Vanguard Review November 2021 by Gretchen Eichenberg

More diversity | 2 needed in men’s fashion

Women’s fashion embraces body diversity while unrealistic standards still apply for men

The Little Things | 4-5

Energy overload | 6

In pictures: What the last year taught us about taking things for granted

Kids turn to caffeine for energy when what they need is more nutrients and sleep

Vanguard College Preparatory School, 2517 Mt. Carmel Dr., Waco, Texas 76710

November 2021, Volume 49, Issue 2

The Vanguard Review A VCPS Publication

At stake: life and liberty

Texas abortion law strictest in U.S. history; students react Landri Wheeler ‘24 reporter

n September 1, the Texas Heartbeat Act, or Senate Bill 8, was enacted, stating that it is now illegal to seek an abortion after six weeks of pregnancy. The bill, which was signed into law by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on May 19, is controversial because critics say it cuts off access to abortions before most women even know they are pregnant. The law also allows citizens to sue people for making donations or assisting someone in getting an abortion, making it one of the strictest abortion laws in the country. More than 47 percent of students said they think the Heartbeat Act is unethical, according to the October VR student poll. And 29 percent think the law is ethical. The law states that “a physician may not knowingly perform or induce an abortion on a pregnant woman if the physician detected a fetal heartbeat for the unborn child,” which is generally around six weeks.

“That is when the heartbeat forms,” Hope Hamblin, freshman, said. “When someone is unconscious and you’re trying to find out if they are dead or alive, you check to see if they have a pulse, which is your heartbeat. So, if that is the deciding factor between life and death for an adult, what is the difference between a baby in the womb?” Landry Stewart, 8th grade, said she supports the law. “I am for the law because it allows for more protection for the unborn, who are unable to protect themselves,” she said. Michael Bennett, sophomore, agreed. “I am for it,” he said. “I believe abortion has always been a moral issue and we need to protect the unborn, and if a law is required to do so, then it has my support. Besides, I believe people would stand up for their own unborn life, but won’t stand up for others since their life isn’t at risk, and something needs to be done.”

swing

The of things

Seating removed from pergola due to misuse

Continued on page 8

Drowning in Debt

As the national debt climbs, politicians and students weigh in on how to reduce it before it’s too late Delaney Trepinski ‘23 assistant editor

ew York Congresswomen Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) caused a stir at the 2021 Met Gala when she wore an eye-catching white dress with “Tax the Rich” printed in red on the back, signaling her solution to how to reduce the U.S. ‘s rising national debt. But is AOC’s opinion of taxing the rich going to actually solve the federal government’s impending issue? With almost $30 trillion in national debt, with the addition of a projected $3 trillion this year, the U.S. government has reached its debt ceiling. That means it can no longer legally borrow any more money to pay for any government services and employee salaries. Last month, the Senate passed legislation to allow the government to continue borrowing through December. But then, Congress will vote to increase this very large amount to even more. Democrats and Republicans are constantly battling over how to reduce this crippling national debt: by increasing taxes or cutting government spending. Students and faculty share their views on how to solve the problem. “The ‘rich’ are already paying a substantial portion of their income in taxes,” said junior Andrew Holze. “The highest federal tax rate is 37 percent and for those living in locations with state and city income tax, the highest income taxpayers can easily pay 45-50 percent of their income in taxes, according to the International Revenue Service (IRS).” Holze said taking money from job creators just doesn’t make good economic sense. “Much of the burden is falling on small busi-

ness owners who cannot afford the higher taxes,” Holze said. Economics teacher David Foti agreed. “The top marginal tax rate at the federal level is about 40 percent right now and if you add state income tax on top of that - for states like New York and California - the top marginal tax rate is over 50 percent,” Foti said. “So, I guess you could tax them more, if you don’t consider 40 and 50 percent enough.” If you combine the net worth of the 20 richest people in America, it totals a stunning $1.8 trillion, according to the Forbes 400, Forbes magazine’s annual list of the wealthiest Americans. The study also showed that the people on the list increased their collective wealth by 40 percent over the last year, while many Americans suffered job losses and business closures due to the pandemic. “Even if we took every penny from the top 25 people, it still wouldn’t be enough to cover our shortfall just for this year - and then they would be broke,” Foti said. “You can’t solve this problem mathematically, even by taking 100 percent of the richest peoples’ money. You could not get that deficit number to zero.” Sophomore Samuel Pole said he believes taxing the highest income earners is a good way to pay down the national debt. “I think it is fair to make them pay their fair share,” he said. “They have so much money, there’s no reason for them not to have to pay.” But even if taxes go up for the richest people, there will have to be cuts as well in order to make a dent in the national debt. “Cutting government spending is a better apContinued on page 8

A lone chain hangs from the pergola where three porch-style swings once provided a place for students to hang out during break and enjoy their lunch on sunny days. “People weren’t respecing the swings,” said assistant head of school Zach Seifert. “We put signs out that said ‘no more than two kids on the swings’ and, evidently, the signs didn’t work, so we had to take the next step.” Photo by Isaac Saadi / VR staff

