the

thenestline.comest

February 2021 • Vol. 8 Issue 4

Boys Soccer Shoot For the Win

Junior Bryce Shockley takes control of the ball and keeps it from the opponent.

INSIDE TOMPKINS HIGH SCHOOL News...... 3 Features...... 4 Cultural Sports...... 11 Identities Entertainment...... 13 Gallery...... 16 The Importance of Learning and Exploring Cultures Pages 8-9 4400 Falcon Landing Blvd. • Katy TX 77494 2

THE NEST CONTENTS Feburary 2021

Cover Photo By Caleigh Hommel

Editor in Chief Sneha Raghavan

Co-Managing Editors Vaishnavi Bhat 3 Everything About the Emma Vergara Covid-19 Vaccine Business and Social Manager Brianna Plake

Layout Editor Ella Hummeldorf

Staff Alkhatab Mizyed Ella Ray Madison Isom Mahee Bhatt Cowgirls in Cowtown Matias Simionato 7 Rachel Bregnard Raegan Ervin Tristan Beach Vanessa Caceres Vanessa Lingenfelter

Head Photographers Caleigh Hommel Camvy Tu

Asst. Head Photographers Taylor Hobson Masked Falcon Morgan Cordle 10 Photography Amber Gibson Angela Meza Arantza Dominguez Canela Babatise Awobokun Bridgette Foit Brinley Snyder Diego Cortez Ezri Terry Hadley Sanders Kalei Napolean Samantha Staff Appreciation Imouokhome 16 Tracy Thai

Advisor Shetye Cypher

@thenestline

GENERAL INQUIRIES The Nest is an official publication of OTHS. Editorials represent the opinion of the writer, but not necessarily of KISD administration or faculty. The Nest is a member of the Inter- Tompkins High School scholastic League of Press Conference (ILPC), the Texas Association of Journalism Education (TAJE), the Journalism Education Association (JEA), the Columbia Scholastic Press 4400 Falcon Landing Blvd. Katy, Association (CSPA), the Texas High School Press Association (THSPA), and the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA). It is the policy of KISD not to discriminate on the Tx 77494 basis of sex, disability, race, religion, color, age, or national origin and its educational programs, activites, and employment practices. 281-234-1072 February 2021 February 3 THE A Sho at Returning To Normal: NEST Everything About the COVID-19 Vaccine

After many long federal governments to issue taxpayer dollars, it will understands the importance Managing Editor months of careful the vaccine to healthcare be provided at no cost to of strict covid regulations. evaluation and workers and the elderly Americans. This is a relief Although she is staying safe development, the first, with other frontline to many, increasing the by keeping her distance COVID-19 vaccine workers right behind number of individuals and wearing a mask, she was just recently them. And although it may considering getting believes that the vaccine approved by the take until spring or even vaccinated since money is could turn over a new leaf, Food and Drug summer, the Health and not much of a worry. So and allow people to interact Administration Human Services believe that far, states do not have the more. and is being enough vaccines will soon right to make the vaccine “I think what’s most

Vaishnavi Bhat Vaishnavi distributed. On be manufactured and made mandatory and require their important is that the Dec. 11, 2020, available for all. population to take the shot. vaccine will allow people to The FDA granted Jana Gremillion, the However, private companies be around things and people the use of the main campus nurse, was and workplaces in the U.S. they love much more,” said vaccine on anybody 16 eligible to receive a dose can order their employees to Mbaye. “I hope the vaccine years or older in the US, of the vaccine near the take the vaccine, once it is will bring relief to older bringing forth a collective beginning of January. more available to everyone. populations, families, and sigh of relief. With this, She was a bit concerned As discussed before, everyone affected during however, also came the with the uncertainty of although it may take this time.” rush of questions and the vaccine, since major years to identify any long In regards to students concerns regarding the cost, effects would take years to term side-effects, getting and young adults, this effectiveness, and safety of discover. That didn’t keep vaccinated protects the vaccine could be the final the injection. her from taking the shot, individual and the people step before life returns According to the CDC however, and she plans on around them. Experts to somewhat-normal. website, the vaccine has getting her second dose in also believe that getting a Although young people are not been known to show late January. vaccine may help prevent at much lower risk and any harmful effects. The “I am hoping the vaccine, serious illness, even if are last in line to get the Centers for Disease Control once given on a wide spread a person carries COVID vaccine, everyone will soon and Prevention have basis to the public, will already. The vaccine be treated to the injection, been closely monitoring help control the spread and benefits people by creating and the strict restrictions and ensuring that all the lessen the severity of the an antibody response and regulations will slowly vaccines are as safe as illness,” said Gremillion. which helps fight off any be relaxed. It is crucial to possible. Additionally, they The cost of getting the experience of sickness. continue social distancing developed a tool to observe vaccine has also been a Junior Anta Mbaye has and staying safe while any side effects or issues. topic of discussion lately. been actively following the country works with V-safe, a smartphone app, While vaccination providers updates regarding the healthcare organizations to allows vaccine-takers to may charge patients a vaccine, and sees many master how the COVID-19 report and track their small administration fee benefits to it. Being an vaccine works in real-world health after receiving the for receiving the shot, athlete and competitive settings, and slowly but COVID-19 vaccine. Just like the vaccine itself is free. dancer, Mbaye loves being surely rid the country of any other vaccine, taking Since the doses have able to collaborate with this prolonged pandemic. the COVID-19 vaccine may been purchased with U.S. teammates, but she also result in a few side effects and flu-like symptoms. Such effects are normal and expected, however, since that is the body’s way of slowly building defense and immunity. Additionally, it has been recommended to get two doses, 3-4 weeks apart, in order to ensure complete immunity and protection against this serious disease. Although the supply is currently limited, the vaccine will be soon widely available to the public and will be supplied in pharmacies, hospitals, Members of the community wait patiently at the Delmar Stadium in Houston to recieve their first healthcare centers, and doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. It is currently recommended that the elderly and the frontline workers more. Currently, the CDC recieve the vaccine first. is recommending local and Photo By Sebastian Meza 4

