A Vanguard Visit to The Museum of Science and Industry!

Markos’s Health class and the Heldmann/Felfle Science class ventured over to the MSI on Wednesday, November 25th, for a day of “educational fun”.

… Yeah, I said it. Really, though, the group had a blast going to the Museum; especially the brand new exhibit.

“You! (The Experience)” arrived at the MSI on October 8th, and it is a hit! Explaining how your self-care affects the way your body functions, the 15,000 square-foot exhibit explores personal health and well-being. The exhibit features cutting-edge technology never before seen in a museum setting, and hosts an incredible amount of visual references; for the young and old to gawk at, of course.

Chris Pehm gladly (and graphically) explained his very memorable experience.
“Don’t dissect pregnant women,” Chris remarked. “I saw a pregnant woman that was cut into slices, so I got to see her insides. She was dead, of course, and it was to show her anatomy, but it still was really gross,” Chris explained.

The pregnant woman was just one of many visual exhibits the museum showcases. Others included things such as an organ-stretched corpse or a series of fetuses in the gestation cycle (Pregnancy). Though the “You!” exhibit isn’t suited for the faint-of-heart, or those with weak stomachs, not all of the features are disturbing. As a matter of fact, a good number of them were very hands-on.

“Mindball was the BEST,” Mr. Heldmann said. Mindball was just one of the many activities that were available to students, all of which were mind-blowing. “Get in the Action” involved trying a few moves with a virtual basketball coach, while another activity allowed you to send your pulse to beat along with MSI's 13 foot “Giant Heart”. Yet another feature actually aged your face and voice by 30 years! The new favorite, though, was definitely Mindball. It’s an interesting game in which the more relaxed player wins, and it seems like a great way of seeing who’s stressed.

Right from the get-go, nothing but good words were spoken about the “You! (The Experience)” exhibit, and it’s easy to imagine why. Being less of a typical museum exhibit and more like an amusement park attraction, students were glad to have been part of the trip. This totally sounds like an advertisement, but this is all for your benefit. Oh, and if you’re wondering, yes, the exhibit is permanent, so there’s no rush, but it's STILL strongly suggested that you check it out.



Kevin Bazarek, Reporter
image courtesy of http://www.msichicago.org/whats-here/exhibits/you/for-teachers/

"All Hail, Macbeth, That Shalt, Be King Hereafter!"

On November 12, 2009 twelve eager students and three of Vanguard's fine staff, Ms. DeMeo, Ms, O'Neill, and Dr. Koralik stepped out to experience one of Shakespeare's most exciting plays; Macbeth.(I was one of the lucky twelve who got to participate in this enriching event.) The play took place at Dominican University in River Forest.

The outing started off with De Meo driving the students around to see all the lovely architecture in the surrounding neighborhood. Along the way, we hit a couple of speed bumps, or piles of leaves which made the ride even more adventurous. The ride came to a close when Koralik told everyone to get off the bus and into the theater. When inside, the theater was packed with a bunch of students and staff from other schools just waiting to get their Shake sphere on.

After sitting in the dark and a hundred puffs of smoke going up into the air on stage, the play finally took off with a "bang." The play was filled with action. Characters in the play got shot, stabbed, and there was even a drug deal at the beginning. It also had a modern twist to a production that took place in the 1600's. The play is was about a regicide and its aftermath.

Overall, the play was pretty spiffy. I was never bored. I was a little confused from the heavy dialogue but i was always at the edge of my seat. The rest of my Macbeth go seers agreed that the play was indeed a hit. "I thought it was very well planned out; the actors did really good, and the plot was exciting" stated Julia Magnani.

"I liked the play because it was modern; It incorporated everyday issues" said Armando Garcia. When the play was over students and staff filled their bellies with some tasty food from an Elmwood Park Institution, Russell's Barbecque. It was a quaint place to eat. It had a lot of history from its olden style interior and exterior to its juke box standing against the wall. The food was great too. I used to work at Russell's so it was nice to taste their juicy chicken tenders again and savor their signature barbecque sauce.

If you didn't get to go, tough break. The group of kids that went on this outing were chosen specifically by the teachers. This group included avid readers that appreciate Shakespeare's works. Better get reading! Koralik said that he felt that this field trip was important because Shakespeare is timeless and we don't read much Shakespeare here at Vanguard. After seeing this play it did make me want to read some of Shakespeare's other works, it would be good to open up my mind to other types of literature. As I'm sure many others will agree, seeing Macbeth is an experience i will never forget.


