Lariat, May 2020

Issue III, May 2020

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TABLE of CONTENTS NEWS

OPINIONS

FEATURES

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

4 10 12 18 20

ON the COVER

4 Quarantine tutoring 5 College and the coronavirus 6 CCHS events go virtual 8 Mask mandate 9 Virtual graduation

8 Pandemic prison problems 9 Quarantine isn’t that bad

12 Distance learning continues 14 Journalism in quarantine

18 Staff recommendations

20 Sports senior night highlight 22 Staying active in quarantine 23 Spring sports canceled

This issue of The Lariat is themed to cover as many aspects of the coronavirus, and the effects it has had on the lives of CCHS students, as possible. It is important to be knowledgable of what is occurring in the world around you, especially in these unprecedented times. Stay safe, Cowboys.

STAFF LIST: Print Editor-in-Chief Genna Nordling Online Editor-in-Chief Abbie Tuschman Managing Editor Alexandra Sansone Head Editors Elena Valdez Joseph Sturgeon Arielle Kraus General Editors Isabella Marcon Emma Huerta Kayla Gates Staff Writers Victoria Martin Sofia Mendez Ryan Merard Emma Franz Julia Safrin Sasheen Joseph Chris Gomes Sandra Garcia Camila Fernandez Jaelyn Yeampierre Alyssa Khan Jennifer Florez Sports Writers Kyleigh Sprigle Photographers Anabella Garcia Makinzi Burgs Sydney Katz Angelique King Adviser Fallan Patterson

table of contents 3

QUARANTINE TUTORING

CCHS students make a tutoring website in response to online learning

As the public continues social distancing and schools close their doors, students and faculty have now transitioned into online learning— what used to simply be a graduation requirement. In light of this transition, two CCHS juniors have taken it upon themselves to create a free online tutoring website to help students ease themselves into this form of learning for the fourth quarter.

“We realized a lot of people are going to start struggling because they don’t know how to navigate online school and tutoring programs like National Honor Society aren’t available right now,” junior Michael Cline said. “So we figured one thing we can do to help the community is making a website where people can ask questions and tutors can answer them.”

Cline, along with junior Anand Mathi, spearheaded the project by developing the website and including a forum with channels specific to core subjects such as English, math, science and social studies. These channels are monitored by a tutoring staff made up of nine additional CCHS juniors.

Each day there are two tutors assigned to the website, one working from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the other working from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m, so students can have a large window to ask any questions ranging from homework help to navigating Canvas. This schedule has also helped the tutors themselves adjust

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to online learning and the personal accountability that comes with it.

As the fourth quarter progresses and Advanced Placement exams approach, many students have expressed frustration with the new normal of online schooling. Along with this frustration, time management and motivation have also become more challenging for students.

“I feel like a lot of people, including myself, don’t have motivation to do the work they’re assigned on Canvas,” junior Tyler Flowers said. “When you’re home in your room and you have nothing to do but the assignments, it’s kind of hard to just not lay in your bed and ignore the work you have to do, so the website’s helped me with that.”

Beyond helping students with homework and troubleshooting technology, this free tutoring website can serve as a reminder for CCHS students. While students continue to learn from a distance, they can still count on support from their peers.

“I’ve seen a lot of people post on social media about how much they hate online school and how they’re struggling to learn the same way they do in a regular classroom,” junior Rachel Goldberg said. “So I’m especially glad this website exists because a lot of my friends have already told me that they’re excited to use the website and how it will help them get their work done.”

BY SASHEEN JOSEPH

Founders

Michael Anand Cline Mathi Tutors Ben Roberts Rachel Goldberg Louie Kim Adam Hartmann Dominic Castagna Bryce Pritchett Tyler Flowers Spencer Harrington Robert Wilson Photos courtesy of freequarantinetutoring. squarespace.com

Classes, college and the coronavirus

How CCHS alumni and students are being impacted by the international pandemic

Above: Students move out of Columbia University after being told to vacate the campus.

Right: CCHS alumus Bailey Kraus’ dorm room at Columbia University sits bare after he emptied it in preparation to temporarily move back home.

With the craziness following the outbreak of the new coronavirus disease, called COVID-19, everyone across the world has had to take precautions to prevent its spread. While people have begun social distancing, colleges and universities have canceled classes and/ or semesters, even ordering students to gather their belongings and leave campus.

One institution to do so was Columbia University in New York City, New York.

The university urged all of its students to vacate their on-campus dorms by March 17, after deciding to move all of its classes online. CCHS alumnus Bailey Kraus, who is a student at Columbia, recently moved back to his home in Cooper City amid this announcement.

“Initially, we were told that classes would be moved online, but everyone had the option to remain in the dorms if they chose to do so,” Kraus said. “However, due to a positive case of COVID-19 on our campus, students were asked to

leave within three days to minimize the number of residents in the dorms.”

CCHS alumnus David Lee has also moved back home from college. Lee had been studying across the Atlantic Ocean at the American University of Paris (AUP) in Paris, France. But due to President Donald Trump’s European travel ban and French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron’s nationwide school closures, as well as AUP’s updates, he decided to leave the city.

“We were actually encouraged to stay in Paris,” Lee said. “I ultimately realized that the situation was only going to worsen and made the decision to, unfortunately, leave France.”

AUP went further than many schools in the U.S. when helping their students, individually consulting them about their plans regarding the coronavirus and accommodating them as needed. The school also prepared to transition to online instruction.

“Currently there are

only about 400 students who decided to stay in Paris.

They are being assigned a staff member at AUP and are being checked on daily through some form of communication,” Lee said.

“It is challenging to attend classes in a different time zone as I have to go to bed early and wake up early. My earliest class is at 4 a.m.”

Not only is COVID-19 impacting college students’ education, but it’s hindering the college plans of CCHS seniors. Senior Poria Hong, who was recently accepted to Florida State University (FSU), planned to visit the campus but her trip had to be indefinitely postponed.

“After being accepted into FSU, I wanted to check out the campus since I haven’t done any college tours. Spring break was the perfect time since I don’t have to miss school and overall [it was] more convenient for me,” Hong said. “Due to the coronavirus, my plans are on hold.”

