Vol. 13, No. 4
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The Magnet
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R I B U N
April 21, 2006
Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications & Fine Arts, 1701 Victoria St., Laredo Texas 78040
A state- and nationally recognized student newspaper
Our 2nd decade of service to VMT Profs give doublereed workshop
New superintendent sees challenges in LISD BY IRMA HERNANDEZ CHRISTIAN SANCHEZ MT STAFF WRITERS
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page 8 Shows help recruit at middle schools
EDITORIAL, page 18
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ho would have known that the district’s 14th superintendent, Dr. Daniel Garcia Jr., would be coming all the way from Brownsville? Before Garcia was appointed as superintendent of schools for the Laredo Independent School District on March 8, according to the L.I.S.D. Web site, he was at Brownsville I.S.D. as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. Garcia talked about how he went about obtaining this position. “I saw the position advertised on the Texas Association of School Boards’ Web site,” he said during a visit to VMT on March 31. Garcia then considered it and did some research on the district. “I looked at the number of campuses and level of performance of the students at
the schools on the school district’s Web site. Then I decided to apply online.” Although he thought the data on the schools was satisfying, Laredo also drew him to apply for his new position. “Mainly what attracted me to Laredo was the fact that it is a border community and that there are a large number of students that have the potential to be bilingual. I also feel that I would fit in with the community, and feel very at home with the culture here at Laredo.” While Garcia hasn’t been in Laredo very long, he revealed what he thought about V.M.T. “I think it is a fantastic and tremendous opportunity to explore your talents. I definitely see a connection between a university and V.M.T. magnet. I was amazed to see how L.I.S.D. had the foresight to create such a great program.” Garcia added that he was not planning to make any changes to the school.
MT photo by Irma Hernandez
Dr. Daniel Garcia Jr. New superintendent of schools “Though, if there is opportunity and funding, the sky is the limit to improve,” he said. With a new superintendent people might
See GARCIA, page 20
School spends $2,500 Best Buy te@ch award pages 9-12 Now on the air... Magnet Connection
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BY JENNIFER SOTELO CLAUDIA RAMOS MT STAFF WRITERS
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MT director Jose Cerda and school Technology Trainer Scott Roberts went on a shopping spree. No, they didn’t go shopping for clothes, but for new technology equipment for the school. “Everybody benefits from (the award). Anybody who wants to burn a DVD can go to the library,” stated Cerda. Feb. 2, VMT announced it received a $2,500 te@ch award from Best Buy.
VMT and Martin were the only schools in Laredo to receive this award. Te@ch was started by Best Buy in October 2003. It is awarded to schools that creatively integrates interactive technology into the curricula. “According to the application that we filled out, we were the school that integrated technology into academics the most,” Cerda stated. Items bought were a multimedia workstation, a scanner photo printer, a wireless router, a DVD burner, external hard drive, a VHS to DVD
See BEST BUY, page 4
MT photo by Gracie Garcia VMT Technology Trainer Scott Roberts, left, and Director Jose Cerda look at a wireless router at Best Buy during the te@ch grant shopping spree.
The Magnet Tribune on the Internet: http://my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt
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School Ne ws Message centers offer information The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
BY LINDA OBREGON ERICA RODRIGUEZ MT STAFF WRITERS
MT photo by Christian Sanchez Kassandra Cardenas and Orlando Moreno perform during a trip to Cigarroa Middle School for recruiting. They will also perform in "Cinderella."
Freshmen show their dance skills during recruiting at middle schools BY ERIKA HERNANDEZ RICKY SOLIZ MT STAFF WRITERS
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Magnet school students Kassandra Cardenas and Orlando Moreno are two dancers that are better known to V.M.T as K.C and Orly. This dancing duo has shown off their Salsa moves to the song “Salome” during school functions such as the Hispanic Festival and recruiting. Cardenas and Moreno participate in many other types of dance such as jazz, hip-hop, and tap. Although Cardenas and Moreno do not practice after school, due to other school activities that they are involved in, they put 100 percent effort during their class practices.
When asked to describe the feeling Cardenas gets when performing she replied, “I feel great and special knowing all eyes are on me and my partner as well. Dancing for me is my passion” After successfully completing a performance Moreno does not obtain a certain feeling but he does say, “In my last performance I had a proud feeling for all the work we put in.” If mistakes are made during a performance both Cardenas and Moreno feel that it will only affect that little section. For a perfect dance it doesn’t take as long as one think. “You can say at least a month if we put a lot of effort into it. I believe the
dance “Salome” took us approximately two-and-onehalf weeks to learn and perfect,” said Cardenas Moreno described some of the reactions they hope to get from the audience. “We hope to get a good reaction such as claps, a standing ovation, or some cheers,” he said. Although Moreno has not taken any dance classes prior to V.M.T, he was raised in a family where dancing is a huge part of their life. On the other hand, Cardenas attended Camelia’s Dance Art Studio when she was younger. Moreno and Cardenas have been working on a Laredo Ballet Theatre performance based on the timeless fairytale, “Cinderella.”
