native Americans. Coppell Historical Society Don While the treaty was ultimate- Carter reveals that more are in ly signed at Bird’s Fort near pres- the works for the near future. ent day Six Flags Over Texas, the “We do have more markers park’s history continues on into coming,” Carter said. “Some of the 1930s, when the Works Prog- the upcoming locations include ress Administration (WPA) built the first school site just behind multiple park structures. Despite and west of the Chamber of Comall of this history, the marker merce building, The House of was not designated until 2005. Style - Harwell House and Barber The importance of Texas’ his- Shop, the site of the Bethel School, torical marker program has had and the site of the railroad depot.” a profound effect on both the Carter also said that they have community and the entire state. some more locations which may “For many years, historical receive markers as part of the hismarkers have been the prima- torical societies long term plans. ry way that historic sites have “Our long term plans may been recognized,” Wilson said. include the water tank, the “At least in the past few decades, W.O. Harrison House, the origsites would have been lost if not inal post office, and the Grapefor official state recognition.” vine Springs stone columns, While Wilson reiterated the which were recently rebuilt importance of the markers, he also on Coppell Road just south addressed a few drawbacks to the of Heritage Park,” Carter said. program, and shared an interestThanks to the Texas Historiing way Coppell and other near- cal Commission and the Coppell The Sidekick // Sarah VanderPol by towns are working around it. Historical Society, Coppell’s his “The state markers are tory will be able to live on despite Bethel Cemetery, a historical marker in Coppell, is located at Christi Lane and Moore Road. still considered a very special the constant growth around it. It was established in 1853 by the James Parrish family.
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entertainment
That’s a wrap for theatre teacher Ballard commences final year with great legacy in Coppell theatre
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The Sidekick // Aubrie Sisk Technical theater teacher Bill Ballard measures a doorway for the set of the upcoming musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie” backstage in the Coppell High School auditorium.
KARA HALLAM Enterprise Editor @KaraHallam
fter serving Coppell High School for 19 years, technical theatre teacher Bill Ballard is ready to make his final scene. As he completes his last year at CHS, he tries to enjoy each day he has at the school keeping in mind that he will retire at the end of the year. “I’m starting to have some physical problems and this tech theatre stuff is a young man’s game.” Ballard said. “I’m going to retire because I think my body is not up to the challenge anymore.” Ballard has designed sets for the past 43 years. He grew up in Arkansas and fell in love with set design while in college. When he moved to Texas, he taught in East Texas for 10 years and then applied for a job at CHS after his wife got a job in Dallas. “I came here hoping to find [a job]. I came out here and interviewed and the principal at the time seemed to like me,” Ballard said. Having joined the CHS community in 1996, Ballard has seen the school change over time and has gotten the chance to bond with many students. He not only designs the theatre department sets, but also teaches Broadway Bound and Technical Theatre. “[Ballard] has done many,
many things to impact the program for the kids and myself,” theatre department head Lisa Tabor said. “I think for the kids he has really been like a dad to them. He really just becomes that porter, the listening ear.” Ballard has been recognized throughout the department for his incredible kindness. His influence is felt by many. “I don’t think I’ll ever forget working with Mr. Ballard, not just as an actor but as a student in the theatre department,” 2014 CHS graduate Kristen West said. “I just hope he understands what an impact he has had on all of the students he’s directed in plays or in classes and those he has had a conversation with.” Although his official position pertains to technical theatre, Ballard has been a director for several plays. His unique coaching style in which he considers himself a “selector” rather than a director, has impacted the way students view themselves and Ballard. Many drama students have noted how he always greets them in the hallways, including students he has not had classes with. This small gesture is one of the great things about Ballard. “Mr. Ballard does a lot of work behind the scenes and he doesn’t always get the credit he deserves, but he is up here working in the evening and then on Saturdays.
He is making sure all of the shows look great,” senior Jackie Malish said. Malish has worked with Ballard since her freshman year, and became his teacher aide this year. “For his last year here, we decorated his room with all of his old show posters. He has a ton of photos and certificates and you can tell that people have always loved Mr. Ballard,” Malish said. Having completed about 120 sets Ballard has seen it all. He believes that after this year it will be time to settle down and spend his retirement with his grandkids. “I plan to enjoy everyday as much as I can. I plan to totally retire, never build another set. So it’s important that everyday is a good day,” Ballard said. Ballard gives full credit to the students and his work when it comes to his commitment of 19 years to the school. Typically getting the opportunity to see students develop throughout their high school careers, he is disappointed he will not get the chance to see this year’s theatre juniors graduate. “I started this year thinking ‘this is my last first day of school’,” Ballard said. “I have enjoyed working with the people here, I like this area and it has just been a good experience, – it would have to be for someone to work here for 19 years.”