THE NEST

Feburary 2021 StandWithSam

On Dec. 26, very shocked and blessed viewers to see updates on to see the large outreach of

Managing Editor while on his way about it, we were not ex- Mills’s condition while he support.” home from work, pecting it at all.” was recovering from his Support was also given junior Sam Mills In support of Mills, a Go- accident. Almost daily, outside of social media, like was involved in FundMe page was created updates were given of his a candlelight vigil for Mills a car accident, to help raise money for Mills progress, asking for prayers on Dec. 27. This took place resulting in his and his family. Starting on for the family and Mills. at Mills’s work. During the hospitalization. Dec. 28, the GoFundMe had “Courtney Doyal, Jessica vigil, much of the commu- For two weeks a goal of $20,000 to help Hearn, who are very close nity came down and prayed following his ac- the family, who had already family friends, and some for Mills’s recovery. An- cident, Mills was dealt with difficult times football moms were the ones other show of support was

Emma Vergara Emma being taken care back in the beginning of the who started the hashtag,” the sales for a “Stand With of in the ICU for a Covid-19 events. Since the said Mills. Sam” shirt, designed by medically induced creation of the GoFundMe On top of the GoFundMe Mills’s sisters. These shirts coma in order for page, they exceeded their page, many were showing were then worn on Jan. 26 him to recover fully from his original goal with almost support by sharing the to show the support of Mills. injuries. In the event of his $23,000 raised to help sup- hashtag, “StandWithSam.” “The GoFundMe and the accident and his recovery, port Mills. This hashtag led people to hashtag has helped us a many in the community “We did not expect this his story and allowed people lot,” said Mills. “We prob- around Mills came together great outcome,” said Mills. to see the support given. ably wouldn’t have done to support his family. “It was very humbling to The hashtag was spread it without the support of “The first time I saw the see.” throughout platforms such people.” support given was Jan. Alongside raising money as Instagram, Facebook and To show support of Mills 17, the day I got out,” said for the Mill’s family, the Go- Twitter, which eventually and his family and see up- Mills. “My family and I were FundMe page also allowed led any viewers to Mills’s dates on Mills, you can see GoFundMe page. his GoFundMe page under “My favorite thing done the name, “StandWith- for my family has been the Sam-Team Texas,” and you prayers, the food meals, can also see his Facebook and the donations,” said page under the hashtag Mills. “My family and I were name, “StandwithSam.” excited and overwhelmed

Students stand together to welcome Mills home from the hopsital. Mill came home on Jan. 17 from the hospital, and friends came together to perform a “Welcome Home” drive- by at Tompkins.

Photos By Ricardo Silva 5 2021 February

THE NEST KISD Plans to Expand

Students held high when it comes to tow and KHS. Besides new rush through bonds and their progress. schools, many schools the suffocating To put it in simple terms, require renovations,” said

Staff Writer hallways, pushing the bond is supposed to be Vann. “This is important to and shoving one aware of the intense growth this district as we work hard another to get to of the district and improve to make all of our schools even more crowd- its overall qualities and equal in safety, security, ed classrooms all supplies to accommodate technology and aesthetics.” Ella Ray Ella over the district. the increased population. With the plans and the After hearing the Getting started with the committee’s determination, dismissal bell, planning, the Community the future is blindingly students intensely Bond Advisory Committee bright for KISD. The bond flood the cam- held meetings on the floor of gives hope for new opportu- puses, forming the District’s Merrell Center nities as well as bigger goals endless lines of cars in on Jan. 13, 20, and 27 in the making. Working the streets. Like powerful from 5:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. together to welcome new currents, the crowds from The committee is looking families as well as cherish- carpool lines infest the Katy for opinions outside of the ing old ones will unite the Board President Ashley Vann streets further in multiple group as well, hoping to district as a whole in the smiles brightly toward a better directions, making drivers hear from the families from long run. Board President future for the district. Vann’s twist their heads left and the district. When coming Ashley Vann is well aware of determined attitude gives right. to the meetings, all par- how the community likes to hope that the district has many According to the KISD ticipants must be socially be involved in their district’s improvements coming its way. website, with more families distanced and wear face matters, and plans to reach Photo contributed by moving into the area, the coverings to protect every- decisions of unknown mat- the KISD website student population rises one’s wellbeing. ters to inform them of those higher than ever in the According to a report details in every step of the northwest quadrant. The from the meeting on Jan. process. website also mentioned that 13, the Community Bond “The Board of Trustees a projected enrollment was Advisory Committee, which will be holding a special made to be nearly 100,000 is made up of about 150 meeting on February 8. students by 2027. Taking residents, plans to consider The purpose of this meet- action to respond to the rap- technology upgrades since ing is to have the proposed id growth, the community some of the district is par- 2021 schools bond pack- of Katy ISD has noticed this ticipating in online learning. age presented to us,” said and immediately assembled The committee is also look- Vann.“The trustees will have Students leave Katy High a team to assess the needs ing at more elementaries, the opportunity to ask ques- School. Katy High School is of its campuses and facili- a junior high and a high tions before making a vote. projected to be 140 percent ties, forming a Community school. They are also work- If the board approves the over capacity if the bond does Bond Advisory Committee ing hard to hear as many bond package, it will go to not pass. last January. opinions from the district as the May 1 Election Day.” Photo by Diego Cortez Katy ISD has been possible. approving several bonds Board President Ashley since 1994, according to the Vann is aware that KISD KISD website. An astound- has many existing schools ing example provided by that will be extremely over the website would be the enrollment capacity by $609,204,553 bond in 2017 2023 and most certainly by with a no tax increase that 2024, making building more the school community ap- schools one of her main proved. That bond was able priorities. One of those new to provide for many things and needed schools would like major renovations, ex- be High School #10, in the pansions, and even six new far northwest area of the schools. This past accom- district. plishment encourages Katy “This will provide relief ISD to keep their heads for overcrowding of Pae- 6