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New message centers called electronic moving message sign are now in place at VMT as an information center for students and faculty. The message centers were put up to try to announce upcoming events such as prom, graduation, and performance dates, Principal Jose Cerda said. “Students have been receptive and positive toward the message system,” Cerda said. “It’s a good way to get information,” David Blumberg BCIS instructor, said. The information is sent in by the high schools for those students who are unable to catch the announcements in the mornings or afternoons. “They are really helpful for seniors or anyone,” student Rey Ramos said. The sign can hold up to 24 messages depending on the length of the message, Cerda
said. The messages are transmitted into the system by a specific software needed to transfer them to the sign. There are two signs around the campus that are in the Urbahn Building and the Harding Building. Cerda is planning on placing two more systems, in the library and gazebo as well. These systems are inexpensive, costing around $400 each. “I think there should be more so students can be on the ball. There should be more in places where it will catch attention,” Ramos said. Agreeing with him is student Leslie Chapa. “There should be one in every building so that everyone can see them. Not many people notice them so that’s why there should be more,” she said. “They would look cool everywhere,” student Leticia Rodriguez added.
MT photo by Claudia Ramos Principal Jose Cerda stands underneath a electronic moving message sign in the Harding Building stairwell. Message reads “Graduation is May 25”.
School Ne ws
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
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Students, staff show their support for Laredo Marine BY LORIE ZAMARRIPA MT STAFF WRITER VMT faculty, staff, and students have answered an email from U.S. Marine Lance Corporal Sergio Hernandez, a former student. On March 19 the Magnet Tribune received an email from former guitar student Hernandez, who is in Iraq. “I’m in Iraq right now and I want to say that there is not one day that I don’t wish that I was there for at least one hour,” wrote Hernandez. Mark Webber, journalism instructor, asked fellow instructors to correspond with Marines from Sergio’s unit. “Perhaps we as a school could do something to brighten their day,” stated Webber in a memo. John Reimund, low brass instructor, concurred by encouraging students to write to the Marines. “We may also assemble a care package. What are usually needed are basic hygiene products as they are a rare thing in the field,” Reimund said, adding that his brother served three tours of duty there. A few things he listed were baby wipes, toothpaste, tooth brushes, toi-
let paper, paper towels and deodorant. Radio/TV students will be producing a DVD for Hernandez. “The idea of the DVD is to give Sergio a taste of home and an overwhelming appreciation of him,” HERNANDEZ said Carrie Robaina, broadcast instructor. The DVD contains student and teacher interviews, recorded songs by choir students under and Reimund, and a showcase of the campus. Guitar Specialist Nino Palacios was one of the persons who did an interview for Sergio along with his guitar students who played a song. Hernandez was a guitar student under Palacios. Students, after having heard the message, wrote letters to troops. Kimberly Evans was one of the students who wrote a letter. “It’s nice to know that he along with all the other Marines want to hear from the VMT students,” added Evans. “It’s sad because it shows how lonely they are, and it gives us an idea of
MT photo Music students perform while being taped by television/radio students, far right, for a DVD to be sent to a former student who is now a Marine in Iraq. Email Sergio at sergio.hernandez@acemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil Read his letter, page 4
what they are going through,” added student Veronica Hernandez. “In the letters we talked about VMT and asked a few questions,” explained student Priscilla Piton. All letters and materials should be delivered to Webber’s classroom.
Some groups, such as journalism students, are planning care packages. “Let us give back a little to those who give up so much for us,” added Reimund. Photo courtesy of Kaleidoscope CD yearbook.
Journalism students show their photographs at annual exhibition BY MONICA GARCIA MT STAFF WRITER Over 100 pictures were displayed at the Laredo Center for the Arts on during an opening reception April 1. The pictures were those taken by 43 journalism students and three guest artists, including English instructor Gerardo Flores, LCC student Marie Webber, and journalism instructor Mark Webber. This is the eighth year journalism students have participated in the exhibition. Webber says he is proud of the work his students do in the class and at the exhibition. Donna Lednicky, executive director for the Laredo Center for the Arts, said she
really enjoys and appreciates the partnership the LCA has with VMT. “We love having them exhibit their work, and we are glad to offer a place for people to see their work,” said Lednicky. She took time out to take a look at the students’ work that was displayed in the Community Gallery. “I enjoyed the variety of images and styles – black and white and color – traditional 35mm and digital,” said Lednicky. She also acknowledged some outstanding photos taken by Gerardo Flores, Christian Sanchez, Veronica Cruz and Amanda Cruz. There were 189 people who signed a guest register during this month’s opening night, which Lednicky says was a good turn-out as
apposed to the usual average of about 150 people on an opening night. The students seemed to be very proud of their own work and the work of their classmates. “I was really impressed with all of the pictures. Especially some of the freshmen’s were really good and creative,” said Alyssa Garza, sophomore journalism student. “The good reactions made us feel good about ourselves and appreciative about our instructor,” added fellow sophomore Lorie Zamarripa. The LCA displays a variety of groups including some LISD schools, like Nixon High School, Lamar Middle and Ryan Elementary. Also included in the monthly exhibitions are some other groups in the
MT photo by Alyssa Garza Journalism students opened their annual photography exhibit April 1 at the Center for the Arts. The show closes April 26.
larger galleries including this month in the Exhibit Hall, the Texas Watercolor Society, and in the Art
League Gallery, Alexander High School. VMT’s show closes April 26.