Nikki Harper, Editor In Chief
Photo courtesy of Ms. O'neill

New Kids On The Block

With the new school year taking off and with all the different things we have going on at Vanguard you might not recognize that kid sitting next to you. Or, the kid whose locker is right by yours, you might not have seen him before. Who are these people you might ask? They’re the New Kids On The Block and they all have a story to tell. Here are some cool people you might want to get to know:

Alex Medina
Home School- Wheeling
Year In School- Junior
Reason For Coming To Vanguard-“I was behind in credits”
Service Site- Lutheran Home
What He Likes About Vanguard- Service learning. He enjoys hearing all the stories that the senior citizens share.
Alex said, “Vanguard rocks!”

Valerie Carley
Home School- Prospect
Year In School- Junior
Service Site-Ridge
Reason For Coming To Vanguard-“I was really behind in credits and my counselor suggested it."
What She Likes About Vanguard- Smaller school, everyone’s like one big family. She likes the art work that’s everywhere.
Valerie said,“I like working with kids, it’s something I might want to do in the future!”

Luis Zendejas
Home School- Rolling Meadows
Year In School-Junior
Reason for Coming To Vanguard-“ I felt overwhelmed by too much work. I didn’t have enough time to complete it all.
Service Site- Ridge
What He likes About Vanguard- The fun atmosphere and the artwork in the bathrooms
Luis said, “I like being a viper better than being a mustang!”

Melanie Serrato
Home School- Hersey
Year In School- Senior
Service Site- Lutheran Home
Reason for Coming To Vanguard-“Hersey classes were too difficult to pass.”
What She Likes About Vanguard- Service learning. She enjoys working with the senior citizens.
Melanie says, “Service learning is teaching me how to be more responsible!”


Nikki Harper
Editor in Chief

Cuckoo For Coffee Cart

Have you checked out Vanguard’s new Coffee Cart? Well if you haven’t you definitely should. The cart has a wide range of beverages they sell including coffee, hot chocolate, and flavored tea.
Hot drinks not your thing? Coffee cart volunteers are currently working on an iced coffee drink to add to their menu. Prices won’t empty your wallet either. They charge only $2.00 for their steamy drinks.
If you bring a coffee mug from home or if you purchase one from them you can get your beverage for only $1.00! Bringing a coffee mug from home or purchasing one from them for($3.00) is a part of an effort to “go green” and help the planet. “I feel like we're really making a difference.” said Brian Thompson.
In addition to that you’ll be helping support a good cause. Every cent they earn will be donated to a local charity. Most recently they donated $100.00 to the The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night Walk on September 26.
The money will help raise funds for cancer research and patient services. The Coffee Cart is run by two of Vanguard’s finest, Adam Peterson(Team O’ Brien) and Brian Thompson(Team DeMeo). Adam and Brian showed much interest in running and getting the cart off the ground.
A Vanguard student Lisa Loeffler is one of the coffee cart’s most frequent customers and she agrees that the coffee cart is the place to be. She likes how it’s right there in the tech center, accessible to everyone in our school. She also adds, “I love it!, Brian and Adam are really nice.”