THE NEST Dancing with Guards

Feburary 2021 Color Guard Merges with Dance Team

With their flags Fortenberry. “Our returning “The Crimson Pride spinning in mid- dancers will be sharing past Dance Company will contin- air, flying high in traditions to carry on as well ue to encourage, educate, create an atmosphere that Staff Writer the blue skies, as creating new traditions the color guard for the dance company.” is uplifting, provide oppor- could not have The main point of train- tunities that will enhance shined better. ing is for all their hard work their dance experience while having fun and making Ella Ray Ella Little did they to pay off at competitions. know, the team Both teams take great pride memories that will last a they loved would in their art form and work lifetime,” said Fortenberry. be doubling. With intensely to earn a good their director name for their school, and leaving, they have earn a shiny trophy as well. the intention of growing and However, familiarity with branching out their family competition training really to another side of OTHS: the depends on the season. Se- dance team. Dance director nior Sarah Grindal suspects Rosemary Fortenberry be- that the fall season for the lieves that it was an amaz- new team will look similar to ing opportunity to merge the what the color guard is used existing color guard and the to because we will still be JV Dance team to form what on the field with the band. will be the Crimson Pride However, during winter Dance Company in the fall season, the dance team and of 2021. the color guard currently The Lyrical 20 shows off their best abilities. The team has been “The band was going to have very different compe- excited for the creation of the new dance company ever since the be looking for new directors tition seasons which leaves idea was proposed. for the auxiliary team and an unknown as to how it wanted it to have a stron- will work. Photos contributed by Rosemary Fortenberry ger dance influence,” said “We already know we will Fortenberry. “After much have less equipment, prac- Dance directors Shaena Rinehart and Rosemary Fortenberry shine discussion, Ms. Rinehart ticing with only flags and ri- their bright smiles, excited to except more students. Creating the and I decided that we would fles, but we don’t know how Crimson Pride Dance Company has opened many new love to be the new directors much equipment or which opportunities for both the for the dance company.” circuit we will compete in,” drectors and the students. Having already connect- said Grindal. ed with their teammates, Although there may the color guard are aware be some struggles and of the challenge it will be obstacles to get through, to make new bonds from both teams know that scratch. However, they are the merge will benefit determined to try and unite them, creating as one whole team to make opportuni- their school proud. They all ties for have the same goal, show- creativ- ing their hard work and ity and talent to the people, hoping diversity to spread joy. Fortenberry with the believes that merging the new com- pany. two teams into one is more Even with having to of an opportunity of gaining adapt and compro- friendships instead of losing mise to new strate- them. gies, the color guard “I feel the bonding of the are willing to learn two teams creating one, is these new skills not as much of a challenge that will lead to as one would think,” said their success. 7 2021 February

THE Cowgirls in Cowtown NEST

While FFA is split Results were: Lauren

Staff Writer up into many differ- Mauney - 4th place in class ent branches, one with her Beefmaster heifer, of the branches, Dulce; Carly Harville - 4th which takes care of place in class with her livestock, prepared Beefmaster heifer, Sweetie; for a competition. Whitney Warner - 1st place The Cowgirls in in class, Reserve Division Cowtown competi- with her Simbrah heifer, Matias Simionato Matias tion took place on Winnie; Will McCoy - 2nd Jan. 21 through the place in class with his 24. It was the cattle Simbrah heifer, Ellie; Riley competition of the year. Rogde - 2nd place in class The competition included with her E6 heifer, Gabana; a walk and photoshoot for Lauren Drumwright - 1st the heifer. In the finale they in class with her Charolais will be sold to the high- composite heifer, Evie; and Lauren Drumwright, 12 est bidder. Out of all the Virginia Schloeter - 1st in livestock that FFA raises, class, Reserve Division with heifers are by far the most her Brangus heifer, Millie. expensive and most difficult to raise, but will sell for a high profit. Whitney Warner, 12 “In order to get ready for the competition, they are feeding, exercising, and working hard as much as they can to prepare for the show,” said Caleb Clark, FFA teacher. The heifers are well Riley Rogde, 11 taken care of. The students who take care of them are always looking for a sign of trouble. So if a heifer or any livestock catch a disease or have a problem they are quick to take care of it. By using what the FFA teach- ers taught them, they keep the livestock healthy. “I am very confident that the exhibitors will do their Virginia Schloeter, 10 very best to exhibit their heifers,” said Clark. “While we have 247 FFA members, only 7 people will be attend- ing the competition.” The students who did this were all excited to do Lauren Drumwright, 12 it, as they were raising their heifers since last semester. They trained to walk and groom and to do everything Photos by Caleb Clark a heifer needs, finally at the end of the competition they show the winning ranchers and heifers. 8

