Opinion | 2 Let’s consider caps and gowns for future Viking’s graduation
Seniors | 4-5
Summer Lovin’ | 6
Farewell to the Class of 2022
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Vanguard College Preparatory School, 2517 Mt. Carmel Dr., Waco, Texas 76710
May 2022, Volume 49, Issue 6
The Vanguard Review A VCPS Publication
Masking the obvious
Local pediatrician weighs in on the health risks of prolonged mask wearing as some students continue to cover their faces Isaac Saadi ‘22 editor-in-chief
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ince the onset of the The CDC COVID-19 COVID-19 pandemic map indicates most of Texin 2020, high school as, including McLennan students have been covering County, as a low-risk zone. their faces with masks. While No masks are required inthis was protecting them from doors or outdoors in the low the dangers of a novel disease, areas. This means that the it also prevented them from prevalence of COVID-19 showing their face to friends in the state and county is so and teachers at school. low that the risk of transmisTwo years later, as mask sion when indoors is very mandates have been lifted by low and a mask would not local governments and school be recommended. districts and recommendations But freshman Lathan repealed by the Centers for Dieterich said the governDisease Control (CDC), some ment’s inability to properly students are not willing or able Mask to mask, sophomores Zoe Matos and contain COVID-19 is what to return to life without a mask. Alyssa Jones chat between classes. Jones has led him to continue That has school administration said wearing a mask makes her feel “more wearing a mask. confident.” Isaac Saadi / VR staff — and their classmates — “I live in Texas and most wondering why. of the people here actual“Some teens still have fear of COVID,” local ly believe the lies that Greg Abbott spews about pediatrician Vicki Popejoy, M.D. said. “Others are COVID safety,” he said. “Our current leaders in very self-conscious and are worried about anoth- Texas and their followers are foolish enough to er social transition of ‘demasking.’ Teenagers are believe that the pandemic is over, and in doing very sensitive to what their peers think, especially so are elongating the time it’ll take to get rid of when their appearance is involved. There is also COVID-19.” a concept of ‘mask fishing’ in which teens may Sixty-two percent of the student body does not be more comfortable hiding their flaws under the see COVID-19 as a health threat, according to the mask.” April 2022 VR poll. But COVID remains a concern
for 37.9 percent of students, like Dieterich and senior Naomi West. “I still wear a mask because I still feel like COVID is something that needs to be taken seriously,” West, who wears double masks to school, said. Arabella Rosiles, sophomore, said she wears her mask to protect others. “The main reason I continue to wear a mask, even after the mandate has been lifted and I have been vaccinated, is to protect my younger family members who I spend a lot of time around and are not qualified to get vaccinated,” she said. “You can definitely still carry the virus despite being vaccinated and I have no intentions of giving COVID to my nieces and nephews.” Rosiles said after Vanguard stopped requiring masks, she stopped wearing them outside and when playing volleyball because of the importance of air circulation when doing high-intensity activities. Rosiles added that continuing to wear her mask also has shielded her from viruses beyond COVID. “In the past two years, I have only ever had seasonal allergies and a sinus infection that stems from allergies,” she said. “I rarely get the common cold or the flu anymore because the masks protect you from those as well.” But Popejoy said the effects of prolonged mask-wearing can present health risks of their own. “There are also concerns for medical condi-
tions affecting the lungs, airway, neurologic and psychological health due to prolonged mask-wearing,” Popejoy said. “I have seen an increase in rashes and acne where the masks are worn. Although the conditions will improve, scarring and skin discoloration may be permanent.” Some students said they actually enjoy wearing a mask because it makes them feel more confident. “In 7th-grade, before I got braces, I was really insecure about my crooked teeth and acne,” 8th grader Aria Cleveland said. “Wearing a mask covers my mouth and everything except for my forehead and eyes which gave me more confidence to talk to people or participate in class, which I rarely did before masks. I’ve made wearing a mask a sort of comfort blanket. I realized that if I have my mask off, I’ll talk less and try to cover my face with other things.” Sophomore Alyssa Jones agreed. “[Masks] honestly make me feel way more confident,” Jones said. However, Popejoy said wearing masks and becoming more confident is often a temporary solution to underlying social pressures. “They feel that wearing masks helps them overcome inhibitions and face uncomfortable social situations,” she said. “These individuals may have different variances of anxiety and inhibitions that would otherwise limit their interactions. Most Continued on page 8
Trash talkin’
Lunchtime trash creates environmental hazard and more work for maintenance staff Delaney Trepinski ‘23 assistant editor
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mpty lunch plates smudged with marinara sauce. Wadded up chip bags. Half-drunk water bottles. Spilled soda cans with bees buzzing around the rim. The ripped off tops of M&Ms bags and other candy wrappers. Soiled napkins. These are just a few of the items that remain on the ground after the bell rings at the end of lunch — some of them fluttering in the breeze, ready to take off with the next big gust of wind. Littering is an issue the school has been battling all year — and 56 percent of students agree it is a problem, according to an April Vanguard Review student poll. Some of it is truly unintentional. But, intentional or not, the end result is a campus that sometimes looks trashy, contributes to poor environmental standards and creates extra work for school maintenance staff. “I think the main reason is just laziness,” junior Andrew Holze said. “A lot of the time, someone misses the trash can and they don’t want to go get it.” Science teacher Lee Kuhl cited an article he read that says common place logic would suggest that general human laziness is likely the major cause for littering — just as Holze pointed out — and that several factors point to why. “The article says one hypothesis would suggest
that there are multiple factors to account for littering behavior,” Kuhl said. “The main predictors are age, presence of existing litter and distance to the nearest receptacle.” Kuhl said when applying this rationale to Vanguard, there is an obvious correlation. “The age of the students leaving trash is anecdotally higher in 7-10th, while juniors and seniors tend not to be as prone,” Kuhl said. “Also in areas of high use, the presence of litter tends to be a predictor of more litter in the future.” Kuhl added that the presence and location of trash receptacles is key. “There are very few in the areas which are used, and many are often full to overflowing,” Kuhl said. “During the warmer months, we also have to deal with the presence of honeybees that scout the area for leftover sugar water left in the bottom of beverage containers. These factors combine to increase litter presence on campus and using the same logic the increased litter will lead to further issues.” Still, students like senior Juliette Young believe most people would not litter on purpose. “The obvious unintentional reason for leaving trash is because they genuinely forgot to pick it up,” Young said, “or they had the intent to pick it up after doing something else.”