BY EMMA HUERTA

Photos courtesy of Bailey Kraus

cchs events

Online tools help keep poetry slams alive As the coronavirus pandemic wreaks havoc on today’s public life, many extracurriculars such as sports teams and school clubs have had to completely stop. However, CCHS’s Poetry Club was one of the few programs able to continue their scheduled activities online.

Poetry organizations are staying alive during this time of social distancing with the help of technology. April was National Poetry Month, so open mics and workshops were planned to take place all across the nation. Most of these events went digital so that poets are still able to share their talents during the pandemic.

Louder Than A Bomb Florida

Below: Poetry club Co-President Ali Bennet reciting her poem at a poetry slam the Club held at school.

is an annual youth poetry slam for Whether or not this factor students from the state. The program being removed helps a poet or usually gathers about 300 students from makes them feel uncomfortable 32 different schools and is held in a all depends on the individual. theater with other poets as judges. Due “It felt a little nerve-racking to to the pandemic, the organizers of this make sure I had a video where I could program decided to rewrite the script. be heard without any issues,” freshman “We knew it wasn’t going to be the Vanessa Arocha said. “It was a little same, the world is not the same right weird to perform to a camera instead now but the passion behind those stories of seeing people I know. However, it is the same,” Louder Than A Bomb did help me to be more confident.”

Executive Director While some Seth Levit said.

“WE KNEW IT WASN’T poets may have Members of found more comfort CCHS’s Poetry GOING TO BE THE SAME, in recording their Club had to submit THE WORLD IS NOT THE videos individually, videos of their are also others SAME RIGHT NOW BUT there poetry performances that may have had in advance. Then, some trouble with THE PASSION BEHIND multiple judges virtual process.

THOSE STORIES IS THE the “It joined together to was hard give scores on the because the whole SAME.” video conferencing submission process app Zoom, with -SETH LEVIT was confusing and I the participants' felt limited. We did LOUDER THAN A BOMB not do our group videos playing on a screen. These poems because EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR there was no way to judging sessions were live-streamed ensure unified lines,” on Facebook and Instagram for Co-President Ali Bennet said. “They other students and poets to see. handled the whole situation… really The contest ran from the end of well, considering the self-isolation.

March until mid-April. There were They made it work the best they could preliminary, semifinal and final rounds and I am truly happy about that.” f o r both teams and individuals.

While the participants of these Expected to online conventions do not receive perform as if they were the feedback of a live audience and at the slam, the student the fellowship of being around other poets incorporated the students, there was something that the same amount of passion pandemic could not take away from and seriousness in their them: the ability to create their best work videos to give themselves the and share it with others to be judged. best chance of winning. However, “Our goal was to make sure the kids having the participants submit did not lose one more thing. They’re their work online t o o k not in school, they’re not seeing their away the feeling of having classmates, they’re not going to athletic a live audience i n competitions, debate competitions, front of them. they’re [going to] lose their prom and Gradbash, but they did not lose Louder Than a Bomb,” Levit said.

BY RYAN MERARD

GO online

CCHS makes school spirit virtual Nobody thought that up days but had activities the last week of physical instead,” SGA Executive school would be the Chairman of School Spirit same week as the Student Week and Student Affairs Government Association’s Summer Testa said. “We (SGA) spring spirit week. chose each one because While the spring spirit they are easy and [things] week was cut short with everyone can relate to, the cancellation of the pep and they give students an rally, it was not the end activity to do throughout of school spirit at CCHS. the day that would help pass the time.”

After it T h e was announced “WE JUST activities that schools WANT TO LIVEN for virtual would be closing due to UP QUARANTINE spirit week were: “Make the coronavirus p a n d e m i c , DURING THIS HARD S o m e t h i n g SGA got TIME, WHILE ALSO Monday bake/cook straight to work on planning BRINGING THE SPIRIT something,” a n o t h e r OF SCHOOL TO OUR “ T i k T o k Tu e s d ay spirit week, HOMES.” - create a yet this time T i k To k ,” -DREW OKUN “ W a l k / virtually, to help students SGA SECOND VICE W o r k o u t Wednesday cope with the unprecedented PRESIDENT go on a walk or do a home situation.

“Throwback “We just want to liven up workout,” quarantine during this hard Thursday - share your time, while also bringing favorite memory from the spirit of school to our the year” and “FaceTime Friday homes,” SGA Second Vice Party President Drew Okun said. FaceTime your friends.”

A l t h o u g h Virtual spirit week physical school took place from wasn’t in session, April 13 to April 17.

SGA still wanted Normally, spirit weeks to see the student have students dress participation turnout up to match a certain virtually.

Students theme. However, SGA were encouraged switched things up this to post and time and had students share do activities instead.

“We wanted to pick something unique and interactive, which is why we didn’t have any dress-

videos and pictures of students occupied while themselves participating stuck at home and as well in the virtual spirit as keep school spirit alive week activities using from afar. It got everyone’s # c c h s i n q u a r a n t i n e . attention, from students to “We want people to teachers to administrators. join in and send us their Although this is the only pictures and videos of virtual spirit week SGA has them participating,” Okun planned so far, they may said. “I have been seeing look into planning other a good amount of my events similar to virtual friends participating and spirit week while schools some administrators are remain closed through the even getting in on it, too.” rest of the school year and Some teachers showed students remain at home. their support for the virtual “As of right now, we spirit week by making it have not yet discussed an assignment for their further events like this, but students to participate. once we see the turnout of “I participated mostly this spirit week, we may because my teachers made it proceed with more events a part of our weekly grade,” like this,” Okun said. senior Anna Asburry said.

“We had to submit a picture of us participating in the BY JULIA SAFRIN activity in order to receive a 15-point grade for the week.”

Vir tual spirit week Below: Science teacher h e l p e d Andrew Marichal ke e p

participates in day two of the spirit week SGA held before school became virtual.

Photos by Anabella Garcia

news 7

Mask mandate After the plentiful alterations citizens of Broward County made to their daily life due to the highly contagious coronavirus, it wasn’t a surprise when a mandate was ordered stating that masks must be worn in public to prevent further spreading.