THE on t NEST Celebrate, D ’ Discriminate:

February 2021 Cultural Appropriation vs Appreciation In today’s diverse African-American community, pect of African-American cul- making the effort to learn Editor in Chief society, people are Burns believes that the stereo- ture involves African American about their background in able to interact with types promoted by appropria- Vernacular English, or AAVE, helping slaves escape to free- cultures from every tion can be extremely harmful, which is a linguistic style that dom in the past. In order to corner of the plan- as they often cause others to developed in the community as continue their escape at night, et. While this does profile members of a partic- a result of systematic racism African-Americans would use create an opportunity ular community negatively. cutting off access to wealthy cornrows to create maps on to expand the social This effect has been affecting education. AAVE includes their heads to navigate in the mindset and increase minority races for several de- words like “ain’t”, “theirself”, dark. Now, these designs are celebration of other cades, most recently brought and “hisself”, none of which used in hairstyles to remem- backgrounds, a lack to light during the Black Lives are grammatically correct but ber the value and intelligence

Sneha Raghavan Sneha of social tolerance Matter protests against racism are clear in meaning when behind them, making each often leads to a clash and a lack of responsibility in used in speech. Burns sees style a significant piece of between the val- the police force that arose all that when this language is African-American heritage. ues that each heritage holds over the country in the past used by an African-American, Burns insists that increasing dear. This is especially the year. Burns observes that this the person is often labeled as the accurate education of such case in the conflict between encouragement of stereotypes less intelligent, while the dou- cultural values is essential to cultural appropriation and causes minorities to be immor- ble standard of appropriation overcoming stereotypes perpet- appreciation; there may seem ally regarded, often painting allows a white person to use uated by history and properly to only be a fine line between people of color in a wicked the same words and be viewed appreciating social diversity. them, but appropriation can light without care for their true as cool. Dasgupta has also “Look at all the great things be incredibly damaging if nature. observed that she and others people have done, and stop au- perpetuated. As members of “People are more likely in her Indian community have tomatically assuming the text- minority communities, seniors to think of me as dangerous been teased for common cul- book you get in history class is Langston Burns and Aashka or likely to commit crime, tural practices. 100 percent right,” said Burns. Dasgupta often experience which affects me every day of As a child, Dasgupta was “The best way to appreciate is the negative effects of others my life,” said Burns. “Going often shamed for bringing In- to research.” appropriating their heritage outside, especially in today’s dian food as school lunch, but Dasgupta also emphasizes firsthand. racial climate, has a dif- she now notices that the rise the importance of education “Cultural appropri- ferent impact on me in popularity for Indian cuisine when it comes to cultural ap- ation can encourage as an African-Amer- has led to the same people who preciation. She believes that if negative stereotypes ican because of the teased her to enjoy the food someone genuinely likes a cul- that pertain to the indirect connection they mocked. This has also ture, educates themselves and community or cul- cultural appropria- occurred with Indian jewelry, respects it, then they should ture being appro- tion has on people.” particularly a piece known as be allowed to adopt elements priated,” said Burns. Burns and a maang tikka or chutti worn of the culture. In addition “This encouragement Dasgupta believe that over the forehead. Dasgupta to general education about can cause things like a major problem with explains that this jewelry is different heritages, Dasgupta bias, systematic racism, cultural appropriation commonly reserved for brides also recommends for people and even hate crimes to is the double stan- and ladies in specific cultural to listen to each other to learn become more promi- dard that comes ceremonies, but celebrities about culture in a personal nent in society.” with it. One who have mocked Indian tradi- way. She has educated herself As part unique as- tions have adorned themselves on the proper meanings of of the with the piece in culturally her own Indian traditions and inappropriate situations. encourages others to spread “People fail to educate appreciation for diversity in themselves on the symbolism the same way, rather than behind a maang tikka and perpetuating the practices wear it inappropriately,” said that can harm or offend other Dasgupta. “The complete lack cultures. of respect to the culture and “The main thing is just failure to educate themselves to be willing to listen,” said on the meaning is disgusting- Dasgupta. “If someone ex- but not an isolated incident, as presses to you that something it occurs quite often with my that you are doing is cultural culture.” appropriation and that they Unlike appropriation, feel uncomfortable, be willing cultural appreciation involves to learn from them and see education and researching how you can appreciate their the significance of a certain culture instead.” Senior Langston Burns poses with a shirt that reads “I Know culture’s practices and getting a better understanding of a My Rights” in honor of his cultural community’s movements for community. With the example equality and social justice. of hairstyles, Burns explains Photo by Caleigh Hommel that appreciation would be 9 2021 February