Sophomore Micheal Bennett agreed. “Honestly I don’t think most littering is intentional,” Bennett said. “Most people just get distracted, walk off and forget their trash. I’ve done it a few times.” One would hope all littering is just an honest mistake but that isn’t always the case. More than 34 percent of students said they have seen other kids internationally litter on campus, according to the VR poll. “Kids most likely learn from their parents not to pick up trash,” senior Claire Civa said, “or they do it because An empty chocolate milk bottle bakes in the sun near the they are lazy. It’s not that hard to be con- outdoor pergola under a sign that calls for “Responsibility.” Delaney Trepinski / VR staff siderate to the campus that you spend There are a number of ways to help curb the money to go to.” littering problem — and the most obvious is addEither way, putting a stop to littering is of great ing more trash cans around campus. More than 74 importance. Chemistry teacher and assistant head percent of students said they thinking adding more of school Zach Seifert said it’s a matter of integrity. cans would help, according to the VR poll. “I would encourage students that if they see “Obviously, keeping litter off the ground and trash at a table or on the ground, go ahead and just increasing the number of receptacles and the frepick it up,” Seifert said. “We talk about integrity a quency in which they are emptied would help trelot, and actions like this go a long way. If we are mendously,” Kuhl said. “The farther someone has responsible for ourselves and we look out for each to walk to dispose of trash, the more likely they are other, what a wonderful school and community we Continued on page 8 to litter.” will have.”
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The Vanguard Review May 10, 2022
Is it time for a tradition turnover?
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aps and gowns are one of the defining characteristics of American graduation. High school kids dream of the day they will pose for a million pictures, walk across the stage Delaney Trepinski ‘23 and accept their diploma — wearing assistant editor their cap and gown. Tossing the cap in the air at the end of the ceremony is like a final farewell to high school and an enthusiastic wave to the future. But Vikings do not get the opportunity to wear a cap and gown. Girls are required to wear a white dress and boys wear a black tuxedo — a tradition that has been in place for almost 50 years. Nearly 73 percent of Vikings said they would like to wear a cap and gown at graduation, according to an April 2022 VR student poll. Although some private schools do have the tradition of a white dress, a white dress isn’t specific to graduation. Seeing someone in a white dress doesn’t imply that they graduated. Any graduation themed party includes cap and gown repetition in the decorations. It is a known symbol that is in every Ameri-
Things to
can coming of age movie. Bottom line: When people ize the completion of a level of education, but it can think of graduation, they think of caps and gowns. mean whatever the school wants it to imply. Like Caps and gowns are worn all over the Unit- the color, there are many different versions of the ed States and in other countries as well. European tradition of moving the tassel. For high school stucountries all have a rendition of caps and gowns, dents, it simply means they have completed a phase from a laurel crown in Italy to a studentmössa in of education. Sweden. American and European tradition includes But adding the tradition of caps and gowns does caps and gowns only slightly different depending on not mean the school would have to abandon tradithe geographical tion entirely. The Vanguard traditions are sacred, but so are white dress and location. Caps and general American traditions. The cap and tuxedo tradition gowns hold a gown tradition has a solid history. It isn’t just can be contintradition dating Students can a silly garment and it wouldn’t impede on the ued. back to 12th cenwear them under tury Europe. The white dress and tux tradition. their caps and reason we wear mortarboard hats and long gowns gowns and preserve whatever meaning it has to the lies in the past. These early universities didn’t have school. This way, everyone is happy. buildings, so students would usually meet at churchVanguard traditions are sacred, but so are genes. Since the churches were unheated, historians be- eral American traditions. The cap and gown tradilieve students wore long gowns and caps for warmth. tion has a solid history. It isn’t just a silly garment The hat shape has been said to stem from reli- and it wouldn’t impede on the white dress and tux gious leaders, but the tie is very blurry. The tassle, tradition. I don’t know if everyone feels as strongly however, has a distinctive meaning. The color of the as I do but I truly feel that throwing our caps up in tassel can relate to your level of degree, what your the air after we finally graduate is something that study was or just your school colors. The color re- brings us together and helps us feel the last fleeting ally depends on the school and their tradition. The moments of our young high school lives. meaning of moving the tassel usually will symbol-
Challenge, engage, create change: A farewell
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common motif throughout my life has been disputing and dismantling inequalities. From the moment I stepped foot into Mrs. Eichenberg’s room, my Isaac Saadi ‘22 personal obligation to challenge the problems in the editor-in-chief status quo has held firm. From the plight of migrants who seek asylum in this country to the actions of politicians who threaten our rights as humans, I’ve become inspired to truly comprehend what lies beneath the surface of journalism: a tool to create change. Through the Vanguard Review, we’ve challenged school policies and practices. We exposed the double standard of sympathy from the world stage as a direct impact of Western imperialism. We brought the practice of listing out pronouns to the center of discourse around this school. Some of these topics made you uncomfortable. We heard your grumblings and complaints. Perhaps our stories made you question — or strengthen — your own beliefs. I certainly hope so. When I became editor-in-chief this year, I knew I wanted to break form and take a bold approach to the Vanguard Review. This year’s newspaper
Quotes we love
wouldn’t be possible without the students we interviewed who weren’t afraid to speak up on behalf of their beliefs on either side of an issue. You all have my deepest respect and admiration. While I’d say we’ve done our best to express the challenges the world faces and present solutions to them, there is one overarching motif to our small staff’s work on the Vanguard Review: ensuring our community is properly informed about the issues in our society — from the trees surrounding 2517 Mt. Carmel Dr. to the world. We’ve acted as a watchdog for the people and have truly embodied journalism: an integral part of a free society.