Isaac Saadi ‘22 editor-in-chief

tudents were met with utter shock on Thursday, Oct. 14 when they went to their usual hangout spot and discovered that the pergola outside the senior lounge had all of a sudden been stripped of its swings, leaving an empty hexagonal void, lacking the lively human interaction present just days before. “I was like, oh shoot, we’re in trouble,” 8th grader, Colton McCullough, said. Associate head of school Zach Seifert said the reasons the swings were removed came down to the fundamental reason that the students could not follow the rules. “People weren’t respecting the swings and we had too many kids on there,” he said. “We put signs out that said ‘no more than two kids on the swing’ and, evidently, the signs didn’t work so we had to take the next step.” The 8th-graders had mixed responses to the number of warnings they received. “I kind of expected it because we were warned, but I felt like we kind of deserved it because we didn’t follow the rules,” Toni Mickleburgh, 8th grade, said. Kaitlyn Phillips, 8th grade, agreed. “I felt like it was coming because I heard so much stuff from the hallways, but I still feel like we need another chance,” Phillips said. But 8th grader Paiton Jones has differing views. “I was confused because, for one thing, we didn’t get a warning,” she said. English teacher Wendy Allman, Ph.D., who has a direct view of the pergola from her classroom window, explained the significance of the rules put

in place. “After swings that were overloaded and pushed aggressively fell down on several occasions, two rules — maximum of two riders, no pushing — were formulated to prevent student injury as well as to preserve the structure,” she said. “In the last few weeks, numerous students repeatedly failed to observe the rules, despite posted reminders in the pergola and reiterated warnings from faculty and staff. Therefore, the only way to ensure the safety of students and to prevent damage to the pergola was to remove the swings.” Allman talked about the history of the pergola, and why the actions have been particularly disheartening to the staff. “The pergola was erected in memory of sweet Amy Kaur, who passed away suddenly and tragically in the spring of her senior year, 2017,” she said. “The idea was to memorialize a beloved student through a beautiful area of serenity.” Some 8th graders were surprised to learn the history after the swings had been removed. Over the past four years, the pergola has held great significance to the students who utilize it, even though they did not know how it came to be. “I would very, very much like to have them back, Triston Robertson, 8th grade, said. “It was super fun over there since it was right by where everybody would like to play games,” he said. “Everybody would meet over there and sit on the swings, so having them go away was pretty upsetting.” The disappearance of the swing has been felt by high schoolers as well. Continued on page 8

2 opinion

The Vanguard Review November 5, 2021

More inclusivity needed in men’s fashion

n just the past decade, women’s diversity in the fashion industry has increased tenfold. We’ve seen the days of the ’5 ’’11, 100-lbb l o n d e - h a i r- b l u e - e y e Isaac Saadi ‘22 constraints of Tanya Dziahileva — the early 2000s editor-in-chief model famous for opening Versace SS08 at 16 years old — turn to a mosaic of different races and body types, like Adut Akech, a South-Sudanese model, and Jill Kortleve, a plus-size model who was the face of Alexander McQueen’s SS19 show. While there is still progress to be made for more representation in women’s fashion, it seems that unrealistic standards are still prevalent for men. At Vanguard, 56.3 percent of students think there’s a lack of male diversity and body representation in the fashion industry while only 35.7 percent think there’s still not enough diversity and body representation in the female fashion industry. It is imperative for men’s mental health and shifting the societal paradigm that we bolster inclusivity within the fashion industry. A quarter of young adult men have experienced

eating disorders related to body dissatisfaction, ac the fashion industry because when body positivity cording to a 2021 study by the Newport Institute, a is celebrated, we tackle the narrative that men must national healing center that focuses on eating issues. fit the unrealistic body standards set up by society. The study explains that it is estimated that 20-40 In just this fashion season, brands like Jacquepercent of men struggle with body image issues. The mus and Chanel have included plus-size female reason these issues haven’t been brought to the fore- models on their runway, yet in the menswear shows, front in society yet is because of the stigma around zero body type representation was to be found. The men’s mental health. The outdated standard that impact of more plus-size representation has been they are not supposed to express emotion because profound for women. A study carried out by Florithat is left for women still holds in 2021. This rein- da State University in 2017 showed improved psyforces the sex- It is imperative for men’s mental health chological health in women ist narrative after they viewed images of ... that we bolster inclusivity within the plus-size models. The parthat women are over-emotion- fashion industry. A quarter of young ticipants of the study were al because it men have experienced eating disorders, women who said they all is not socially according to Newport Institute (2021). wanted to be thinner. They acceptable for were then shown different men yet. But our society has perceived these issues images of thin, average-sized and plus-sized fashion as “women’s issues” without realizing the magni- models. The researchers found out that there was a tude of the issue. It reinforces the narrative of toxic clear psychological advantage when the women saw masculinity which leaves men to act out of sexist, a more realistic body type than the traditional thin outdated standards. model. Mental Health National (June 2020) articulates Men deserve the same advantage. If we parallel that men are less likely to seek treatment because by increasing plus-size representation for men, these of societal norms and reluctance to talk, as men’s mental health issues will be altered to recognize that mental health has been a taboo subject for many men face body image issues as well. years. Diverse male representation is a necessity in