What THE Makes NEST a Culture Managing Editor In the world, cul- culture. This can be seen in ture is an important places such as Texas, where aspect in all envi- we combined the cultures ronments. It shows of our neighboring country, where someone has Mexico, with our own take, been, where they are and created a new culture of from, and who they TexMex, a mix of Mexican and are now. This has Texan cultures. made it an import- “For me, I love sharing ant part of society to food,” said senior Nadia Emma Vergara Emma take into account, Dominguez. “Food has no especially now, where language requirements to many different parts understand and it’s something of the world came together that can bring great amounts to make the country that is of joy to many.” America. Over years, many Culture is also hidden in different cultures across the smaller objects that can help globe have made their way into spread it more and more, a cultivating America into what big example being food. There we know today. And that life are many places around the can be seen even in the small- country that people can go to est of places, one of which in order to experience a whole being Tompkins High School. new culture that they wouldn’t “To me, cultural back- have found by themselves. ground is how a person experi- Even in school, there are days ences society and the envi- in lunch where students can ronment around them,” said see different cultures in the senior Rebecca Liu. “I grew up lunch lines. with Chinese culture in New “Culture is presented in the York City; in that I didn’t grow way people dress and the lan- up with Christmas or New guage they use when speaking Years, I grew up with Chinese amongst friends,” said Domin- New Years and the Lunar and guez. “In my day to day life, I the Qingming Festival.” see different cultures through One of the biggest con- social media.” tributing factors to the share Another great way that of cultures around the world allowed people to express is moving from one place to and spread their culture is another. Many cultures would through social media. With a not have been spread if they new uprising of more cultural stayed in the one place they appreciation through social began. In America, many of the media and other platforms, cultures found are not native using apps like TikTok or Ins- to the area, instead they were tagram has become a way that brought in from other coun- people share their culture from tries around the world and one side of the world to anoth- made their way into the streets er, allowing more and more of America. spread of the many cultures of “After years upon living in the world. NYC, I moved and adapted into “I think preserving and Southern Texan culture,” said sharing my culture is very Liu. “This is where I started important because that is how celebrating Christmas, New we grow as a community, like Years, Thanksgiving and other keeping it alive,” said Liu. “My celebrations.” cultural background makes On top of spreading cul- me who I am today and I am tures, the act of moving also very proud of it.” pushes the cultures together. With the growth of learning of other cultures, many take Senior Rebecca Liu poses in her traditional Chinese clothing, the culture they have recent- known as a Qipao. In her culture, it is worn for big holidays, ly experienced and learned weddings, and family gatherings. and add them into their own Photo contributed 10

THE NEST That’s a February 2021 Idea The only certainty NovelMateo’s End Day. young to suddenly being held fact that it will come eventual- about death is its With less than 24 hours left responsible for their lives, ly. Despite this, people all too Editor in Chief occurrence- except in the world, the pair embarks Mateo and Rufus face a future often focus solely on surviving, in a world with Death- into their fatal day as Last that they are told will never in the hopes that one day they Cast, where a shrill Friends. Mateo, who was ready come. Silvera uses their last will live. Ultimately, They Both ringtone is all it takes to hide in his apartment, finds adventures to remind readers Die at the End is an appeal to to let Mateo Torrez himself really living for the first to immerse themselves in the the reader to change “one day” and Rufus Emeterio time, while Rufus finds solace moments that truly matter, into “day one”- not to live each know they would be in Mateo after being continual- rather than working for a life day as the last, but to live each dying that day. ly cheated out of his last good- they never desire to come into moment as one worth remem- Mateo and Rufus byes. Left only with each other, fruition. Throughout their bering at the end. are alone in their they travel through the city to lives, both Mateo and Rufus

Sneha Raghavan Sneha own ways. With his reminisce on the lives they will had spent their time in the father in the hospital, soon lose, their only certainty wrong moments, living with the Mateo’s only family is being that every second of life illusion that there is always his best friend Lidia, and her brings them closer to the end. tomorrow. After seemingly baby Penny. Aside from vis- They Both Die at the End is unlimited days for an eventu- t a lance iting them, Mateo spends his a look into the questions that ally perfect life, the pair is left At a GGlance itle life as a recluse, certain that plague many teenagers’ lives- to do a life’s worth of thriving T : one day he will conquer the and the sharpness of their in one day- a day that is both They Both Die at the End life he strives for- a day that reality with only one day to an- fruitful and revealing in equal Author: Mateo pushes off until he has swer them. Through Mateo and measure. run out of tomorrows. Rufus, Adam Silvera explores They Both Die at the End Adam Silvera On the other hand, Rufus the pervasive doubts of dream leaves readers to speculate Genre: is always surrounded by the futures, identity, love, and the several harsh truths- especial- Plutos, his fellow foster kids. desire to leave an impact. Both ly that of the title itself. The Young Adult, Adventure With his foster family at his characters question them- reader spends the novel won- Content: side, Rufus is free to fight for selves, yearning to discover dering if the prophetic title will the life he wants, but Rufus their best selves on their last come true, all the while left to TW: Discussions and finds himself lonely without day to live with it all. consider its reality in their own depictions of death his birth family, who died At the age where people life. Nobody is aware of their and violence several years before Rufus and transition from being too end, save for the