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The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
Letters to the editor Indiana reader likes editor’s commentary
How are you doing today? This is Sergio Hernandez, a former student of VMT. I just want to say that I had a lot of fun while I was there. I’m in Iraq right now and I want to say that there is not one day that I don’t wish that I was there for at least one hour. I greatly appreciate what that school did for me and the rest of the students. If it is possible, please ask the students to mail the Marines over here. We would all appreciate it. Everybody here needs a little boost since everyone is away from their families. Also I would really appreciate you sending a copy of The Magnet Tribune. I know I ask for too much but I would really like to know how the school is doing. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, LCPL Sergio Hernandez P.S. The address here is: LCPL Sergio Hernandez MALS-16 (GSE) UIC 41061 FPO AP 96426-1061 Via the Web site
To the editor, I think the editor’s commentary, “Proposition 2 stirs up controversy on who can marry,” (Dec. 5 issue) is a great article. It expresses that marriage is a unity of two people that love each other dearly! I really appreciate reading this article in your school newspaper. Megan Olmsted Columbus, Indiana Via the Web site
Former editor enjoyed December issue online
18c
BEST BUY, from page 1
To the editor, It brought back a lot of memories to read the Dec. 5 issue. I never through that having the Tribune online would ever come in handy, but it does. I really enjoyed this issue, especially the opinion pieces on gay marriage and abortion. Luis Mondragon and Melissa Vazquez really put themselves out there with such sensitive topics. I also must say that Jorge Negrete’s piece on the Texas State trip was very interesting. Please congratulate everyone for me on a very successful issue. Take care and keep up the good work! Jessica Rodriguez Laredo, Texas Via the Web site (Jessica Rodriguez is a former editor of The Magnet Tribune. She graduated last May.)
Graduation Day: May 25 Laredo Entertainment Center
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recorder, DVDRs with light scribe technology and two digital cameras. “We needed a workstation that allows us flexibility with technology,” stated Scott Roberts, the school’s technology trainer. Other grants VMT has received include the Tech Prep Grant Art Department instructor Jorge Vasquez received through LCC, and the Michael Jordan Award BCIS instructor David Blumberg received. “We just applied for the Plato Grant which will give the school 20 computers,” said Cerda.
ll ro ith EE w r FR film ou e! h c of 1- rvi se
Former student, now Marine, writes from Iraq
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The Magnet Tribune
April 21, 2005
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Magnet en español
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
www.univision.com
“Mojado”
Canto-autor guatemalteco Ricardo Arjona, izquierdo, con integrante del grupo Intocable.
Empaco un par de camisas, un sombrero, Su vocación de aventurero Seis consejos, siete fotos mil recuerdos. Empaco sus ganas de quedarse Su condición de transformarse En el hombre que soñó y lo ha logrado. Dijo adiós con una mueca disfrazada de sonrisa Y le suplico a su dios crucificado en la repisa El resguardo de los suyos y perduro la frontera como pudo
'Mojado' un tema controversial dijeron maestro, estudiante POR ANAKAREN SERNA Y NANCY HERNÁNDEZ ESCRITORAS DEL MAGNET TRIBUNE Siguiendo con el tema de la migración decidimos analizar la reciente composición del famoso canto-autor guatemalteco Ricardo Arjona. El tema “Mojado” fue grabado con el grupo Intocable el cual ha sido bastante aceptado por el público. Nos dimos a la tarea de entrevistar a un maestro y un estudiante para que dieran su punto de vista sobre el tema ya comentado anteriormente. Los entrevistados fueron Annie Miller y Gregorio Garza, estudiante y maestro de español de VMT respectivamente. ¿Conoces la canción “mojado”, que opinas de su contenido? Annie Miller = Opino que el canto-autor Arjona está queriendo decir en esta canción los sentimientos que tienen las personas que intentan cruzar la frontera para mejorar su calidad de vida por la falta de trabajo y el bajo pago del mismo en su país. Mr. Garza = Sí la conozco. Opino que el tema da para mucho más. ¿Cuál es tu opinión acerca de la línea “el mojado tiene ganas de secarse”? Miller = Quiere decir que el ilegal quiere cruzarse por el río o por otros medios dejando atrás a su familia y a su país. Eso le da mucha tristeza y nostalgia y además lleva la esperanza de que, alguna vez pueda quedarse a vivir legalmente en Estados Unidos. Garza = Puede interpretarse de muchas maneras. Una puede ser que se puede legalizar. Otra que quiere dejar de llorar y de extrañar a su patria y regresar. Aún otra puede ser pasar legalmente y ser feliz. ¿Crees que el muro cambiaría las ganas del inmigrante ilegal a venir a los Estados Unidos? Miller = Para mí creo que pueden poner un muro del tamaño del cielo, y las personas siempre encontrarán la manera de
cruzarse la frontera por muchos obstáculos que les pongan. Creo debe de haber otra solución a este problema. Garza = Nunca. El muro no es la solución. La solución es una ley que ampare un proceso ordenado que beneficie a ambos países. Gracias a la página de Internet (http://latino.msn.com/especiales/billboard/articles/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=288513) pudimos adquirí la opinión de Ricardo Arjona acerca del tema tan polémico de su canción R: “Yo básicamente quería contar la historia de un indocumentado mexicano que dejaba el lugar de origen para buscarse otro con mejores características. Hay un enorme dejo de nostalgia en esa canción, hay prácticamente un sufrimiento permanente de esta historia del indocumentado que siempre mantiene el sueño de ir a trabajar, ganar una platita y regresar a poner un negocio en su tierra. Para mí el asunto de la frontera ha sido siempre una clara señal de división entre los seres humanos. Y en un planeta que debería de ser el lugar de todos nosotros y en el que pudiéramos caminar por donde se nos pegue la gana, me parece que es ridículo que existan muros.” Este tema de la migración seguirá dando de que hablar, ya que la mayoría de las personas tienen opiniones distintas.