Let’s get creative to help fund uniforms and equipment for non-revenue athletic programs

ach year, roughly able to participate. $150,000-$175,000 The cheer program gets a good amount of is spent on school school funding, so why are the team members still athletics to cover the cost of having to dish out a ton of money for their uniforms uniforms, equipment, facil- and equipment? One reason may be due to the cheer Brooke Jolliff ‘22 ities, travel and everything team not bringing in any income through gate fees, senior reporter it takes to field teams from like some other sports. Instead, the program mainly cross country and football consists of expenses, like uniforms and cheer camp, to soccer and golf — and everything in between. so it is understandable that there is less money to Last year the cost for sports totalled to $168,000. go around. Football players are issued jerseys, pants, pads But since the cheerleaders are cheering at the and everything they need for safety and to look like games where gate fees are collected, it seems like a unified team. Basketball players even get practice that money should be evenly distributed between jerseys and travel suits, the sports that are Sharing gate fees and allowing fundraisers all at no personal exrepresented at the pense to them. But some for athletes in non-revenue generating sports games. The cheersports teams get little or would help everyone be able to participate in leaders spend time no funding each year, sports without blowing all of their money. practicing cheers even for something as basic as uniforms. That has and routines for pep rallies and games, all to support some student athletes wondering: Could the money the football and basketball players. They spend the be more evenly distributed between all of the differ- same amount of time at the games as the players, so ent sports teams? they should get an equal share of the gate money. The cheer and color guard teams, for example, Some things like backpacks, poms, bows amd have to pay for their own uniforms. Cheerleaders’ even jackets could be reused insteadof having to be parents pay all of the expenses for their child each bought new every year, this way we could try to cut year that they sign up. Each year varies, but for the back on prices. new cheerleaders, the total expenses usually add up Another idea is to let the cheer team — and any to $1,000 or more. The uniform alone is $800 this other team that does not generate income — hold year — and that cost could be a financial hardship fundraisers to help with all of their expenses. Othon a family and even keep some students from being er schools are always holding fundraisers, like car

Quotes we love

“Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.”

The VR staff

— Ben Franklin

“The pen is mightier than the sword.”

Our Policies Editorials & Content The editorial board, comprised of newspaper staff members, determines by consensus the content of the paper. The Vanguard Review staff has elected to use this editorial policy to govern the activity of the paper throughout the 2019-2020 school year. We reserve the right to refuse any content. No offensive material will be permitted to print, and submissions may be edited for grammatical purposes.

— Edward Bulwer-Lytton

Advertising The Vanguard Review is funded through the student sale of advertisements to local businesses and re- serves the right to refuse ads based on the discretion of the editorial board and adviser. Advertisements that are considered inappropriate or support any form of illegal activity, as well as any unethical or offensive ideologies will not be permitted to run in the paper.

Corrections If any misinformation or errors are found in a story, the staff can be alerted through vanguard_review@ vanguard.org so that the appropriate correction may be made.

washes and candy sales, in order to help with funding. This would give individual students an opportunity to earn money to pay for their uniform or other expenses related to cheer or color guard. That way, no one would be prevented from participating due to the cost. Golf is another sport that has to dish out money each year for their uniforms, bags, golf clubs and more. More serious golfers own their own equipment anyway, but someone interested in learning the sport might not be able to afford the costs involved. While there is a school golf tournament, the funds raised go to general athletics, not the golfers. So they might also benefit from a fundraiser to help with expenses. It’s great that it’s free to get into softball games, but that means no income from gate fees. Our softball team seems to have been using all the exact same equipment and uniforms for at least six years. Last year, players had to wear jerseys with holes and stains on them. The players use old baseball gloves or else purchase their own. We need to take the field in nice uniforms and use state-of-the-art equipment so that opposing teams know that we’re a team to beat. Sharing gate fees and allowing fundraisers for athletes in non-revenue generating sports would help everyone be able to participate in sports without blowing all of their money.

Have an idea? Talk to us! Email us at vanguard_review@vanguard.org to talk to us about sharing your opinion in the paper or submitting a letter to the editor! If you’re interested in submitting artwork or other pieces of writing, send us an email - or stop by the newspaper room in Brown 112.

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.

Things to

Consider

November 2021 poll results are in! How should we reduce the U.S. national debt? Tax the rich 35.2% Stop wasteful spending 64.8% Is the new Texas “Heartbeat Bill,” which prevents abortion after six weeks, ethical? Yes 29% No 47.3% Not sure 23.7% Are you pro life or pro choice, regarding abortion? Pro life 35.1% Pro choice 47% I’d rather not say 17.9% Do you think all male body types are represented in the fashion industry advertising, magazines, runway, etc.? Yes 13.3% No 56.3% IDK 30.5% How many caffeinated drinks do you consume each day, on average? 1 36.2% 2-3 21.5% 4+ 6.2% None 36.2% What is your go-to energy drink? Monster Energy 10.8% Bang 10% Red Bull 3.8% Other 21.5% I don’t drink these 53.8% Do you drink coffee? Yes No

54.6% 45.4%

Have you ever had a negative experience with a referee? Yes 61.1% No 38.9% The above results reflect the VCPS student body of 243 students. Polls were distributed electronically through Google Forms. Number of responses: 136

The Vanguard Review Volume 49, Issue 2, November 5, 2021 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