Memories of Mr. Ballard “Mr. Ballard? He’s like our Santa Claus. He’s is one of the nicest people in the drama department and everybody loves him. He is always working and helping us with whatever he can.” - Jacob Harris, Senior
“Before I even was in one of his plays or classes we were both walking down the hallway and he said, ‘Hi Sheridan,’ and I thought ‘Wow! He knows me!’ Ever since then we always say hi and I eventually got to be in one of his shows.” - Sheridan Miller, Senior
“I‘ve been in two of his shows and he was the first director at CHS to cast me in a show. [He} helped me grow as an actor and I feel like I owe a lot of my success in the department to him.” - Nicole Rademacher, Senior
entertainment
Mockingjay Madness
STEPHANIE ALEXANDER Entertainment Editor @stephanierose2u
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he story line that has got everyone burning is coming back to the big screen Nov. 21, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 “Some franchises like this fail is because they don’t stay true enough to the book, but Hunger Games does a really good job with that and having incredible actors,” Coppell High School senior Bobby Manning said. “It’s so cool to see the process from just books and rumors of the movies, and just seeing it develop into this huge franchise.” Manning is an avid reader and ultimate “The Hunger Games” fan. His favorite from the trilogy is “Catching Fire”. “I didn’t think it’d be possible for them to top the first movie but they did,” Manning said. “Beautiful cinematography, amazing graphics and, of course, a beautiful Jennifer Lawrence. I hope to be blown away again by Francis Lawrence’s [director] work in the next film.” Manning loves the different components author Suzanne Collins puts in the novels and how they are represented in the films. “The stories aren’t just action packed, there are a lot of emotions playing into it,” Manning said. “Collins hits on post-traumatic stress disorder in the second book with Peeta and Katniss being
The Sidekick // Manu Garikipati thrown back into the arena after they survived the first games. It pushes literary boundaries.” Manning is eager for the release of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1, but cannot wait another year Part 2. “I hate cliff hangers, I wish they were releasing Mockingjay in one full movie,” Manning said. “I don’t know if I can wait a whole other year, but they did terrific with the other two films, why end on a bad note?” For junior Emma Ginnell, the elements surrounding the fran-
chise enhance the whole experience. “I am a very music oriented person so soundtracks definitely are a make it or break it aspect for me,” Ginnell said. Indie pop singer Lorde dropped a single for the upcoming film titled “Yellow Flicker Beat”. “Since the song is out, it reminds you how close the movie is to coming out, it’s like a little taste of what is to come,” Ginnell said. “Just by listening to the lyrics you can see how they represent
The Sidekick // Josh Martin Mockingjay. My expectations are definitely high.” Senior Leah Witham has a fascination with Katniss Everdeen and “The Hunger Games”. She also preordered premiere tickets for The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1. “I’ve read each of the books six times and I’ve seen the movie plenty of times I probably have it memorized. My brother and I bought our movie tickets the minute we could, we have gone to every midnight premiere together,” Witham said. “It’s kind of em-
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barrassing but I sometimes think I am Katniss.” Witham believes that Katniss is fantastic role model for young fans and girls worldwide. “Usually you see in a lot of books and movies that the main boy is the protagonist, it is refreshing that Katniss is the hero on top,” Witham said. “Katniss is so fierce and she’s so strong physically and mentally. She’s so creative in her thoughts and problem solving, I love how strong she is and how motherly she is too.” Witham even dressed up as the earthy heroine for Halloween in 2012. “My brother made me a bow and arrow holster out of a long paper towel roll and he made foil arrows and hot glued everything and it was like my little prop for the night,” Witham said. “My mom bought me the Mockingjay pin and gave me her combat boots and green jacket to complete the look, I love Katniss’ earthy, fierce style.” Senior Cole Cloutier relates to the series in a different way. “I have this weird fascination with dystopian societies, I like the idea of Panem and how it is post-world destruction trying to become civilized again,” Cloutier said. “It relates to us in a way to think what if I was in the that position, what would you do in those situations. Obviously, we don’t have an actual hunger games and fight to the death but it shows the other side of humanity.”
