Volume 27 Issue 4

c o p p e l l s t u d e n t m e d i a . c o m Volume 27 | Issue 4 | March 2016

Coppell High School opens new arena PAGES 12-13

INSIDE Facts not feelings

Day in the life of a janitor

The Best of Coppell

Read about Editorial Page Editor Emma Cummins’ opinion on PAGE 9

CHS janitor Elsa Alvarez shares what it means for her to work at the school on PAGE 11

Read about the most desirable places to grab a bite, beginning on PAGE 16

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THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

Clark changes game with player-friendly approach and a close relationship written by Amy Roh Student Life Editor @rohmyboat

On a clear Monday morning, Coach Kendall Clark watches over a group of freshmen assembling into teams for his team sports class.

As they roam the turf in the new Coppell High School field house, they talk to him in a casual and easygoing manner, as if talking to a friend.

This, perhaps is Clark’s whole teaching philosophy: a player-friendly approach that reaches beyond a student-administrator relationship.

Clark, Coppell’s baseball coach, has dedicated 22 years into encouraging students to do their best both on and off the field by incorporating fun. This will be Clark’s fifth year coaching at CHS, yet he has made a significant impact on those around him.

“I try to get to know them, and get to know what their interests are whenever they’re in school, and what organizations they may participating in,” Clark said. “It helps a lot to actually have a relationship with them versus just them being a name on a piece of paper.”

During the five years that Clark has been at CHS, he has already made a tremendous im-

pact on the program, the team and his students.

The time and energy that goes into the position is no easy feat.

“Coaches told me about him before I accepted the job at Coppell and were envious that I would get to be on his staff,” JV baseball coach Josh McKiddy said. “He’s respected for not only being a winner, but a great guy. He’s a man of high integrity, character and most of all loves seeing young men reach their potential, not only in athletics, but academics as well. He’s constantly reminding our players to be champions in classrooms, hallways, streets and not just on the field. ” It helps that Clark also lives and breathes his passion for baseball, an essential key in focusing on the details of the game. Clark’s attention to small details is what ultimately makes the difference.

“He studies it non-stop and always wants to talk baseball,” JV baseball coach Nathan Blackwell said. “He has a knack for breaking down the tiniest details of hitting, fielding or situational baseball.”

It can be easy to fall into the routine of focusing solely on plays, but players always feel a balance of both discipline and ease from Clark.

The close relationship that he tries to have with each of his players is felt within his coaching, which allows for more room for more personal improvement and overall fun.

“He keeps us loose,” CHS senior catcher/infielder Cole Solomon said. “He can be serious but yet he can joke around with us and that’s actually [something that’s] really good about him. He keeps you and whole team loose and relaxed.”

Clark not only expects effort from his students, but also expects the same standard from himself, which is perhaps the main point behind his coaching and general life philosophy.

“I try to do the best I can each day,” Clark said. “We tell our players that. We want them to do the best they can during the 45 minutes to an hour we’re here. And I also expect myself to do the very best in that same hour.”

Scan to watch Coach Kendall Clark in action

Teacher of the Issue

photo by Alexandra

Dalton

CHS baseball coach Kendall Clark plays badminton with his individual sports class in the field house.

A man of many talents

Zentner visits high school to share upcoming young adult novel written by Meara Isenberg Staff Writer @mearaannee

photo by Kelly

Monaghan

Jeff Zentner speaks to Coppell High School students about his new book “The Serpent King.”

On an average day, you may find Jeff Zentner going over murder cases on his desk or writing a song on his guitar, but it wasn’t either of those things that brought the Tennessee native to the library of Coppell High School on Wednesday.

The prosecutor/musician-turned-author spoke to creative writing students about his unreleased young adult book, The Serpent King, however the students were not completely in the dark.

Each student had received an advanced copy of the novel in the weeks leading up to the visit so they were armed with questions on topics ranging from characters and writing process to the large tattoo on his forearm- and Zentner had answers.

“The Serpent King”, despite what its name suggests, is not about an actual king but instead focuses on the lives of high school outcasts Dill, Lydia and Travis as they try to navigate life in rural Tennessee.

The book highlights the highest and lowest points of their senior year from each character’s point of view.

The book is one of many firsts for Zentner, another being his first time speaking in front of students but the laughs he drew from them and confidence he spoke with made it hard to tell.

What really differentiates Zentner from

any other experienced author was just that; before The Serpent King he really had no experience with writing. However through the cases that came across his desk, his love for music (and a little Twitter stalking?), Zentner was able to craft an intriguing and impactful story. “[Experience] really comes in handy when you’re creating characters, because to have a wide range of experience allows you more easily to empathize with people, and if you can empathize with people you can get into their heads, and if you can get into their heads you can know how they’ll behave in a certain situation, how they’ll talk, how they’ll dress, how they’ll do everything, it allows you to become somebody else,” Zentner said.

For writing about things a little outside of his personal experience, such as a teenage girl who runs her own online fashion blog, Zentner turned to a popular social network.

“It really is just a process of observation,” Zentner said. “To write the character of Lydia, I just went on Twitter and just followed a bunch of teenage fashion bloggers. I would be a fly on the wall to their conversations.

You just start to develop them in your mind.”

In 18 years of teaching creative writing at the high school, Matthew Bowden has seen authors come and go but none left the impact on himself and his students that Zentner did.

“I think he’s a real person,” Bowden said.

“It didn’t seem like he was better than us or he was talking down on to us as in ‘this is what you need to do to be a writer’ he was real, and a little bit disarming to the students, which is why everyone was so open to talk to him and ask question. It felt like we were

having a discussion rather than listening to a speaker.”

Bowden was not initially a big fan of YA novels but after reading The Serpent King developed some new opinions about the genre.

“I thought ‘if I’m going to ask everyone to read the book, I should do it to,’” Bowden said. “A couple chapters in, I was hooked. It dealt with real issues, it captured teenagers accurately with a sense of verisimilitude and I really loved it. I’m more open to the idea of reading YA novels now because of that.”

He is enthusiastic about how the book will be received once it is released on March 8 at bookstores and online and could see the story becoming a major success.

“From the early press that I’ve gotten from his agent representative, they predict that it could be one of the next big things in the YA genre,” Bowden said. “The fact that it’s on Crown Books which is a subsidiary, it’s their YA division of Random House, one of the giant publishing magnates. I wouldn’t be surprised if this book sold millions of copies.”

At this stage Zentner’s book is in the final edits, however the feedback he received from students still resonates with him.

“This is my audience, these are my people, this is who I need to write for,” Zentner said.

“If I hear from young adults that they like my book then that’s the best imaginable compliment. Young adults are just the sharpest people, they can smell through any artifice or pretense, there’s no getting away with anything you have to be really honest. I feel like I’m really successful as a writer if I can reach young adults.”

THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

Rolling In Tardy

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Consistently late Dallas County school buses caused by more factors than meets the eye written by Sakshi Venkatraman News Editor @oompapa1 With Coppell ISD’s reach growing larger by the year, the community is more dependent on school buses than ever before.

However, within the 2015-16 school year, CISD buses have gained notoriety among students, parents and faculty for their late arrival times and late pickup times.

“The time that is written on the bus schedule for pickup is 7:42 a.m.,” Coppell High School junior Devika Godbole said.

“Most days, the bus comes between 7:50 a.m. and 8:05 a.m.”

Godbole, like many other CHS students rides bus number 21 from her Valley Ranch neighborhood. She has first period English with Zach Sherman, to which she often arrives late.

“The bus has practically never gotten to school before the first bell rings,” Godbole said. “I always have about a minute and a half to two minutes at most to get to class before the tardy bell has rung.”

Although she has never missed important information, she says the inconvenience of walking into class late is an annoyance to her and her peers.

“It’s really awkward to have to walk into class late almost every day, especially if Mr. Sherman has already started talking,” Godbole said. “My seat is on the other side of the classroom and it’s just disruptive.”

In addition to being dropped off to school late, Godbole has expressed concern that the bus pickup times are largely unregulated.

“Since the bus doesn’t come at a dependable time, you’re either standing outside waiting in the cold for who knows how long or sometimes, you could get to the bus stop at the same time the bus was there the day before and the bus will already be gone,” Godbole said.

Although there is discontent with the school bus system, CISD administration is working with its bus service, Dallas County Schools.

“We contract our student bus services through Dallas County Schools,” assistant superintendent Sid Grand said.

“This is the same organization that supplies buses to Dallas ISD and several other area school districts.”

Coppell ISD’s use of DCS buses poses many positives to the district, namely the saving of the hundreds of thousands of dollars it would take for CISD to own and manage its own set of school buses.

photo by Ayoung Jo A school bus arrives at the bus loop earlier this semester. Recently, many students have encountered the problem of arriving late to their first classes due to the tardiness of the busses.

“The main positive is that we save significant dollars by contracting with DCS,” Grant said. “The negative is that we lose some flexibility in choosing bus routes, and hiring our own drivers.”

According to Grant, the reason for the school buses running late recently has been a shortage of drivers for CISD routes.

“With the local economy doing so well, DCS and other bus companies are having difficulty hiring enough drivers to meet their needs,” Grant said. “Therefore, we have existing drivers running multiple routes, thereby, causing some buses to be late.”

Throughout the ordeal of solving this issue, it is common for students to place the blame for late school buses on what they consider to be the most reasonable target: the drivers.

“A lot of the blame is placed on bus drivers but it really isn’t their fault,” senior Surabi Rao said. “Our driver has to run a different route before she does my route.”

With the district facing a driver shortage, Rao’s driver is not the only one facing multiple routes every morning or evening.

Ashley Higdem has been driving CISD buses for almost five years and, like her colleagues, is being given more routes to drive.

“We started the school year off with not as many drivers, so we have to merge

the routes,” Higdem said. “[Drivers] sometimes have to cover more than one route at a time. We try our best to get to each of the stops at their normal time but we have to fit in elementary school, middle school and high school routes.”

According to Higdem, CISD is “always” short on drivers at the start of the school year.

Because the start times of elementary, middle and high school are so close together, bus routes are shorter at CISD than they are at other districts. In pursuit of clocking in longer hours, many drivers would rather work for schools in Carrollton or Dallas ISD, districts that have longer bus routes.

“As of right now, I pick up kids for Valley Ranch [Elementary] and Town Center Elementary, then I drive to Austin Elementary and drop off a full load of kids,” Higdem said. “Then, I start my high school route. A lot of times I pick up my [normal] high school route and then another high school route afterwards when we have [a shortage of staff].”