Tompkins Got Talent: The Masked Singer Staff Writer Tompkins’ choir to guess along as they watch the winner is program planned each episode. Just like the we are plan- on doing something Masked singer, The Masked ning on doing different this year. Falcon Ultimate Sing-off re- a popular vote Instead of doing Fal- quires participants to wear a with the crowd cons Got Talont, they mask and a costume. and of course planned on making it “Everyone in the choir with covid-19 “The Masked Falcon program is familiar with the there could only Ultimate Sing-off”. show,and I was just like- be a 30 percent This new program wouldn’t it be cool if we did capacity in the Alkhatab Mizyed Alkhatab gave students an op- something different like the Main Commons.” portunity to showcase Masked Singer,” said Reinartz, Students their talents “It was my idea to do some- had a mask and “The idea is to provide a thing different this year.” a costume if they platform for the student body The Masked Singer event were chosen. to have an opportunity to per- is not the only change this Reinartz gave form and sing,” said Reinartz year that Reinartz had planned out masks to The idea of Masked this year. Students we’re then the participants Falcon The Ultimate Sing-Off welcome to come to the show and students came from the show “Masked and support their friends. The designed their too shy to talk about it?” Singer”,a singing competition winner got recognition from costumes. The costume had The Masked Falcon and guessing game based the choir program, and so did to be school appropriate if you Ultimate Sing-Off auditions on the Korean show “King of the other participants that wanted to participate in this were held on Friday, Feb. 5 at Masked Singer”. Twelve celeb- shocked the judges. event. 3 p.m. in the choir room. The rity performers wear costumes “We’ve ordered these “This event is all about main performance is Saturday, to conceal their identities, and hilarious masks that the recognition,” said Reinartz. Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. in the PAC. one singer is eliminated each contestants will sing in,“ said “Who would have thought that Participants brought their week and unmasked. Small Reinartz. ”This year instead the person right next to you family and friends to show hints are given for the viewer of four judges deciding who has a crazy cool talent, but is support. 11 2021 Febuary Boys Basketball Has High Hopes For Season THE cons have nine new players: games as possible so that ed and beat NEST Tompkins five seniors, three juniors, we can make it to the play- Tompkins by Falcons basketball and one freshman - Luke offs, said Coach Sanders two points. This

Staff Writer season started off Coughran. Tompkins plays Katy was also anoth- decent, winning 6 “Luke is a great player, Taylor next, it is an away er game where out 10 Non-Dis- he is one of the best players game. The last time they the win slipped out of their trict Games. Only on our varsity team. He is a played, Taylor got the best fingers. losing to Cypress great shooter and his pump out of the Falcons winning “Right now Seven Lakes Ranch, Pearland, fake is deadly,” said Coach by only two points. The Fal- is the best team in our Spring, and Daw- Sanders. cons are eager to play them district record wise, but we son, the Falcons The Falcons started again because they feel like believe we are better than

Alkhatab Mizyed Alkhatab won big against off slow with district play they are better than them them. We are bigger and we big opponents like winning three out of four and they want to prove it to have senior leadership, Last Cy Woods who games in the first half of everyone. time we played them we were ranked 19th in the the season. Hopes of going “Katy Taylor is a great were winning most of the state of Texas. to the playoffs started to team, they are well-coached, game until the end. They “Our best game was slim, but Tompkins won a they have good players, had made a shot with1 against one of our most big game against the second but so are we. Last time we second left that got them competitive opponents, Cy highest-ranked team in the played it was a high scor- winning by two points,” Woods”, said head coach district, Katy. Tompkins ing game, we only lost by said Coach Sanders Bobby Sanders. “We had were winning at some point two but we started off slow Tompkins regular sea- made 18 three-pointers in all of their games, they but ended the game strong. son ends on Feb. 5. They which tied for a school just didn’t finish strong. We have to make sure we must place in the top four record, 18 three’s is a lot of “ We are a good team, go 100 percent this time in their district so that they points, that is 54 points just all of our games were close from the beginning all the can qualify for the play- from three pointers,” except for the one against way to the end,” said Coach offs. Coach Sanders and Team captain BB Cinco, we got a big win Sanders. the Falcons want to keep Knight has returned for his against Katy and now we Right now Seven Lakes playing, so all their focus is third year on varsity, and have to prepare for the sec- sits on the top of the list of on winning as much games junior Nick Lancit returning ond half of the season and Katy ISD best basketball as possible so that they can for his second year. The Fal- make sure we win as many teams, they are undefeat- qualify for state playoffs. Girls Basketball Defends To The End