Bon Appétit, it is time to dine at the 20th annual Madrigal Feast SHRUTHIKA POCHAMPALLY Staff Writer @shruthreddy
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or the past 19 years, Coppell High School Madrigals Choir has been putting on a “feast” production at the high school. This year, the Madrigals will celebrate its 20th anniversary. In the spirit of this milestone there are a few special additions to the usual feast production. The feast will be held Nov. 2122 and tickets are priced at $25 for students and $30 for adults with teacher discount. “I’m most excited for A Capella,” senior Madrigals feast queen Gabby Rouke said. “The varsity choir is [performing] pieces with us so we can attract more audience members and get more attention.” Rouke, who will be singing as well as acting at the feast, comes from a family of Madrigals. “In 2006, my sister was in the feast and there is a long line of Madrigals [in my family],” Rouke said. “When I came in this year I wanted to take on a leadership role and the people in this group are so great. It would be [good] to lead [them] in such a positive direction.” The feast’s king, senior Josh Kim, said that he first joined Madrigals in his sophomore year because he wanted to be a part of a choir of high caliber. “I wanted to be part of a small-
The Sidekick // Mallorie Munoz Choir Director Josh Brown and assistant choir director Casey Carruth (at piano) lead rehearsals Friday morning in preparation for the annual Madrigal Feast beginning Nov. 21. Seniors Josh Kim and Gabby Rouke will play the roles of king and queen of the feast. er choir where I could feel that I “Because it is a smaller choir learn would probably be the “We’ve got the outline, we’ve was actually contributing,” Kim everyone gets closer and they lines,” Kim said. “We also have to got the basecoat, we’ve got the said. “In a larger choir setting, I become another family to you,” learn and memorize around 15 to sky painted, so now it’s a matter feel as if I’m screaming and no Kim said. “The amazing feeling 16 songs for the feast, which is not of coming in and shading and one hears me.” you get after putting on a success- an easy task.” adding brick texture to the castle While Rouke is one of the ful show is probably what I enjoy While the feast is performed itself,” Westervelt said. “This is leaders of the group, what she most.The rush of adrenaline you by the Madrigals choir group, the biggest painting we have ever enjoys most is not leading the get during the feast, and finally they are not the only CHS orga- done - [it is] 16 by 40 [feet].” group but rather having fun with showing the people all the hard nization involved in this perforHowever, this backdrop is them. work that you put into the perfor- mance. The National Art Honor more than a painting. It will “We [are] a really weird group,” mance is the best.” Society, led by art teacher Tamera be used as an entryway at the Rouke said. “We [are] here early Though they have fun Westervelt, is painting the back- feast. in the morning and late at night throughout practices, the king drop for this year’s feast. “This will actually be an entry so weird, random things go on. and queen said preparing for this The Honors Society consists or mural facade and the people But we also all deserve to be there performance is hard work. Rouke of 75 members, and they work in that attend will walk through this and we all work, so it [is] not only says they practice several days a small groups on the backdrop, for into the cafeteria area,” Westervelt fun and games, but we all work week before and after school, of- which junior Joshua Chow is the said. “So the door of the castle ithard.” ten late into the night. lead officer in charge of the back- self will be cut out and I think it’s Kim agrees. “The most difficult thing to drop. going to be really cool.”
entertainment
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Good vibes felt throughout Trees
Walk the Moon concert is out of this world, rocks legendary Elm Street STEPHANIE ALEXANDER Entertainment Editor @stephanierose2u
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EEP ELLUM- Saturday night, Oct. 25 at Trees on Elm St. was full of color, positive energy and most importantly amazing music. I was able to see Walk the Moon this past August at Southside Ballroom when they opened for Panic! At the Disco, which I still consider one of the best concerts I have attended due to both bands strong presence and performance. A Cincinnati based band, Public (actually high school friends of Walk the Moon), was surprisingly enticing, with playing many originals and an unforeseen cover of Britney Spears’ “Toxic”. With a sweet electric sound, I am so happy I can relive their stuff on Spotify. When Walk the Moon came on, it definitely felt like Trees exceeded its 600 people occupancy. Opening up with “Tightrope”, everyone jumped and clapped si-
multaneously. WTM is just such a fun band to see live, you never wanted it to end. They played new, unreleased songs that fans can expect to be on their upcoming album. Every concert they have an initiation into the WTM family with their song “I Can Lift a Car”. “Take whatever makes you not feel like yourself, all the crap and negative energy and just lift it up,” lead singer Nicholas Petricca said to the crowd while doing bench press like arm movements. When they started playing the first encore song “Iscariot”, it felt like a total family atmosphere. Everyone swaying to the slow song, my group was all holding hands and singing in unison. On top of that song getting to everyone’s feels, it was a sad reminder that the show was just about over. Then the upbeat tune of “Jenny” filled speakers as each quick strum from bass player Kevin Ray ran a course through everyone’s body the mood went from emotional to frisky. Best $20 I have ever spent.
Photo Courtesy // Emma Ginnell Indie rock band Walk the Moon performs at the club,Trees, in Deep Ellum on Oct. 25. Their upcoming album Talking is Hard comes out Dec. 2.