Si la luna suave se desliza por cualquier cornisa Sin permiso alguno porque el mojado precisa Comprobar con visas que no es de neptuno El mojado tiene ganas de secarse El mojado esta mojado Por las lágrimas que brotan la nostalgia El mojado, el indocumentado carga el bulto Que el legal no cargaría ni obligado De tu precio de un papel lo ha convertido En fugitivo y no es de aquí porque el nombre No aparece en los archivos y es de allá porque se muere Si la luna suave se desliza por cualquier cornisa Sin permiso alguno porque el mojado precisa Comprobar con visas que no es de neptuno Mojado sabia a mentira tú verdad Sabía a tristeza la ansiedad De ver un freeway y soñar Con la vereda que conduce hasta tú casa Mojado, mojado de tanto llorar sabiendo que en algún lugar Le espera un beso haciendo pausa desde el día en que te marchaste Si la luna suave se desliza por cualquier cornisa Sin permiso alguno porque el mojado precisa Comprobar con visas que no es de neptuno Si la visa universal se extiende el día en que nacemos Y caduque en la muerte porque te persiguen mojado Si el cónsul de los cielos ya te dio permiso.
El grupo Intocable cantó "Mojado" en el album "Adentro".
School Ne ws
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
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Visual Arts Department head still loves art after 40 years BY MELISSA VAZQUEZ MT STAFF WRITER Western art, wildlife, and Mexican themes are main inspiration for Dean of Visual Arts Armando Hinojosa. “All my pieces are strongly influenced by these three genres.” Hinojosa has been practicing the arts since he was in college over 40 years ago. Yet, since his father was an artist as well, art has always been a dominant presence in his life. “I was born into it; my father was a commercial artist from Mexico, so I used to help him out when I was young.” He likes for his paintings to be both balanced and have a lot of color, and in order to add a special touch he frequently incorporates his imagination into his pieces.
In addition, he desires for all his pieces to have an interesting subject matter and admits his technique has changed through the years. In his early days, Hinojosa enjoyed working with realism and has since moved on to impressionistic art and enjoys telling a story through his pieces. “I used to paint very realistic, painted every hair, now I reach for color, expression and story. It has to tell a story.” About teaching, Hinojosa feels, the students are the best part. He often reminds them that the arts are important, as well as, to not make art their only option, since it’s very difficult to make it in the field. “I like being around the kids. They keep me young, but I always tell them to first get a degree then pursue the arts.”
When starting on a new project, he usually has the image already in his mind, so he simply has to go out with his camera and try and capture it in real life. He admits that even though he knows the anatomy of the animal well, he can’t simply draw it from memory. Even after 40 years, the arts are still a passion for the jewlery/sculture instructor. He works in his studio every day and has even managed to make sculpting one of his main sources of revenue. “I paint and sculpt every day. I love going to my studio every morning; it’s a great way to start my day.” During his long career Hinojosa has completed over 21 monumental life-size sculptures. Among his pieces are: the eagle at the Justice Center, the Lamar Bruni Vergara Alter at St.
MT photo by Graciela Garcia Visual Arts Department head Armando Hinojosa discusses a painting with Keyna Lopez during an informal show of his work in his room in March. Agustin Church, the nun and two children at Mercy Hospital, the Hispanic Veterans Memorial, the Texas A&M Javalina, and his latest project the Tejano Monument in Austin. The Tejano Monument, which will be unveiled in 2008,
will consist of 12 life-size sculptures depicting the early life of Tejanos. “I’m excited that a sculpture celebrating our culture will be featured at the state capital. This is my largest project yet and I’m very proud to be a part of it.”
Magnet students involved in West Side Story summer performances BY DALIA OLIVARES MT STAFF WRITER Auditions for the musical West Side Story were held March 31-April 2 at the VMT Theatre Building. The play consists of 39 roles. About 90 people auditioned, including a few townspeople, and students from LISD, UISD, LCC, and T AMIU. VMT had several students audition. “I’d expected more, but only few auditioned,” said Theater Department head Vernon Carroll said.
Carroll was in charge of the auditions with the help of college music instructor Brandon Townsend, piano instructor Mary Grace Carroll, and __ Leyendecker. Carroll discussed the musical. “It’s a very good play. The music is excellent, and it’s a wonderful story,” Carroll said. West Side Story is based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet but set in New York in the 1950s. The story is about two rival teenage gangs, the Jets (Americans) and the Sharks (Puerto Ricans), who dislike each
Birthday celebration!
other. To make matters worse, Tony, who is being asked to rejoin the Jets, falls in love with Maria, the sister of the Shark leader (Bernardo). Their love towards each other caused a rumble between the two gangs, which ends in tragedy. The first read through of the play will be on May 1. Carroll will be directing the play, Townsend and Dr. Carroll will be adapting music, and Leyendecker wi11 be choreographing the dances. There’s a lot of work to be done, Vernon Carroll said. MT photos
Left: Director Jose Cerda smiles as faculty and staff sing him "Happy Birthday" during a faculty luncheon in the library on April 11. At right are secretary Cecilia Sanchez, Vocal Instructor Alejandra Rodriguez and Irma Cepeda, R.N. Right: Cerda holds a gift from the Visual Arts Department, presented by Armando Hinojosa and Mario Teniente. At left is English instructor Diana Martinez, who gave Cerda a gift from the faculty.
“Some rehearsals will be held here. The technical work will be done by students. VMT students will work at the box office, back stage, and house management. A lot of students will be put to work,” Carroll said. The performance is scheduled for July 13-16 at the Martinez Theatre at LCC. Carroll shares his expectations as to what he expects from the actors. “I’m looking for a natural, honest approach,” Carroll said. “Someone who doesn’t seem that they’re acting, but they are."