Managing Editor On and off court, as it was in the past years,” responsibilities. By staying Koyyada. “With our district the the girls’ bas- said Koyyada. “However, we coordinated and productive game coming up soon, we ketball team has are still grateful to have a in regards to schoolwork, hope to secure the champi- displayed their grit, season, and are excited to the girls are able to focus on spot and remain unde- leadership, and still be playing.” on basketball more as well, feated in the district.” strength time and Because of COVID-19 and allowing them to excel in all One of the biggest mo- time again. Led by the precautions that needed lanes. tivations for all the girls is the best, head coach to be taken, the basketball “As a student athlete, I the sense of teamwork and Tamatha Ray, these season was shortened, and have learned not to pro- love that they feel every girls are a great a lot of the training execu- crastinate and keep myself time they’re together. Shar- Vaishnavi Bhat Vaishnavi example of persever- tion had to change as well. accountable ,” said Koyya- ing the highs and lows with ance - maintaining According to Koyyada, the da. “I stay ahead of my work each other, the Tompkins their schedules, keeping up team always makes sure to and, when I can, I work girls’ basketball team has with their schoolwork, and sanitize their hands as often ahead to ease up my work- grown to become Koyyada’s displaying their strength as possible. Even when in load on game days.” family. and determination to win huddle, the girls keep each According to Koyyada, “Our bus rides to games each game, even though so other in check and make learning to manage her time are filled with laughter, many changes were estab- sure everyone’s masks are properly was very essential. and I am going to miss lished this season. Despite on at all times. Although Along with her team, she that next year,” said Koyya- the obstacles thrown at the they have to be playing and makes sure to work hard da. “The trust we have team during this season, practicing with masks on, both in the classroom and built through this season senior Tanvi Koyyada the girls never let their spirit on the court, preparing for definitely brought us a lot believes that everyone and determination falter. hard tests and challenging closer. I love how the team involved has continued to Their love for their sport games. is a big family and each work hard and make the can be seen in their drive to “Our biggest competitor one of us got each other’s best of every situation. get better, and will-power is Seven Lakes High School back.” “The season isn’t as long to stay on top of all of their without a doubt,” said Changes in Soccer though,” said Hurtado. 12 The drills are well Comes with COVID worth it, though. Hur- THE tado explained how he NEST lucky enough to not be their team from going believes that Seven Lakes affected by COVID, giving into quarantine. High School is going to February 2021 them more than enough “We have to put on our be their biggest compet- With the start time to train. masks everyday,” said itor this season, as their of 2021 came “The significant chang- Hurtado. team is more advanced es are definitely the drills Although COVID not Staff writer new changes this year. and overhauls and the new players. The affecting the soccer sea- “I definitely think for the tomp- drills got much harder to son, it has affected some Seven Lakes is going to kins boys soccer improve the players’ per- of the players. Recently, be pretty hard this year. team. Along with formance,” said Hurtado. players on the team have Their team got better,” many signifi- The lack of COVID’s gone out, testing positive said Hurtado. cant alterations effects on the team didn’t for COVID, even though The team recently Tristan Beach Tristan due to COVID, stop them from taking the team has been prac- started off the season came new drills precautions, however. ticing social distancing with a loss, but bounced and many new During practice, the guidelines. back with three wins in a players such as Fernan- players must wear their “A couple of people row, defeating Kingwood, do Hurtado. According to masks and social dis- had to leave because they Spring Wood, and FBISD Hurtado, his team was tance in order to prevent got COVID. Not many, Austin. Kick into the Season: Girls’ Soccer Breathing her team have worked on year include balancing the has been following global hard, senior Kyla training together before changes in classes and health practices, includ-

Editor in Chief Warner gains school. During each prac- the ever-present workload ing wearing masks and strength with tice, the team endeavors with their commitment to social distancing, during each inhale as to find a common rhythm, the team. Warner believes their training to keep ev- she wraps up the ensuring that they can that taking an active effort eryone safe. day’s practice. As play more successfully to attend tutorials and “I think everyone’s the team’s out- in sync with each other. communicate with her mindset has changed side back, War- This year, Warner and her teachers has been essen- after seeing last year’s ner focuses on teammates are training tial to maintaining this season get cut short,” said defense strategies harder to secure another stability, both for her ac- Warner. “We are all aware

Sneha Raghavan Sneha and increasing district championship, ademics and her position that our season is not her mobility to which will allow the team on the team. guaranteed, so we are be- assist her team to gain another shot at “Sometimes it’s difficult ing very proactive to avoid when attacking on the state. to balance schoolwork any risks.” field. Despite being so- “Our soccer program with training and games,” By training diligently cially distanced from her is very competitive,” said said Warner. “My time so and staying healthy, the teammates for the past Warner. “You have to be far in the program has girls’ soccer team is work- several months, Warner constantly pushing your- taught me a lot about ing to equip themselves has kept up with training self to get better.” growth and staying moti- for a successful season. on her own to prepare As someone who has vated.” With her teammates, herself for the upcoming played soccer for her Another issue the team Warner strives to get to season in girls’ soccer. entire life, Warner joined has had to adjust to this the playoffs and compete “The pandemic has the Tompkins team to year is the pandemic, at state level this year. allowed me to focus on continue her passion especially with the health As many senior athletes my own personal training, throughout high school. guidelines that need to graduated last year, the as some games and team In addition to keeping be enforced during team team has gained several practices were canceled,” herself in the competitive practices and games. new players, and Warner said Warner. athletic atmosphere, War- Some of these opportu- is anticipating a fruitful The soccer season be- ner reflects that she has nities to meet and train year with all members of gan in early January, and also been able to make with the team have been her team as they work this year’s district play many friends while being cut due to the quarantine, hard to secure wins this started off with a game on the team. As student meaning each teammate season. against Cinco Ranch on athletes, Warner and her has had to incorporate “I am looking forward to Jan 19. In order to ready friends have found that more personal training seeing the potential of this themselves for the rigor- some of the difficulties to stay fit for the season. year’s team and how far ous season, Warner and of being on the team this Additionally, the team we can get,” said Warner. 13 2021 February

THE NEW SHOWS ON NEST Since the dawn of time, humanity has been trying to distract themselves from reality. Whether it be crafting stories of heroics to writing jokes to have a laugh at. As our cultures and technology progressed,

Staff Writer we were able to transition from spoken stories to books, and from books to movies. Then a person decided to create a movie that is split into dozens of different parts, and so the TV show was born. While back then the show choices were limited, nowadays with the introduction of streaming services, the amount of shows that are available are limitless. So with all these shows, one might ask themselves

Matias Simionato Matias “What should I watch?”

For those who are interested Cursed is a show inspired in romance, Bridgerton by The Book of Arthur and came out on Christmas takes the focus of the lady Day. A romance based on of the lake, or rather the the books by Julia Quinn. lady she was before. An alternate history show that follows the Bridgerton family and their eight children who are looking for potential suitors.