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 251: 219 students and 32 faculty members.

people

The Vanguard Review November 5, 2021

Student Spotlight:

Teacher Spotlight:

Grade 12

Anatomy and Physics

Vamika Gautam

Jacob Lefebvre

Health and happiness Senior gets a jump start on career in medical field Isaac Saadi ‘22 editor-in-chief

xploring the medical field through shadowing a local physician in palliative care, seeking out new cultures or celebrating her own, new transfer student from Dallas, senior Vamika Gautam is always hustling toward a new goal. Right now, Gautam is shadowing Dr. Paul Smith, a palliative care specialist who treats patients living with serious illness and focuses on their symptom relief and pain management. “When I first started looking for shadowing opportunities, I knew I wanted to shadow a doctor in a field I wasn’t familiar with so I could really explore my options as an aspiring medical professional,” Gautam said. “Palliative care and hospice is a field that I [had] heard of, but I didn’t really know about all that it had to offer. I also knew that I would be seeing very complicated patients and learning a lot about them in shadowing a doctor in such a field.” Gautam has gained important skills, but has had some unsettling growth experiences. “My favorite part about my shadowing experience was gaining insight on the inner workings of a hospital and how it runs,” she said. “I learned that being a doctor and treating patients is a team effort and it requires ample participation from doctors of several specialties. My least favorite part was watching the patients pass away, especially after connecting and forming relationships with them.”

New teacher Jacob Lefebvre said someone who inspired him is a college chemistry professor who took the time to get to know all his students. Photo by Hope Hamblin/ Vanguard Review staff

VR: What made you want to come teach at Vanguard? JL: Mr. Seifert and Mr. Borg are great salesmen and made Vanguard seem like a golden opportunity.

On one of her international adventures to Barcelona, senior Vamika Gautam said she loves traveling and exploring new cultures. Baking red velvet cupcakes is one of Gautam’s favorite things to do in her spare time. Photos provided by Gautam / Portrait by Issac Saadi / VR staff

Guatam’s experience dovetails with her future career aspirations. “I plan on going to college on a pre-med route at, most likely, Baylor,” Gautam said. “From there, I’ll receive training from medical school and specialize in a field which I gain an affinity for.” Additionally, Gautam has taken initiative to provide to the underserved through her non-profit, Generation Clean. “Generation Clean was a nonprofit designed to expand physical hygiene to the underserved, provide hospitals with resources and gain hygiene products through fundraisers and charities,” she said. “The best part about it was receiving letters from hospitals thanking us for providing them with specially hand-crafted masks.” Being an extroverted, talkative and adventurous individual, Gautam said she enjoys traveling and exploring different cultures. “I love to travel,” she said. “It’s my favorite thing ever and I especially love to explore countries in Europe. My favorite places which I have traveled to have been Greece, in which I went to Athens, Santorini, Mykonos and Barcelona. What I enjoy most about traveling is that I’m able to take a break from all the busy tasks and academic aspects of my life. I’m also able to take time out for myself and bond more with my family. I also really

like to explore different countries, especially in Europe, and the unique cultures there.” When she’s not exploring new cultures, Gautam can be found celebrating her own Indian heritage. “I really enjoy celebrating Diwali,” she said. “It’s a really big holiday where we light up diyas (ornate candles) around the house and play with small fireworks.” Gautam’s seasoned perspectives are accumulated through her parent’s immigration stories — both domestically and internationally. “My parents immigrated here from India,” she said. “They moved to Virginia after my mother finished medical school in Russia. They then moved to Michigan, where I was born, and we all came to Texas when I was four.” Gautam has found joy in her free time through music and baking. “Passing all 8-grade levels of the ABRSM Piano Examinations was a really gratifying feeling, especially when I got my certificate,” she said. “Lemon cake and pumpkin cream cheese cupcakes are my all-time favorites to make. I also really enjoy baking cream cheese red velvet cupcakes when Christmas season comes around, my favorite holiday.”

JL: What are some things you are passionate about? JL: I’m passionate about sports and my field of science. VR: Where is your favorite place to eat in Waco? JL: My favorite place currently in Waco to eat is Cathay house. That was Mr. Seifert’s recommendation. VR: What do you enjoy most about teaching and coaching at Vanguard? JL: I enjoy a lot of things about Vanguard. I really enjoy the autonomy I’ve been able to enjoy with my class. Mr. Seifert and Mrs. Flowers are always tossing out a helping hand with anything I need and It’s a great working environment. The students are great and so are the staff. I really enjoy coaching football because I work with great coaches and training staff and the players are hard working and fun to be around. I do really feel like Vanguard is as great a place as Mr. Seifert and Mr. Borg made it out to be. VR: What is someone or something that has greatly inspired you in life? JL: Something that has greatly inspired me is a chemistry professor in college who made his class fun. He took the time to get to know all the students in the lecture hall and he brought a lot of enthusiasm to the class.