cency and cynicism for far too long; now is the time to change that very precedent with the brilliant passion we hold. Lastly, I want to thank the VR staff: from Mrs. Eichenberg’s wisdom, Brooke’s spunk, Delaney’s quirks, Landri’s radiance and Hope’s mojo, our conversations have been priceless. Thank you for challenging, encouraging and exposing me to new perspectives. I am assured the Vanguard Review is in good hands with Delaney — one of the brightest, kindest people I have come to know and who has constantly inspired me. While our staff may only have one thing in common (besides This year’s newspaper wouldn’t be possible without our shared disdain towards the students we interviewed who weren’t afraid to the Oxford comma), our speak up on behalf of their belief. You all have my shared love of journalism has created a communideepest respect and admiration. ty I wouldn’t trade for the Perhaps now more than ever, our generation world. From our debates on the moral philosophies holds the power to mend the societal ills we have of governments to our plans on how to get rid of a been blinded to. In the age of social media, our per- certain ‘questionable’ van to the modern definitions spectives and perception of reality aren’t limited to of words to Mrs. Ressetar avoiding coming into the our parents. We hold the power to shape our own newsroom on a tour because Landri and I couldn’t opinions. I hope we can flourish into the generation stop crying while planning our last issue this year, that doesn’t resort to the establishment. we have cultivated something beautiful. I challenge all of you: question authority and It has been a pleasure writing for the Vanguard stay civically engaged. Ignorance has bred compla- Review.
“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink in the wild air.”
The VR staff
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
Have a great summer everyone!
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Consider
May 2022 poll results are in! Do you think littering is an issue on the Vanguard campus? Yes 44.4% No 55.6% Do you still wear a mask to school on a regular basis? Yes 11.8% No 88.2% Do you believe COVID-19 is stll a health concern for you an others? Yes 37.9% No 62.1% Do you wish the Vanguard graduation ceremony included wearing caps and gowns? Yes 72.6% No 27.4% Do you think it’s important to stay up-to-date on politics, world events and social issues? Yes 86.5% No 13.5% Do you keep up to date on politics, world events and social issues? Yes 40.7% No 59.3% Do you believe that girls get equal treatment in Vanguard sports? Yes 78.5% No 21.5% Do you think women are treated equally in college and professional sports? Yes 38.2% No 61.8% What are you looking forward to this summer? Sleeping in 24.6% Vacations 19.8% Summer job 14.3% Hanging out w/ friends 42.1% The above results reflect the VCPS student body of 243 students. Polls were distributed electronically through Google Forms. Number of responses: 128
The Vanguard Review Volume 49, Issue 6, May 10, 2022 The Vanguard College Preparatory School Student Newspaper 2517 Mt. Carmel Dr., Waco, Texas 76710 vanguard_review@vanguard.org (254) 772-8111
Staff
Isaac Saadi editor-in-chief Delaney Trepinski assistant editor Brooke Jolliff senior reporter Landri Wheeler reporter & business manager Hope Hamblin reporter & business manager Gretchen Eichenberg adviser
Bylines Bylines will be determined based on the contributions from each writer or individual. Contact the staff for the full policy.
Distribution and Printing Process
The Vanguard Review prints 300 copies of each issue. The paper is made available to students and faculty at several locations across campus. The paper is sent through the mail to individuals, including parents and alumni, on the official VCPS mailing list. It is also available online.
Mission Statement It is our mission to be the voice of the students of Vanguard College Preparatory School. We will endeavor in our roles as journalists to create a paper that students can read to be educated and informed.