With all the hype the Vanguard coffee cart has brought your probably wondering whose bright idea this all was. It turns out that a lot of people had the idea for a coffee cart and were inspired by the success of Rolling Meadows High school’s Coffee Cart, Brewhaha.
Mr. Gustafson and Mr. Koralik were interested in starting a coffee cart years ago. They both saw the value of having a coffee cart in our school as a service learning site and also as a way of teaching students how to run a business.
So why didn’t they start a cart then? The answer is pretty simple. Forest View’s Central Administration continuously said no because of all the hazards that could possibly happen when a business is run by students, according to Mr. Gustafson. “It’s sort of a safety precaution I guess you could say,” he also added.
Despite all this turmoil, the coffee cart is up and running and its creators are already thinking about expansion. They would like to branch off into other parts of the building as a way of fundraising and providing the district employees with gourmet coffee.
Dr. Koralik also thinks that the cart will give us good “PR” (public relations). “We need to keep reminding people that we’re here,” he also stated. Another person involved in this whole “coffee cart business” is Ms.McCann. Ms.McCann joined the Vanguard staff only last year but it seems that when she arrived the coffee cart idea finally came to life after it being put on hold for so long. Ms McCann loved the idea of having a coffee cart and jokes that after seeing the cart just sitting in the tech center she didn’t want it to be “lonely” any more.
She took action and with the help of staff and students created a Coffee Cart class at the end of last school year. The class planned everything out from what kind of coffee to use to where our coffee cart would be. The class researched the coffee business including testing out recipes and taking trips to local coffee houses in our local area.
Ms. McCann said she believes that having a student-run business like the coffee cart is a motivating and engaging real life experience that students can take part in. Not only that it’s a way of getting involved in our school and shows a sense of school spirit through out.
When asked how she felt about the cart’s recent success she said ,“I’m excited and proud! It’s still in its early stages and now we’re planning on decorating the cart, finding a name, and maybe even getting business cards. She loves the idea of donating all its profits to local charites. “We’re doing something bigger than ourselves,” McCann added.
After hearing from all the teachers I decided to get the “big man in charge”, Mr. O’Brien’s opinion. He thinks of the coffee cart as being yet another opportunity to stand out and be different from traditional high schools. He hopes to see the coffee cart and its surrounding area as a calm and peaceful place where students can read, relax and maybe even have class. He adds, “I’d be willing to purchase comfy couches and chairs for the cause.”

Coffee cart hours are:
Monday thru Friday
7:30 am to 8:00 am
10-11 am
12-1:45 pm

Nikki Harper
Editor in Chief

Vanguard’s Early Morning Jog

The early morning hustle and bustle has gotten a little bit earlier this year at Vanguard. Last year, students were to be at school in their “team” (their selected morning group of students and a staff member) promptly at 8:30 in the morning. Although it was torture for most students to wake up before dinner, 8:30 AM was reasonable compared to the other district school mornings, which generally started at 7:30.

As well as starting school at 8:30 last year, physical education (more commonly known as gym) was only once a week on Fridays. Depending on weather students had morning or afternoon service decided what time during the day they had gym on Friday. If a student had morning service, he/she would have gym for one hour at either 9 AM or 10 AM. If a student had afternoon service, he/she would have gym (also for an hour) either at 12 PM or 1 PM. “Vanguard had a big break on physical ed. compared to other district schools who generally have gym every school day for 50 minutes, or in my case, Rolling Meadows High School had gym every other day for 90 minutes,” said Chris Pehm, a new Vanguard student.

Speeding up to this 2009-2010 school year, Vanguard has made some changes. No, 7:30 is not our start, (thank God, praise Allah, hail Satan, whatever floats your boat) but we are thirty minutes ahead of schedule. 8:00 AM is now the start of our day, and instead of team time being thirty minutes (8:30-9:00) it has been cut by about 60% to only ten minutes every morning (8:00-8:10). “More than anything, I miss the team time, it’s only ten minutes…so much for the bonding time,” says Rachel Conroy, a current Vanguard student.

So who decided to make these changes? It’s a combination of course, between the school and the state of Illinois. Up until this year, Vanguard had what was called a P.E. (physical education) Waiver. This allowed Vanguard to have gym only once a week as opposed to the normal state requirement of a daily physical education class (with exceptions to certain schools with block scheduling, etc.). Because the state has decided to revoke the waiver, Vanguard was forced to fit in a P.E. class everyday that school is in session. But having team from 8:30- 9:00 and classes beginning right after that, where could Vanguard fit in a gym everyday? That’s just it, the problem was obvious and fitting an extra class in just wasn’t going to happen between changing service hours, lunchtime, and class reductions. So what was school director Mike O’Brien to do? There was really only two options, let the students out later in the afternoon, or make the students come in earlier in the morning.

The verdict was in and Mr. O’Brien chose, you guessed it, start school earlier. “Vanguard made the decision to start school earlier not only to fit P.E. into the schedule, but because research has shown that exercise in the morning helps students wake up and pay better attention in class/service” said Mike O’Brien, School Director at Vanguard. “It’s just not necessary, I am more tired in the morning and running around isn’t helping,” says the frustrated Maxine Reed, a Vanguard student. The decision has been made and, as stated before, school starts a half an hour earlier every day. Gym is now a daily activity instead of a T.G.I.F. occasion, but what are the opinions of students?