It’s the little things What the last year taught us about taking small stuff for granted

Photos by Katylu Offill Appreciate the little things. This is a phrase that almost everyone will hear at least once in their lifetime. But does our generation actually understand the depth of these powerful words? Maybe now we do. In March 2020, the tragedy of our lifetime hit. The COVID-19 pandemic took away many of our basic human needs. We no longer were allowed to hug our friends, high-five our teammates after a good point or even enjoy lunch indoors with our peers. For a period of time, we couldn’t even come to school. But we’re coming back stronger than ever and it shows on our faces. Through it all, we gained perspective on the importance of the little things. Having fans at games. Playing volleyball at lunch. Even simply being able to see our classmates’ smiles. Hopefully, we’ll never take these things for granted again. — Hope Hamblin

“I have learned to appreciate the little things I get to do with my friends because those are some of my favorite memories.” - Townlin Starr, 9th

“Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” - Winnie the Pooh

6 feature

The Vanguard Review November 5, 2021

Energy

overload

BEFORE k n i Th Starbucks YOU DRINK Mocha Frappuccino Cal:200 Caf:50 mg Sugar:31 g

MONSTER ENERGY

Cal:10 Caf:140 mg Sugar:0 g

Red Bull

Cal:168 Caf:111 mg Sugar:37 g

Bang

Cal:0 Caf:300 mg Sugar:0

Coke

Cal: 140 Caf:34 mg Sugar:39 g Photos by Landri Wheeler / VR Staff

The very liquids we consume for an energy burst might just be doing the opposite or worse. Experts recommend a balanced diet and good sleep for optimum energy.

Landri Wheeler‘24 reporter

ne day last year, when sophomore Lydia Pepper at school and a coffee at home. They help Wollard was home alone, she drank a little me get through the day by calming me down and over four Monster Energy drinks, right af- making me think about things before writing them ter chugging a coffee. She had been going to sleep down,” he said. around 4 a.m. and said she needed the energy to get Straight coffee may seem like a harmless, natthrough the day. After her massive caffeine load, ural source of caffeine, compared to sugar-loaded Wollard had a surge of energy, as expected, but chemical drinks, but it packs a big punch. One cup then she suddenly started feeling nauseous and her of coffee contains 95 mg of caffeine, which is about heart started beating really fast, she said. the max any teen should consume in a day. More “I was having trouble breathing slowly enough than 54 percent of students said they are coffee and I started hyperventilating out of panic,” Wollard drinkers, according to the VR poll. said. “I got really lightheaded and had to lie down “Coffee and energy drinks actually make me and call a friend to make sure somebody knew what tired so I usually only drink them if I’m craving the was up, just in case. I didn’t really know what was taste,” Attas said. happening, but I had heard of people being hospiWhile caffeinated drinks promise to boost entalized and even dying from caffeine overdoses and ergy and enhance performance, they often have I was really scared that may happen to me too. I’m negative effects on teenagers. Registered dietitian lucky it passed. That was a really scary day.” Regina Mastin does not recommend them as a Wollard said, at the time, she was having a hard source of caffeine. year and wasn’t taking care of herself the way she “Occasional caffeine intake is not harmful, but knew she should. All she drank was Monster and it is possible to consume too much,” Mastin said. she wasn’t eating much, “Caffeine may cause so she was low on nutri- The recommended caffeine irritability, shakiness, ents and was physically intake for teenagers 12-18 rapid heart rate, inweak, she said. somnia and increased “Ever since then, I’ve is 100 mg per day, according anxiety,” Mastin said. been regulating my cafsymptoms to the American Academy of can These feine intake a lot more,” actually have Wollard said. “I still drink the reverse effect of Pediatrics. The popular coffee, but I can barely boosting energy and energy drink bang is three performance, making stand the taste and feeling of drinking an energy it more difficult for times that at 300 mg. drink anymore.” kids to concentrate, More and more teens study and get through are turning to drinks loaded with caffeine as their the day. main source of energy. They are available almost “Students often use caffeine for energy when, anywhere, easy to grab on the go and are marketed in fact, they need nourishment,” Mastin said. “I to kids with their colorful packaging and exciting recommend regularly scheduled meals throughout flavors. More than 21 percent of students said they the day. A carb and protein snack mid afternoon or drink two to three caffeinated drinks a day, accord- before/after exercise can be a natural energy boosting to a VR student poll. er.” “If I’m stressed, I’ll usually go by the conveFor natural energy, brain development and hapnient store and get a Monster Energy or make a cup pier moods, the AAP recommends a balanced diet of coffee,” said freshman Libby Attas. that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, proBut the recommended caffeine intake for teen- tein, healthy fats and carbohydrates, calcium, iron agers ages 12-18 is 100 mg per day, according to and Vitamin D. the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). And Anatomy and Conceptual Physics teacher Jasome of the most popular energy drinks on the cob Lefebvre agreed with these recommendations market exceed the recommended amount by three for a healthy diet. times. Bang, for example, contains 300 mg of caf“A healthy diet of a proper mixture of proteins, feine, which is the equivalent of two cups of coffee. lipids and carbohydrates along with proper sleep Some students say that drinking caffeine will give you all the energy you need,” Lefebvre throughout the day helps keep them calm and fo- said. “There isn’t a certain food that can just make cused. you wake up and stay awake constantly. Having “I usually have around three [caffeinated] energy comes down to what you eat, your physical drinks a day sometimes,” said freshman Ben Shep- activity and your sleep scheduling.” pard. “It’s most likely a coffee in the morning, a Dr