Tensions on remaining drivers have increased because of employees becoming ill, being let go or retiring. Although the district tries to get substitute drivers to fill in for certain periods of time, route to driver ratios are still incredibly large.

“We have drivers that have to go back to the same elementary school twice to bring kids home,” Higdem said. “Even our mechanics are driving. Often times

there will be no dispatcher in the office because every single person in the office is driving.”

Higdem recognizes the inconvenience of the late timings but wants students and parents to know that the drivers are doing the best they can in their situation.

“Our job is to safely transport students to and from school,” Higdem said. “It is frustrating for kids to have to wait at the bus stop for [extra time] but we really are trying our best. Getting [kids] to and from school safely is our only goal, even if it’s a few minutes later than what they’re expecting.”

With parents and administration maintaining contact with the bus provider, the process of solving this problem is well underway.

“We speak to DCS almost daily regarding various district-wide issues and needs,” Grant said. “Parents have [also] been communicating frequently with CISD and DCS regarding any late bus issues and DCS is working diligently to hire more drivers.”

While hiring more drivers may take Dallas County Schools some time, students have their own propositions as to temporary fixes.

“I would like to see more consistent timings or at least a school-wide email informing teachers that when kids say they’re late because of the bus, it really is because of the bus,” Godbole said. “[Some teachers] don’t believe it.”

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THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

Gadgets available to accommodate any need

written by Tanya Raghu Staff Writer Through football practice, the school day and sleeping, a smart tracker could become a student’s most helpful friend.

Other than tracking steps, calculating stairs climbed, keeping tabs on water intake and saving allotted calories, this gadget has typically becomes an important tool with maintaining well being.

Many students have joined the wearable tech revolution, taking the necessary steps to stay fit and take care of their bodies in quick and handy fashion.

Smart wristbands such as the Apple Watch, which was released last April, have become the most popular form of wearable technology.

“Since [the Apple watch] alerts me about my messages, it has been so much easier to keep up with my emails and texts, allowing me to quickly respond to them very conveniently,” North Hills Preparatory junior and Apple Watch owner Pallavi Nanu said.

Most smart wristband owners do not need to carry their phones in their pocket, allowing them to have a hands-free experience.

Despite popular notion, wearables include smart glasses, head-mounted displays, smart clothing, wireless headphones, heart rate monitors and essentially any other smart device you can wear.

Wearable technology has even had groundbreaking success in the healthcare field. The Lumo Lift is a small clip that has become a very popular device to improve posture and wellbeing.

Inventions such as these completely change the possibilities for people to take control of their lifestyles and keep our health in check.

Wristbands have special benefits for students because they can glance at their wrist for the time or quickly reply to text messages without the distraction of other apps, just their necessities.

Affordable to students, the Jawbone Up Move starts at just 25 dollars, ranges to the 85 dollar Fitbit Flex and finally the Apple

Watch, starting at 400 dollars.

“I never get distracted anymore when I need to reply to a message because I can instead type quick responses and dismiss other items easily,” TAMS (Texas Academy of Math and Science) junior and Apple Watch owner Priyanka Vayalai said.

Fitness trackers are not only for people trying to get in shape and meet 10,000 steps a day, the recommended number by the American Heart Association (AHA), but also for athletes who are trying to take their game to the next level.

“If you need to quickly know your heart rate, instead of sitting there and counting it, you could just use your device for quicker results,” Coppell High School sophomore Antharya Boindala said. “I use [my Fitbit] to my advantage to check my heart rate and see if I am improving when running.”

To make devices more personalizable and appealing, designer company Tory Burch has partnered with Fitbit and Hermes with Apple. Together, they have transformed trackers into fashionable and chic accessories.

It has been proven that only one in four teens get the exercise per day recommended by a study done by the Center for Disease and Control (CDC).

Nanu is a part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program who does not play a sport regularly and realizes that it is very difficult to fit in physical exercise with a heavy schoolwork load. Her Apple Watch has benefited her greatly with reminders and giving her suggestions to increase her steps based on her daily habits. “[The Apple Watch] allows me to be active by reminding me to get up and take a walk if I am sedentary for too long,” Nanu said.

Students who have made this small adjustment in their lives have boasted of their many benefits. It always helps to have someone encouraging you through the stressful time of high school by emphasizing exercise, more water and recommended sleep.

Start your journey by browsing Amazon’s wide selection to discover a wearable that fits you.

Information from cmo.com by Adobe

graphic by Rachel

Buigas-Lopez

THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

The Challenger disaster: 30 years later CHS staff recalls their experiences after tragic event written by Aisha

Espinosa and Pranathi Chitta

Thirty years ago, Americans nationwide tuned in to watch the launch of the NASA Space Shuttle Challenger. Aboard were seven astronauts, including New Hampshire teacher Christa McAuliffe, who was chosen out of thousands of finalists to teach a lesson from space.

Disaster struck when, 73 seconds into liftoff, the Challenger exploded, and all seven astronauts on board were killed.

The events of the day changed how NASA operated, and left a lasting legacy on the nation that some Coppell High School faculty remember.

Space Shuttle Challenger crew members including Ronald McNair, far right, are seen at the Kennedy Space Center in January 1986.

(Red Huber/Orlando Sentinel/TNS)

Diane de Waal, AP U.S. History Teacher

Michael Brock, IB History of the Americas Teacher

“We were in school and I was teaching at [Coppell Middle School West]. West was just the South campus back then. We had those big channel 1 TVs. We watched it take off, we were actually watching a launch with a room full of kids and saw the explosion in the sky and it was just unbelievable. The school day was beautiful just like today: blue skies and everything. It was just hard to believe that something that NASA had built had failed.

“It was just shocking. Everyone was stunned and just in a state of disbelief. The teacher got a lot of coverage for being a teacher and more than anything I was just sad since it was a dream and it was something nobody else was wanting to do. It was for nothing. We’re just regular people. It was more personal for me since she was someone I could’ve worked with.”

I remember it really really well because, one of my teachers, and he was also my assistant baseball coach, was the other finalist, along with Christa McAuliffe, to be the teacher on the space shuttle. So she got the seat, and he was the last guy that would have gotten it. Around my whole school, it was like a really sobering thing because Coach Curran was the other guy considered for that seat. We didn’t hear about it until lunch – initially you thought it was a rumor. When you got back into your classrooms, you could tell that it was a real thing. There were only two or three classrooms on campus that had a TV, and could watch the launch, and it spread from there.”

Mike Jasso, CHS Principal “I remember that I was driving, and driving near downtown Dallas. You know how some images just stay with you? I don’t know why I remember that. And the news came over the radio and it just struck me. I wasn’t paying close attention to the news or the radio but all of a sudden, it really captured my attention. That’s really a jarring type of news, so I remember pulling over to really pay attention and focus on what the radio was saying. As more and more news came out, I was saddened by the whole thing and praying for the families.”

Jan McClintock, AP Computer Science Teacher “I was in a training class, learning Cobal, my first programming language. I was in Lansing, Mich. Somebody came in and said that it had happened, and I was like “no way.” I was sick to my stomach because I’ve always enjoyed the space program and I’ve seen many launches so it’s been a big part of my life growing up.”

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THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

EDITORIAL

TIME TO STOP

GRUMBLING

Amid endless choices, opportunities should be appreciated instead of compared A rubix cube club, a fishing club and a football team.

All three can be found in one place; where is that place?

That place is your very own Coppell High School.

CHS has an inordinate amount of activities, extracurriculars and sports to be involved in, but many students still find a reason to complain. Complaints about the allocation of the money being spent, the lack of funds for their own activity and the like, have all been heard at least once.

But, it is important to step back for a moment and realize our situation is not as bad as it seems; in fact, it is not really bad at all. Coppell students are extremely blessed to live in such an affluent community who sees the importance of sports, academics and any other type of special interest a student may have. If you have an interest in Harry Potter, there is a club for you, if you love to play baseball, there is a place for you too.

There is no lack of diversity on the CHS campus, regardless of how much money is being devoted to each activity. Whether or not you believe the construction of the arena means CHS cares more about sports than they do your academic success, there is no reason to believe that your

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP

BUSINESS LEADERSHIP

Adviser

Communications Manager

Chase Wofford Editor-in-Chief

Rachel Buigas-Lopez Managing Editor

Mallorie Munoz Managing Editor

Joseph Krum Managing Editor

Sloane Samberson

EDITORIAL LEADERSHIP News Editor

Sakshi Venkatraman Editorial Page Editor

Emma Cummins Student Life Editor

Amy Roh

Webmaster and Graphics Editor

Manu Garikipati Sports Editor

Marcus Krum

Shannon Morgan

PHOTOGRAPHERS Chelsea Banks Sruthi Boppuri Ale Ceniceros Alexandra Dalton Amanda Hair Dani Ianni Ayoung Jo Kelly Monaghan Aubrie Sisk Jennifer Su Megan Winkle

DESIGNERS

Austin Banzon

STAFF WRITERS

T.J. Andres Gracie Blackwell Eric Cashimere Pranathi Chitta Avery Davis Favor Emenyi Aisha Espinosa Riley Galloway Elena Gillis Nicolas Henderson Meara Isenberg Jesse Jun Jamie Kimbrell Wren Lee Lili Lomas

Farah Merchant Lina Pyon Tanya Raghu Thomas Rousseau Kathryn Rudd Gabby Sahm Alex Smith Grant Spicer Meha Srivastav Jasmine Sun Maggie Theel Briana Thomas Chisom Ukoha Reid Valentine Kathryn Wiener

academic opportunities have been lacking because the football program, basketball program or any other program, is heavily funded.

CHS still provides a stellar education to any student willing to take advantages of the opportunities given to them. One could even make the case that anyone can shine at CHS, whether you be an athlete and are a part of the famed ‘signing day’ or simply a newspaper editor who receives a full ride to New York University.

Often, many assumptions are made about the sports organizations, which includes they only teach students how to play the sports. Nonetheless, sports teach players more than just plays on the field; rather, they learn a different kind of education. The sports programs teach participants how to handle life circumstances, something that is not taught through academic classes.

Just some of the things student participants learn are how to be a team player, how to handle loss and how to come together as a family in the end. These things cannot be taught through a simple school education.

The various programs at CHS do not all serve the same purpose, and one cannot compare them at the same level in terms of importance or quality. Learning to respect another’s accomplishments, regardless of whether or not they hold the same value for you, is paramount to cohesiveness in a community.

If you take anything from this editorial, let it be that your values should be directed towards the right place: the district who has the ability to handle your criticism.