Demographics Vanguard College Preparatory School has a total population of 279: 243 students and 36 faculty members.
people
The Vanguard Review May 10, 2022
Student Spotlight:
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Teacher Spotlight:
Grade 11
Katie James
DJ Broadway
Back to the Future Junior finds peace in ditching smartphone Hope Hamblin ‘25 reporter
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unior DJ Broadway said he already knew how much his smartphone negatively affected him in terms of his schoolwork and productivity, but after reading “Digital Minimalism” by Cal Newport, he realized how much his iPhone and technology had shaped his relationships with friends and family and his gratitude for life in a harmful way. “Shortly after reading the book, I shattered my iPhone and my first thought was that it would be funny to get a flip phone,” Broadway said. “So I did. My mom actually wanted me to get an iPhone and offered to buy me a new one multiple times, but I stuck with my decision of buying my own flip phone.” Broadway said the idea started as a joke, but as he researched the best flip phone to buy, he found a company that sold minimalist flip phones with only communication, navigation and music that were targeted at people wanting to cut out the possibilities of endlessly scrolling, using social media negatively, and a variety of other positive reasons. “I knew that flip phones are seen as a joke and I might get teased for it, but I also realized I would get much more positive personal results in spite of what others thought,” Broadway said. “Also, if someone is bullying me about my flip phone, it says a lot about who that person is and if they are willing to be negative despite the positive results it has given me, they might be too self-conscious about their own status and push their ideals of themselves onto me.” Broadway said his decision to get the flip phone was a compound of all these reasons, and multiple
Katie James said she was inspired to start the encouragement club by a kind student named Amy Kaur who died in 2017. Photo by Doug Fitzjarrel
Landri Wheeler ‘24 reporter
Flipping through a copy of “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy, junioe DJ Broadway escapes the virtual reality of smartphonesby reading a book. Broadway said he’s taken on new hobbies, like reading and welding, since ditching his iPhone. Photo by Brooke Jolliff / VR staff
others and the consensus was that he would be better off getting a flip phone. He said he only uses it when it is needed and even hesitates when it’s necessary. He said he even leaves it at home sometimes and doesn’t realize it until he returns home and sees it on his desk in his room. “My mom and my brother have said that I have been much friendlier and more outgoing,” Broadway said, “and they are glad that I’m willingly choosing to spend my time present with them and not with my face stuck in my phone scrolling through Instagram or TikTok.” In addition to the positive results in his at home life, he said he has noticed a difference in his academic life as well. “Two of my teachers have pointed out that recently, I haven’t been procrastinating my assignments and my performance on them has improved drastically,” Broadway said. “Another teacher even said they were surprised at how much time it seems I have and that I fit so much in my busy day.” He said his situation with his peers has also improved. “My best friend of six years has said that I suddenly seem fearless and courageous and that I no longer seem anxious or worried about my appearance and actions,” Broadway said. Broadway said he has also noticed that his insecurities have subsided and he has a newfound sense of confidence. “I no longer feel the need to look ‘perfect’ all the time,” Broadway said. “I used to care so much
that I may do something dumb and it would end up on Instagram and I would see negative comments. My insecurities were clearly shown to me and it was almost laughable that I cared so much about these arbitrary things and placed my self-worth on them when really I could have based my self-worth on my own decisions and choices rather than the thoughts of other people.” Broadway said he thinks there is value in people recognizing his story. He said he has had no negative effects and does not think he will encounter any. “Pictures are horrendous on my flip phone, but that was easily remedied by using my digital camera that I’ve been neglecting for a while,” Broadway said. “Now, I only take pictures of meaningful things and the quality is far superior to any phone camera, so I would say, overall, that con actually was a pro.” Broadway said he feels no need to go back to a smartphone and likely won’t unless he encounters a situation that requires one, such as a job. His classmates have actually shown interest in his new phone, Broadway said. “It’s always a conversation starter and it’s started multiple conversations with new people that I now consider friends, so it’s doing me wonders,” he said. “Many agree with my decision and think switching would benefit them as well, but none have done it yet.” Broadway said he recommends his peers take a leap of faith and make the switch too. continued on Page 8
VR: How long have you been teaching at Vanguard? KJ: I have been here since 2010, so this is my 11th year. VR: What makes Vanguard special to you? KJ: Vanguard is a school where a student can really thrive academically. Vanguard students, through their pursuits of literature and language, are able to ask some of life’s tough questions before they go into the fray of the adult world. I also love that Vanguard students have a passion for activities outside of the classroom, such as the fine arts and sports. VR: What is your favorite instrument to play? KJ: I am a violist at heart. I know you’re dying to ask what the viola is! It is bigger than a violin but held like one, and it is a little lower in voicing too. VR: What made you want to be the sponsor for the encouragement club and how does it affect our school community? KJ: My inspiration for the encouragement club came in a variety of voices. The first and loudest were my fond memories of Amy Kaur, a beloved Vanguard student who passed away in 2017. She would leave little notes of encouragement in people’s lockers. Secondly, I noticed how much of a need for verbal affirmation has emerged in our endemic society. Society’s words are often full of fear, anxiety, bias, and hatred. However, words can also begin relationships; words inspire; words give way to hope and make sense of chaos. I want to give a big shout out to Stephanie Benger, who shows up every week, determined to encourage as many people as she can each Thursday. As far as its effect on the community, Stephanie and I have yet to grasp it. I would venture to guess that of the 150+ cards we have written so far, at least one has done some good.