sports

The Vanguard Review November 5, 2021

Making the refs work for you

Four easy ways to establish a friendly and fair atmosphere between athletes and referees

t’s the second half of a district basketball match against your biggest cross-town rival. The game is tied with 23 seconds on the clock. You go to block your opponent’s shot — and it’s clean — but the ref calls a foul, giving the other team two free throws and a chance to take the lead. You knew the block was good, but the ref gave the call to the other guy. And you’re mad. So mad you can’t focus on anything else. You want to yell, but you have to keep it inside. It affects your performance and your team loses. “I remember during one of my most important club volleyball games — it determined if we went to nationals or not — that the ref called three very obvious out balls in and gave the points to the other team,” sophomore Arabella Rosiles said. “In the grand scheme of things, three points wasn’t a major loss, but the [morale] of my team dropped greatly and we never came back from it during that game. Looking back at the footage taken from that game, the balls were out, but what’s done is done.” A referee is an official who is responsible for enforcing the rules of a sport and also making sportsmanship decisions. Whether they are wearing black and white or blue, standing on the sidelines or on the field, their job is to make sure the game is played fairly and safely. But, their decisions can sometimes cause players to be frustrated and face defeat they did not think they deserved. “Even if it’s just one or two points, that one point could cost you a serve or result in the loss of a long rally,” said sophomore athlete Annabelle Reese. “It can be disheartening and you feel like all the hard work you put into something is for nothing. It can be tough to recover from that.” More than 61 percent of students said their game was negatively impacted by a referee, in one way or another. But having a mutual respect between your team and the referees is just as important as the fundamentals of the game — and at the end of the day, referees are for you, not against you. “I would hope that fans come to understand that the role of the official is to make sure that the rules are followed and one team does not get an unfair advantage over the other team,” said Nelson Barnes SBC Global Referee, who calls some Vanguard games. Although it can be irritating when you disagree with a call, there are things you can do to create a

healthy relationship with your refs — and maybe even make them work to your advantage.

1. Make a Good First Impression

they likely won’t change their mind. Shake it off, move on to the next point, take a step back and think about what you can do to prevent it from happening again.

3. Keep Your Cool

2. Understand the Refs POV

It’s usually best to try and move on. “I always just shake it off, even if I don’t agree with the [call] personally,” senior Dory Gonzales said. “Over the years I’ve played sports, I’ve learned that referees are bound to make unfair calls and players can blame the game on bad calls, but in the end, you should never leave the game in the referees hands.” The refs are going to keep the game moving along, even when people disagree with them. “I make sure to keep it under control and even if a player or a coach gets emotional,” Barnes said. “It is my job to remain calm amid the chaos and enforce the rules properly and fairly.” Chances are, the ref is not at all trying to create an unfair advantage for anyone. They actually are there to do the opposite. They are just simply calling what they see, whether they saw correctly or not. Refs aren’t there to scare anyone or disrupt the game, they are there to keep things fair.

4. Always Show Respect

Whether it be your coach, the other teams coach, the refs, the athletics director, or any adult in charge of your game, always treat them with respect. They are there by choice due to their passion for the game. There is always a possibility that you are the one who saw wrong, and the refs were actually right. “I know fans will boo and disagree but I do hope they realize that we are there because we all love the game (as the pay for high school officiating is not a lot compared to the time involved) and do this with time away from family and other events.” Barnes said. “I and many other officials have missed many birthdays and anniversaries in order to call games just out of a love of the game and knowing that someone has to officiate.

Hope Hamblin ‘25 reporter

VR: How has your experience being a freshman on our varsity volleyball team been so far? BK: I have really enjoyed being on a team with amazing girls. They are very sweet and welcoming. I’m very happy to be on a team with them.

Photo by Hope Hamblin / VR and Bifrost staff

Hope Hamblin ‘25 reporter

When you get to the game, act in a responsible and respectful manner. Warm up as a team and don’t goof off or leave an immature impression on the refs or the other team. Present yourself as a professional and well-behaved team from a respectable school. Introduce yourself to the refs. It not only breaks the ice between your team and the refs, but also Top: Sophomore Annabelle Reece smiles to a ref shows respect towards while getting ready to serve. Katylu Offill/Bifrost the officials in charge of staff Right: In a 2020-2021 basketball game, now your game. Simply go sophomore Adian Latino jumps to the sky for a tip up and tell the refs your off. He said he likes to “dap up” the refs before a game. Annabelle Reece/ Bifrost staff name and grade. This creates a friendly vibe and could make them less likely to make a call against “I want to protect the you. sanctity of the game and the rules so I think just the “Before the game, I usually fist bump the ref way I feel about the game keeps me unbiased and and say thank you to show good sportsmanship,” equal in my enforcement of the rules”. Reese said. “It shows you respect them.” The refs usually have the best view of the Aidan Latino, sophomore, does the same. game, but there’s a lot going on in the game and “I usually try and dap up each of the refs before maybe the ref can’t see it. Don’t leave the game in a game,” Latino said, especially since he knows the the hands of the ref. refs on a personal level, he said. If you make a good impression, the refs might even remember you at future games. It’s not about Getting a call that hurts you or your team is getting the refs to be biased toward your team. It’s never enjoyable. It is often frustrating and can simply about creating mutual respect between the put you in a bad mood. The biggest thing to keep teams and officials — and seeing where that can in mind is that it is just one call. Most times, one lead. wrong call will not be the determining factor for which team wins and which team loses. It is okay to be slightly annoyed for a second, but as soon as the game starts again, clear it from your mind. Referees are humans just like us. It is possi“Sometimes I get overwhelmed with emotions ble for them to make a wrong decision or call, just and I’ve even said something I regretted, but it’s as much as it is for you to be wrong about a call. important to apologize and just try to do better at Be understanding about it. Don’t yell and make a keeping feelings in check during stressful situascene because, in the end, once they make a call, tions,” Reece said.