On Saturday, April 11, the order for workers and visitors in essential businesses went into effect. Public areas such as grocery stores or businesses now require the covering of faces by all who enter. The only exception to the mask mandate is to those who have trouble breathing and those who are under the age of two.

In order to eliminate the mass purchasing of medical masks that healthcare workers need as they are already low in supply, it is only required that

those who choose to go out into these public areas have their faces covered with some form of material, whether that be with an old shirt or bandana.

Broward County is a current hot spot for the coronavirus, with 5,973 confirmed cases and 258 deaths as of present time.

With that being said, more and more Broward County residents are taking precautionary measures with their masks.

“I hope that most people don’t leave the house at all,” junior Rachel Goldberg said. “But if they do, I think that wearing a mask should be a requirement for everyone’s safety and health.”

This call for face masks has led to a new reality for Broward County inhabitants.

In Cooper City, coronavirus has turned “someplace special” upside down. People frantically

Photo by Gennna Nordling Below: The Cooper City Dollar Tree has a sign on their door telling customers to wear a mask in the store, following the government mandate.

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Citizens of Broward County must wear masks in public areas

parading supermarkets, searching for their necessities, all while trying to remain 6 feet apart is the new normal.

While there are challenges that accompany wearing masks, Cooper City residents appear to understand that the protective benefits outweigh the discomfort.

“In other countries across the world, people wear masks even if there isn’t a pandemic,” junior Carlos Reyes said.

“Wearing a mask combats the main reason why coronavirus is so infectious... a simple sacrifice and slight discomfort is well worth keeping yourself safe and others around you safe.”

There are other preventative measures people can take besides wearing a mask.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states

that handwashing and social distancing are the best ways to avoid catching the coronavirus, however, if required to go out, ensure that one’s nose and mouth are covered.

“Masks made of whatever material are useful in mitigating the spread of the virus that has shut down the world,” economics and government teacher Joseph Fatout said.

“Mandating the wearing of masks may be inconvenient, but that feeling would be dwarfed by the loss of a loved one.”

As of right now, businesses are expected to enforce this Broward County policy while it is still new, but in the near future there will be fines handed out to those who violate the rule of having their face covered in the public.

BY EMMA FRANZ

VIRTUAL GRADUATION The Class of 2020 is officially graduating online because of COVID-19 Students all around the world look forward to the end of attending school: senior year. It’s the final year that rewards seniors for all the time and effort they put in for over a decade of schooling.

However, due to the COVID-19 disease and social distancing procedures, the Class of 2020 has it different than they planned.

Prom, Grad Bash, their final moments with their peers and graduation have all been canceled.

As Florida was “shut down,” seniors waited desperately to hear the fate of their graduation. On April 22, Superintendent Robert Runcie sent out an email notifying Broward County students, teachers and families that the graduation for the class of 2020 will be held virtually.

Runcie announced that there will be virtual graduation ceremonies held for each high school between Monday, June 15 and Sunday, June 28, 2020.

The information shared within these updates were expected but was still disappointing for many CCHS seniors.

“I am really upset that we are having a virtual graduation. I feel that I have been working hard for so many years and that it sucks that it needs to end this way,” senior Lauren Nassi said.

“I understand why they have to do what they are doing, but I feel there are other solutions which sucks because

we don’t get a say in what is going on.”

After the release of the email update, negative feedback directed at the district started pouring in, prompting Runcie to send out a tweet regarding their concerns. “@browardschools will continue to monitor safety conditions in Florida around #COVID19,” Runcie tweeted.

“If the situation changes and it becomes safe for our students to experience traditional on campus commencement ceremonies, I guarantee you, we will be the first to start planning.”

Seniors and their parents feel like the district is giving up. Many feel like there can be another, more rational solution to make the seniors feel more content as they exit high school and have taken to various social media platforms to share their opinions.

“I think virtual graduation is absolutely unfair and that they should definitely find another date in the summer to have some sort of in-person ceremony,” senior Sarah Salamon said. “There are some friends and teachers that I would like to see in-person and thank for all the memories, so I hope that can happen.”

CCHS’ virtual graduation will be taking place on Tuesday, June 16 at 4 p.m. and can be streamed live on BECON TV and YouTube.

BY ALYSSA KHAN

news 9

10 opinions

Pandemic prison problems

Florida is mishandling its prisons in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, experts have warned that a slew of communities will be disproportionately affected by it. Among these groups is America’s vast prison population. For decades, the presumed land of the free has specialized in holding people captive. Now, in the middle of a pandemic, this country has to decide what it will prioritize, whether it’s keeping people in prison or protecting public health.

Some states around the country have already made that choice. States with large populations, specifically California and New York, have already opted to release nonviolent inmates. Starting in late March, when coronavirus cases began to seep their way into their prison system, the state of California planned to release 3,500 of its inmates. Around the same time, to avoid the

spread of the coronavirus, New York City released 900 of its inmates.

California is just one of two states with a higher prison population than Florida, which has not done much to curb the spread of the coronavirus within its prison system. Florida contains roughly 100,000 inmates within its prison system, and for a disease such as COVID-19 to spread within it would be catastrophic.

Florida simply isn’t doing enough to protect its incarcerated population from this pandemic. As of May 1, 151 prison workers have tested positive for COVID-19. In a private prison in Pensacola, 30 inmates have tested positive for coronavirus. Observing this, and also observing the fact that Florida possesses the country’s third-

largest prison system, the state can and should be doing more to combat the spread of the coronavirus within its prisons.

Instead, the situation has been grossly mishandled.

The closest thing the Florida Department of Corrections has done to coronavirus protection is enlist the help of the incarcerated to make masks to be issued first to guards, probation officers and other staff, and only then to be distributed to certain correctional facilities. In a Martin County prison, an inmate was handcuffed and punished for refusing to take off his protective mask.

This isn’t how prisons should be managed during such a sensitive situation.

Prison inmates nationally are 12 times more likely to have tested positive for tuberculosis, 4.9% more likely to have asthma and more than three times more likely to have heart-related problems. To

keep such a large number of people in prison when they are more likely to have underlying health conditions, and thus are more vulnerable to COVID-19, than your average citizen is inhumane and unjust.