High school students are not in any way responsible, and the benefits of any other sports program, some would say cannot be numerically measured. Be appreciative of what you have, and respect others who may have interests that do not align with yours.

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, Columbia Scholastic Press 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 School or Coppell Independent School District.

Advertisements 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.

To find us on social media follow Sidekick Online on Facebook, @CHSCampusNews on Twitter and SidekickNews on Snapchat.

Contact The Sidekick: 214-496-6239 cwofford@coppellisd.com 185 W. Parkway Coppell, TX 75019

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THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

REPLACE PAIN WITH HOPE

Tackling mental illness stigma in South Asian culture written by Briana

Thomas, Staff Writer

It was not pain, I was just numb. It is hard to explain if you cannot feel anything. From the start of my sophomore year, I had mastered the art of drowning out the quiet, despairing thoughts that clawed and cozied in my mind. Why? “They aren’t real.” I told myself.

I did not know where my despair was coming from. The word “depression” was absent from my vocabulary. I knew, however, that I was at fault, I was failing — I was defying expectations of who I was supposed to be with my suddenly inactive behavior. Defying the expectations set for me by my ancestors. The same ancestors’ whose blood now surges through my veins. I constantly questioned myself, “How can you be so selfish?”

Living in America, unlike most of all of my cousins, I had so much around me to keep me content and warm. Yet all that filled my soul was this sinister, bitter breeze, that still to this day I am unable to identify.

Mental illness in Asian American culture is not always, but more often, a problem that very few acknowledge, let alone imagine. One recent study conducted by the World Psychiatric Association, found that mental illness is the eighth leading cause of death for Asian-Americans, compared to 11th for the entire U.S. population. And the suicide rate of 11.6 per 100,000 for Asian women 65 and older is more than double that of white women. The reality is painful. I would know, as I myself have faced the depths of uncertainty, that come with a mental illness. A harrowing reality that is obscured by shame, misconceptions and stigma.

One of the most difficult factors of enduring a mental illness is accepting it. Many Asian teens are hesitant to express any psychological distress due to the societal and cultural constraints put upon them. Having a mental illness often times reflects poorly on family lineage. Also to be deemed “weak” is considered shameful in many Asian societies, decreasing the possibility of a patient to seek help. The dangerous weight of expectations acts as one of the biggest sources of poor mental health.

From my experiences, the most frightening part was the unknown. Medicine and perseverance could cure some of my problems, however, my anxiety is not something that would easily be controlled. The unseen presence of this monster, hoarding all my rational thoughts, only became more vicious as I ignored it. When experiencing a mental illness, your mind unwillingly embarks on this unabating journey that almost entirely seems to lack any solution. Comfort becomes a rarity. Simple tasks lack ease.

Anxiety begins to hold you hostage inside your own mind.

Growing up, “How are you feeling?” was not a question myself, and I’m sure many other Asian teenagers, heard much of. Having been taught to suppress feelings and get things done makes it only more difficult for many teens to accept, or even acknowledge any discrepancies that may be present or that are growing in their mental health.

We cannot, and must not, blame the undermined reality of mental illnesses in Asian families solely on our parents. It is not that they do not care or accept our desolation, it is that they do not understand it. Some Asian parents cannot fathom or bear to think about any obstacle that could even slightly distort the shining path of academic success and preservation of cultural ideas/morals, especially not a “mental illness.”

Many cannot empathize with a pain that they have not experienced themselves. The amount of times I have heard stories about my parents childhood, and journey to “the land of opportunity,” is immeasurable. The monsoon rain trickling down on a hopeful girl, in a small town in Kerala,India, who never imagined she would set foot in America.

Or the countless stories describing the diurnal duties of managing the farm, maintaining the house or even walking kilometers to a small school where the indescribable smiles illuminating students faces show you just how much of a luxury the education which we label, “boring” or “unnecessary,” really is. It is on the weary and stooped shoulders of our parents that we now stand tall, able to reach unimaginable heights.

I can completely understand the outlook many South Asian parents may have on mental health. Many parents experienced tremendous upheavals that have shaped their outlook on life.

“I’m sure it will take a few generations before, those who feel restrained, can finally be free,” said a mother of two south Asian teenagers/ girls. “We understand it, but it is hard finding a way to talk about it.”

Many Asian parents feel that if they are providing their kids with a home and a computer, they should be happy. That there is not really a major reason to be unhappy.

It is safe to say, that our parents have provided all that is necessary in order to keep us happy, in return, keeping them happy. But between the wide smiles, behind the joyful exterior and in those hopeful, rheumy eyes, lies an untold story – a tale of lonesomeness, anxiety, uncertainty and fear that they would rather leave untold.

We have now become a chapter in this story.

But we have two options.

We can continue to silence the pain we feel, and never have a chance of revival. Or, we can take a step towards acceptance, towards making “mental illness” a less stigmatized, more open topic for our future generations.

As someone who experiences anxiety, I have learned not only to acknowledge it but find ways to ease the distress that has been inflicted upon me. Finding ways to cope with my Students needing help are encouraged anxiety led me to find ways to improve other aspects of my life – most of which have been very to contact: beneficial.

Although it may be a difficult journey, I have great faith that any and every individual who is going through such stress can find peace in themselves, as I am continuing to do, through trusted advisors and Intervention Specialist, Dr. Paul Haggan peers.

Taking that step for me has been very impactful and I encourage you to find ways to do the same. The phaggan@coppellisd.com pain I have felt while writing this is less than the depth of the impact someone can make by reading it. We must not let the often intense societal demands of our culture silence us, we must fight for something more.

Crisis Cordinator, Sharron Thurlkill So for the sake of our future generations, let us close this chapter of suppression, and pain, and open up a chapter where the voices that have been silenced for so long are no longer just echoes, but reality. sthurlkill@coppellisd.com

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HERE’S TO LETTING GO, FINDING GENUINE HAPPINESS written by Sloane Samberson Managing Editor @sloanesamberson Hap•pi•ness (ha-pē-n s); the state of being happy.

Happy (ha-pē) feeling or showing pleasure or contentment.

Contentment (k n-tent-m nt) a state of satisfaction.

Satisfaction (sa-t s-fak-sh n) fulfillment of one’s wishes, expectations, or needs, or the pleasure derived from this.

photo courtesy Emma Ginnell

What is the true definition of happiness? For years I have scratched my head over finding an answer to this question. All the dictionary definitions I had found seemed so insufficient in defining its true meaning.

Many nights I laid restless, trying to figure out what the true definition of happiness is, because I was not happy myself.

I dissected the word, finding synonyms and antonyms as a futile attempt to uncover its true meaning, but finally came to the realization that genuine “happiness” cannot be defined – genuine happiness has no true definition.

“Happiness” is merely a word with three syllables, composed of nine letters. Genuine happiness is a feeling, and you cannot give a feeling a simple definition. I had taken the wrong approach.

But then, how does one achieve genuine happiness? That I am still trying to figure out.

I wish I could say that in all of my 17 years I have been genuinely happy, but that has not been my reality.

My reality is that of someone who has suffered from an anxiety disorder since they were 6.

The reality of someone who was diagnosed with depression in fifth grade. The reality of someone who developed an eating disorder at age 13 because she thought she wasn’t “pretty” enough.

My reality is frequent appointments with therapists – “How are you doing? How do you really feel?” It is cold, plastic coated doctors offices. It is orange pill bottles of Prozac, Klonopin and Seroquel.

My reality is missing school because I do not have the motivation or desire to get out of bed. It is feeling paralyzed with anxiety for no apparent reason. It is feeling constant nausea because of that anxiety, not eating because of the nausea and losing too much weight because of not eating.

My reality has been that of a girl who fell in love at age 16, and whose heart was broken at age 17. The reality of a girl who finally crumbled under the weight of all the burdens she had been carrying for years. The reality of a girl who nearly killed herself through destructive behaviors, because all she wanted was to cope with the sadness and anger she had compiled over the years – anything that made her forget was a temporary escape.

My reality has clouded the path of me achieving genuine happiness, but I still have hope. I have hope that 2016 is the year I achieve genuine happiness. That I will be able to clear my path by letting go of all my burdens.

This is the year that I learn to work against my mental illnesses, and not let them control my life any longer.

I am not writing this article for sympathy or attention,

everyone has their own strifes and struggles, but not everyone has hope.

This article is to have great significance in the remainder of my life, and hopefully will inspire others. It will serve as a reminder that I can be genuinely happy if I really want to be. As a reminder that I am a fighter and will not give up. I am not my mental illnesses, and I will not let them define me. This article is my accountability.

American lawyer Louis D. Brandeis once said, “If you would only recognize that life is hard, things would be so much easier for you.” Recognizing that life is not going to be easy is only half of the battle. The hardest part is accepting the fact that life is not always filled with good times, but that there will be many good times that make living worth it.

So if you are anything like me, you are going to have to get out of your head and just start living. It is a lot easier said than done, I understand that, but the first step is to just live in the now, not in the past, and not in the future.

Do not even try to plan out your future because I have discovered: life never goes as planned.

You are going to have to be very, very strong and combat your weaknesses. When you are feeling incapacitated by anxiety don’t just let your thoughts consume you. Listen to some calming music and get outside. Observe the flowers, the butterfly that rests on its petals, how the sun feels on your skin and the wind in your hair. Appreciate how precious life is and remind yourself that everything is going to be OK. Begin to fill your mind with nontoxic thoughts.

When all you want to do is lay in bed because you are drowning in depressive thoughts, get out of bed. You can’t sleep your thoughts away. The only thing you are sleeping away is your life. Call up your best friend(s) and go on an adventure. Go to the city, an art museum, drive until you run out of road – whatever suits your fancy. Browse for records until your fingers are sore from filing through them.

Eat at a hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Try something new.

Combating anxiety and depression is hard, but you must keep yourself busy. Filling your time with the people you love and fun experiences allows you to experience life in the best way possible. And, by experiencing life in the best possible way, you have a better shot at achieving genuine happiness.

You have to be an optimist, not a pessimist. Find beauty and joy in everything – especially the small things. It is all about perspective. You are ultimately in charge of your own happiness, so have hope, because in the end,

9

THE SIDEKICK

trump FACTS march 2016

feelings

Emotional response should not prevail over reasoning when discussing opinion

written by Emma Cummins Editorial Page Editor Before writing this column I would like to establish one thing: I am a journalist and I deal with facts.

What I am about to say is not going to be politicized or adjusted for the possibility that it may be “offensive” or labeled a “microaggression” or whatever word the liberal crowd has created.