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I would encourage students to never take the easy way out! Whether that means taking as many AP classes as you can, trying out a new sport or being the leader of a club or organization, you will never regret challenging yourself because you will learn so much when you do! Challenging yourself to take risks and go outside your comfort zone is what will help you grow! Later in life, you won’t have the same opportunities so take advantage of them while you can.
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Class of ‘22 sh thriving in high s
By Brooke Jolliff
— Haydin Davis
Get your college applications done pretty soon. You won’t have to worry about them during school that way and you can focus on other things like school and extracurriculars. — Naomi West
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You set your own limits. Don’t let people determine your self worth. Always strive for more and be an interesting person. At the end of the day, even if you don’t end up at the school you were hoping for, the growth you have done throughout this process is priceless. Also, you are more than a test score or GPA. So many people with the resources to succeed on standardized tests or in school are going to make you feel like you are not, but it is you as a person who the admissions officers are deciding on - not your scores. Discover your passions and pursue them to the fullest. — Isaac Saadi
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Be confident! That sounds super cliche, but seriously, it helps you out in every aspect of high school. In the classroom, if you’re not fully prepared for a test but you go in confident you will do way better than going in nervous. In sports, confidence is also key. In your social life confidence is also important to help you make friends and just get along with other people in general. — Courtney Wiethorn
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Class of 2022: Front row: Vamika Gautam, Nao Borg, Grace Yoon, and Juliette Young. Middl Wiethorn, Claire Civa, David Wyche, Isaac Sa Leang Chhay. Back row: Sophie Bawduniak, Lin Carlisle, Leo Jackson, Cole Clark, Hyrum B Not pictured:
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hares advice for school and beyond
Try any sport you are interested in early. The coaches at Vanguard are the best and they will train you to excel in ways you never thought you could. — Leo Jackson
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f — senior reporter
omi West, Bella Garzonie, Dory Gonzales, Haleigh le row: Brooke Jolliff, Avery Haynes, Courtney aadi, Kyle Fitzke, Alex Dietz, Annah Brown, and nden Crow, Marlow Welch, Dalton Latham, Luke Blackwelder, Walker Nall, and Haydin Davis. Sage Suchecki.
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Don’t let what other people say define or change you. You are your own person and you will always be special in your own way. There’s always going to be people in this world that will try to bring you down, so just remember that in high school you will only see those people for maybe a few years and then you’re out of there. There will always be brighter days ahead. Don’t be what the rest of the world wants you to be. Always be the best version of yourself possible, and if someone doesn’t like that, then it’s their problem, not yours.
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— Brooke Jolliff
Do your homework. Your grade will suffer more than you think because of it. — Cole Clark
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I would say generally just to have fun and never take school too seriously. Even if you work your butt off and get into Harvard, if you didn’t have a good time, it’s not that worth it in the end, trust me. Academically, my biggest advice would be to learn to study effectively. You might have time freshman year to study three hours for every test but I promise you junior year you won’t have that luxury. Making the most out of small amounts of time is huge if you want to do well in the long run.
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— Avery Haynes
In order to have the best high school experience, use your study mods wisely especially if you are not going to want to do it at home. Might as well get it done when you have the time. Always be nice to your teachers. They actually care about you. Take the easiest classes you can your senior year because senioritis is not a laughing matter. It is real and you will suffer from it. Try your hardest to not have a bad attitude when walking into school because it really will be over before you know it. Do something fun that you will remember. This will make high school way more enjoyable in the long run. Make friends in different grades — older kids may have good advice and can help you out.
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— Sage Suchecki
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The Vanguard Review May 10, 2022
Summer Lovin’ (had me a blast!)
ummer is almost here and it is time for sleeping in, late nights and going out. Get ready for some amazing dates with your significant other or friends. Forty-five percent of students said they would like catching a drive-in movie, according to the April 2022 VR poll, so check out “The Cinematic.” Twenty-six percent of students said they would rather go on a picnic in the park, so checking out “The Romantic” might be just what you are looking for. To the 27 percent of students who said hiking and kayaking would be more their style, “The Adventurer” is perfect for you. The Vanguard Review has planned three fun outings, complete with all the details. Find which one fits best for you and make it your own. Whichever you choose, have fun and enjoy those long summer days and nights.
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By Landri Wheeler, reporter
The Adventurer
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The Romantic
f you are looking for a low key date with lots of sunsets and stars with your significant other, then this is the one for you. Dress up in something cute and comfortable for an evening by the lake. There are several parks around the lake to choose from, including Koehne Park off Lake Shore Dr., Woodway Park off Highway 6 and Airport Park across from the regional airport. Pack a light picnic dinner filled with ham and turkey sandwiches, chips or salads, a dessert of your choice and your favorite beverage. If that is not your style, then pop over to one of the several restaurants close to the lake. After you have your meal together, go set up at the lake and enjoy. Have a fun playlist created, play music as the sun goes down and appreciate the evening with your partner as the stars come out. Once you have finished up there, head out and get some dessert at one of the places around town, like Baskin Robins at 1616 Wooded Acres Dr. for some ice cream or Bahama Buck’s for a shaved ice. If not, then call it a night and head home.