Social distancing is not something that can occur in prisons and jails, just like it can’t occur in schools, workplaces and amusement parks.

Inmates are in close proximity to each other, and if any of them happen to be infected, the virus will rapidly spread.

Florida needs to follow suit with other states and release inmates that are elderly, nonviolent, close-to-release and that have underlying health conditions. It’s one of several ways state governments can help to combat the spread of COVID-19 within this country.

BY JOSEPH STURGEON

querulous in quarantine

opinions 11

Isolation is not as bad as it’s made out to be In a world of streaming services, online shopping, grocery delivery and group call parties, it is safe to say that Americans are getting comfier and comfier by the minute. These innovations, which had once been critiqued as encouraging laziness, are now proving to be the true heroes of the coronavirus quarantine.

Despite such commodities, widespread quarantine has left the average teenager irritable. The complete shutdown of school and after-school events, which take up a majority of a teenager’s time and energy, has left this age group feeling lost and apathetic.

Many have even broken the rules of social distancing, ignoring warnings in favor of hanging out with friends.

But now more than ever, they need to sit back and use

common sense. Teenagers have the opportunity to do their community and themselves a great service, simply by staying inside. The longer everyone can avoid being infected, the quicker the crisis can be resolved.

Once the pandemic is over and daily life resumes, any canceled events can get right back on track.

Teenagers are allowed to be bothered. It is fine to be frustrated with the circumstances. But many of them need to realize the privilege behind their complaints. Picture it in this perspective: for healthcare workers, every day means putting their lives at risk to save others. For those living paycheck to paycheck, quarantine has brought along new problems with no means to solve them. For the average teenager, quarantine is boring.

Notice anything?

Quarantine is not even as bad as many teenagers make it out to be. Thanks to big companies like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon, most teenagers have access to thousands of television shows and movies.

If you dislike watching alone, browser extensions such as Netflix Party have been introduced to easily stream with friends, with the ability to chat as you go. YouTube and TikTok also allow teenagers to browse through millions of hours of content.

If technology becomes boring, now is the perfect time to set out and explore that hobby you might have been pushing off for the past months. There is no excuse to push it to the side now.

Practice hair or makeup looks, dancing, singing, writing, drawing, painting,

cooking and more. Learn a new language. Memorize the lyrics to a new song. Read the book that has been sitting on the shelf, collecting dust. Plan new outfits. Paint your nails.

Start a new workout routine.

If you have a pool, swim or tan. If missing friends, we are even to be able to contact them in a matter of seconds, with the touch of a button.

So many teenagers find themselves bitter and drained. They have simply been asked to stay home all day, while brave workers and professionals work nonstop during this public health crisis, and it seems that they can’t even do that. No one wants to be in quarantine, but we all must do our part to help end it.

BY CAMILA FERNANDEZ

DISTANCE LEARN Governor Ron DeSantis has closed Florida schools for the rest of the school year Photos by The Lariat Photography

12 centerspread

When students across the state of Florida walked into school on Friday, March 13, they did not realize it would be their last day at school. They walked off-campus without knowing they would not be returning or that the rest of the school year would be online.

Governor Ron DeSantis officially announced on Saturday, April 18 that Florida schools will remain closed for the rest of the school year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s obviously not the ideal situation, but given where we are in the school year, it seemed the best decision to go forward,” DeSantis said.

CCHS students will now have to complete the remainder of the school year virtually. This announcement did not come as a surprise to CCHS students and faculty, as many expected this would be the outcome for the 2019-2020 school year.

“I think the whole situation has been so surreal that hearing we’re not even going back for the school year isn’t all that surprising,” junior Karen Suros said. “I’m disappointed I won’t be able to end my junior year the way I had in mind, but it’s for the best if it’ll help keep everyone safe. It is crazy to think of the last day of school when we didn’t even realize it would be the last day.”

For CCHS seniors, the closure of schools marks the closure of their high school experience. Although many are sad that they will not finish their senior year the way they had planned, they understand the reasoning behind the decision and know it is for their safety.

“I think it was a smart idea for the governor to close schools for the rest of the year because it helps people social distance and allows people to stay healthy,” senior Ethan Silverman said. “Yes, it does suck because we won’t be able to finish the rest of our high school years with our best friends, but we will be healthy for when this is all over to hang out.”

Although the closure of schools is for the safety of everyone, CCHS students are still disappointed. The adjustment to online learning has not been easy, and some students miss the structure of actually attending school.

“I am really disappointed that school is closing for the rest of the year.

I miss being with my friends every day and seeing my teachers,” freshman Nicole Nadler said. “I miss handwriting my assignments and working at a faster pace than we are with distance learning.”

Not only are students impacted by this change to distance learning, but so are the faculty and staff at CCHS. Teachers are no longer able to interact with their students faceto-face or watch them participate in all of the fourth quarter activities.

“I cannot speak for all teachers, but I miss the banter with students and I feel for students losing out on experiences,” science teacher Jacqueline Selan said. “When former students visit and reminisce [about] their favorite memories, they usually bring up things that have occurred in the second half of the year. With all of this being said, we will all do what we can to make the best of it—we are Team Cooper.”

BY ARIELLE KRAUS

Disclaimer: Ethan Silverman is enrolled in the Cooper City High School newspaper class.

NING CONTINUES CCHS students express opinions on new e-learning during COVID-19 pandemic

Saying that times are strange now is an understatement. Schools are closing, economies are suffering and local and national governments are in utter panic due to the coronavirus pandemic. The many changes have impacted the lives of people everywhere, including CCHS students as Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) has officially transitioned to online ‘e-learning’ until the end of the 2019-2020 school year. We asked some CCHS students about their thoughts on the new instructional system.

“

“

I feel like teachers are giving out too much work. In school, I can say that I never had this many assignments. Most of them are time-consuming, it’s hard to manage all my assignments and get them done when they need to be. I understand we have ‘nothing better to do’ because we won’t be going anywhere, but absolutely no one wants to spend their whole day doing school; we are still teenagers. Not to mention that [there are] students who still have to work, who might be working 30+ hours. It’s not fair to them.