Surviving Death is a documentary that looks into the age old question of what happens after death. Fate: The Winx Saga is a fantasy action show involving Abigail Cowen. In the Otherworld, a magical boarding school exists in which fairies train their magical abilities. But the threat of a civil war is Cobra Kai Season 3 strives looming over the school and to surpass its prior seasons soon it may be too late to and be better than ever. stop it. Cobra Kai follows Johnny Lawrence and Daniel Larusso 34 years after the original Karate Kid film. While season 2 brought much drama, season 3 promises to keep its viewers even more attentive to the Country Ever After is a screen. reality TV show featuring country singer Coffey Anderson and his wife Criscilla Anderson. The Alien Worlds is a show shows the life of them documentary series that as they juggle family life, tries to see what life on career goals, and tests of alien worlds would look faith. like, featuring great CGI it promises to be as scientific as possible. 14 Volunteer During the THE NEST COVID Season February 2021 obstructing their routine, of the planning and distri- Prior to the “They can volunteer at students are still required bution form home. COVID season, places such as the Houston to volunteer 25 hours of “Since we can not host students and Food Bank, local churches, community service between any volunteer events on

Staff writer parents offered to Ballard House, and for com- April 1, 2020, and March campus all PTSA meetings volunteer. Parents munity events,” said Park. 31, 2021, according to Ash- are done via zoom,” said would typically There are many events ley Park, the NHS sponsor. Sharma. work in the work- spanned throughout the Masks are still required to Luckily for those who room or with spirit school year for students volunteer. want to volunteer, the steps wear. Unfortunate- to pick and choose from. “Many of the opportuni- are easy. If one would want ly, since COVID The PTSA is always look- ties have stated that masks to register, there is usual- hit, the visitor ing for new volunteers. On Tristan Beach Tristan are required and they let ly an interest form on the guidelines were their website, they detail students know if they will Tompkins PTSA website. If updated and most their new, adapted plan to be dealing with just organiz- students would like to vol- on-campus parent continue volunteer work, ing supplies or interacting unteer, they are encouraged volunteer activities during but protect themselves from with community members to visit the PTSA website the school day have been COVID. so that they can gauge their and email the contact given canceled. “We are always looking level of comfort with the to register. “Other organizations on for students willing to make service,” said Park. “This year we are not campus such as the athletic contactless spirit wear order The PTSA, as of now, is required to report the volun- booster clubs, orchestra, deliveries,” said Sharma. not reporting the number of teer hours to KISD VIPs, but band, choir, theater, project volunteers to the KISD VIPs, usually we report over 1,000 grad and other organiza- but Sharma recalls usually volunteer hours per month,” tions have their own vol- having over 100 volunteers, said Sharma. unteer opportunities,” said some of which volunteer Students can also choose Margarita Sharma from the from home. Specifically, the between volunteering online Parent-Teacher-Student spirit wear crew volunteer- or in-person, with different Association. ing from home would do all options on what to provide. Although COVID is

Teacher Ashley Park accompanies and helps out her students while volunteering. Senior NHS club presidents Preesha Desai, Keelin Sayers, and Kevin Chen worked together to help and distribute things to other students. Photo by: Caleigh Hommel February 2021 February Valentine’s Day Date Ideas 15 THE With Social Distancing Layout Editor NEST -Go on a picnic -Go on a bike ride -Play board games or online games -Netflix and Facetime -Takeout and hang out in separate cars -Facetime dinner date -Sing each other songs via facetime or zoom -Go for a walk together -Have a social distancing/virtual dance party -Use an app to stargaze -Use a projector to watch a movie in a backyard

-Stream a virtual concert Hummeldorf Ella -Gift them a spotify playlist Match the English Teacher to their Favorite Novel Books: Homegoing by Yag Agassi Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurtier The Kitchen God’s Wife by Amy Tan Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks All the Light We Can Not See by Anthony Dooer Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by J.K Rowling You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me by Sherman Alexie

Lauren Tamayo

Melody Dean

Me, Park-Madame Bovary Park-Madame Me,

Not See, Deitweiler Miller-You Don’t Have To Say You Love Love You Say To Have Don’t Miller-You Deitweiler See, Not

Godfrey-A Walk to Remember, Tamayo-All The Light We Can Can We Light The Tamayo-All Remember, to Walk Godfrey-A

and the Half Blood Prince, Lyons-Homegoing. Dean-Rebecca, Dean-Rebecca, Lyons-Homegoing. Prince, Blood Half the and Answers: Moore-The Kitchen God’s Wife, Marks-Harry Potter Potter Marks-Harry Wife, God’s Kitchen Moore-The Answers:

Serena Valdez, Senior To excel at the National

Registry for EMT. to in 2021? forward What looking are you most Kelly Moore Laura Marks

Martin Patterson, Sophomore Having fun and relaxing.

Ashley Park Lisa Deitweiler Miller Austin Atencio, Junior My senior year.

Valentina FALCON CRIES Gioninetto, Lynnette Lyons Macey Godfrey Freshman Getting rid of masks and being able to enjoy what I have Photos by Amber Gibson at the moment. 16

THE NEST Staff Appreciation! Photos by Taylor Hobson February 2021

Miriam Buitraso cleans the Buitraso poses with the tile tile floors in the cafeteria. cleaning machine.

Thaymee Sanches R. Cater stands in the Chinique poses with a mop hallway watching and that cleans the cafeteria protecting our students floors. from danger.

Yanet Cruz scoops out food Janna Gremillion and for students at Tompkins. Beatrice Salazar elbow bump in the nurse’s office.

Fumie Kitano helps ring up Shannon Johnson types student’s order in the lunch up attendence forms in her line. office. Ella Hummeldorf

Gremillion types student James (Red) Shrum poses health forms into her for the camera in the computer. hallway during his patrol. Layout Editor