Art by Caroline Williams
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The Cinematic
f you love good food, movies and are up for a country drive to a quaint little town with an old-fashioned drive-in theater, you’re in for a treat. Dress in comfy clothes and be ready for a cinematic experience under the stars. Grab your partner, get in the car and head to Studebakers Pizza located at 2701 E Main St. in Gatesville to grab one of their mouth watering pizzas, salads, wings or sandwiches, ranging between $5-20. Once you have finished your meal, drive down the road to The Last Drive-In Picture Show at 2912 TX-36, also in Gatesville. There you can enjoy a double feature for $10 per car outdoors and have access to a variety of candies, snacks and popcorn ranging between $2-7.50. When you get there, get your snacks, settle in and tune your radio to 90.3 and enjoy the show. If you are with some of your friends, head back to someone’s house and continue the party. There you can continue your night by watching more movies and eating snacks or turn in for the night.
hen you wake up, dress sporty, pack a towel and swimsuit, grab your significant other or friend group and get ready for a day of activities. While you are heading over to your first location, consider stopping by Oh My Juice located at 215 Mary Ave. and grabbing a smoothie, ranging from $5-10 or an acai bowl for $6-10, depending on the size. While you are there try out the Coco PB Dreaming smoothie made of spinach, date, banana, peanut butter, cacao, chocolate protein and almond milk or the Black Forest acai bowl consisting of acai, cherry, blueberry, spinach and coconut water. After you get your smoothie or acai bowl, head over to Cameron Park where you can go on a hike down the River Trail, which begins at Redwood Shelter, and enjoy the scenery. If you’re up for a real challenge, take a sprint up Jacob’s Ladder — a 100-step, zig-zagging stone staircase that leads to the top of a bluff. Next, it is time to take out your towel and swimsuit and head down to Pura Vida Paddle at Brazos Park East where one-hour rentals start at $20 for paddleboards and single kayaks and $25 for double kayaks. While you are paddling down the Brazos, you will see the amazing view of the town and parts of the beautiful Baylor campus. You’ll also pass by the beautiful Emmons Cliff and Lover’s Leap. After you have paddled down the Brazos, make your way over to Union Hall located at 720 Franklin Ave. where you can enjoy numerous cuisines from 20 different vendors including Blasian Asian, The Salad Stand, Wacool Taco and Tamales, unSHAKEable and many more. These vendors range between $10-20. Once you pick up your lunch, take it back over to Cameron Park, up to Lover’s Leap and enjoy the picturesque view over the river. Once you finish lunch, go back downtown and discover all the shops.
sports
The Vanguard Review May 10, 2022
7
Playing like a girl
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Title IX which grants women equal opportunities in high school athletics and beyond Hope Hambin ‘25 reporter
There was a time, not that long ago, when female high school and college athletes did not have the same opportunities as males. At schools where there was a men’s basketball team, there was not necessarily a women’s basketball team. Sports program administrators often prioritized funding for mens’ facilities and equipment over that of women’s teams. And it was common — and still is — for female professional athletes to be paid far less than males. “Considering all the really talented women athletes there are now, it seems crazy to think about how many more there could have been if they had more opportunities to play sports back then,” freshman Zara Diaz said. That changed on June 23, 1972 — 50 years ago this year — when President Richard Nixon placed Title IX into law after being introduced to Congress by Senator Birch Bayh in the U.S. Senate, and Congresswoman Patsy Mink in the House of Representatives. Title IX was passed to help further equality inside of school environments. It states that no person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. Title IX shined a spotlight specifically on the inequality between men and women in sports. “Title IX has succeeded admirably in achieving its goals,” said U.S. circuit judge and 39th solicitor general of the United States Ken Starr, who is best known for heading up the Whitewater investigation against members of the Clinton administration. “Athletics administrators across the country have focused on ways of creating new opportunities for women in athletics. By virtue of the law, new sports programs for women came into being.” Women have become considerably more active in sports since the passing of the bill. In 1972, there were just over 300,000 women and girls playing college and high school sports in the United States, according to the Women’s Sports Foundation. Female athletes received just two percent of college athletic budgets and athletic scholarships for women were hard to find. But by 2012, the number of girls participating in high school sports nationwide had climbed to more than 3 million. More than 190,000 women were competing in intercollegiate
sports — six times as many as in 1972, the FounTitle IX’s principals are encouragement for any dation reports. school, public or private, to provide opportunities “Estimates are that participation rates of girls for female athletes. and women in organized school sports went from “The measure nonetheless establishes an over1 in 27 at Title IX’s start to now being at least 1 in 5,” local civil rights attorney David Schleicher said. At Vanguard, girl’s sports are definitely a force, as well as a big draw for the school. This month, the Lady Vikings softball team won the TAPPS 3A district title. Five girls on the track team made First Team All-District. Three girls on the basketball team made First Team All-District and two made Second Team All-District, alongside two honorable mentions. Two volleyball players were recognized with 3A Honorable Mention All-State, four players got First Team All-District and two players got Sec- At the fence of the dugout, junior Avril Maldonado smiles ond Team All-District. The girls golf team and cheer for her teammates on offense. Bifrost photo also placed fourth at state this month. “Some of the best sports that Vanguard has ex- arching goal of fairness and equality that can incelled in include women,” junior Avril Maldonado spire positive steps and reforms to be undertaken said. “I think Vanguard does a good job including entirely voluntarily by private institutions, such as women in sports.” Vanguard,” Starr said. The student body largely agrees. More than 78 Even though this year marks the 50 year annipercent said they think girls get equal treatment in versary of Title IX, women in sports are still fightVanguard sports, according to a VR April 2022 stu- ing for equality in the athletic world. From notable dent poll. salary differences to lower end quality practice faAlthough not every school is held to Title IX cilities, women still do not get treated the same as — due to private education being funded by stu- men. dents as opposed to the government, as in public “I think Vanguard allocates a lot of attention to education school districts — each individual fe- their athletic program overall, but I would say that male athlete can be affected and become a bene- boys sports get more attention,” said sophomore ficiary of it. Karissa Kuhl. “I don’t think that’s necessarily the “As opportunities at the collegiate level for school’s fault, because they can’t help how the stuwomen athletes continue to increase, that can be dents react to girls and boys sports, but I do think expected to broaden the demand for equality even it falls under their responsibility to perhaps correct at private high schools exempt from Title IX due it.” to the absence of federal funding,” Schleicher said. Kuhl said allocating better social media attenAlthough private schools are not primari- tion specifically to girls could help. ly funded through the government, they can find “Maybe have separate social pages for girls themselves bound by the legislation simply by ac- and boys sports, it could even be made a technolocepting any type of federal funding. gy independent study program, a group of students “A private school can end up covered by Title could report on the happenings in girls and boys IX unexpectedly,” Schleicher said, “such as while sports and collaborate on a page,” she said. getting federal Paycheck Protection Program funds While Maldonado said she believes girls athor other COVID financial relief from the Small letes are treated fairly, she also pointed out some Business Administration.” ways to improve.