Athlete Spotlight: Blair Keith

VR: Who would you classify as your biggest role model when it comes to sports and why? BK: My biggest role model is my sister because she is the one who got me into volleyball and who helped me through everything. She overcame a lot of obstacles and still managed to be the best she could be. She also is finishing out her volleyball ca-

reer at the Air Force Academy and is soon going into medical school after her senior year. VR: If you could have any superpower, which would you choose and why? BK: I would want to have teleportation because it would be fun to go to places fast and not have to drive VR: If you had to be shipwrecked on a deserted island - but all your human needs were taken care of, what two items would you bring and why? VR: I would take Aubrey Carroll because she is very entertaining and I need some entertainment because I would be very bored. I would also bring a volleyball be-

cause it would be entertaining to watch Aubrey play volleyball. VR: What would you classify as the most important characteristic to have while being a student athlete? BK:The most important trait to have as a student athlete would, for sure, be perseverance. There is so much that goes on around you. You just need to get through it and focus on what you need to do. Some games might not turn out as you hoped or you didn’t play a certain way, but you need to forget about it and move on because you learn from your mistakes and it’s OK because everyone does it. Focus on staying on top and not making the same mistakes.

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The Vanguard Review November 5, 2021

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At stake: life and liberty continued from Page 1

Some believe that the passing of this law was procedures. practical and could be beneficial to both sides of “There is [also] no exception for victims of the issue. rape or incest in the law, and it is wrong to force “I support the law,” Hamblin said. “I personal- someone to have a child after going through these ly believe that this law is very reasonable and can traumatizing experiences,” Wiethorn said. “If you help people on both sides. I believe that if you are take away access to safe abortions, people will having unprotected sex, and you are unfit to take have to seek other unsafe options, which could lead care of a potential child, it is your and your part- to death of the parent.” ner’s personal responsibility to come up with a Others agree that the lack of exceptions is solution before the embryo turns into a life.” wrong because in some cases it was not their Hamblin said she thinks that six weeks is choice. enough time to determine if you are pregnant or “Of course there should be [exceptions],” not. Hamblin said. “When you are raped, it is traumatic. “If you believe you are responsible enough to Not only was it not your choice ... it also would be sexually active before you are ready be very traumatic to to start a family, it is on you to have an “I think an embryo is considered a life at have to live with and abortion before the six week mark,” the moment of conception.” take care of a child said Hamblin. “The average time in bea result of the rape - Erin Padgett, junior as tween menstrual cycles is less than six and could end in the weeks, so if you notice you are late it is child being neglected your responsibility to find out if you are pregnant, or abused.” and if you are, do something about it.” Stewart said she thinks six weeks is enough Some are against the law because they believe time for a woman to find out if she is pregnant. abortion should be a women’s choice. “Six weeks is enough time to find out about a “I feel pretty strongly against it, and it’s not pregnancy, and if not, there are other options such because I support killing children prematurely,” as adoption,” Stewart said. sophomore Karissa Kuhl said. “It’s because I beHamblin agreed that there are other options for lieve in a woman’s choice to do what she wishes people after birth. with her own body.” “There are always other options if you find out Others believe that the law does not give too late,” Hamblin said. “You can always put the enough time for people to figure out that they are baby up for adoption, but once that embryo forms pregnant. a heartbeat and is a human-life, abortion should no “I am against the ban on abortion because, at longer be an option.” six weeks, most people are not even aware they are Thirty-five percent of students said they are pregnant,” said senior Courtney Wiethorn. pro life, according to the VR poll. Forty-seven perWiethorn also expresses her concerns about the cent said they are pro choice, meaning the mother lack of exceptions for instances of rape or incest. should be able to decide whether or not to have an She also thinks this will lead to illegal and unsafe abortion.