Howard goes through evolution in second album SHRUTHIKA POCHAMPALLY Staff Writer @shruthreddy first discovered Ben Howard my sophomore year of high school. The melodious tunes of the Burgh Island EP has had me hooked since my first listen. Since, Howard has become one of my most favorite artists. From early morning coffee runs to late night car drives, Ben is always at the top of my most played playlist. It is something about his voice, the way he knocks his fingers against his guitar and his incredibly distinct style that is so captivating. Howard is known especially in European countries for his Best British Breakthrough Act and Best British Solo Artist BRIT Awards as well as his album, Every Kingdom’s nomination for a Mercury Prize. So when Howard’s second al-
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The Sidekick // Rachel Buigas -Lopez bum I Forget Where We Were was released in the United States on Oct. 21, I was ecstatic to hear what new masterpieces he created. Howard’s music had never disappointed, and I didn’t expect it
to now. But two minutes in, I was mildly let down and still waiting for the song “Small Things” to speak to me. The album seems much more lyric and instrument heavy, versus the instrumental
feel behind Howard’s more acoustic first album. The sudden pace changes and the prominent instrumentals are all prominent, just like his first album. But for some reason, the connection I usually feel is missing. The first song, “Small Things” above all, is a let down. I have yet to feel the surge of emotion that usually overcomes me when listening to one of my favorite artists. After the initial shock of the letdown, I naturally lowered by expectations. And it is all uphill after that. The second song, “Rivers In Your Mouth”, is Howard’s most upbeat song yet. The mystic lyrics finally resonate with me, and then I knew Howard is back again. The third song, “I Forget Where We Were” is one of the two singles released prior to the album. The song is the most beautiful and serene off of this album. My favorite lyrics from this album are also in this song; “hello love, for you I have so many words that I, I forget where we were,” Howard sings about what I interpret as a reminder of the immense amount of time in the world, and the importance of living and feeling in the moment. I could not bring myself to skip
past it to get to the newer songs. If my life was a movie, this is the song I would want to play in the background of every peaceful scene. The rest of the album is what I initially expected. As most artists’ second albums, Ben’s has a drastically distinct aura to it compared to his debut, almost as if now he is a completely new artist in itself. But behind this transformation remains the soulful singer-songwriter I have always known and loved. As a whole, I Forget Where We Were seems a distinctly new genre of its own. It is an unexpected blend of Burgh Island EP Ben Howard and this new Ben Howard that no one had seen coming. The amalgam of emotions, I realize after listening the second time through, is the same as I always have felt after listening to Howard and the safe, warm feeling is back again, this time with a hint of foreboding. Overall, there isn’t much to complain about. Some of my most favorite songs are on this new album. I now have an endless supply of lyrics to tape to my bedroom walls, and over an hour more of Ben Howard to add to my “late night drives” playlist.and with this comes new changes.
I have heard a lot of great reviews. The Christmas Carol shows a lot of representation of the true Christmas spirit and I am excited to see how it turns out.” Tickets range from $15-$18 and children under the age of 6 are not allowed, due to Theatre Coppell’s ticket policy. There is a discount for each senior (over 85 years of age) and student tickets.
The Sidekick // Manu Garikipati To order tickets by phone or for general information, you can call 972-745-7719. You can also visit http://theatrecoppell.com/index. php/season for more info. The holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” is coming to the Coppell Theatre from Dec. 5-21. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:30 p.m.on Sundays.
Scrooge to bring cheer to Coppell
JOSEPH KRUM Staff Writer @joseph_krum he holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” is coming to the Coppell Theatre from Dec. 5-21. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:30 p.m.on Sundays. Wheelice Wilson, Jr. is directing the adaptation from the original holiday classic written by Charles Dickens. The story, focused on a penny-pinching grouch named Scrooge and his life-changing experiences, was
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first published in 1843. As many renditions and performances have been made of this story across the globe ever since it was published, the tradition lives on with this performance on 157 S. Moore Rd. at Theatre Coppell. Sophomore Ryan Storch has seen the story before like many others, yet it has touched him in a special way.
“I have seen the Christmas Carol before, and I think it is a good representation of someone who was totally transformed by the spirit of Christmas. It shows the true meaning of what Christmas is all about. It’s not about what you want, it’s about how you give back.” Storch says. “I am totally going to see the play. It is going to be a great play,
entertainment
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wows
Theatre department roars back to the 20s
T Photos Courtesy // Michael Foster Seniors Sheridan Miller, playing Millie Dillmount, and Derek Weix, playing Trevor Graydon, argue at Sincere Trust where they both work in “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” Millie comes to Sincere Trust looking for a job and to set her sights on the company boss, Trevor Graydon.
Senior Cole Cloutier (Jimmy Smith) sings “What Do I Need With Love” while imprisoned.
AMY ROH Staff Writer @rohmyboat
he Coppell High School Theatre stunned the audience once again with its popping new musical, “Thoroughly Modern Millie”. The musical centers around fresh faced Millie Dillmount, played by senior Sheridan Miller, and her search for a glamorous city life. Millie travels from Kansas to New York City to become the socalled “modern woman” of the 1920s- bobbed hair, short skirts and a rich man on her arm. However, when Millie arrives she is mugged and berated by bypasser Jimmy Smith, played by senior Cole Cloutier. He scolds her that she is just another helpless girl with dreams too big for such an unforgiving city like New York. Despite this, Millie grows to enjoy the flapper lifestyle in the
city while staying at a hotel for poor actresses. Conflict arises when girls from the hotel begin to disappear thanks to hotel owner Mrs. Meers, played by senior Jazzy Alvarez, who, in a twist of events, happens to be the leader of a white slavery ring. Millie soon finds herself in a whirlwind with a boss who is slow to propose, the scheming ways of Mrs. Meers and her growing attraction to seemingly poor Jimmy Smith. With such a comedic plot like this, the musical was constantly entertaining. Miller and Cloutier’s performances gave Millie and Jimmy’s characters energy that never faltered and continued to surprise all throughout the musical. Alvarez does a fantastic job playing the villainous Mrs. Meers, along with her comedic henchmen Bun Foo, played by junior Preston Straus and Ching Ho,
Freshman Arti Saunders (Muzzy Van Hossmere) sings of her love of New York in the song “Only New York” in “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”
played by senior Jacob Harris. The musical numbers boasted a variety of props that added pizzazz to every performance. From slow jazz numbers to all around tap dancing, the excitement of New York was brought to the audience in full swing. Different stage angles pulled the audience into the age of hip swaying jazz and shiny flapper girls. Furthermore, the effort to reach out to the viewers was evident in many scenes. Notably, the scene where famous singer Muzzy Van Hossmere, played by freshman Ardi Saunders walks off the stage and into the aisles while singing “Only in New York” was memorable. Before watching this, I had never been to a musical at the high school. I went in not knowing what to expect, but “Thoroughly Modern Millie” gave off a first impression that I will never forget.