Free speech is a right, not a privilege of a special, pre-determined group. Minorities, women or any other group that has historically been discriminated against, bears no right in claiming that other groups who are not exactly like them have the right to say certain statements that could be labeled “offensive.” The truth is the truth, regardless of who speaks it.

I’ve written about political correctness before but it deserves to be repeated: society has become far too sensitive for it to be healthy. Many liberals have great influence on teenagers, most especially those who lack any real guidance in the political realm. Liberals tend to hold more sway because their tactics are pure sophistry that rely on emotion. Facts are no longer the foremost way to win an argument.

In any discussion about a political or social issue, whether it be gay marriage, abortion or gun control, liberals resort

to character attacks rather than addressing the issue at hand. The minority groups of United States have found it to be their special privilege to end all honest discussion about facts or issues by simply saying, “You’ve hurt my feelings.” Or any other variety of responses that effectively end any type of logical and coherent discussion: “You’re a racist/homophobe/bigot.”

Debate is centered around facts, not feelings. Accusations about one’s character, such as: “You don’t care about the death of the children and college students if you don’t believe in gun control”, are superfluous and quite frankly, bully tactics.

I worry about the emotional response you may have if you are my friend or family member. But in a discussion about politics, regardless of who you are, one’s feelings are useless in a discussion. Facts and evidence are what matter. I don’t care who you are, or what you represent, all I care about is your opinion and solution to an issue, and what evidence you have to back that up.

Once you label me homophobic for believing gay marriage should not be recognized by the government, or a woman-hater for being pro-life, then you have lost the argument. I do in

fact, have a right to voice my opinion, on anything. Once you stray away from any actual arguments and attempt to shut me up because I’m a “bad” person, you have made sure the debate is futile.

Ideological fascism has taken ahold over many in this country, especially in educational settings. Regardless of what some may say, I do not have to be gay to understand what is homophobic and what is not, I do not have to be a minority to understand what racism is. That is one of the many lies that is being promoted among myself and my peers.

50 people participated in this poll

graphic by Manu

Garikipati

If someone’s opinion makes you feel marginalized and you decide to voice that marginalization rather than combat the opinion with contrary evidence, then I would suggest you read the First Amendment a few times and rethink how you present yourself. People disagree, and that is the beauty of discussion. So do not try and take away that right by spouting ad hominem attacks or citing “white privilege” trying to effectively eliminate that person’s opinion altogether.

So next time you meet someone who believes their feelings should be considered as fact and is thus necessary to a debate, politely reframe the discussion and choose to focus on facts.

cartoon by Thomas

Rousseau

10

THE SIDEKICK

graphic by Manu

Garikipati

march 2016

graphic by Austin

Banzon

More than meets the eye Special needs students learn important life skills with CHS Pathways Program written by Jesse Jun Staff Writer @jesse_jun16

One small act of kindness can bring a smile to a person’s face. One compliment can give someone more confidence. One program can change a person’s life forever: a program like Coppell High School’s Pathways Program.

For over 10 years, this program has served as an excellent way for students with disabilities to learn how to be independent. Providing work-based learning on and off campus and community-based instruction for high school and adult students, this program offers a learning experience that these students can take with them beyond high school and into

photo by Aubrie

adulthood.

The Pathways Program is led by CHS teachers Mimi Fleming and Melissa Allen. They have worked together over the years and have noticed the effect of the program on the students and their parents.

“I think it’s had a very positive effect,” Fleming said. “A lot of times we find that it’s a very stressful time for the parents so we try and work very closely with them to see what their hopes and dreams are for their kids and we provide them with information and resources so they feel like they have options.”

Fleming and Allen not only work closely with the parents, but have also set goals with the students they work with.

“Our whole purpose is to work on

Sisk

The Pathways Program at Coppell High School is centered around special needs students and helping them develop everyday skills. Students are assigned to do workday tasks like delivering mail, that help them develop their vocational skills.

their life skills to help them have a life of meaning and purpose,” Allen said. “But I just want my students to be the best them that they can be, and that’s different for each student.”

Despite some difficulties, both of these teachers enjoy their job and see it as a grand opportunity for them as well.

“It’s very personal to me,” Fleming said. “I love what I do because it’s real.

It’s very, very real and I know that what I’m doing has a long lasting impact on every single one of my students.”

Allen also enjoys spending time with and learning from her students.

“You have to have a heart for what you do,” Allen said. “You have to want and love to work with them and on the flip side, we get so much more daily rewards from what they give back to us.”

CHS senior Ali Gentry, a teacher aide for special needs classes, learns a lot from the students about the importance of being kind.

“My brother has autism so I’ve grown up in a kind of unique household and I’ve learned to be a lot more accepting than most people,” Gentry said. “These kids have the same feelings and emotions we do and they just need a little bit more help making friends and people just need to be kind and open to that.”

Through her experience working with special needs students, Gentry realizes the importance of lending a helping hand to special needs kids and bringing social acceptance to reality.

“Everyone wants to fit in,” Gentry said. “A lot of times people are mean just in general, but all anyone really wants is to feel loved and accepted, so I think it’s important to make everyone feel that way. And through my experience with special needs kids, I think I am a lot nicer than I would be if I hadn’t gone through that.”

In addition to students at CHS, Flem-

ing hopes to spark passion in people out in the community who don’t have a lot of experience dealing with special needs.

“We’re always really afraid that people will take advantage of them when they’re out in the world,” Fleming said.

“But what I hope on teaching other people that we see on a job site or out in the community is that their lives matter.

They matter just as much as ours do.”

Allen also hopes to change the perspective of the community and help them learn to see through different lenses.

“To me, the biggest thing that I feel like I can do is help change people’s perspectives on how to work with students with special needs and how to look at the world differently,” Allen said. “We forget the things that we take for granted like knowing how to type on the computer, how to talk to someone, or how to listen and be quiet- those are things we take for granted, yet things that we have to teach them how to do.”

Allen advises the students and those in the community about the importance of learning how to talk to and treat students with disabilities.

“The biggest thing that students don’t realize is that sometimes they are treated like they’re [kids] when they’re actually the same age,” Allen said. “We mean well, but sometimes these things can hurt them in the end. We need to know how to look through this different set of lenses. All those things we take for granted are a lot of times things that they struggle with. And sometimes we don’t realize they have normal feelings too.”

Through this program, these teachers, along with many students, have learned to recognize the importance of having passion and patience. Fleming and Allen hope to train the world to see things differently, and to be more caring to those with special needs in the community.

11

THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

HUMANS OF CHS

The answers of janitor Elsa Alvarez were translated from Spanish by head janitor Margie DeLeon.

Every morning, Elsa Alvarez and thousands of students walk through the same doors and enter the same school. They have laughed, worked and made friends under one roof, been to the same bathroom and some of the same classrooms. But one could say they lead gapped lives that touch only at the tables in the cafeteria or the hallways of B and E block.

Alvarez has been a janitor at Coppell High School for 17 years. She lived in El Salvador when she was young, but came to the United States in 1981 to work. I try dusting her mind for the wild greens and pure blues of a tucked childhood zipping free down blurs of beaches and volcanic island ash, a splash perhaps for the mute walls of the custodians’ small room.

Yet although she says she has many memories, she can not remember any of them clearly anymore.

“A relished childhood moment, anything?”

I ask.

But she still does not recall much of El Salvador, and when I ask her if she misses it at all, her answer comes without thought and need of translation from Spanish, “No.” She is used to Carrollton, where she lives, and it has been her home for decades following a faded birthplace.

Alvarez has to come to school everyday at 11:30 a.m., a time students would not mind for stumbling into first period.

But Alvarez leaves school at midnight. Expressing shock at the hours of her shift, I ask, “Do you not want to work some place else?” She laughs, a second universal intonation that I can understand, but still surprises.

She says she is very happy working at CHS, and I do not see any doubt of that in her cheerful face.

After waking up in the morning, Alvarez cooks for herself and her husband, who she lives with, since her children are now grown and adults themselves. Once she comes back home, it is the quiet crest of night and she is of course tired from a long without a doubt - day’s work.

But Alvarez does not let the working days that stray into night keep her from having time to enjoy simple things.

When she does have time, she says, she likes to go shopping and dancing.

I ask Alvarez what have been the worst and best days of her life; she says everyday is a good day for her.

“Would you change anything about your life if you could?”

She says she would have studied and gone to school. Alvarez only completed school until third or fourth grade, and her dream now is to be young again and have a chance at an education. She

Coppell High School janitor Elsa Alvarez has been working at Coppell High School for 17 years and moved to Texas from El Salvador in 1981. says she would not mind being a student here like the thousands who eat at the cafeteria she sweeps and walk through the hallways she travels everyday.

No matter her free and unfaulting positivity, Alvarez says sometimes it gets hard cleaning the school. Students forget there are people behind the trash that will ultimately disappear, and when Alvarez is faced with the dirt, scraps of paper and unending sweeps of her mop, she feels upset.

But she knows she has to clean it anyway, and gets through it everyday.

And although she loves her job, Alvarez says she sometimes gets bored doing the same

‘‘

thing over and over again. “Do you have any friends that make it easier?”

She has a bunch, she replies, right now laughing with head custodian Margie DeLeon.

Alvarez says she has no dreams anymore; she is later into her life and is happy with what she has lived. “What makes you happiest now?” I ask.

DeLeon translates for me, “Just coming to work and knowing that she does everything for herself by herself. She doesn’t have to depend on anyone for anything.”

“Is she proud of that?” I ask.

“Oh yes. She is very proud of that.”

Just coming to work and knowing that she does everything for herself by herself [makes her the happiest]. She doesn't have to depend on anyone for anything -CHS Janitor Elsa Alvarez

‘‘

written by Meha Srivastav Staff Writer @theofficialMeha

A day in the life of a janitor

photos by

Amanda Hair

12

WORTH THE WAIT

Seating

The arena’s seating capacity is about 2,400, including wheelchair accessible seating. photo by Aubrie

Sisk

Delays

The construction of the new arena was delayed at least 60 days. The main cause of these delays was rain. Also, the complexity of the structure was underestimated by the contractor and therefore the time allotted for construction had to be extended.

COPPELL HIGH SCHOOL Arena

52,555 square feet

photos by Mallorie

2,400

Approximate seating capacity

Munoz

$12.7 M

Total cost of the arena

13

photos by Mallorie

Munoz

graphics courtesy Sid

Grant

State of the art facility now open for public use

written by Marcus Krum, Sports Editor

It is here.

After several delays over four months, the new Coppell High School multi-purpose arena, a part of a $79 million bond passed in 2013, is finally completed.