“It’s ridiculous!” says a Vanguard student, Angel Colon, “I don’t mind the gym everyday, but it’s just to early for us teens to wake up.” Of all the students questioned about this change at Vanguard, most of the statements were similar to Angel’s. Of those i asked they felt that the gym requirement is fine, in fact, many students even stated that the gym time was enjoyable and refreshing, but that waking up even earlier than last year is horrible. That is unless you’re Brian Thompson, another Vanguard student who simply stated, “It’s whatever…I don’t really mind either change.” Hearing that was a change of pace compared to the usual, whining about waking up earlier. “Since the change, attendance rates are better, whether or not they’re related is not known, but it’s a good thing,” says school resource officer, Rick Sjodin.

So is it a great change? I’d say no…but is it all that bad, not really. Complaining does nothing, and personally, I’d much rather wake up 30 minutes earlier, than get out of school 30 minutes later. And I’d like to close my article before I’m interrupted by a famous rapper or politician, but bottom line, Vanguard Vipers are waking up earlier and getting their exercise. Is it right? It’s up to you.


Lindsey Ackermann
Reporter
Vanguard Blog

The Final Goodbye

The final camping trip of the year has commenced. Frankfort Kentucky was prepared for Vanguard students with open arms. Not only did we form new friendships, but we also learned the value of working together as a team. Brian Thompson, Vanguard student, said, "It was a life changing experience."

The teachers at Vanguard work so hard to make sure everything runs smoothly. They make a major contribution to each and every trip. Ms. Kiratsous, Vanguard staff, said, "The trip made me feel like I was back in high school again."

To add Tedd Markos, Vanguard teacher, said, "This year's trip to Kentucky was special. We go there because it's a different atmosphere. Things are more relaxing. Many lessons were learned on Elkhorn Creek this year. It was a great time. I enjoyed rafting the rapids with my group. That was intense!"

The white water rafting was the highlight of the trip for many of the students. Not only was it a new adventure for some Vanguard Vipers, it was a chance to learn. Marisa Sneider, Vanguard senior, said, "It was a learning experience for me. I got to know people on a whole new level. I learned how to work better with others. The trip was awesome."

To add Mark Kosirog, Vanguard teacher, said, " Where is the I survived the water wars of 2009 t-shirt?"

This trip meant a great deal to so many of us. Liz Ojeda, Vanguard senior, said it best, "I'm really glad I decided to go on this trip. I have been on a couple but they don't compare to this one. Even though some of us aren’t that close at school on this trip it felt as if we were friends for years. The teamwork demonstrated on this trip will always be a part of who I am."

Article By: Jaclyn Cimarusti

Art Work Destroyed

Vanguard High School has amazing art work created by students every year. Today, artwork created by Kyle Jakubowicz was vandalized. Vanguard student, Becky Leffelman, said, "Destroying ones artwork is disrespectful not only to the creator but to our school." 

It is sad to see how cruel some students can be. "Kyle put so much into those paintings," said, Vanguard student, Tracy Saegebrecht. I really hope that the person who did this crude act is discovered said, another Vanguard student. 

Morgan Sedano, Vanguard Student, said, "It is just so disrespectful."

Too add on Deanne Eugene said, "What goes around comes around, its called karma." 

Whoever destroyed Kyle's work should be ashamed of themselves. Anyone who would go that low to destroy art is a jerk in my book.

Article By: Jaclyn Cimarusti

Be Not Afraid Of Greatness

With graduation just around the corner Vanguard High School seniors are feeling the pressure to finish up classes. With all the excitement about graduating there is also fear. Krystal Vargas, Vanguard senior, said, "I'm scared of graduating".  Four years ago all we wanted to do was get older, now we want to find a way to make it stop. Abraham Lincoln, once said, "The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time. "

Vanguard has helped us recognize what we can accomplish. The teachers have helped us through tough times and we are sincerely grateful.  Bianca LaCour, Vanguard senior, said, " I'm excited to start the next chapter of my life. I feel honored that the teachers at Vanguard are helping me graduate on time. Finally graduation is just around the corner. "

Adding on Sarah Jackson, Vanguard senior, said, " I'm really upset about having to leave Vanguard. I have been here for so long it feels weird that it is almost over. But the possibilities of college make me excited about starting this new chapter of my life. I will miss what I have to leave behind but I will embrace the future with open arms."