Athlete Spotlight: Sehoon Joo
VR: How are your sports similar or different from sports in South Korea? SJ: Soccer and baseball are big in Korea, but my mom only made me play soccer because it’s more popular there. I enjoy playing baseball and basketball in the United States because my friends Parker and Drew got me to play it and I started liking it.
VR: How does it feel to have the opportunity here to be able to play multiple sports? If so, what sports did you gain your athletic passion from back home? SJ: If I had to go back to Korea for high school, I Junior Sehoon Joo delivers a pitch in a baseball game would definitely play all three. That’s a “W.” against Live Oak. Hope Hamblin/ VR and Bifrost
“If I had to say one thing about Vanguard needing to change something, it would probably be the recognition,” she said. “I know that in softball last year, a lot of the girls would’ve loved a send off or more recognition for going to playoffs.” High school, college and professional sports all have a lot of work to do, but progress is being made on many fronts. “2022 was the first year that the college women’s basketball tournament was allowed to use the ‘March Madness’ branding previously reserved to men’s programs,” Schleicher said. “The NCAA still has a long way to go to reach equality in the men’s versus women’s programs.” Title IX provides equality in sports, but it also protects female athletes from things that happen off the court. “Many of the current suits under Title IX allege that a college discriminated by failing to protect its female students from sex discrimination and sexual assaults,” Schleicher said. Bottom line: Female athletes have soared to new heights over the last 50 years and they continue to inspire today’s girls in sports. “The Williams sisters are definitely role models,” Kuhl said. “Their respective journeys and the one they shared together on the ATP tour is really admirable.” Maldonado said without sports her life would be different. “Most people learn valuable lessons and character development through sports,” she said. “Without sports, I wouldn’t have made some of the friendships that I have over time, which is something big in my life.” Kuhl said she is grateful to have the opportunity to play sports, thanks to the women who paved the way. “For me, tennis has been a sort of saving grace,” Kuhl said. “It’s something I know I can retreat to and be happy and cool off. It’s so easy to become stressed about friends, relationships, or school, and once I figured out how to separate tennis from all of that, it was a really healthy distraction. Had I not had tennis I definitely wouldn’t have met the people I consider my good friends. The kind of bond you can share with teammates, I think can really be unlike anything else if you let it.”
Hope Hamblin ‘25 reporter VR: Which American sports do you play and which is your favorite and why? SJ: Basketball and baseball are some American sports I love. It will be more fun to win, but hanging out with friends that I go to school with and having a good time in the dugout or locker room solely is the best feeling you can get from the USA. Soccer is an international sport I enjoy. I love it because I can play it with anybody wherever I go in the world. VR: What’s your favorite position to play in baseball and what makes it stand out to you? SJ: I like to play pitcher, shortstop and outfield. Although shortstop and outfield are easier for me,
it’s fun to see how I’m improving in every game I pitch. I love it when my friends say that it’s the most corrosive pitch after a good pitch. VR: What’s your favorite post-game celebration for any sport? SJ: Me and Howard’s family always hit the Rosas taco place or Chick-fil-a after the game. I like Chick-Fil-A food. I have “W” memories with Parker, jamming to pop and country songs in the car on the way which makes me like going to Rosas and Chick-fil-a.