Seniors Jackie Malish (Miss Dorothy Brown) and Derek Weix (Trevor Graydon) sing “Falling In Love With Someone” in “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”
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Way to state: BOYS BASKETBALL
Wallace spends last year on team as dedicated leader
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JOSEPH KRUM Staff Writer @joseph_krum
oppell High School senior forward Collin Wallace has been playing basketball ever since he was little, and now heading into his last year playing for the high school, he feels as if he is a leader for the team. According to MaxPreps.com, in limited action, Wallace averaged 3.5 points in his two games with a 60 percent free-throw percentage. He also had 0.5 steals per game, so one in his two games. This year he looks to improve
those numbers. “I add leadership, commitment, dedication [to the team],” Wallace said. “People can look up to my on and of the court, and I am just a leader.” Wallace, who was on varsity last year as a junior, experienced last year’s 23-13 season that ended with a heartbreaking loss to Duncanville, 54-44. hopefully the Cowboys can have more success this season, which is important to all the seniors like Wallace. “[Knowing it is my last season] is good, but then again it is also sad,” Wallace said. “I have been
here since fifth grade playing basketball for Coppell, so it is kind of heartbreaking.” Wallace has been preparing for this, being a key factor on the Coppell basketball team, for quite a while now. “I have played since I was five years old, to now, so pretty much my whole life,” Wallace said. “Well I have been playing it my whole life pretty much, since I was little. And my dad was a coach, so I am kinda stuck with it.” So now just sit back and wait and see how Wallace will do this upcoming season, his last one ever for Coppell.
UPCOMING GAMES Nov. 15 Nov. 18 Nov. 25 Dec. 2 Dec. 4-6 Dec. 9
CHS at Crowley 10 a.m. CHS at Frisco Centennial 7:30 p.m. CHS at Richardson Berkner 7:30 p.m. Marcus at CHS 8 p.m. Carrollton-Farmers Branch Tournament Garland Sachse at CHS 8 p.m.
Collin Wallace The Sidekick // Sloane Samberson
BOYS WRESTLING
Seeking state: McPherson primed for breakout season
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ALEX NICOLL Editor-in-chief @nicollmac
or four years, senior Jesse McPherson has waited patiently for his chance at state. Although he did not actually get to wrestle, he got a taste by being a state alternate last year. McPherson (135 weight class) has been making strides this past summer to take his spot among some of the Coppell greats. “I cut down on my weight this summer by running a lot and I did a lot of Crossfit workouts.” McPherson said. “I also have my own wrestling mat in my garage so I wrestle with my brother too, to prepare for the season.” As a wrestler, there are a few difficulties that come with the job. Weight managment, proper dieting and maintaining a certain level of mental focus are a few, but for McPherson one aspect stands out the most. “The endurance,” McPherson said. “Keeping up with the pace, not getting tired and giving it your all, all six minutes.” In order to combat the fatigue associated with a six minute match he wrestles for 10 minutes without stopping or breaking because “when it comes down to six minutes it feels a lot easier” His training and hard-work has not gone unnoticed by coaches and peers. He was voted a cap-
tain for the 2014-2015 season. “He’s our leader,” coach Chip Lowery said. “He brings desire, hard work and effort. You can’t ask for more than that. He’s been dedicated all year. He eats right and is dedicated to being healthy.”
McPherson anticipates a strong showing this year from Coppell, different from other years where they have not finished exactly where they wanted to in district standings. “We should be pretty solid,”
McPherson said. “We are more of a well-rounded team this year. We have a lot of kids with the potential to do well at each weight class.” “We should win district this year.”
On a more personal level, Lowery has high expectations for his senior captain this year. “We expect a lot of things out of Jesse,” Lowery said. “We expect him to be a state place winner this year.”
Jessie McPherson UPCOMING MATCHES Dec. 5
Cowgirls at CHS 4:30 pm.
Dec. 5
Cowboys at Highlands 6 p.m.
Dec. 10
Cowboys at Flower Mound 5 p.m.