Many of us thought graduation was not even a possibility. Vanguard made it a reality. Vanguard student, Marissa Sneider, said, "I'm sad about graduation but I am also happy. Vanguard is like a second family but its time to move forward."

Seniors of 2009 have bright futures awaiting them. Though fear may strive within us so does hope. We are growing up and it is scary, but it is reality. Liz Ojeda said it best "I'm scared of graduating. Next month I'm done. High school went by so fast. I am scared but I am not going to let my fear stop me from doing something with my life."

Article By: Jaclyn Cimarusti

 

 

Just like Family

Teachers at Vanguard High School mean the world to so many of their students. Through the good and bad times they have stood by us. Vanguard student, Liz Ojeda, said, "The teachers at Vanguard changed my life for the better. They made me realize that school doesn’t have to be hell. They understand me like no one else. They are my family."

To add on Vanguard student, Chris Carter, said," My team leader is like a secondary father. If I lost mine I know that he wold be there."

Vanguard is a community of students coming from various District 214 schools. It is more then just a school it is big crazy family. Vanguard student, Cheyenne Reyna, said, "Ms. McCann is my team leader. She listens when I have a problem. She connects with me on a level that no one else does."

To add on Vanguard student, Becky Leffelman, said, Mrs. Demeo is the teacher I am closest with. She actually sits with me at lunch and we have conversations. She had taught me so much about life and art."

The teachers at Vanguard are more then teachers they are friends. When it seems like the whole world is falling down on us they're right there helping us up. Vanguard student, Maria Bahena, said, "If Mr. Kain would have given on me I would have dropped out. Because of his patience and unfaltering faith in me, I am graduating. I am glad he didn't give up on me."

Article By: Jaclyn Cimarusti


"If kids come to us teachers from strong, healthy functioning families, it makes our job easier. If they do not come to us from strong, healthy, functioning families, it makes our job more important.” -Barbara Colorose

The After Effects

Out of fifty-nine female staff and students at Vanguard School fourteen of them responded about their experiences with abuse in a relationship.  "It's disturbing to see how badly some young women are treated in society today," said, Vanguard student, Maxene Reed.

Vanguard student, Evey Dudek, said about a previous abusive relationship,"Our breakup was us getting into a fistfight in an empty parking lot, it was so bad his friends had to pull him off me. It was a good basic summary of how our relationship was."  

 Jane Ball, who counsels women who are involved in domestic violence cases, from the agency Life Span said, " Emotional abuse can be the most damaging to women. Some women tolerate emotional abuse for years. They feel they are stuck in the relationship."  An anonymous Vanguard student said, " My boyfriend always ignored me or put me down. He treated me as if I was lower then him.  It made me feel like I wasn't good enough for him."

A Vanguard student said, " My boyfriend was so sweet at first. He would walk me home and buy me things. When I found out I was pregnant I moved in with him and that’s when everything started to change. We started getting into fights. It became physical. He used to punch me in my legs, pull my hair, push me, and put a pillow over my face. One time he threatened to kill my baby. I used to be scared of him. I would hide in the closet. But now I know that I am not taking crap from no one, especially a guy."

In Hollywood things aren't as glamorous as they appear to be. Last month recording artist Chris Brown assaulted his girlfriend music star Rihanna. According to FOXnews.com, "Brown allegedly tried to shove Rihanna out of the car, began punching her even as blood filled her mouth. And then police say he bit her. When Rihanna called her assistant to tell her to have police come to her home, Brown allegedly threatened to kill her."  Everyone is talking about this case of domestic violence because it involves two famous artists. The sad thing about this situation is that it happens everyday to women all over the world and that's the depressing reality.

An anonymous person from Vanguard School when asked how the abuse affected her life said, " It made me stronger. I notice the signs in other women and try to help them. It helped me make better choices in future relationships."

Many girls that are or have been in abusive relationships feel as if it was there fault.  An anonymous Vanguard student, said, " I felt like I was a loser, like I was nothing. It really affected my self-esteem."   