“It’s exciting,” Coppell facilities director and CHS basketball coach Kit Pehl said. “I’m most excited for the [basketball] seniors. They were under the impression that they would get in there at the start of basketball season. There was a time period when we didn’t think they would get any games in there. It’s cool, it injects a certain amount of excitement into this point in the season. Having clinched district, it’s a good way to naturally energize guys. I’m excited about it.”

The new facility was first used for the Cowboys’ final basketball game of the season in their 50-33 victory over Colleyville Heritage. The atmosphere of the senior night win was electric throughout the entire game, all the way until the players ceremoniously cut down the nets.

“It’s a state of the art facility,” CHS senior guard Josh Fink said. “It’s by far one of the best in Texas, and I’m sure in the country. It’s just incredible. It makes a great game atmosphere. Everything’s new, the floor’s great, all in all it’s just a great place.”

The arena, complete with bowl seating, bucket seats in the upper level and sidelines, and a video board in the middle of the arena, is recognized as one of the most advanced high school facilities in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

“The knowledge that you’re playing in the premier place, it generates excitement,” Pehl said. “When you feel good about what you wear and when you feel good about where you play, that presents natural excitement. People are going to want to play here. It’s pretty neat to know that that’s your house. That mentality will be in our kids.”

The 52,555 square foot arena, which seats 2,400, will be able to host a number of events, including the senior awards assembly, pep rallies, basketball and volleyball games and, according to Pehl, the possibility of lower level college games. No matter the event, the arena will be sure to impress.

“It’s amazing,” CHS freshman guard Tariq Aman said.

“There’s no other way to describe it. It’s just amazing.”

Preliminary arena exterior sketches presented to the Coppell ISD Board of Trustees on Feb. 17, 2014.

Preliminary arena interior sketches presented to the Coppell ISD Board of Trustees on Feb. 17, 2014.

photos by Mallorie

Munoz The arena was under construction throughout the 2014-15 and 2015-16 school years.

Scan here to watch a video of the arena under construction

COMPARE TO UNT COLISEUM The Super Pit

The final arena interior constructed at Coppell High School, finished on Feb. 12.

200,492 square feet

10,040

Approximate seating capacity

$7.5 M

Total cost of the arena Information from policy.unt.edu and studentaffairs.unt.edu

14

THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

Click to Change Jain creates computer labs in India, garners attention globally

photo courtesy Pranjal

Jain

Sophomore Pranjal Jain has built two computer labs in India in 2012 and 2015. Villagers can sign up and come in for free to learn more about the basics of computers, as seen here.

written by Pranathi Chitta Staff Writer @prannydacheetah During the summer time, many students just want to relax. However, Coppell High School sophomore Pranjal Jain has come a long way by spending his summers giving back to his community in India.

When Jain visited his grandmother’s house in the summer of 2011, he got an idea that would significantly help people improve their technological skills. “[My grandmother] had a maid who she brought her son along with her,” Jain said.

“One day, I was playing on my laptop, and her son usually came and sat by me and he wanted to know how to use it because he wanted to play too. So I started teaching him and I realized he learned how to use the laptop really, really fast. I thought ‘There must be a lot of kids like him who have the potential to earn but they don’t have any equipment.’”

In late 2011, Jain and his friends began collecting laptops and money. Jain got five laptops and about $700. With that, in the summer of 2012 Jain setup a lab in a small village, Dangi Ki Hunder in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.

“The first time he brought up the idea in 2011, his dad and I were astonished,” mother Ishita Jain said. “We thought it was a great opportunity to not only enrich others but to also enrich Pranjal’s character.”

Jain taught 12 kids for two weeks about computer basics such as Microsoft Office and how to browse the internet.

“It was a really successful thing; kids from other villages started coming too,” Jain said.

Mrs. Jain and her husband Vinod Jain, have also helped him to create the computer lab. Not only did Mr. and Mrs Jain help their son with transportation to and from the lab,

but they also helped him develop his confiTo get space and other necessary funds, dence.

Jain teamed up with a non profit organiza“We encouraged him to follow through tion, Manas Bharti Sansthan, for help. When with his idea Jain is in the and did not United States, let him give his grandparup,” Mr. Jain ents usually said.

“The go and check first time he in to the labs set up the lab in India. The in 2012, he computer labs was very shy are open from and had trou8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ble teaching a and people large group who sign up of kids. As a can come in result, [we] and learn for acted as his free. audience the “It’s just me night before right now,” Jain and had him said. “I hope practice on people read this his public and contact speaking me with donaphoto courtesy Pranjal Jain skills.” tions.”

B ecause According After creating his first computer lab, sophomore Pranjal of the sucto Jain and his Jain received a letter from President Barack Obama cess the lab parents, donacongratulating him on his achievements. earned in tions are hard 2012, Jain to get to setup went through the lab, however, to create another lab in the summer of 2015. that did not hinder Jain.

“In 2013 and 2014, I managed to collect “We supported [Jain] by not letting him seven laptops and $200,” Jain said. “I set up get discouraged and presenting him with another lab in another village. For a week I more ideas on how to acquire more laptops taught ten students how to work the laptop.” and money,” Ishita said. “We made sure he

would not give up on his idea.”

Jain’s World History teacher, Chris Caussey, is also proud of Jain’s achievement and h o w much he has contributed.

“It’s great that Pranjal could go over to India and form positive relationships with people and actually teach them how to use computers,” Caussey said. “I think it’s great when you have peop l e from different countries sharing different ideas being positive and working hard to improve lives.”

In 2012, Jain received a letter from President Barack Obama acknowledging his volunteer work and congratulating him for his hard work.

“This letter motivated him to volunteer even more and caused him to further grow as a person,” Vinod said. “I’ve noticed that ever since he started this project, he has been more focused and more observant about his surroundings.”

Jain has received many thank you letters from students regarding his work, which inspired him to go further.

“Through college I plan on going back and forth to set up even more labs,” Jain said.

Scan here to view Jain’s website

15

THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

Master of words from A to Z

Upadhyayula’s rewarding seven year spelling career comes to an end written by Tanya Raghu Staff Writer @tanya_raghu Through the grueling hours of memorization, strenuous concentrating and stressful moments during competitions, the arduous, yet rewarding spelling career of Coppell Middle School West eighth grader Smrithi Upadhyayula has reached its end.

The fruits of Upadhyayula’s labor are not only the dozens of trophies displayed along her desk but come in the intangible form of traits perseverance, work ethic and dedication she will carry with her into her bright future.

“You have to keep working hard at it even though it gets boring sometimes - but you will eventually get the award for it, which is moving on to the next level,” Upadhyayula said. “It has helped me set my mind on a goal.”

As Upadhyayula started to gain confidence through the years and continued winning competitions and expanding the range of her vocabulary, by the end of her career she had traveled to New Jersey, California,

Ohio, North Carolina and Washington D.C. for competitions.

“There’s definitely a lot of pressure, I was scared [to compete] at first but it definitely gets better,” Upadhyayula said.

After the beginning stages of her spelling career, her parents did not have to push her on any occasion, all her determination and drive came from within. At the end of her journey, her parents have achieved their true goals of teaching her the value of commitment and persistence, the real reason they encouraged her to compete in spelling bees.

“More than the wins and trophies, it is the lessons that she learned from this journey that are worth all the time and effort that she poured into this,” mother Padmini Upadhyayula said.

Her eighth grade English teacher, Stephanie Howell, plays an important part in motivating Smrithi before competition and even sets up mock spelling bees in class for confidence and encouragement.

“I think she is phenomenal, she has worked really hard to become an outstanding speller and she is reaping the benefits of all her hard work,” Howell said.

During the spelling season, Upadhyayula diligently studies a hour on the weekdays and

six to eight hours every weekend. Since Upadhyayula is starting high school next year, her mother is relieved she gets the opportunity to channel her talents elsewhere.

“I am happy that she does not have to go through the gruelling practices anymore after this year,” Mrs. Upadhyayula said.

Spelling bees are an activity that end after the eighth grade, but even with nowhere else to take her skill, the grammar, competitive spirit and vocabulary skills will be with her lifelong.

“I have heard from a lot of different spellers that it feels like there is something missing from what you are doing,” Upadhyayula said.

“I’m sure I am going to feel the same because I have spent so much time on [spelling]. It is going to feel a bit strange at first.”

Last year was Upadhyayula’s first time on the Scripps National stage - an experience she will never forget and is very thankful for. The experience is something she hopes for again, but she acknowledges that the competition is growing. Even though she went once, she might not get the opportunity again.

“The competition itself is thrilling to know that there are a bunch of people watching you while spelling these words,” Upadhyayula said. graphic by Elena Gillis

photo by Alejandra Ceniceros

Smrithi Upadhyayula, a eighth grader at Coppell Middle School West, has been competing in spelling bee’s since second grade and reached the National Scripps Bee last year for the first time. Her mother, Padmini Upadhyayula, said her favorite moment was, “…when she threw her hands up in the air and screamed ‘Yes‘, after spelling the championship word in last year’s Dallas Morning News Regional Spelling Bee.”

15

THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

Master of words from A to Z

Upadhyayula’s rewarding seven year spelling career comes to an end written by Tanya Raghu Staff Writer @tanya_raghu Through the grueling hours of memorization, strenuous concentrating and stressful moments during competitions, the arduous, yet rewarding spelling career of Coppell Middle School West eighth grader Smrithi Upadhyayula has reached its end.

The fruits of Upadhyayula’s labor are not only the dozens of trophies displayed along her desk but come in the intangible form of traits perseverance, work ethic and dedication she will carry with her into her bright future.

“You have to keep working hard at it even though it gets boring sometimes - but you will eventually get the award for it, which is moving on to the next level,” Upadhyayula said. “It has helped me set my mind on a goal.”

As Upadhyayula started to gain confidence through the years and continued winning competitions and expanding the range of her vocabulary, by the end of her career she had traveled to New Jersey, California,

Ohio, North Carolina and Washington D.C. for competitions.

“There’s definitely a lot of pressure, I was scared [to compete] at first but it definitely gets better,” Upadhyayula said.

After the beginning stages of her spelling career, her parents did not have to push her on any occasion, all her determination and drive came from within. At the end of her journey, her parents have achieved their true goals of teaching her the value of commitment and persistence, the real reason they encouraged her to compete in spelling bees.

“More than the wins and trophies, it is the lessons that she learned from this journey that are worth all the time and effort that she poured into this,” mother Padmini Upadhyayula said.