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School Ne ws
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
Music students attend university professors’ workshop BY SANDRA RAMON MT STAFF WRITER VMT hosted a double-reed workshop in the Recital Hall on Monday. Feb. 13. Professors from Texas State University, Daris Word Hale and Ian Davidson, who are also part of the professional group “The Wild Basin Quintet” and members of the TSU Bassoon Studio showed music students different methods to improve their playing in the one-day workshop. Students from both school districts had the opportunity to participate in a master class, ask questions and perform together as an ensemble. The students had the opportunity to learn how to make their own reeds. A reed is a type of mouthpiece made up of two thin strips of bamboo. Oboes and bassoons use a double-reed mouthpiece. The workshop/master class was organized by woodwind instructor Melissa Hinojosa.
MT photos by Dalia Olivares Top: Students watch as professor Daris Word Hale teaches them how to make their own reeds. Right: VMT woodwind teacher Melissa Hinojosa plays the contrabassoon.
MT photo by Dalia Olivares Texas State University professor Ian Davidson teaches woodwind students fhow to make their own reeds for their instruments on Feb.13 at the recital hall. Students, from left, are Bernardo Navarro, Jennifer Bird and Sandra Ramon.
MT photos by Dalia Olivares Top: The VMT woodwind ensemble performs for the university professors. Left: Lucy Villalobos makes her own reed as Brenda Garcia and Delia Talamantes watch.
Recr uiting
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
Lamar Keisa Rodriguez, left and Rosaura Gabriel dance at the Lamar Middle School gym during recruiting. Seated at the sound control panel behind them are, from left, Electronic music instructor Gene Granado and student Brian Pollard.
MT photos by Cassandra Perez, Annie Miller and Kimberly Evans.
Top: Asael Armendariz sings with the Rondalla. Top right, Carlos Quiroga and Alex Rodriguez wait for their performance. Right, High Brass instructor Robert Lopez directs the VMT Combo. Far left, David Montoya. Bottom row, from left, (partially hidden) Fabiola Rivera, Raul Martinez, John Lenington, Jenny Garza and David Lenington. Middle row, Jesus Ochoa, Daniel Hernandez and Juan Zamarripa. Top, Roel Esparza, Jose Villa and Ismael Flores. Performing but not in picture are Tony Oliva, Philip Wilkens, Dember Demasiado, Ricky Juarez, Gabriel Solano and Joshua Garza.
9 Principal and teachers say visits went well BY NATALIE CASTILLO MT STAFF WRITERS
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PATY GARCIA
Teachers and the principal felt recruiting went well this spring. “I want to thank all the teachers, students and performers for the outstanding performances at each school. My first year as a director has been one good year,” said Principal Jose Cerda. New TV and radio teacher Carrie Robaina was very happy with this year’s recruitment. “I was very pleased with the amount of kids that are interested in VMT and the TV and radio program,” said Robaina. Robaina showed a DVD presentation prepared by her students which convinced others to sign up for her classes. “We did a multimedia presentation. We projected a 40-second movie and everything was done by the students, from the writing to the recording and editing,” Robaina said. Cheryl Kirkpatrick, Dance Department head, is looking for a particular type of student for dance classes. “We want dedicated, hard-working students who are willing to be creative and open-minded,” said Kirkpatrick. Kirkpatrick said that she thinks she got this type of student. “I believe we were successful in reaching an excellent population of future students,” Kirkpatrick said. Visual Arts department head Armando Hinojosa will narrow the group down to a much smaller number. “As a total we got about 205 applicants. We’re going to screen them down by grades and absentees and from there we’re going to narrow them down to about 70 students,” said Hinojosa. Theatre Department head Vernon Carroll is looking for students who enjoy themselves. “We’re just looking for students who enjoy what they do. Otherwise it would be pretty much of a drag,” said Carroll. “We want students who want to better themselves, more than the average student, good people (who are) hard workers. Low brass instructor John Reimund was amazed with this year’s recruitment. “It’s a positive picture of what the magnet school does to entertain people with the arts and what words cannot say,” Reimund said. “It was a pleasure working with the teachers, students and faculty.”
Inside Recruiting: Memorial Christen Cigarroa
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Recr uiting Memorial
MT photos by Veronica Cruz and Ed Herrera
Top: The Camerata Winds performed at Memorial Middle School. From left, Olivia San Miguel, Vanessa Rodriguez, Chris Cavazos, Brenda Garcia, Rey Flores and Lucy Villalobos. Upper right, Theater Department head Vernon Carroll was master of ceremonies. Lower right, Evelyn Gamez, Perla Wise, Karina Renteria and Monica Luna. Bottom, from left, Heather Reilly, Lizette Cisneros, Idalia Mendoza and Herlinda Vazquez.
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
Internet: http://my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt e-mail: mt_writers@hotmail.com
Christen
MT photos by Sandra Ramon Left, Kassandra Cardenas. Top left, Theater students, from left, Tanya Rodriguez, Anna Pompa, Brenda Renteria, Ashley Salinas, Veronica Poplin and seated, Maria Chapa. Top right, Santos Gabriel Solano. Upper right, Woodwinds instructor Melissa Hinojosa. Lower right, Dember Demasiado, front, Phillip Wilkins, back left, and Ricky Juarez. Below: Creative writing instructor Lilia Castillo and Monica Garcia.
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Recr uiting
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
Cigarroa
Top: Seated on floor from left, Nicole Paez and Cristina Castro. At table is Dr. Mary Grace Carroll, director of piano studies. Right: Julie Gonzalez, Arlyn Martinez and Ilse Ayala. MT photos by Irma Hernandez, Christian Sanchez and Ricky Soliz Jr.