The Sidekick // Sloane Samberson
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Winter sports HOCKEY
Craving for state title to be satisfied in upcoming season
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MARCUS KRUM Staff Writer @marcuskrum
or Coppell High School senior hockey player Scott Brownrigg, all the work, all the pain, the blood, the sweat, the tears, can all be worth it if he satisfies one thing: the hunger for a state championship. Brownrigg found that hockey is his true passion very early on in his life. Even as a young child, he lived and breathed hockey every moment of the day. “I started playing when I was 4, and once I picked it up, I fell in love with the sport,” Brownrigg said. “I played roller hockey up
until I was 10, and then I switched to ice hockey. I really fell in love with the ice. “It has just been a way for me to express myself, and go out there and be in a stress-free environment where I can be myself.” For this upcoming season, Brownrigg has set high goals for the himself and for the team. As a senior, his time as a high school hockey player is waning, so he wants to make the best of it and leave his mark on the team. “The personal goals that I want to reach are scoring leads and other things like that,” said Brownrigg, who plays center. “Also, being a leader on the team
is a big deal. “Lots of the younger kids are really nervous about playing on varsity for the first time, and we have always had really high expectations upon us, so it is a lot for them to play up to. My job is to help them understand, to teach them the ropes and show them what it means to be a Coppell hockey player.” Although being a leader on the team is an important goal for Brownrigg this season, as a team player, the ultimate team goal of winning another state championship his his priority. “It’s my last year,” Brownrigg said. “The state championship is definitely where I want to go.”
UPCOMING GAMES Nov. 20 Dec. 4 Dec. 11
CHS at Mansfield 6:15 p.m. Grapevine at CHS 8:15 p.m. CHS at Plano West 7 p.m.
Scott Brownrigg The Sidekick // Stephanie Alexander
BOYS SWIMMING
GIRLS SWIMMING
Reddy for swimming season Zeh’s bittersweet last year
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Ashrith Reddy The Sidekick // Sarah VanderPol
SHIVANI BURRA Staff Writer @shivburra
oppell High School’s swim team is making a splash in their season so far. Their first meet took place Oct. 16th where Coppell placed as the top competitor. The 2014-15 varsity swimming season has just started with only two meets under their belts. This team has four more meets until their districts on January 23, 2015. Senior Ashrith Reddy has been swimming for Coppell since his freshman year and is looking to close out his high school career on a high note. “I am looking forward to a great last year with my team and new coach,” Reddy said. “Also to have one final great season with lots of victories.” This school year, Coppell gained a new varsity head coach for the swimming program. Reddy feels that Rick Whittlesey adds a positive environment for the swimmers, especially the seniors. “Every coach is different but Coach Whittlesey definitely came in with a positive attitude and reached out to us seniors before the school year started,” Reddy said. “He connected with us and made sure that we were ready to be leaders for the new team.” Approaching his last season of high school, Reddy is setting an example and leaving a mark of CHS’ swimming program. “Being a senior is different because you have to lead the underclassmen in comparison to other years,” Reddy said. “I have to set a good example and be a role model for the rest of the team while showing them what is wrong and what is right and how to swim fast.”
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JOSEPH KRUM Staff Writer @joseph_krum
lmost every senior on any sport will tell you that they want to make their last season, their most memorable season. And that is the exact mindset senior swimmer Sarah Zeh is bringing to the table. Being a senior on a team usually forces you to take on a new role for the team. That rile for Zeh is just to help out where help is needed. “Just being a senior and helping everyone out is just some things that are fun that I get to do,” Zeh said. So far this year, the girls swim team has faced off against Lewisville and Highland Park. Highland park, according to swim coach Rick Whittlesey, “has won a slew of 4A titles over the past decade”, but that didn’t hold Coppell back from beating the Scots. Especially against teams like Highland Park, it takes a lot of preparation and the correct mindset to not only swim in the meet, but to perform well.
“It takes a lot of preparation,” Zeh said. “We practice every morning and then if you are on a club team you practice after school. You just need a positive mindset going into the meet, and that is really important in order to do well.” Even after all of the inseason preparation with the early morning practice, that is not all that contributes to Zeh’s success. For her and many other swimmers, years of competitively swimming has set the swimmers up for success. As for Zeh, she has been competitively swimming for around 10 years. “I first started getting into swimming when I was about eight,” said Zeh. “That was when I started really swimming competitively.” Going into the last year of your high school career can be tough, knowing that you are not going to play for the high school ever again. Zeh agrees with this, but she also has a different outlook on the situation. “It is bittersweet. I am going to miss it a lot; I am going to miss the people and the friendships. But getting on to a new chapter of my life will be fun as well.”
Sarah Zeh The Sidekick // Sarah VanderPol
UPCOMING MEETS Nov. 21-22 CHS at Lewisville TBD
Dec. 9 CHS at Southlake Carroll 5/6 p.m.
Dec. 16 Mansfield Summit at Coppel YMCA 5/6 p.m.