Her eighth grade English teacher, Stephanie Howell, plays an important part in motivating Smrithi before competition and even sets up mock spelling bees in class for confidence and encouragement.

“I think she is phenomenal, she has worked really hard to become an outstanding speller and she is reaping the benefits of all her hard work,” Howell said.

During the spelling season, Upadhyayula diligently studies a hour on the weekdays and

six to eight hours every weekend. Since Upadhyayula is starting high school next year, her mother is relieved she gets the opportunity to channel her talents elsewhere.

“I am happy that she does not have to go through the gruelling practices anymore after this year,” Mrs. Upadhyayula said.

Spelling bees are an activity that end after the eighth grade, but even with nowhere else to take her skill, the grammar, competitive spirit and vocabulary skills will be with her lifelong.

“I have heard from a lot of different spellers that it feels like there is something missing from what you are doing,” Upadhyayula said.

“I’m sure I am going to feel the same because I have spent so much time on [spelling]. It is going to feel a bit strange at first.”

Last year was Upadhyayula’s first time on the Scripps National stage - an experience she will never forget and is very thankful for. The experience is something she hopes for again, but she acknowledges that the competition is growing. Even though she went once, she might not get the opportunity again.

“The competition itself is thrilling to know that there are a bunch of people watching you while spelling these words,” Upadhyayula said. graphic by Elena Gillis

photo by Alejandra Ceniceros

Smrithi Upadhyayula, a eighth grader at Coppell Middle School West, has been competing in spelling bee’s since second grade and reached the National Scripps Bee last year for the first time. Her mother, Padmini Upadhyayula, said her favorite moment was, “…when she threw her hands up in the air and screamed ‘Yes‘, after spelling the championship word in last year’s Dallas Morning News Regional Spelling Bee.”

16

THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

C

photo by Alex

H

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f

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Dalton photo by Aubrie

written by Elena Gillis Staff Writer @elenamg24 The walls of Local Diner are adorned with pictures of stars such as Audrey Hepburn, Winston Churchill, Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. The air hums with the sound of many 50s tunes and you are greeted by the friendly, eager staff as you wait to enjoy many delicious options.

The Local Diner has been prov i d i ng the community

best breakfast

Sisk

Serving great food CLASSIC BREAKFAST to the community Donut Palace is a Sunday family tradition home and enjoy the treats we got while written by Emma Cummins watching whatever national tennis tournasince 1989 Editorial Page Editor ment is going on (my father is an avid tennis with great food since 1989. Some of its most popular menu items include the Turkey Club, the Reuben and the ever-popular plate-sized pancakes (which come in a variety of flavors).

Other meal choices range from breakfast to lunch, including typical diner food such as burgers and meatloaf, and more unique items such as Cinnamon Roll French Toast.

The Local Diner has two locations – one in Old Town Coppell at West Bethel Road and Main Street and one in Irving on North Beltline Road. Both are open from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., making it the perfect spot to grab a hearty breakfast, or classic diner-style lunch.

While many other things in Coppell have changed, Local Diner remains the local favorite throughout the years.

It is Sunday morning, and mass at St. Ann Catholic Parish in Coppell has just ended. Instead of driving home, my father, my sister and I drive over to Donut Palace.

Sunday is the day for rest and donuts in the Cummins household. But the tradition is not for donuts from any old place, it is for donuts from Donut Palace, located on Sandy Lake Road in Coppell.

While there are many options at Donut Palace, my family and I order the same thing every time, because why try to beat the best?

My sister takes advantage of the cinnamon sprinkled crazy eight, while I go for the classic glazed and and a bag of donut holes for the family. My father orders two plain classic donuts that he eats with his coffee.

After grabbing our donuts, we head

fan).

Donut Palace is inexpensive – at most my family spends $5 for our donut fix.

They have a variety of donuts: jelly filled, chocolate glazed or for those who do not like donuts they have apple fritters, cinnamon buns and other options.

If you like your donuts hot, the employees can easily heat up your donuts and send you on your way. The next time you feel the need for a donut, check out Donut Palace, it may become your favorite tradition.

best donuts

Zenzero Kitchen and Bakery’s fresh ingredients take the cake written by Sloane Samberson Managing Editor @sloanesamberson

best bakery photo by Kelly

Monaghan

“It all began with a girl,” and this girl is Coppell resident Ginger Blazek, creator and owner of Zenzero Kitchen and Bakery. Back in 2012, Blazek opened Zenzero as she wanted to take her lifelong passion from her kitchen at home to the community.

If you are wondering what “zenzero” means, you do not have to take too many guesses – “zenzero” is the Italian word for ginger (Blazek’s first name).

Zenzero’s baked goods range from its Southern classic, Gooey Buttercake, to more unique items such as Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars and Strawberry Jalapeño Hand Pies. It also offers a variety of homemade cookies and

cakes, which can be customized for special occasions.

Aside from being a bakery, it also offers food for every meal of the day. For breakfast or brunch, treat yourself with its Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit (a gourmet take on the Whataburger favorite) or a warm, gooey, icing slathered cinnamon roll.

For lunch, an Adult Grilled Cheese, which contains a combination of havarti and bleu cheese, with peppered bacon and apple slices. And for dinner a Caprese Burger – the classic Italian salad meets hearty Southern burger.

For Coppell High School students who have renissance lunch, Zenzero is a great option for lunch because it is in walking distance from the campus. Located at #600, 171 N Denton Tap Rd, Zenzero is right next to Jimmy John’s and Palio’s Pizza Cafe.

Zenzero is not just the best bakery in

Coppell because it uses the freshest ingredients and traditional “small-batch” method to make their baked goods, but because it makes everyone who comes in feel at home.

As stated on its website, the mission of Zenzero is to “maintain a passion in preparing food and coffee to exacting quality standards that are reflected in the preparation, presentation and taste of our products.” Not only this, but they believe in creating an atmosphere of warmth and homeliness because Zenzero is their home.

So stop by Zenzero. Pick up a pastry (or two) for yourself and/or your family, maybe even grab some lunch. Stay for a while, sip on a cup of coffee and relax – you will feel at home, or better yet, on vacation as you are treated with delicious food and warm, smiling faces.

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What-a restauraunt Texas icon doubles as popular CHS hangout

written by Valeria Gil de Leyva “There are no specific favorites, everything sells,” Coppell What-a-burger employee Laura B. said. “Everyone loves What-a-burger.”

When you say “Texas,” a lot of people immediately think “What-a-burger.” What-a-burger first opened in 1955 in Corpus Christi.

Years later, it would be accurate to say What-a-burger is a beloved “Texan restaurant.”

There is never a time when you walk through the doors of the famous fast food restaurant in Coppell and are not greeted by the smiles of happy customers. During football season, you will find many junior and senior students from Coppell High School in Whata-burger after a game celebrating with a burger, whether the Cowboys won or not.

Whataburger is famous for its Patty Melt. The delicious creation consists of two beef patties, grilled onions, two slices of Monterey Jack cheese and its famous Creamy Pepper Sauce on Texas toast.

Another fan favorite is the mouth watering Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit. This item is “exclusive”, as it is only served from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. This culinary creations is made up of a chicken strip on a buttermilk biscuit, covered with their special honey butter sauce, which some folks refer to as “liquid gold.”

The best thing about What-a-burger, other than their tasty food, is that they are open 24/7. Yep, you heard that right, 24 hours. What-a-burger is there to satisfy our cravings at any time of the day, thus why it is the best fast food restaurant in Coppell.

best fast food

photo by Dani

Ianni

I’LL BE BAC K TO American style restaurant proves to be the perfect brunch environment written by Meara

Isenberg, Staff Writer, @mearaannee

At the heart of Coppell, J. Macklin’s grill has been offering American style food since 2009. Their motto “Eat. Talk. Drink.”, though vague, could not have better summed up my experience at the popular brunch spot.

EAT.

I was craving something warm on a chilly December Sunday and the brunch menu did not disappoint. The options (served only from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sat. and Sun.) included everything from beignets to pigs in a blanket.

With all the unique options, it was hard to narrow my order down to just one thing, but I finally decided on the Fried Chicken and Waffles. This was one of the more pricey options on the menu and I would soon find out why.

After a short wait, the waitress brought out a syrup-drizzled belgian waffle with a huge piece of fried chicken on the side. I ate until I could not anymore (turns out there is such s thing as too much maple syrup) and brought the rest home for my family to enjoy.

TALK.

The booth I sat in was right smack in the middle of the restaurant, so initially I feared that when the non-morning people showed up, it would get pretty loud.

But even as more seats were filled, I had no trouble hearing my brother across from me or even the music playing.

The way the tables were placed around the restaurant and the overall comfort provided by the booth along with the dimmed light fixtures, sure made talking easy, and on top of that the multiple TVs gave us something to talk about.

DRINK.

I ordered a water, which the waitress came by to refill multiple times. I would take a sip, look away for a second, and my glass would be full again.

With a cool style, delicious food, and yes, complimentary Wi-Fi, J. Mackin’s will definitely be my go-to brunch restaurant from now on.

best brunch photo by Kelly

Monaghan

A piece of Jersey Shore wins the hearts of Coppell with fresh ingredients written by Gracie Blackwell , Staff Writer, @graciebwell Upon walking through Jersey Mike’s you can find an array of posters on the walls of giant postcards and pictures of the city of Point Pleasant in the Jersey Shore. The pictures on the wall remind you of sandy shores and cool east coast waves.

This famous sub shop has been around since 1956, first opening on the Jersey Shore, receiving its name from its first owner. With more than 1,500 Jersey Mike’s stores open in the United States, Coppell is happy to have one of its own. The franchise came to Coppell in 2013, bringing a piece of the Jersey Shore to North Texas.

Although the shop is fairly new and not native to Texas, it has captivated the hearts of many in Coppell. Among the customers favorites are the Meatball Sub and the Original Italian Sub; to top it all off, the Mike’s Way dressings and toppings.

The mouthwatering Meatball Sub contains meatballs, to-

best sandwich

mato sauce, your choice of bread, and provolone cheese. It is not only pleasing to the eye, its also pleasing to the mouth.

Another popular choice among customers is the Original Italian Sub, which contains provolone cheese, ham, prosciuttini, salami and pepperoni, making it a rich and savory option to choose from.

There are a variety of toppings you can choose from that make it the perfect “build-your-own” place. Jersey Mike’s has created its very own topping, Mike’s Way, which contains lettuce, onions, tomatoes, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a special blend of spices.

What makes Jersey Mike’s unique and so good is that every topping and spice is fresh, the bread is baked in the shop every day, and the meat and cheeses are sliced right in front of you.