Vanguard Review Vanguard College Preparatory School 2517 Mt. Carmel Drive Waco, Texas 76710
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Litter
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experts believe that wearing masks is only a tempo- concerts in which masks were mandated.” rary fix to their underlying problems.” Sophomore Annabelle Reese said she feels And Popejoy said wearing a mask for prolonged sympathy towards her peers who still live in fear periods has led to long-term psychological effects of COVID. on teens. “I think that it is really sad that COVID-19 has “In the field of pediatrics, there has been con- affected students so much mentally that they are cern about social interactions and decreased verbal afraid to not wear a mask,” she said. “Even when communication while wearing a mask,” she said. studies show that it is safe not to.” “Infant and children’s development has not been signifi- “I think it is really sad that COVID-19 has cantly altered in the past two affected students so much mentally that years. However, there has been an increase in anxiety. they are afraid not to wear a mask.” Wearing a mask may be iso- Annabelle Reese, sophomore lating and lead to feelings of sadness and anxiety.” Jones said respecting others’ choices to wear a Senior Vamika Guatam said masks have hindered social interaction with her peers. mask is important. “I feel as though masks definitely limit face“At the end of the day, it’s their choice if and to-face interaction in regards to conveying facial where they want to wear a mask,” Jones said. expressions in conversation,” she said. “It was also “Whether or not you do wear one, I respect your an impediment in social events such as parties and choice.”
DJ Broadway continued from Page 3
“It improves your relationships, frees your time person holds so much hidden talent and potential that was previously wasted on your phone and al- that may only be limited by your mindset,” Broadlows you to focus on the things you value most. way said. “Changing phones affected me mentally Overcoming FOMO is the hardest obstacle I be- and my outlook is much more positive. Now it’s lieve, but if you amazing that I just spend a few “Changing phones affected me mencan fit so much in minutes really, tally and my outlook is uch more posi- one day and enjoy and I mean reevery moment of ally, evaluating tive. Now it’s amazing that I can fit so it.” what you would Alongside the much in one day and enjoy every mo- lifestyle be missing out changes, on, I think you ment of it.” he also has newly would start to hobbies - DJ Broadway, junior formed see that most of and talents such the reasons are arbitrary.” as reading, technology and welding while simultaBroadway said he spends just as much time neously improving his grades. with his friends as he did before and, although he “I have learned two programming languages might miss a trend or two, it saves him from the that previously seemed like an impossible task benegative aspects such as the Reicher/Vanguard con- fore I ditched my smartphone,” Broadway said. “I flict. learned welding and other forms of metalwork, an“Everybody is capable of so much and that each other thing I’ve been wanting to do for months, but have only pursued once I gave up smartphones.”
upcoming events May 19-25 - Final Exams May 26 - Awards Night • May 27 - Graduation August 12 - School Starts!
Have a great summer, everyone! — the VR staff
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Young agreed. “I think the easiest way to solve this problem is to place more trash cans around campus,” she said. Kuhl said he would consider harnessing the enthusiasm of middle school students to create a “litter brigade.” Have a story idea or an “Having them go and pick up each day or on a rotation would instill a sense of ownership for the opinion to share? campus and reinforce their individual responsibility in the matter,” Kuhl said. “This could be done by the biology and environmental science classes as well, Please contact us at but I do feel that since age is a contributing factor, having those more likely to litter be the ones who vanguard_review@ keep it under control would work better.” vanguard.org Civa suggested more education on the harmfulness of littering. “One way we could help is teaching how to properly take care of trash, why it is bad to litter and encourage students to pick up trash every day,” Civa said. “Maybe even on Fridays, we could even have a trash contest.” Another deterrent would be punishment for those who litter. Share your products and “The most effective way may be to start imservices with our readers plementing stricter rules and consequences for littering,” Young said, “as it would encourage — especially younger kids — to pick up their trash Please contact us at immediately.” Kuhl pointed out that since the school does not landri_wheeler@ have a self-contained lunch program, but rather one geared towards distributing lunches provided by vanguard.org vendors, everything coming through the Bostick Café is single-use. “This drastically increases the amount of or non-recyclable trash that is generated every day,” hope_hamblin@ Kuhl said. He added that the vendors might be able to play vanguard.org a role in addressing the situation. “A difficult, but rewarding route would be to work with our vendors to minimize the amount of al opportunities coming up that we will be posting litter in the provided lunches while maintaining soon.” Although the volunteering details for all stusanitation and expenses,” Kuhl said. “Refusal is a dents are still a work in progress, some volunteermajor part of decreasing the amount of single-use ing has already begun this spring. plastics which damage our environment and our “We just had 520 students from Baylor Stepown health.” pin’ Out all over Waco Littering is tackling our current litter I think the easiest way to solve not just a probissue,” she said. “Every lem at school — this problem is to place more volunteer brings economic it is a city-wide value to our city, and with concern. Besides trash cans around campus.” these students we brought being ugly, litter - Juliette Young, senior $29,120 of economic value can be a health in just a few hours.” hazard, as well That value is calculated by how much it would as a threat to wildlife. An organization called Keep Waco Beautiful offers programs, education and have cost the city to employ that many maintenance community engagement that promote a cleaner, workers to pick up the trash. Fergusson shared the status of the litter these students pulled out. more sustainable city. Keep Waco Beautiful’s April 2 city-wide cleanCarol Fergusson, the executive director of Keep up netted 9,940 pounds of litter and brush that was Waco Beautiful (KWB), offered directions for any removed from areas including Alta Vista, Dean student wanting to participate in those volunteer opHighland and Brook Oaks and areas along Martin portunities, “You can find all of our events on our website, Luther King Hr. Blvd. and the Herring ditch. This keepwacobeautiful.org,” she said. “We have sever- amount included 28 old tires that were left around the city.
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