Left: steel drum band members Albert Alvarado, left, and Josue Solalinde. Right: Carlos Rodriguez. They performed at the Cigarroa Middle School.
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
Entertainment
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Rihanna has Caribbean-flavored tune; Sounds are great Artist: Rihanna Single: If It’s Lovin’ That You Want Label: Def Jam Recordings Rating: 2 lovin’ out of 5 Web site: www.thisisrhianna.com
Rock review by
Veronica Cruz
Rihanna is mostly known for her one-hit dance song, “Pon De Replay,” which is part of her album. So far I’ve liked what I heard of her. She has a very good singing voice that matches her music. She is different from most female artists in the reggae genre. Rihanna has her music different; she likes to spice up her tunes with Caribbean beats mixed with R&B/hiphop.
truth about her -- she sucks. Her song was just ridiculous. C’mon, who sings about being in a phone booth? I just didn’t like her style and all that she created; hopefully she has at least has one good track in her album.
www.gomoxie.org music to present to their listeners out there. The album they produced, DTP, showcases several talents of the artists. DTP fans out there, you should really check out this new album.
Artist: Teairre Marí Single: Phone Booth Label: Rocafella Records Rating: 1 booth out of 5 Web site: www.rocafella.com Teairre Marí is a new young hip-hop artist from Detroit. I got a chance to hear only one of her tracks. Gosh, the
Artist: Ludacris Album Sampler: Disturbing Tha Peace Label: DTP Records Rating: 2 out of 5 Web site: www.dtprecords.com Here comes the whole family of DTP with a new cache of
Artist: The Sounds Album Advance: Dying To Say This To You Label: New Line Records Ratings: 5 sounds out of 5 Web site: www.thesounds.com The Sounds is a well-known band, but this is the first time I
www.gomoxie.org
The Sounds have ever heard of them and wow, I’m amazed! Coming from a small Sweden city, they are not that bad at all; I dig them. They are the best newcomers to America in quite awhile. The band is an absolute fusion of 80’s punk and rock n roll. This band reminds me so much of another Blondie, making them seem a musthear.
One track I happen to like is “Queen Apology.” It’s mostly about feelings that happen to overtake a person, which is expressed in the song. To compare this one to their latest “Living in America.” Well I like it more, but wow they do a good job! FREE THINGS! Big, small Rihanna posters in The Magnet Tribune classroom!
‘The Hills’ offer a mysterious, scary road trip to the west Cast: Emilie de Ravin, Kathleen Quinlan, Ted Levine, Vinessa Shaw, Dan Byrd, and Robert Joy. Ezra Buzzington, Aaron Stanford. Director: Alexandere Aja My thoughts: Gritty and realistic just like the first one. Review: The Hills Have Eyes is a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The director sets a good beginning by showing three Center for Disease Control (CDC) agents being mutilated out in the desert. By showing this, it sets up for a scary two hours. The film is a remake of Wes Cravens 1977 film in which a suburban American family decides to take a road trip to the mysterious west. This exciting road trip later turns out to be a quest for survival as loved ones are dying as the hours pass. The movie takes place in a desert which very few people live in. It makes this film even more suspenseful.
Coming Attractions by
Robert Tenorio When compared to the 1977 movie, their not that much difference. Other than that there are better graphics because of today’s technology. What I didn’t really like about the movie is that there was too much gore and blood. You see, I’m not a big fan of blood seeing bodies being detached. In this movie there was so much that began to hurt. Also, a word of advice, there is a very explicit scene in the movie in which many ladies would not like. Just a fair warning. I have always been against directors when they include explicit scenes that show women at their worst moments of their lives. There is only one mistake
that I found when I was watching the movie. During the movie, there are a bunch of dead bodies in a van. While looking in the van, you can see one of the deceased “breathing”. Other than that, I could not find any other errors. This is unusual to me because I always find a lot of errors when watching a movie. I got to give a high five to the director and the rest of the crew for that. This movie is pretty good. I give it an A- in my grade book because it offered a different type of suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat Today’s suspense movies are often poorly made, but this one was different. The Hills Have Eyes has
grossed almost $40 million. It is expected to come out in other countries including Estonia, Finland, Mylasia, and Argentina this month. Now, changing the subject, upcoming movies include
Scary Movie 4, starring Simon Rex; American Dreamz, starring Mandy Moore and Hugh Grant; Silent Hill, starring Radha Mitchell; and X-3 -- The Last Stand, starring Halle Berry.
Good Times
14
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
Laredo’s ‘Best Kept Secret’ is ready to begin summer tour Many, myself included, have labeled Best Kept Secret as a fresh, coming-of-age local band with an excellent and lively stage presence. They formed after the now deceased band, Dead On Arrival (no pun intended!), in the summer of 2005. Members say they each began pursuing music in middle school. They later met and threw it all together. The band consists of high school freshman; one of which attends Nixon High (Mikey Martinez). The rest attend Alexander High School. “Considering their age (14), they have a lot of time to mature and grow as people, as friends, and as a band, which gives them an advantage over
The Local Scene Student bands taking over by
Alyssa Garza and Amy Perez bands that have started in their latter years of high school,” said Vanessa Gonzalez, manager of LoveHate Records in College Station. LoveHate Records (www.lovehaterecords.com) is the band’s label. Each member’s parents actively support their child’s dream of taking his music further. They often prepare for performances in Miguel’s garage and make time in between
school, homework, and everyday teenage activities to devote themselves wholeheartedly to this band. Performance spots include The Time Out Lounge, The Wherehouse, and several house parties. Best Kept Secret is currently in the studio, recording their first demo. They plan to perform their originals, along with covers from famous influential bands including but not limited to Chiodos, on a state-wide tour alongside Split Ends.