Watch your favorite football teams on the TVs as you eat, or just sit and relax with your family – it has a very casual atmosphere. Jersey Mike’s is not your typical sub shop, thus making it the best place to get a sandwich in Coppell.

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Anamia’s authentic flavor, atmosphere brings Mexico to Coppell written by Tanya Raghu Staff Writer @tanya_raghu As you enter Anamia’s, the classy and elegant interior never fails to impress guests.

Beautiful paintings that capture Mexican heritage complement the cultural environment set by the traditional food and friendly staff.

Because of the popularity of the restaurant, a 10 to 30 minute wait is not uncommon, but keep in mind, the food is well worth the wait.

To start off the meal, the table side guacamole is a hit every time and is one of the most popular dishes. A staff member gives you the opportunity to alter the spice level and customize the dish while being entertained.

The Tex-Mex nature of Anamia’s food guarantees that there is always something

to delight native Texans. Menu items range from dishes of “del mar” (of the sea), chicken, enchiladas, Tex-Mex, grilled and speciality items.

If your New Year’s resolution requires you to cut down on calories, do not fear as Anamia’s has flavorful salad options which are light, but satisfying.

Despite the luxurious interior, prices of the dishes are kept reasonable, making it a natural choice for Coppell families.

Do not forget to top off your Anamia’s experience with a traditional Mexican dessert such as flan, tres leches cake or coconut palpa.

The classy yet reasonable nature of Anamia’s makes it The Sidekick’s choice for the best Mexican restaurant in Coppell. Be sure to visit soon.

best mexican photo by Ale

photo by Mallorie

Munoz

A date with the best

Palio’s named best fit for a date night best date night written by Mallorie Munoz Managing Editor @munoz_mallorie When planning your next evening with your significant other, look no further than Palio’s Pizza Cafe. Whether it is a romantic dinner or a spontaneous lunch date, Palio’s offers the perfect atmosphere.

With its dim mood lighting and tall booths, the setting is intimate. Yet, in serving pizza in a room with TVs mounted on the wall, the location is kept fairly casual, too.

The restaurant is divided into two dining areas, allowing for plenty of seating and a variety of settings. The room in the back is lined with windows, letting in natural light for a casual lunch, and creating an even more romantic, secluded area at night.

The front, main room is always dimly lit, making any time of day feel like a dreamy dinner.

Palio’s, although known best for their pizza, also serves sandwiches, salads and pastas. The kid’s menu features pizzas and pastas as well. There are even vegetarian options, like the Mediterranean and Quattro Formagio pizza. Their menu has something for everyone.

Palio’s is conveniently located next to Coppell High School and is well-priced, making it the best location for a date, especially for high school students.

Ceniceros

written by Aubrie Sisk Staff Photographer @aubriesisk Walking into Smashburger is a complete change of atmosphere. It is like stepping into the diner from Grease, with the casual comfy atmosphere and the great quality of food, but with a modern twist.

Smashburger has a wide variety of items to order.

Along with beef patties you’re given the option of chicken, crispy or grilled, or a black bean burger. The fries are cooked to crispy perfection. With the option of regular fries, or sweet potato fries and “smashfries” which are cooked and seasoned with rosemary. Smashburger is located next to Schlotzsky’s and Einstein Bros. Bagels off of Denton Tap Road.

Its decorative interior and red leather booths give it a comfy atmosphere. Its friendly staff makes sure that the customers are taken care of. Smashburger is the perfect restaurant for a casual lunch date with friends or a close to home date night.

photo by Aubrie

Sisk

“Smashing” the competition

Variety of tasty options brings Smashburger to the top

best burger

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It’s all Greek for Coppell

Coppell’s best new restuarant offers a variety of mouthwatering food written by Sruthi Boppuri Staff Writer @sruthiboppuri Greece has officially come to Coppell.

With the opening of the restaurant Little Greek this past summer, people are able to enjoy a wide array of Greek dishes with a modern American twist, without breaking the bank.

Little Greek is the perfect way to add a hint of Greek culture into your life, offering delicious dishes ranging from pita to salads to skewers.

The restaurant has a

casual, lively atmosphere, making it a great place to spend quality time with friends and family.

As soon as you enter the restaurant, you are greeted by the friendly staff. Diners can first order their choice of food at the

counter, and then find a table to be seated at.

Little Greek has fast service, without being fast food.

Diners will not have to spend too much time waiting for their

food to be prepared.

Little Greek’s large variety of dishes gives diners many options to choose from. Among the favorites is the classic Greek Chicken Pita, a delicious Greek sandwich containing feta cheese, chicken, lettuce, tomatoes and tzatziki sauce.

Have any specific dietary restrictions?

Not to worry. Little Greek offers both gluten-free and vegetarian options for their customers.

Little Greek is a great, versatile restaurant, making it the best new restaurant in Coppell.

best new

restauraunt photo by Mallorie

Munoz

Tappy’s freezes the mind with pleasure Flavor your world with frozen yogurt written by Jamie Kimbrell Staff Writer @jaynicole2015 On a Saturday afternoon, I walked into Tappy’s Yogurt with my friends ready to eat at the best yogurt shop in Coppell. As we journeyed to the shop, I excitedly thought about all of the tasty combinations of yogurt and toppings, as well as being ready to spend time with my friends before school started after winter break.

The first thing you see when you walk into Tappy’s Yogurt is the brightly colored walls that make it an inviting space to hang out with friends. As you travel farther into the store, you reach the wall of frozen yogurts.

As I surveyed the different flavors, I decided on Strawberry Shortcake. I went to the machine and pink yogurt flowed out, into the cup – I was only just beginning to build my frozen treat.

With 16 different flavors, Tappy’s always has a flavor to satisfy any customer who comes into the shop. Just choosing the flavor of the rich, creamy frozen yogurt will make your heart warm – con-

trary to your cold mouth.

But wait, the create your own frozen treat does not end at the yogurt, there are many toppings to make your yogurt just the way you want it. The topping selection ranges from fruity options such as strawberries and boba balls to chocolate choices such as Oreos and KIT KATs, as well as a variety of everything in between.

After I chose my flavor of yogurt, I went down the extensive bar of toppings.

I selected fresh strawberries and KIT KATs to top my Strawberry Shortcake yogurt. When I sat down with my friends and tasted the yogurt, the silky texture and mix of toppings was a highlight of our afternoon.

Tappy’s is not only delicious, but very affordable. Once you have created your yogurt, you weigh it to pay for the contents in your bowl. For my cup of yogurt, it cost $3.52 (32 cents per ounce), and I could not believe that something which tasted so good could be so lowpriced. With its variety of flavors and toppings, affordable pricing and cheery atmosphere, Tappy’s Yogurt definitely deserves its title of being the best place to get frozen yogurt in Coppell.

best yogurt photo by Megan

Winkle

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C O N C U S S I O N hits with a whip lash Movie brings awareness, profound message about football and its dangers

written by Joseph Krum Managing Editor @joseph_krum To say that I walked out of movie theater No. 6 at the Grapevine Mills AMC with a completely changed mind was an understatement.

Peter Landesman’s Concussion came with a slap in the face. As I watched the two hour film, I came to realize the horrors football can bring.

I mainly wanted to see Concussion just because it seemed to be another quality Will Smith movie that might have a few interesting facts about concussions. When I saw former Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster (David Morse) living out of his car by the railroad tracks trying to suffocate himself, I realized that Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, or CTE, and concussions are a whole lot bigger than just a game.

In the film, Dr. Bennet Omalu (Will Smith) has the duty of performing the autopsy on Webster, a four-time Super Bowl champion. He couldn’t figure out what was wrong with Webster within the first general autopsy, so he performed an examination on the brain, which he revealed the CTE disease.

After he was shut down by the NFL for his findings, Omalu kept on fighting to prove his findings true to hopefully help save the lives of future NFL players.

As the movie was coming to an end, one staggering fact popped up on the screen that really made me rethink my view on football: Twenty-four percent of NFL players will develop CTE. At first, I thought that was a little bit of a stretch. I mean, there’s no way that almost one in every four players could develop this progressive degenerative disease that destroys the brain.

As a football player myself, I really started to re-examine the dangers of football with concussions. I was badly concussed the spring break of my seventh grade year, so I have always been careful with my head.

My mother has never been too excited of me playing football since she realizes the risks that the sport can have.

Thinking back to my concussion and how it was just one blow to the head that sent me to the hospital, the most interesting fact in the movie is that necessarily the “knockout blows” that are the worst. The repetitive knocks to the head area and the constant batter of the

brain can be the true demons behind CTE. One of the smaller points that was made throughout the movie is the center position, played by Webster, is the most at risk position since the player uses his head almost spear-like every single play.

I have played center all throughout pee wee football, through middle school and up to sophomore year of high school. I can speak from experience that the constant blows to the head can be dangerous, and it seems almost the worst in practice.

Overall, the film brought light to a recent discovery that shook the whole football world. Many parents and even former NFL players themselves, such as former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman, are now growing very weary of the possibility of their sons playing football.

Aikman said that if he had sons, he “would probably not be really excited” about them playing since it can lead to this disease.

The film also showed the struggle of Dr. Omalu to publish his findings, and the fact that many people are

now scared of his findings. And finally, the film showed that head injuries and concussions are much bigger than just a game.

Concussion not only has changed my perspective on football but in life itself. I realize now that life is too precious to risk it by playing a game if it all comes down to it. Although I will not necessarily quit playing football all together, it was nice to get grounded and realize the dangers of the sport we all love.

Information from thepostgame.com

graphic by Austin

Banzon

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A Steadfast approach to fitness

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Faith and health culminate into success written by Reid Valentine Staff Writer @reidv9 The 21st century is the age of personalization, and the new Steadfast Fitness & Performance location in Coppell is anything but a cookie cutter gym because of its unique workout plan for each client.

Co-owners Isaiah Stanback and Jared Harrison started this business in Flower Mound and received nothing but good feedback and reviews, and they found, as successful businesses do, it was time for expansion.

“Neither one of us had ever owned a business before,” Harrison said, via text message.

“But we were both willing to jump out on faith and let God take the wheel. We recognized we had both been through a lot, from Isaiah’s surgeries to me being diagnosed with diabetes, God had taken care of us so far, so why wouldn’t he continue?”

In his childhood, success was not an option for Stanback, it was a necessity.

“I grew up in a rough neighborhood, where I was at, it was either you make it out or you’re not going to make it,” Stanback said.

“A lot of guys I grew up with are either in jail or murdered unfortunately.”