To add on another Vanguard student, said, "I think about it a lot and it just makes me feel helpless sometimes."

Jane Ball, a counselor at Life Span, said, "Domestic Violence is all about power and control." "We started dating last February and everything was fine. Then he just changed and started getting violent. Then he hit me, and all I really remember is feeling scared because I didn't know him really well or what he was capable of," said a Vanguard about a previous abusive relationship.

On http://www.now.org/issues/violence/stats.html "According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, women experience about 4.8 million intimate partner-related physical assaults and rapes every year. Less than 20 percent of battered women sought medical treatment following an injury."  

Violence against women is considered normal behavior in many countries. It affects the lives of women worldwide. It violates the human rights of women and often results in serious injury or death.  A lot of the time justice does not prevail, violence does. Behind all the statistics are real women. Every second of every day these women are crying out. We need to lend our ears to the cause. 

Don't hesitate! If you need help or just want someone to listen call one of these hotlines:

National Domestic Violence Hotline 

1800-799-SAFE

The Battered Women's Justice Project

1-800-903-0111

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

1-303-839-1852

Article By: Jaclyn Cimarusti 

Photo courtesy of http://www.adrants.com 

Jim Anderson receives District 214 Distinguished Service Award

For the past eleven years, Jim Anderson has dedicated his time to driving a bus filled with Vanguard students. When asked if he liked working for Vanguard he said, “Yes, very much so. If I had to drive for another school I would retire. Vanguard has great staff and students.”

To many students Jim is someone to confide in. Many believe he is more then just their bus driver; he is a friend. Vanguard student Art Tarnowski said, “You can talk to Jim about anything whether it be school, cars, motorcycles, just life.”

To add on Vanguard student Evey Dudek said, “Jim is fabulous. You can talk to him about anything. Plus, he’s hilarious.”

Jim is very loyal and reliable when it comes to his job. Patrick Kain, Vanguard counselor, stated, “What I really like about Jim is he’s really flexible in the fact that Vanguard changes its program very often and he never complains about it.”

“ Jim is the kind of guy that is very much down to earth,” said Vanguard student Nikki Harper. In his spare time he takes interest in antique motorcycles, listening to Rod Stewart's record Storyteller, and eating a plate of Italian style pasta.

Vanguard students and staff appreciate all that Jim does and for his unfaltering personality. We are proud that District 214 is recognizing him for all his hard work. On behalf of Vanguard: We love you Jim and we can’t be more proud.

article by Jaclyn Cimarusti

Back to your Roots!

Vanguard Student Marisa Sneider performs her heart out at the House of Blues.
Vanguard students Branden Martinez and Kevin Bazarek performing at House of Blues in Chicago.

The Blues is one of the most profound subjects to talk, sing, and dance about. It’s known not only as a musical genre, but as a way to connect, a way to feel, and a way of life for many people around the world.

This year brings with it Vanguard’s first official mini tour in all of 11 years.

Mrs. Cuevas said, “It was an exceptional experience. It was a great opportunity to work with students on the same personal level. We’ve never had it before, but music learning is awesome. It’s one of the best times we’ve had.”

Students had a chance to participate in a great range of activities during this short 20-day period.

KC Iatropoulos said, “It was something different, something we haven’t done before.”

Students learned quite a bit about the Blues history, and how the Blues lends itself heavily to African American culture. There was lots of painting, coloring, food, smiles, and a lot of overall expression.

At the end of the tour, students rocked out in a Blues-filled show at the House of Blues. “It was a once in a lifetime experience,” Branden Martinez said. “I’m a musician, and what happened at the House of Blues is every musician’s dream.”

Article by Kevin Bazarek

House of Blues photo courtesy of photobucket.com

Myspace Removes 90,000 Sex Offenders

A considerable percentage of Vanguard students have a Myspace account in addition to the other 130 million worldwide active users. With so many sexual predators lurking on this social website authorities decided to take action. Rich Cardosi, Vanguard student said,  “It’s nice to see action being taken against those who sexually abuse and exploit children.”

The website Myspace and law enforcement removed 90,000 sex offenders in the last two years.  “I think it’s great that Myspace is stepping up and protecting the younger members who use the site,” said Vanguard student Ivania Chavez.

Mark Kosirog, Vanguard teacher, said, “Nobody uses Myspace anymore. Anyways, these offenders will just find new outlets to connect with others.”