Members of the band are ecstatic at getting their music heard beyond the limitations of their hometown. In fact, they just received word that they’ve been booked for The White Rabbit in San Antonio, a venue that many famous bands have played in. “There was never a doubt in my mind before adding Best Kept Secret to LoveHate Records because the first time I met these kids, they had more passion and more energy about this band than any band that I’ve worked with in the past three and a half years,” Gonzalez said. They’ve formulated their own genre by a mixture of what already exists in Laredo with an added thoughtfulness that
MT photo by Amy Perez Members of Best Kept Secret, from left, are: Roy Guarecuco, bass; Marco Escalera, drums; Chae Kim, vox/throat; Mikey Martinez, guitar; and Miguel Diaz, guitar/vocals;
is apparent in their lyrics, melodic guitar and bass lines, and out of control, “in your face”, drum rhythms and are expected to explode into homes across the state through their upcoming demo. The demo is scheduled to be released in mid-summer, during their rigorously scheduled shows around Texas. “In a nutshell, this band has a talent, spunk, and love for the music to get them farther than any other Laredo band that I’ve seen,” said Gonzalez. Their music is sure to be satisfying to any pair of ears. “Our music is hard enough to keep you moving, but soft enough to keep you interested,” said Martinez. When asked what he thinks he’s accomplished since joining Best Kept Secret, Martinez replied, “I’ve learned to work with a band instead of working by myself. I’ve worked on several projects before and I never knew how much fun it could be to work with people who have similar goals and feelings about who we want to be.” “We’re something different and you would have to hear us live to understand,” replied Martinez when asked what band Best Kept Secret sounds most like. When asked where he sees himself and his band a year from now, Martinez quickly replied “Rocking iPod’s all over the state!” As Vanessa Gonzalez states on her Web site, “Meet your new favorite band.” --Amy Perez
Best Kept Secret concert schedule Subject to change May 13
MT photo by Amy Perez The band performs at The Wherehouse March 11.
Courtesy of LoveHate Records Practice at Miguel Martinez’s garage on March 10.
7:45 p.m. w/Today’s Last Dawn The Wherehouse May 21 7:00 p.m. w/The Planning Fallacy The Wherehouse June 1 7:00 p.m. The White Rabbit June 9 8:00 p.m. w/Scene Of The Escape & Drive Safely Texas The Wherehouse June 17 8:00 p.m. w/Breathing Forever The Wherehouse June 23 8:00 p.m. w/Live For The Encore & A State Of Silence The Wherehouse source: www.myspace.com/bestkeptsecrettx
People
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
15
Dancer enjoys church youth group Alright, well this time I am going to be talking to be talking to you about Stephanie Estrada, an outgoing, energetic sophomore at Nixon High School. Estrada’s fine art at VMT is dance with Cheryl Kirkpatrick where she does a little bit of everything. “We do ballet, jazz, hip-hop, celtic, lyrical, and Hispanic,” Estrada said. I asked her why she chose dance as her fine art and she responded, “Well I had originally chosen piano, but when I saw the last (dance) performance at recruiting I thought it was awesome, so I decided to join dance instead.” Estrada explained why she prefers VMT over Nixon. “I really like VMT. You can
The System by
Veronica Lara express yourself here, there are not as many rules; Nixon’s really strict. Magnet’s just beautiful!” she laughed. Aside from dance Estrada also takes part in the J.W Nixon High School Orchestra, and the youth group at her church, First Assembly of God. “I enjoy orchestra. It’s awesome knowing you can create your own music or express yourself through it. I enjoy my youth group because there’s always something going on. It’s never boring. You get to meet
new people, and God always has His doors open.” I asked Estrada what she does with her youth group and she said, “We’re usually just running around and volunteering. I used to help with the sound backstage at my church (during worship services).” “We also go on to competitions known as the National Fine Art Association with the youth group, and go to summer camps. It’s lots of fun.” Her main hobbies would mostly include talking on the
MT photo by Paty Garcia STEPHANIE ESTRADA phone, listening to music, chat- friends, and on weekends we ting, playing music, or just just do whatever comes our way. We just usually plan somehanging out with friends. “In my spare time I like to thing to have something to do.” spend time with my family and
Girl wants a relationship; honesty problems with boy vexes girlfriend Girl wants things to move Dear Cass: This guy and I have been talking for a while and we’re at that point where we both like each other [or at least it seems that way]. What should I do to get things moving? Alexis*, 17 Cass says: Well, if you really like this guy, I think that you should just be straight forward about the whole thing. Tell him how you feel and don’t be shy about it. Tell him that you really like him and that you want somethinag to happen between you guys. I know that it might be risky, but you’re just going to have to take a risk for the chance to get what you want. I wish you luck in your relationship Boyfriend’s honesty at issue Dear Cass: I’m having a problem with my boyfriend. I found a note to a
Ask Cass by
Cassandra Perez girl that he used to like before me and him started going out. I won’t go into detail about what it said, but I’ll just say that it’s not what a friend writes to another friend. I was hurt and confused and now I still am. He apologized about it and got so upset, he started crying. I really don’t know what to do right now. Help me out. Daphne*, 15 Cass says: Wow, I’m really sorry about that. I know that it must not be easy to handle. There’s nothing really that I can tell you except for that if you really do love him, forgive him. I know that it might be hard to do, but con-