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Winter sports season approaches Girls golf tees off
CHS Winter Athletics Schedule
Cowgirls take first place at Mansfield The Varsity I Girls won the Mansfield Interscholastic tournament on Oct. 24-25 shooting (289282)=571. Senior Sol Lee won the individual title as she shot 72-63=135. Other CHS players and their scores were: Seniors Chaithra Katamneni (69-only played on Day 1 because of college entrance exams) & Payton Cupstid
(84-73--tied 16th); Sophomore Grace Do (72-75--tied eighth), freshman Janane Tan (76-71-tied eighth). The Varsity II girls placed second in the Northwest High School tournament at Champions Circle Golf Club on Oct. 14-Scores and placings were: Janane Tan (78-second), Belle Tan (86-fifth) and Allison Kennedy (92-top 12).
2014 Cowboys football regular season final statistics Passing:
Yds TD Int
Skyler Bonneau
1368 18
3
Myles Paschall
114
1
0
Obi Obialo
30
1
0
Receiving:
Rec Yds TD
Obi Obialo
37
564 7
Josh Fink
20
359 4
Parker Wilson
8
258 3
Charles West
9
129 2
Drew Smith
8
58
1
Myles Paschall
4
40
0
Brandon Rice
4
28
1
Jacob Anderson
1
26
1
Trent Butcher
1
22
0
Cullen Gilleland
1
13
1
Jacob Pierce
1
11
0
Conner Briggs
1
8
0
Rushing:
Att Yds TD
Charles West
145
1339 13
Brandon Rice
71
328 4
Matthew Naranjo
32
262 3
Jacob Pierce
17
159 2
Jacob Anderson
17
160 1
Parker Wilson
18
148 2
Skyler Bonneau
41
98
2
Myles Paschall
17
79
1
Obi Obialo
2
39
0
Tanner Traw
2
26
1
Josh Fink
1
8
0
The Sidekick // Josh Martin
The Sidekick // Josh Martin
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Unsung heroes of the game
Athletic trainers provide aid, support behind the scenes for players
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MARCUS KRUM Staff Writer @marcuskrum
ou may not notice them while sitting in the stands. They don’t make flashy catches or devastating tackles. But on Friday nights, the Coppell High School sports medicine staff works just as hard as anyone on the field. During a game, the trainers are constantly bustling around, looking for tasks to be performed. “They are extremely important to the success of the team,” sophomore football player Eric Loop said. “If they do their jobs right, then it contributes to the team’s overall success.” However, the work they put in during the game is only a fraction of what they do on Fridays. Game day for the sports medicine staff requires a high level of dedication from every member. “Once we get to the stadium, we have to unload the truck full of all of our equipment, and then we set up the sideline, which is basically filling up the waters and setting up the [equipment] table,” junior trainer Nathan Ballard said. Just as players stretch out and put on their equipment before their games, the sports medicine staff does its fair share of preparation before gametime. “We get here about an hour and a half earlier,” senior trainer Taylor Kimbrel. “We kind of get ourselves prepared for what is about to happen.” When the game starts, however, is when the fun begins. The entire staff is constantly bustling around, each doing their individual jobs. The tasks that they are required to do range from following around the head coach and making sure he stays hydrated to staying on blood watch, which consists of cleaning up any blood players have on their skin or uniforms. During timeouts, when the trainers run onto the field to hand out water, a few of them can be seen talking with some of the players. “I know a lot of the players, I see them around school.” Ballard
The Sidekick // Aubrie Sisk Sports medicine trainers, Sage Smith and Taylor Kimbrell hand out waters to Connor Williams and other varsity football players on the football game versus Trinity on Oct 24. Sports medicine trainers have to make sure that the players stay hydrated. said. “I get to talk to them and reassure them.” The influence of the training staff extends well beyond the Friday night playing field. During the week, the trainers get handson experiences with treating and rehabilitating injured players in addition to helping with practices. “We do all sorts of range of motion and strengthening exercises,” said head trainer Barry Jones, who has been a licensed athletic trainer for five years. “We even do treatment for pain control, reducing swelling, so there are all sorts of exercises depending on what body part is injured.
“We also spend time getting some of the varsity kids ready for practice. There is taping, there is bracing, just some quick, rehab, getting them warmed up kind of stuff. Then I make sure that all the student trainers are doing their job at practice, with hydration, little injuries, scrapes and things that need to be dealt with.” The experience that the student-trainers get goes well beyond their high school days. The background in medicine that they are receiving can help them even if they do not take a career path in medicine. “It teaches them to stay calm under pressure, it teaches them
a lot about work ethic, it teaches them about first aid, how to deal with injuries,” Jones said. “Even if they do not go on to a career in medicine, they still have a background in taping and bracing and how to handle serious injuries.” With eight or more hours of work that these trainers put into the well-being of the football players, a certain level of recognition from the coaches and players is a vital part of the relationship between the trainers and the team. “They appreciate us a decent amount,” Ballard said. “They thank us for what we do, [the relationship] is usually pretty good.” As participants in one of the
The Sidekick // Aubrie Sisk The Sidekick // Aubrie Sisk The varsity football players are surrounded by New Teach senior and sports medicine trainer Taylor sports medicine trainers, such as Lauren Ons- Kimbrell fills up water bottles at the varsity football tott at football game against Euless Trinity on game on Oct. 24 against Euless Trinity. Oct. 24. The trainers tend to Dillon Rainbolt’s injury on his arm.
most violent sports, the football players are subject to injuries on every play. Senior safety Bryce VonZurmuehlen has had his fair share of aches and pains throughout his four high school years. “On the field and off the field, during games they do a great job, and as well as during the week,” VonZurmuehlen said. “They are there at every practice, helping us get waters. During the week, when guys need rehab for injuries, they are there every day. They are always there, willing to give you a helping hand, which is really nice.”