I enjoy the freedom of working at my own pace and being able to work on select assignments at a time. However, it can be stressful at times when you have 20 assignments all due on the same day.

”

GRACE JENKINS

“

JUNIOR

“

Basically, I feel like I’m given so much more work [with e-learning] and I’m way more stressed out than before. It makes the ending of my senior year worse than it already is.

Online school sucks for the pure fact that most of my teachers are assigning 5+ hours of work. I like working at my own pace, but it feels like I’m spending most of my weekdays and weekends just doing school work.

”

JUSTIN RYAN

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”

VICTORIA CHACON

FRESHMAN

SENIOR

”

CHRISTOPHER BERRY

JUNIOR

I think that online school is a necessity; obviously, eliminating school for the rest of the year isn’t an option.

But the transition hasn’t been the easiest because of outside factors, and I’m finding that myself and peers are struggling to complete assignments that wouldn’t be an issue within school.

”

KYLE GEORGIANNA JUNIOR

Reporting by Emma Huerta

centerspread 13

CCHS JOURNALISM D Challenging School Spirit How the CCHS yearbook staff On twitter, The Round Up yearbook challenged their followers to share their favorite was affected by COVID-19 school memories in exchange for revealing some of their spreads.

Pep Rally

Silly Side of Sports

Then and Now

The full spreads can be found on The Round Up’s social media

As the school year begins to close, one thing that many CCHS students look forward to is receiving their yearbook. However, in light of schools closing due to COVID-19 concerns, the idea of receiving a yearbook feels more like a distant memory.

Despite maintaining social distancing orders, The Round Up yearbook staff managed to submit their work to their publisher, Herff Jones, on April 15 in order to start printing.

This was a challenge in and of itself.

“We use Herff Jones’ software, ‘e-Design,’ and all the staff members and editors have access to it at home. It was definitely a struggle to finish the book because many sports were canceled and getting photos for things was an issue,” Co-Editor-in-Chief Summer Testa said.

“I would say the most difficult thing was team photos for sports because many were not taken before [campus closed].”

With the majority of the spring sports season being cut short, games the yearbook members needed to capture no longer existed. With this, alternative plans had to be made and their schedule began to extend.

“The timeline originally was to be done before spring break; sadly, school being canceled the week before really affected us because there were still photos we needed for certain sports,” yearbook adviser Hailee Yaeger said. “[But] I don’t think COVID-19 changed what the yearbook was supposed to be.

If anything, it gave us more historic material to be placed in the book.”

Photos courtesy of The Round Up

There is certainly history in the making as COVID-19 has affected the lives of many CCHS students and staff.

But for the graduating Class of 2020, this year has become memorable in a way that was not originally intended. With that in mind, the yearbook staff made sure to do their part in honoring the seniors.

“My entire section was about the seniors, so I had to add my congratulations to the class in my letter.

We also dedicated pages to seniors throughout other sections and our shortened year,” Seniors’ Editor Anna Asburry said. “This book means the world to me. Overseeing a section dedicated to the best year of high school made it so important for me to capture the moments that meant most to seniors.”

In light of the recent announcement of virtual graduations from Superintendent Robert Runcie and school campuses being closed for the rest of the year, there is no clear indication of when students will be able to engage in normal school activities. However, the distribution of the 2020 yearbooks is still a goal for The Round Up yearbook staff.

“As for distribution, we do not have a plan just yet, but will definitely communicate that with everyone once we have a solid plan set in place,” Yaeger said. “[Regardless,] this yearbook is worth buying because it’s full of memories and news from the year. Especially with this pandemic, this is something you may want to look back on in 10 years.”

BY SASHEEN JOSEPH

DURING QUARANTINE CTV wins best weekly news show in the country

Photo by Sydney Katz Amid the chaos of the coronavirus pandemic, some good news came to CCHS. Competing against high school broadcast programs from across America, Cowboy Television (CTV) was named the best weekly news show in the nation.

On April 7, the Student Television Network (STN) announced the winners of its annual broadcast and film excellence awards via a livestream on YouTube. The awards show was previously scheduled to occur during the STN 2020 Convention in Washington, D.C. But due to coronavirus concerns, on March 11, DC Health issued a recommendation that non-essential mass gatherings be postponed or canceled. The convention was canceled and all high schools in attendance, including CCHS, had to go home.

Nearly a month later,

CTV won its national title.

This is the third time that CTV has been recognized as the best weekly news show in the nation by STN. “Congratulations to Mr. Pichardo and his CTV crew for being recognized for Best Weekly Show in the Nation by STN,” Principal Wendy Doll wrote on Twitter.

“So stay tuned for what’s coming and while you are waiting catch some of their very creative past episodes you might have missed.”

CTV President and senior Christopher Will attributes CTV’s success to its well-rounded and multi-talented crew.

“You’ll find a lot of schools that have great oncamera talent but their camera work is off or they have great graphics but they look awkward on camera,” Will said. “We try to have each person do every aspect

of show production, which allows us to understand the ins and outs of each. This allows us to be the best we can at each part and [to] understand how to work together with the people on and off camera, which is something a lot of other schools don’t have.”

Not only does the CTV crew become familiar with all aspects of the production process, but they do so early in the year. Because submissions for the weekly news show excellence award were due in mid-December, CTV could only submit shows from the first semester.

By working out any kinks early on, the crew was able to compile a quality portfolio.

“I think we accomplished this by working, practicing and learning very early in the year,” Will said. “Over the summer in the week before we come back to school, we all get together to walk through the

steps and show everyone how we do things. This allows us to start making shows Week 1.

Getting that early start allows us to learn from our mistakes early and find what works.”

While the future may be uncertain in terms of the pandemic, CTV’s future president and junior Kayla Kissel is sure of her plans to continue making the program the best that it can be.

“I want to make sure I make CTV a stronger team, with a bond that’s unbreakable, and unbeatable,” Kissel said.

“I hope that if as a group we are all able to accomplish all of that, and CTV becomes a stronger team, we will be able to take home another national award next year.”

BY ABBIE TUSCHMAN

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Bored in quarantine?