“I think an embryo is considered a life at the humans, as society, to help in any way we can,” she moment of conception,” said Erin Padgett, junior. said. “And why shouldn’t we? Because we have Bennett agreed. personal feelings surrounding abortion? No, help“I believe it is a person with a soul from the ing people always comes first no matter personal moment of conception,” he said. thoughts or opinions. You can’t weaponize peoples’ Kuhl agrees that an embryo is considered a life opinions in places of power. It strips society bare.” at conception but still sides with it being the womWhether or not the government should be able an’s choice. to mandate or prohibit certain medical procedures “Although I’m an avid pro-choice supporter, I seems to be a point of conflict. Should the governalso believe that as soon as a baby is conceived it ment be able to tell anyone what to do with their is considered life,” Kuhl said. “Whether or not that own body, either by preventing them from having life continues is the woman’s choice, and perhaps an abortion or by forcing them to get a vaccine they the father’s, if the mother decides so.” do not want or need? One of the more controversial parts of the law “The government can mandate these up until involves making it illegal to support or enable a certain point,” Stewart said. “The government’s someone to get an abortion after six weeks, either restrictions on abortion still allow for the decision by physical or monetary means. Some students to be made, but also protect the life of the unborn agreed that it should be considered a crime for peo- child.” ple who help others get an abortion or even make a Padgett agreed. donation to the clinics. “I believe the government should be able to “I agree with this because the people driving or mandate medical things if it harms other people,” donating are still allowing the abortion to happen,” she said, “but if it is just self protection, then that is Stewart said. a person’s own prerogative.” Others said it should not be a Kuhl agreed that the “Helping people always comes first, no government crime to help people get the proceshould not be matter personal thoughts or opinions.” able to mandate abortions, dure in a safe way. - Karissa Kuhl, sophomore but is unsure whether or “[Fewer] people will be willing to help others access safe abornot the vaccine should be tions,” Weithorn said, “and the public will be look- mandated. ing for opportunities to claim the reward which will “I think it varies on the issue,” she said. “The cause chaos.” most basic argument is that no one should control Hamblin agreed. any kind of personal right, even if it could save oth“I see where they are coming from but I don’t ers in the case of the vaccine. On abortion, I stand think someone should be sued for helping someone firmly in no, but as far as vaccinations go, I’m honthey care about,” she said. estly not sure. I want to say ‘yes,’ because it could Kuhl said she does not think people should be mean the survival of others, but also ‘no’ because punished for helping someone in need. it’s a personal choice, meaning it’s perfectly OK to “If someone asks for help I think it’s our job as say no.”

Swing of Things

Drowning in debt

“It’s upsetting just because it wasn’t entirely the 9th grade’s fault,” freshman, Elizabeth Johnson, said. “The 8th graders were leaving trash all over the area.” Freshman Townlin Starr expressed her concerns. “I’m sad, but I realize that it was a privilege that unfortunately got taken away,” she said. “It was a mixture of freshman and 8th graders, but mostly 8th grade. But I feel bad they’re getting all the blame because it was a little bit of the freshmen’s fault.” Beyond the entertainment the middle schoolers sought from the swings, it also operated as a venue to learn more from upperclassmen. “It’s like the mid-way point for middle school and high school,” Phillips said. “They’re cool.

proach to cutting the deficit,” Holze said. “Businesses must operate within a budget to be successful, and families must live within their means. Why should [the] government be able to spend money frivolously and inefficiently? The government should operate within a reasonable budget and carefully spend money provided by the taxpaying citizens.” Pole agreed. “This is also a good idea,” he said. “Unnecessary spending is a bit silly. Just paying for what is necessary is better, but if you have the kind of money, it’s a little more acceptable to be frivolous but not all the time.” The No. 1 item the U.S. spends money on is Medicare and Medicaid, which is healthcare for seniors and poor people. The second thing is Social Security, which is income support for older Americans. The third thing is national defense. The U.S. spends about $760 billion a year on national defense, according to the Congressional Budget Office. “If you’re serious about debt reduction, you’re going to have to go after one of those things,” Foti said. “But those three things are hard to cut. It’s a difficult problem and that’s why it hasn’t been solved.” So while Democrats and Republicans fight over how to reduce the debt, it just keeps climbing.

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They know a lot more, so I’d definitely ask them questions about stuff.” The significance of the swings disappearing has been felt by teachers as well. “I have always loved the pergola,” Allman said. “Gently swinging in the sunshine is a pleasure; even the sight of folks doing so promotes a sense of well-being. So, I am sorry the swings had to be removed, but people who violated the rules, knowingly and repeatedly, left the school with no choice. Vanguard is obliged to keep students safe and legally liable if it fails. It’s that simple. Students, for their part, sign the Honor Code as part of the enrollment package. In doing so, they pledge to refrain from damaging school property. It’s that plain.”

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What’s happening is that the government is just going to have huge debt and the Federal Reserve is going to print money out of thin air and buy that national debt,” Foti said. “About 30 percent of the $3 trillion that was borrowed this year was paid for with printed money.” But the impact of printing too much money is inflation, which is an increase in prices and a fall in the purchasing value of money. Foti explained that the Federal Reserve will print a bunch of money and that will make the national debt easier to pay off because money will be less valuable. It’s easier to pay off a large debt with less valuable money. “That’s what is happening right now in America,” Foti said. “Prices are skyrocketing. We’ll probably just have high inflation and inflate it away. We’re going to end up paying for this bad situation some way or another. We’re either going to hurt the sick people, hurt the old people, cut the military, take all the money from the rich people - or have an inflation tax that we all pay.” Although inflation might sound like the easiest path, there are consequences. “Poor people are hurt most by inflation,” Foti said. “You’ve got to buy milk for your children. It will create more hardship for poor people. It will hurt the economy and require more social spending. It’s a downward spiral.”