Facebook is Myspace’s rival. According to guardian.co.uk ,a rep from Facebook said, “We are glad to be able to report that we have not yet had to handle a case of a registered sex offender meeting a minor through Facebook. We are working hard to make sure it never happens."

“I am glad that Myspace removed these offenders. A chance of a child getting hurt is not an option,” said Vanguard student Eric Hernandez. Myspace users need to be cautious and smart about their profile because you never know who’s looking. 

"If you do have a Myspace profile you should set your profile to private," said Vanguard student KC Iatropoulos . Jobs, schools, even law enforcement can have access to your personal information on your public account and it can affect your chances of success. Think about it. 

Article by Jaclyn Cimarusti 

Photo Courtesy of Myspace.com 

All You Need is Love

The unsettling thought of not being able to marry the person you love is upsetting to most of our Vanguard community. Being able to love someone and devote your life to him or her should be a right, not a privilege. Liz Ojeda, a Vanguard student, said, “ I think same sex couples should have every right we have.”

Divorce rates have gone sky high the past couple of years, according to the Americans for Divorce Reform Website. They stated on their website that “Probably, 40 or possibly 50 percent of marriages will end in divorce if current trends continue.” Allison Mory, a Vanguard student, said, “ It’s sad to see how people take advantage of the sacrament of marriage. These days Britney Spears gets married and divorced in less than 24 hours, and that’s OK, but if a same-sex couple wants to commit their love it's wrong.”

It's unethical that the religious views of citizens of the United States often affect lawmaking. There has been even some instances where former president George W. Bush couldn't separate his religious views from his job. The first amendment states: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances." If congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, then why does religion influence the way our country is run? I invite and challenge you to comment on our blog about this very topic.

“Religion has no place in government,” said Vanguard student Bianca LaCour. Religion has always collided with government and has caused “chaos” added another Vanguard student. The first amendment protects the right to freedom of religion in addition to the four other freedoms. Whether it be Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, or Non-Believers, it’s your preference, but by trying to force your religious views upon other people is wrong in the eyes of many Vanguard students. 

In the public eye today civil rights continues to be an important issue. Actor Sean Penn chose to take on what some would call a risky career move. Penn chose to star in a film that challenges those who believe gays should not be allowed equal rights. This move paid off. Penn won the Academy’s Best Actor Award for his portrayal of California’s first openly gay politician Harvey Milk. As he accepted his golden statue at the 81^st Academy Awards he said, "I think that it is a good time for those who voted for the ban against gay marriage to sit and reflect and anticipate their great shame and the shame in their grandchildren's eyes if they continue that way of support." He then added, "We've got to have equal rights for everyone."

"It was an honor that Harvey Milk stood up for what he believed in knowing the risks. He inspired a whole new generation of people," said Vanguard student Nikki Harper. On November 27, 1978 the man who pushed the boundaries was shot and killed because of his support towards the gay community. He once said, "If a bullet should enter my brain, let that bullet destroy every closet door." He did not die in vain. People are not scared; they are standing up and fighting for their rights. It’s tragic to see how some people in this world interpret the possibility of equality. Milk said it best, “Hope will never be silent.”

a column by Jaclyn Cimarusti

The "My Bloody Life" Phenomenon

"My Bloody Life" was published in July 2000. Almost nine years later, its popularity hasn't diminished. This is obvious when you walk through the halls at Vanguard. Over twenty students and several staff have completed at least one book in the series.

A former Latin King, who uses the pseudonym Reymundo Sanchez to protect himself, wrote this mind-blowing novel. He writes about his tragic life and his involvement in the famous Latin Kings in Chicago.

"I keep going back and forth wondering if the book glorifies gang life for young adults," said teacher Megan McCann.

To me, gang life is glorified in society. In reality it is a life of violence and drugs with the cover of brotherhood.

Alex Ramirez, a Vanguard student said, "I have read the book five times. I think it makes people realize what gang life is really about."

Schools around the country banned the book from reading lists. Many made accusations that the book glorifies gang life. Sanchez was a Latin King for six years. He has left the Latin Kings, left Chicago, left the violence, and has written an amazing book that has touched people's lives. Sabrina Cuevas said it perfectly, "The book doesn't glorify gang life, it opens your eyes."