Stanback was brought up in the inner city central district of Seattle. Coming from a city that has produced iconic names like Jimi Hendrix and Bruce Lee, Stanback knew that he was destined to get out of the area.

“I always knew that I was going to go pro in something, it was either go pro or I don’t know,” Stanback said. “The question for myself was what am I going to go pro in, a lot of guys I grew up with made it out too like Nate Robinson [basketball], Brandon Roy [basketball] and Aaron Brooks [basketball] made it out too. There was no other way.”

Often people are caught up in the question marks in life, yet the ones who succeed know where they’re going and take the steps necessary to achieve their goal. This is a philosophy that both Harrison and Stanback preach to

their clients, not a matter of if, but how.

The signs on the front of their new location in Old Town Coppell bear the word Steadfast in enlarged font, this is no random name according to Stanback.

“I knew I wanted to do something where I could be a mentor and be a part of sports, but without dealing with the politics,” Stanback said. “Obviously it had to be faith based, so going through scripture I came across the verse 1 Corinthians 15:58 and it stood out because of the things I had been through personally, going through all the things I had to go through.”

The name also includes the words fitness and performance. This is because their business aims to be more than just a place for athletes to go. Their goal is to help anyone willing to give the effort and put in the work in realizing their full athletic and social potential.

Stanback lettered in football, baseball and track during high school at Garfield High School in Seattle, and after graduating high school he was given the opportunity to become a professional baseball player but deferred the offer to attend Washington University. During college, he briefly played for the baseball team, but eventually chose to pursue football as his main focus.

He started at quarterback for the Huskies his junior and senior years, and he was drafted in the fourth round in the 2007 NFL draft by the Dallas Cowboys as a wide receiver.

Throughout his five year NFL career he battled various injuries that ranged from a torn achilles to shoulder complications. Each time he was sidelined he always succeeded to regain full strength so that he could continue living out his dream of playing professional football.

After football he was looking for a way to impact lives, and he and his friend Jared Harrison decided to go into business together, neither of them having any prior experience with owning a company. They rented

photos by Amanda

Hair

Isaiah Stanback (center) and business partner Jared Harrison (on his right) open Steadfast Fitness and Performance in Old Town Coppell on Jan. 30. out a small studio in Flower Mound, with only 900 usable square feet of room to create something the two of them could be proud of.

Just three years removed from being in the NFL, Stanback and Harrison grew an idea into a brand by creating an atmosphere and environment that changes lives not just physically but spiritually through their training and Bible studies.

“It’s always good to be able to draw back on my own experiences to help others, and between Jared and I we have enough stories to help anyone because everyone is going to go through something.” Stanback said. “For that reason, our motto is ‘Be Steadfast’ because you need to look to the Lord and put your head down and grind it out.”

What separates them from other similar businesses is that they mentor kids by simply being there for someone and being that person that they can turn to. Often adolescents feel that they are all alone yet the Steadfast family aims to be there for you throughout mental and physical transformation while having fun at the same time.

“One thing I learned

playing in Seattle was that you can work hard and have fun, and also be successful,” Stanback said. “That’s what we want all our clients, especially our athletes, to understand.”

They plan to impact not only the athletes of Coppell, but also the families. Many times at their old Flower Mound location, they had instances where they would begin to work with the middle or high school aged member of the family and in a short period of time the parents would also be training at the facility.

“Our business is not about Jared and Isaiah,” Harrison said, “nor the number of people we can train, it’s about the number of families and lives we can have a positive influence on.”

Steadfast Performance and Fitness officially opened in Coppell on Jan. 30. at 801 Hammond Street.

As the new year in Coppell begins to get in rhythm, Steadfast Fitness and Performance plans to start changing Coppell physically through training, and mentally through hard work and mentorship.

lling to i w h t o b We were

h t i a f n o t jump ou t e l . . d a n

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Co-owne

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written by Joseph Krum Managing Editor @joseph_krum Within the realms of wrestling, the Moe family has some dominant genes.

2013 senior Roger Moe won the state championship, and younger sister and senior Koa Moe is looking to follow in her brother’s footsteps with a spectacular start to the season. Also within the family line is sophomore KK Moe, who has been dominating the mats and shown promise at a young age, ending the season with a 40-10 record.

Out of 41 wrestling

matches in the season, winning 37 of them is extremely impressive, considering just one small slip up can lose you a match. Yet even though Koa finished this season 37-4, she is not quite satisfied with how she has done.

“I’ve done alright,” Koa said. “I haven’t done as well as I have wanted to. I’ve had a couple of losses, but I should be undefeated. But losses happen and I’m still looking to win state.”

Coppell wrestling head coach Chip Lowery

thinks that both wrestlers have been great so far this season.

“They’re having a great year,” Lowery said. “Koa was a state place winner a year ago, so we’re expecting good things out of her this season. Yet as good as she’s been, she still has to win the district title. KK didn’t finish last year because of an injury, but he’s having a great year this year. He won the Centex tournament in Austin, and so for a sophomore he’s been great.”

As for being on the same team as a sibling, KK appreciates the practice partner.

“It’s pretty fun,” KK Moe said. “I get to see her practice and wrestle with her, and it’s cool seeing her journey to state.”

Yet for Koa, she has always had a brother on the same team as her in high school. Her freshman and sophomore years, Roger was on the team and after her sophomore year, KK became a freshman and joined the team. Through the help of both of her brothers, Koa realizes the impacts that

they have had on her.

“I really like being on the same team as my brothers,” Koa said. “It’s been nice since we can practice together sometimes.

They both motivate me and make me work harder.”

Even though KK said he has gotten help and training from his sister, he also relies on other senior wrestlers that have helped him as well. “[Kutter] Joplin has been helping me out and so has [Austin] Hansen,” KK Moe said. “But I’ve just been working hard and the coaches have been pushing us hard.”

Although wrestling is considered a winter sport, the Moe siblings, according to Lowery, train all year long.

“They take advantage of all the training that they can,” Lowery said. “They wrestle in the spring and in the summer, they go to camps and they go beyond what is just offered during the school year. By taking advantage of that, they’re getting all that extra time which is why they are being successful.”

With all the help from each other, teammates, and coaches, both Koa and KK have set up an impressive resume, one that has them hoping high for the end of the season.

“Originally, I wanted to be undefeated, but unfortunately that didn’t work out,” Koa said. “Yet one of the girls who beat me I have beat twice since, so that’s always good. But still, the goal is to win state.”

Scan to watch the Moe siblings practice

photos by Alexandra

Dalton

Sophomore KK Moe wrestles with senior Kutter Joplin during practice fourth period. Moe advanced to the Class 6A State Wrestling Tournament.

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SACRIFICES WORK: written by Jamie Kimbrell Staff Writer

Picture this: you begin to play a game with everyone else when you are a kindergartener, and you find a passion and a love for it that you can’t possibly understand. Every waking moment, your mind is on the sport, how to get better, who to beat, what camps to attend.

You dedicate countless hours of time to the game from age 5 all the way until you are a senior in high school and over the 13 years, or even longer, that you played your game, are finally ready to commit to a college to continue your playing career.

Every year, this is the story of athletes across the nation who commit to a college on signing day, (spring or fall, Feb. 3 or on Nov. 11). Finally reaching the goal they had been pursuing since they were young, and realizing their dream to play at the next level seems like a sweet deal.

However, not many people seem to acknowledge the countless hours of hard practice and the numerous life events they had to sacrifice to reach the standards of college material. In fact, only 53 percent of all collegiate athletes receive any financial help for playing their sport in NCAA Division I. On top of the basic communication, to be recruited to go to a Division I school for

example, athletes have to routinely call the athletic departments and speak to them by phone to see if going to their dream school is even plausible with following their passion of playing their sport.

Getting time to talk to coaches on the phone is not an easy task either. It takes scheduling and persistence like all things regarding recruiting.There are specific hours of the day when you can reach them, and the other times one calls, they merely reach the office machine.

Another thing that athletes can do to get exposure is to attend sport specific College ID camps. These camps are events that allow athletes to showcase their skills and gain larger followings as coaches evaluate their skill and continue to watch the athletes they believe are the best for their program. This leaves athletes who want to attend that college, but do not fit the mold for the sport in an ultimatum.

On the other hand, of the athletes that can go to the school of their dreams and commit to the school to play their sport, they still have to have the GPA to get into the university.

Committing to a college does not guarantee acceptance into the academic college of their choice.

As hard as working to get into a college is for their sport, it is even harder for an student athlete to have to balance recruiting

What it takes to be a collegiate athlete in this generation

with their school work to achieve their goals.

While I am not saying that one has to have a perfect 4.0 to play in college, but they have to at least have a 2.5 to qualify for the athletic scholarship, but to get into the university’s major, their GPA may have to be higher.

If an athlete qualifies for a collegiate scholarship, and commit before Sept. 1 of their junior year of high school, the offer held is a verbal commitment. This means that the commitment is subject to change and does not hold a percentage of funds to the committed athlete. A commitment may be dropped at anytime for reasons such as a coaching change, an injury or for another change in the program prior or post to signing to the school. A school can also retract their offer after signing as a result of these changes, or if the coach decides to take the program in a different direction that excludes your talents.

After Sept. 1 of their junior year, the college they have committed to may offer funds as an incentive for the athlete to attend the school and they become eligible to sign their college deal on signing day.

The moment that athlete becomes eligible, and finally signs their athletic career to a school is a momentous occasion that should be congratulated. They have worked very hard to accomplish their goals of many years and finally put the pen to paper and sign their deal.

graphic by Rachel

Buigas-Lopez

24

THE SIDEKICK

march 2016

HUMANS OF CHS “Teaching Spanish is one of the best experiences of my life.

There’s nothing like it because you get to connect with students one on one and have random free days when you want to.

You get to really connect deeply with content and you get to know them on a really special level. It was one of my favorite professional experiences. I am now an AP because I wanted to multiply my relationships with more students and help teachers do the same.”

Anthony Poullard, Assistant Principal

“I’m writing out ‘Hello CHS nice to meet you’. One thing that most people don’t know about me is that I’ve been teaching myself Japanese for a year and a half.”

Taylor Brazil, Junior

“Before high school started I was always so stressed out and I never used to make a lot of time for God and it was just a Wednesday and Sunday kind of thing which was the biggest mistake of my life, [but] now I pray and ask for guidance rather than keeping all of my stress inside of me and honestly I haven’t felt any stress at all this year. Going forward I am definitely praying more and make more time for God and then with the extra time I have studying.”

Amy Kitzman, Sophomore