Here are all of the best things to watch, play and listen to, recommended by The Lariat Staff

music

“Hysteria”- Def Leppard

A beloved fan favorite is Def Leppard’s album “Hysteria,” if you’re on the hunt for something a little different. Released in 1987, the classic rock band revealed a track of 12 songs perfect for car rides with the windows down or singing in the shower.

“Anthem of the Peaceful Army”Greta Van Fleet

Greta Van Fleet’s 11-track album “Anthem of the Peaceful Army” is perfect for lovers of classic rock.

Although the band’s music is more recent with their first studio album having been released in 2018, they are often compared to the iconic ‘70s rock band Led Zeppelin.

Conan Gray

Conan Gray is a new pop artist on the rise. He is only 21 years old and his music is painfully relatable to high schoolers. He is a versatile artist with songs that make you want to dance and some that make you cry. His debut album, “Kid Krow,” was just released in March. So, if you start now it will be easy to get into all his music.

Tiny Meat Gang

If you want to have a good laugh while listening to some sick beats, check out Tiny Meat Gang.

Comedic YouTubers Cody Ko and Noel Miller originally formed this group as a way to make fun of YouTuber Jake Paul’s song “It’s Everyday Bro,” and have been making hits ever since. The best part about Tiny Meat Gang is that their songs are funny and good. Also, their song “Walkman” went viral on TikTok and has a dance to go along with it, so if the comedy isn’t enough of an excuse to listen, that should be.

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Podcasts

“Welcome to Night Vale”

“Welcome to Night Vale” by Night Vale Presents is a bimonthly fiction podcast about the desert town of Night Vale and the crazy events which don’t feel so weird in this quaint little town. This podcast makes you feel as if you are in the weird town of Night Vale. You listen to the radio host of Night Vale radio as if he was your own local radio host. It sucks you into its adventures and it's easy to get attached to the many outlandish and semi-normal characters found in Night Vale. This podcast is found on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Radiopublic, RSS and YouTube.

“The Anthropocene Reviewed”

In “The Anthropocene Reviewed,” John Green reviews the anthropocene. Essentially, Green reviews two unrelated objects, concepts and inventions from the age of humans. The podcast is extremely soothing and chill if you are looking to fall asleep, but it is also interesting and wellresearched. This podcast is found on Apple Podcasts and several other podcast platforms.

“Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend”

“Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” follows comedian and late night host Conan O’Brien on his quest to make friends, but in reality it’s an excuse for him to get paid to talk to interesting people for a longer amount of time than his TV show will permit.

O’Brien has a new guest on every episode, ranging from Michelle Obama to Lin-Manuel Miranda to David Letterman. Fans of the behind-the-scenes of comedy will love this podcast, as that is usually the main topic of each episode. This podcast is found on Apple Podcasts and most other podcast platforms.

“1917”

MOVIES

The movie “1917” is a must-watch film. It follows the journey of two World War I soldiers as they deliver a crucial message that could save hundreds of lives.

Although it’s a simple story at the surface, the film is nearly flawless, engulfing you in an experience via its seamless one-shot appearance. It was heavily nominated this past awards season and even won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture - Drama.

You can rent or purchase it on Xfinity’s On Demand or Amazon Prime Video to watch.

“Room”

The movie “Room” is about a woman who is kidnapped and raped as a teenager. She’s kept in a shed in the kidnapper’s backyard raising her son for five years before she is able to escape. The plot of this movie may be super dark, but the acting from Brie Larson and Jacob Tremblay is just incredible.

Larson won an Academy award, a Golden Globe Award and a Critic’s Choice Award along with Tremblay for this movie. It’s one of those movies you’ll want to rewatch to experience it for the first time again. It’s available on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

“The Platform”

“The Platform” is a Spanish film available on Netflix, and after watching it, I believe it represents the future of horror. It is extremely psychological and focused on exactly one element. The platform is a dystopian portrayal of prison systems. There is a hole with many levels and people are sent to this hole for various reasons. However, there is one platform filled with food that travels down slowly.

The food runs out and the people at the lower levels are left with nothing. It’s psychologically intriguing and beautifully done, with a clear vision in mind and amazing casting.

“The Florida Project”

“The Florida Project” was just released on Netflix this month and I have not stopped thinking about it since I watched it. It gives insight into a world not talked about much: the lives of kids who live under impoverished conditions in motels. The movie takes you through the struggles these families have to undergo, but also the innocence of the children who are oblivious to the suffering going on. While a mom struggles to make ends meet in an unethical way, her 6-year-old daughter is still out making happy memories with her friends. It gave me a completely new perspective on the problems in our own country and how innocence isn’t ever truly lost.

TV Shows

“Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness”

“Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness” is the latest hit docuseries on Netflix and is a mustwatch show for anyone interested in embarking on an insane story. It shows the life of exotic animal lover and owner, Joe Exotic—also known as the “Tiger King”—and his conflicts with Carole Baskin, a woman trying to shut down his zoo.

From unsolved murders to running for president to crazy music videos, this docuseries has it all.

“Workaholics”

“Workaholics” is a hilarious show that follows three lovable idiots and their insanely chaotic daily lives. This show is extremely goofy, lighthearted and guaranteed to make you laugh out loud. The three main characters are amazing at getting themselves into a predicament, but even better at getting themselves out of one. You can watch “Workaholics” on Hulu.

“Outer Banks”

“Outer Banks” follows a teenage group of friends on a fun and riveting treasure hunt in the middle of summer. This action-adventure drama is sure to keep you hooked, with unexpected twists and turns and humorous dialogue. It is the perfect binge-watch material. “Outer Banks” is available on Netflix.

“New Girl”

If you need a good laugh, you have to watch “New Girl.” Even if you’ve already watched this show, you need to watch it again. From its quirky and silly characters to ridiculous and outlandish plot lines, this show is guaranteed to cheer you up when you’re feeling down in quarantine. You can watch “New Girl” right now on Netflix.

entertainment 17

Top Five Videos to stream when you’re tired of netflix The coronavirus pandemic has seemingly turned our world upside down, and it might be a while until we see the light at the end of the tunnel. With countries around the world in lockdown and businesses closing, we must find solace in our own homes. But what happens when we’ve played Minecraft for over six hours a day? What happens when we’ve rewatched as many seasons of “90 Day Fiance” as we could? Here’s the answer: streaming YouTube videos.

