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