The Sidekick // Aubrie Sisk Sophomore sports medicine trainer Sage Smith makes sure that senior football player Jordan Murray stays hydrated during the tough game against Euless Trinity on Oct. 24.
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24 The Sidekick // Tuulia Koponen
Moore, Perez transform student section bus with funky decor galore
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Junior Spencer Moore is the main man behind BUSTER 2.0 and along with his father and junior Jon Prez decked out the bus in crazy decorations such as the Whataburger place numbers as well as various soft drink brand posters such as Coca-Cola and Dr. Pepper.
TUULIA KOPONEN Business/PR Manager @tuulipia
t all started out as an idea to shuttle kids to and from football games and other sporting events. “My dad one day came home and there was a short bus just sitting in the driveway,” junior Spencer Moore said. “We found [the bus] online at a super cheap auction where they sell old school busses.” What started out as an idea in late summer has evolved into a short school bus decked out in funky decor galore that screams Coppell spirit and has the Coppell community in awe right and left, such as assistant principal Sean Bagley. “I saw it earlier one afternoon three or four weeks ago with golf or maybe it was soccer players in it. I think it’s a great idea, especially for tailgating,” Bagley said. “I saw it also at the homecoming parade, and I think it’s just a great way to show school spirit and support.” According to Moore, the bus did not cost much - only $2,000 for the main body, or in other words, the bus itself with no renovations or anything. “A [new, long] normal school bus costs about $70,000,” Moore said. “So, [the bus we bought] was a lot cheaper.” The outside of the bus is painted in a black and red color scheme with various sports equipment painted on it such as a baseball and soccer ball as well as the iconic cheer for the University of Arkansas, “Woo Pig Sooie!”. The inside is decked out with numer-
ous Whataburger place numbers, a random driver’s license, a Dallas Stars hockey poster, a poster from Sonic in regards to the restaurant’s hand-spun milkshakes - even a poster for mane and tail treatment for horses among other whimsical and witty objects drilled to the walls that were purchased from Christian Community Action for 50 cents a piece. “The outside is just Coppell spirit, so when you are going up and down the streets people realize it’s rooting for Coppell and all the [sporting designs] are for the sporting events it might be going to,” Moore said. “The inside of the bus we changed because it was just really blank and it would be more fun if there was a lot more going on. [The objects drilled to the walls] are cheap, random stuff that we have no correlation with but fill in space and make [the bus] look funny and just add to the atmosphere while [they’re] added in.” The outside took about three weeks to renovate with painting and treating the bus with care to make it stand out the way it does today. Adding in the wicked sound system that gives off an insanely clear sound, such as Taylor Swift’s “Shake it Off ” Moore played via a USB cord, took a couple more days, while renovating the inside by drilling in all the funky posters that give the bus character and charm added on a couple more days as well. “Mainly my dad and I renovated the bus with the heavy duty working,” Moore said. “My friend [junior Jon Perez] came over and helped with some of the minor aspects.”
Since ‘Spencer Grant Moore’, as Perez refers to Moore as, is one of his good friends, he decided to contribute in the renovation process. “I thought it’d be a good way to help out the community,” Perez said. “Also, I like to play a role in this wonderful vehicle because it’s beautiful.” As far as Perez’s favorite part of the bus, the wacky decorations inside steal the show especially as he noted that “[his] face is on this bus” as the random driver’s license drilled to the wall happens to be his. Two blue benches are installed inside the bus on both sides that fits 10 people, five on each side. However, whenever the bus makes its way to Whataburger after Friday night football games, the bus fits several more - take 20 more. “At Whataburger there’s about 30 people in [the bus], just dancing and going crazy,” Moore said. Perez commented on the matter that it is a hit at Whataburger - a big one. “[The people at Whataburger] just think it’s cool, unique,” Perez said. “It’s ‘some way’ to celebrate a big win.” Moore hopes to take the bus to the big sporting events, noting especially football and basketball games and for playoffs for sports that are smaller or not as popular. In one and a half year’s time when Moore graduates, he is thinking about selling the bus to the student section. “I will probably sell it to the student section to get all the money back that [my dad, Perez and I] put into it,” Moore said. “And have it go on through Coppell.”
The Sidekick // Tuulia Koponen
The Sidekick // Tuulia Koponen The exterior of the bus, BUSTER 2.0, features “GO COWBOYS” as well as the logo for Coppell High School. It also contains a painting of a football and golfball as well as Jacob Logan’s jersey number “21” painted in the well-known blue color to pay respects to the loss of Logan in Oct. 2012.