Samuel L. Jackson’s bedtime story We all know that staying up until three in the morning isn’t exactly good for us, but who’s going to stop us when the world seems to be nearly ending? The question isn’t when we’d want to go to sleep, but why would we? Now, we have an answer. You’ll now be able to escape into dreamland with a video of Samuel L. Jackson’s soothing voice whisking you away while reading you a bedtime story.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Musicals

We’ve talked about what you can stream during the night, but what about during the day? If it’s Friday, Saturday or Sunday, Andrew Lloyd Webber is releasing a famous Broadway musical each week during the pandemic. If you’re one of those people that has friends who are always talking about Broadway musicals you’ve never watched, now is the chance to watch them for free without having to get out of bed.

Gordon Ramsay’s 10-minute cooking videos

Although eating cold, leftover pizza from the local Pizza Hut may seem appetizing for a hungry teenager, it can become mundane for others. Learn how to cook delicious, yet easy meals by streaming chef Gordon Ramsay’s 10-minute cooking videos on YouTube.

Billie Eilish’s live performance In the times of this harsh pandemic, local businesses are especially struggling to keep afloat. With the intention of of supporting local businesses, singer Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas streamed a live performance to YouTube that you can now go back and watch freely. If being able to stream a free performance by Billie Eilish doesn’t convince you to support local businesses, I don’t know what will.

Andrea Bocelli’s opera performance Although all traveling is prohibited during the pandemic, this doesn’t mean you can’t experience the enchanting Duomo di Milano while still in quarantine. Stream Andrea Bocelli’s opera performance in the ancient cathedral right from the comfort of your home. Even if you aren’t into opera, you can still admire the cathedral’s amazing architecture.

BY ISABELLA MARCON

18 entertainment

Websites and apps

Video games “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” “Animal Crossing” is an extremely adorable game for the Nintendo Switch that allows the player to design their own island. Waste all of your time trying to pay off your debts to Tom Nook while having the best time of your life.

“Just Dance”

Any one of the “Just Dance” games is jam-packed with endless songs to keep you entertained with those you’re quarantined with, while also helping you stay active.

“Minecraft”

“Minecraft” is a classic game that you can play for hours. There are no specific goals for you to complete— everything is up to you. You can travel the world fighting monsters, mining diamonds, building castles and defeating a dragon. The possibilities are endless.

“Final Fantasy XV”

Like all "Final Fantasy" games, the plot here is ludicrous. The appeal of this game has always been as a sort of road trip simulator. You roll around the country with friends, stopping every once in a while to get gas, kill some monsters, go camping or climb to the top of a volcano to take down a giant bird. It's nice.

“Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” “Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” allows the player to have the freedom to do whatever they like. Although saving the Kingdom of Hyrule is the overarching quest, the player has all the time in the world to get stronger, explore, complete side quests and goof around. The game is really beautiful and easy to get lost in.

PlayingCards.io

The website PlayingCards.io allows you to break the confines of quarantine by playing cards with your friends in isolation. The virtual card table allows for multiplayer games across a wide range of categories. Once a game is chosen, the link can be distributed to opponents outside of your home. The site offers a variety of games, including the popular Cards Against Humanity.

Skribbl.io

The website Skribbl.io is a great way to pass time with friends while social distancing. It’s essentially an online Scrabble game you can play with anyone you want. It may take a second to figure out how to draw with your computer mouse, but pair the game with a video chat service and you can have still have a game night with friends!

Club Penguin

One of the best websites of our childhood is still thriving today. Club Penguin is full of adventures and there may be some you have not seen before.

There is so much to do as a penguin! Plus, all your friends can join and you can have a quarantine penguin party.

Zombies, Run!

For anyone that wants to stay active but doesn’t have the motivation, there's an app called Zombies, Run! It makes your run feel like a game. It has missions you can complete and music to make you feel like you’re in an actual zombie movie.

TikTok

My favorite social media app is TikTok. There are millions of videos and there is a constant flow of entertainment. Once you get past the cringey point of views and your classmates, there are really funny videos.

entertainment 19

Spring sports sadness The outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic has prompted the cancellation of the 2020 spring sports season. With senior nights suspended, select students are unable to celebrate their success on the fields and courts with their friends and families. However, CCHS is determined to recognize the accomplishments of each and every one of its senior athletes.

While sports taking place during the fall were able to see their seasons to completion, spring sports were not handed the same luxury. The spread of COVID-19 mandated an unexpected conclusion to CCHS athletics in early March. As a result, these sports teams were unable to participate in many of their upcoming celebrations, including senior nights.

Senior night has become a tradition for most high school athletic departments, and CCHS is no exception. Each year, teams dedicate one game of the year to their senior athletes. These students are recognized by their friends, families, coaches and teammates for their accomplishments.

With these events suspended, seniors expressed their disappointment in missing out on this tradition. Many athletes have spent the entirety of their high school careers as members of specific sports teams, awaiting their senior seasons. However, those affected by the senior night cancellations were determined to make the best of the situation under the current circumstances.

Members of the CCHS community have come together to honor the senior athletes of the spring sports season.

Parents and coaches have created posters and presentations celebrating the success of these students. Social media posts advertising the accomplishments of senior athletes have allowed these individuals to gain the recognition they have worked so hard to achieve.

While these efforts have generated some attention throughout the community, senior student-athletes will continue to be recognized for the loss of their spring sports season.

BY KAYLA GATES

Photo by Anabella Garcia

Track and field

Girls

Tatiana Caballo

Elijah Baxter

Jordan Ducharme

Juan Ventura

Victoria Villa

Nick Villalonga

Boys

Blake Katz Steven Camacho Jordan Aronson Michel Geha Sammy Weisberg Ian Espinoza Glen Mims Peyton Monaco Jordan Williams Matthew Wong Yojans Martinez Ben Liberles

Disclaimer: Kyleigh Springle is a writer for The Lariat. Ethan Silverman is enrolled in the Cooper City High School newspaper class.