Ms. DeMeo, a Vanguard teacher, said, "It's one of the books that catches reluctant readers." To add on Francisco Ramirez said, "It was a good book. It was the only book I actually finished."

Patty Sanchez, a Vanguard student, said, "I think the book gives you a look into the life of a gang member and the consequences it has."

Reymundo Sanchez wrote a sequel to My Bloody Life called Once A King Always A King. He has also co-wrote a book called Lady Q with Sonia Rodriquez. Branden Martinez said, "Once A King Always A King was better than the first book."

For the winter reading incentive at Vanguard School, over ten people read My Bloody Life. It is a groundbreaking book that has intrigued many. The truth will set you free.

By: Jaclyn Cimarusti

Photo courtesy of google.com

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

Something that takes years to stick to and dwell upon can end in a matter of minutes. It's certainly no different for the simple act of cutting hair. Yes, simple. But this act is practically life changing. A Vanguard Student decided it was finally time to make the big step. Marisa Sneider said, "I couldn't believe Robert cut it. I was expecting him to keep it."

The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Vanguard senior Robert Struggles is definitely his hair. Waist length, Robert started growing it out around the time he was introduced to Vanguard. "His hair was awesome," said Priscilla Guadarrama.

Robert donated his hair to Locks of Love. Locks of Love is a non-profit organization that gives minors the opportunity to receive hair, via selfless donors. These minors have various conditions that cause hair loss such as cancer. "By donating your hair it gives the kids a newly found confidence that is priceless," says Jackie Cimarusti.

"I guess we give gravity to something so important, something that's a part of someone. It's a major act of self-sacrifice. Robert cutting his hair was like cutting the cord," Natalie DeMeo explained.

Tom Krause once said, "Getting what you want is not nearly as important as giving what you have." I couldn't have said it better.

Thank you Robert Struggles for your generosity that is sure to inspire others.

Story By: Kevin Bazarek

Greetings from the Inauguration!

a Rocky inspired Obama beach towel. Reminds me of Ms. DeMeo.
We met up with Mr. President after lunch.
Here's that President Obama studded-hat that I was telling you about. I've been searching everywhere for one for my brother Brian. No luck yet.

Can't wait to tell you all about our adventures---in person! We're so happy we had the chance to be a part of this. Now I must leave the internet machine and I will talk to you Friday. Miss you.

O'Neill goes to Washington

Here's the world's fanciest Starbucks in Alexandria, VA.
So the O'Neill family feels real lucky to have the chance to go to DC and witness a little history. I thought I would blog for Vanguard while I was away and share with you our trip.

Our first stop when we arrived Sunday afternoon was Alexandria, VA. We walked around a little bit--it's so much warmer than at home in Chicago.

We ate at Bilbo Baggins restaurant, a fine establishment with super friendly wait staff. The town was dead because I think everyone was on the National Mall rocking out to Springsteen, U2,Sheryl Crowe, etc. While we were eating, we watched McNabb's defeat against the Arizona. No defense for the Eagles so it wasn't really his fault but my heart aches for him nonetheless. The jukebox was playing Clapton's "Crossroads" while we were eating at Bilbo Baggins and I thought of Bobbi Felfle and our Field Hollerers.
Look, there's a Superdawg at the Midway Airport! Most of the people on the plane traveled in packs of besters. I thought for sure there would be more families but it was mainly small groups of women wearing matching Obama yellow sweatshirts on the plane.

I'm good with DC so far. Environmentally friendly buses that run on Natural Gas. I have heard their metro trains are the cleanest in all the land. I will let you know tomorrow.

I am more than shocked and thoroughly entertained by all the Obama consumerism. I have already seen five people with fancy studded Obama winter caps. Two women on the plane had costume jewelry diamond studded bracelets that spelled OBAMA. I will try to get some pix of the Obama fashions tomorrow.

Random Fact:
Did you know that Arlington Heights was named after Arlington National Cemetary? It's true. They originally called it Dunton, then Arlington and changed the name to Arlington Heights because the name Arlington was already taken.

I am impressed that Obama declared today a National Day of Service. Be proud you do service everyday, not just one day a year. Hope you're reflecting a little bit on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and enjoying the time off.

If you have any questions, I promise I will investigate. please post.