20 sports

Baseball

Gavin Mihoulides Kevin Reichenbach Maxwell Jefferies Jake Romano Matthew Schwam

flag football Annie Clark

tennis

Girls

Isabella Aloya

Karissa Trippe

Jasmine Maduel

Boys

Jonathan Zinn Mateo Smashey

Chloe Sierra Ally Desmond

Anthony Wu

Kimberly Slinkosky Magda Brumaire Zaynah Muhammad

Girls

Lacrosse

Boys

Marley Patterson

Lucas Hemingway

Hailey Brown

Ethan Hemingway

Rylee Horton

Jordan Meshel

Laura Rodriguez Ariana Dillon Gaby Johnson Grace Barr Kaia Keppel Iryna Bilenka

Volleyball Ian Espinoza Ethan Frankel Ethan Silverman Christopher Will Mark Cody

Kellianne Schlosser

softball Brenna Lokeinsky

Player photos courtesy of the players, TSS Photography and The Round Up Yearbook

Kyleigh Sprigle Nicole Miller

sports 21

Overcoming coronavirus How athletes can stay active at home The coronavirus pandemic has impacted almost every aspect of everyday life. For athletes, this means that participating in physical activity has become more of a challenge. In light of the situation, professionals are sharing methods on how athletes can stay active at home.

The outbreak of COVID-19 at the start of this year has temporarily altered the world of sports. Both national and international leagues have halted or postponed competitions. For the many student-athletes, school closures have prevented the completion of their seasons.

With parks, gyms and sports facilities closed in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus, most athletes no longer have an outlet for practicing their sport. However, many are getting creative with the ways in which they stay physically active during the government-mandated quarantine.

Professional athletes have taken to social media in order to motivate others to follow suit. Their methods include practicing their sport at home in unconventional ways. Many are sharing their at-home workouts in hopes of motivating others to do the same.

“I am sending love and positivity to everyone staying at home during this health crisis,” Toronto Raptors player Serge Ibaka said. “I hope some of you feel inspired to exercise at home and to stay healthy and in shape.”

However, the movement to stay productive has not been limited to professionals. In fact, athletes of all levels are encouraged to partake in some form of physical activity. Experts note that staying in shape at this time is vital to maintaining one’s health, especially with the threat of COVID-19.

“This is the right time people need to do more active things, not just sitting around,” chief of the Division of Clinical Nutrition Dr. Zhaoping Li said. “Take this opportunity to do self-examination, self-inspection and self-care.”

22 sports

CCHS student-athletes have already accepted the challenge, participating in physical activity from the confines of their home. Members of various sports have taken a personal initiative to stay active during the newly imposed offseason.

For sports that require running, athletes have taken their training from the track to the sidewalks within their neighborhoods. While they are still encouraged to follow the 6 feet apart guideline by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when out in the community, athletes can safely work out outdoors by being cautious.

“I usually do jogging workouts most days of the week,” sophomore and cross country member Dylan Bober said. “You definitely have to be mindful of your health by staying 6 feet away from anyone.”

For those with equipment at home, athletes have the opportunity to practice their sport directly on their property.

Whether it be throwing a football, kicking a soccer ball or shooting a basketball, students have gotten creative with the ways they are staying in shape.

“Quarantine has been pushing me to stay in shape despite my desire to stay in bed all day,” sophomore and water polo player Kiara Ryan said. “I’ve tried swimming at least three times a week to have some physical activity and prepare for next year’s tryouts.”

While other sports may require equipment that many do not have access to at home, athletes are still encouraged to lead their own workouts by simply stretching. While the activity may not be as strenuous, the movement allows athletes to stay healthy.

The coronavirus pandemic has cast a shadow of defeat for the sports world. However, athletes of all levels are making the best of the situation by staying active at home. Despite the situation, professionals have found solutions to this aspect of everyday life.

BY KAYLA GATES

Photo by Anabella Garcia

Say goodbye to the spring sports

The FHSAA cancels the remainder of the season All over the state of Florida, high school athletes unknowingly had their last sporting event for the 2020 school year.

Many seniors have had the last game of their career.

On April 20, the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) officially canceled the remainder of the sports season.

The FHSAA had to cancel the spring sports season due to school closures. On Saturday, April 18, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida schools will remain closed for the rest of the school year due to the coronavirus, or COVID-19, pandemic. With no chance of students going back to school, the FHSAA had to cancel the sports season.

The FHSAA canceled all games and championship events, as well as the state series. This left many teams without the trophies or rings they were hoping to receive.

“I will be lobbying with our administration to see that we receive proper recognition for our accomplishments from the FHSAA. I truly believe that we should be awarded the FHSAA Class 6A State Championship based on our No. 1 ranking in MaxPreps,” softball head coach Phil Schmalz said. “We deserve some recognition for this accomplishment, and hopefully this will not be a ‘forgotten’ season.”

The CCHS softball team is currently undefeated and rated No. 1 in Class 6A, No. 2 in the state and No. 5 nationally, meaning

they were on track to win year has been leading up states. Other CCHS sports to the senior season and to teams were projected to go have that taken away with no far in their season as well. chance of getting it back is “I really miss my really sad,” senior volleyball coaches and teammates. It's captain Ian Espinoza said. disappointing, especially as “But it’s not too bad; I really a senior, that the season is miss it but I’ll find something canceled. The seniors had more important later.” such high expectations and On March 31, the goals for this season and we FHSAA announced they won't have the chance to were going to try to extend achieve [them] since it was the season to late June and/or our last year,” senior flag provide additional eligibility football player Kaia Keppel for seniors. However, with said. “It’s sad to know that this new update, the seasons I unknowingly played my are completely canceled last high school sport ever.” and they are unable to The seniors may have had provide more eligibility. not only their last high school The seniors cannot come game but also their last game back and play next year. ever. Those who do not have However, there is a possibility travel seasons or who are not that some teams will get the committed to play in college recognition they desire. just played their final game.

“I feel really bad; every BY KYLEIGH SPRIGLE Disclaimer: Kyleigh Sprigle is on the CCHS softball team.

Photo by Anabella Garcia

sports 23

Johns Hopkins University ‘24

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