sidering what you told me, it seems like he really cares about you and loves you. It might take time for this to overcome, but hopefully, in the end, everything will work out for you two. I hope that everything works out and I hope that my advice has helped clear up some of your confusion. Wants more than friendship Dear Cass: I’ve liked my best friend for about 2 years. We’ve known each other since middle school and I have always been there for her through thick and thin, and I always will. But, it’s getting harder for me to just look at her only as a friend when she
means so much more to me than that. Tell me, how can I prove to her that I’m more than just a friend? Evan*, 18 Cass says: Less is more; it’s the little things that count the most to a girl. Call her for no apparent reason. Ask her about her day and how her classes went. When you guys talk, look at her directly into her eyes. Make her feel special. She’ll start to see you in a different light, the one you’ve always wanted her to see you in. When you think the time is right, tell her your feelings; tell her how much she means to you and how much you want you guys to be more than friends. Yes, it’s a risk, but sometimes we do have to take chances to get what our heart desires. Good luck. I wish you the best. A good way to end things
Dear Cass: I’ve been going out with this girl for about 5 months. I’m afraid to say that things aren’t the same, and they haven’t been for a while. We’re not like we used to be. We used to have fun and laugh a lot. I’ve been thinking that maybe it’s time things end between us. What’s a good way of ending it? Dallas*, 16 Cass says: Well, what I would recommend you doing is just telling her. The sooner you tell her your feelings, the sooner she can get over it and move on. I know that she might be upset for a while, but if you tell her your reasons for the breakup I’m sure she will understand. I mean, she wouldn’t want to be in a relationship that’s not going to go anywhere, but down. Good luck, I mean it.
*Names have been changed.
Bush disgraced his title, and we gave him a second term? BY LUIS MONDRAGON MT STAFF WRITER
Opinion
He lied about the war. Our troops are killed daily. We can’t recover from natural disasters. Our economy is six feet under, and our constitutional rights
are being violated. What does it take to get an impeachment around here?! We all know what Bill Clinton was impeached for and Bush isn’t impeached when he com-
mits perjury so serious that our troops are dying for it? He lied about the war. He breeds intolerance. He’s wasting funds on an unjustified war. That money can go to rebuilding New Orleans. He worries about issues that are not relevant to
the real problems that are going on in our country. And before you start thinking that I’m attacking the country I’m not I’m only annoyed by the people who run it, the oil barons, the well-off conservatives and those who run the cor-
porations. That’s who I’m going after. I may be completely wrong but that’s the beauty of our country. I’d be arrested or even worse in other countries. Our
See BUSH, page 20
16
Entertainment
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
City welcomes new teams War of the Worlds suspenseful Bookworm in baseball, arena football It seems that Laredo is not satisfied with its pro sports teams. The Bucks have been the only entertainment that Laredo has, professional wise, that is why the city has made an effort in bringing us to new sports and teams. Lobos expect success The Laredo Lobos and the Laredo Broncos are the new faces in the city; these two are professional teams that will soon be playing here. The Laredo Lobos is a new professional arena football team. For the last the KRT Campus team, Vice President Dick Laredo Law, Cheney throws out the things didn’t ceremonial opening work out as pitch to open the Major they should League Baseball season in Washington, DC, on have. The IFL (Intense Tuesday, April 11. Football League), the association Laredo is part of, is a small new league that soon will be part of this city; six teams including Laredo are part of the league. The Lobos is under the coaching of Lawrence A. Fisher, and has a roster full of great athletes including Roque Vela a native of Laredo and a graduate of Nixon High who will be playing as a defensive back. The Odessa Roughnecks, Corpus Christi Hammerheads, Louisiana Swashbucklers, Centex Barracudas and San Angelo Stampede Express are the teams that will play against Laredo. The season is supposed to open on the 22 of April. The Lobos will be playing against the CenTex Barracudas in Belton. For more information about the team, tickets, and the schedule for the Lobos log-in to www.laredolobos.com. Broncos bring baseball back Los Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos was Laredo’s last professional baseball team. Broncos, the new baseball team that will be playing in Laredo, have reawakened this city back to baseball. UBL (United Baseball League) is the
Sports Zone by
Ed Herrera association that the Broncos joined and that will be playing 90 games this season, against the San Angelo Colts, Amarillo Dillas, Alexandra Aces, Edinburg Coyotes and Rio Grande Valley Whitewings. Jose Melendez is the manager and ex-player at Laredo Community College, and according to the press he mentioned some players that will be playing for Laredo are known here: Andres Santos an ex-Teco, LCC, and United player is a possibility; O.J. Garza and Alex Cadena, ex-Alexander and United players, are the locals that probably will be playing. The Broncos will start the season on the road on May 16 against San Angelo, then through May 25 in Edinburg and Rio Grande Valley. The opener in Laredo will be on May 26 at Veterans Field, their home field. There are also plans to build a new ballpark for the Broncos. Information and tickets of Broncos have not been announced yet. Laredoans, go support and give a good welcome to the teams that will soon be representing our border city.
Herbert George Wells produced a twisted and suspenseful novel, War of the Worlds, about beings living on Mars who attacked Earth. The Martians are fleeing Mars because its resources are depleted. Many of you are aware of last summer’s movie “War of the Worlds” starting Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning. This novel is slightly different from the movie. On October 30, 1938, Orsen Welles, disc jockey, (no relation to H.G. Wells) broadcast the production of H.G. Wells’s “ War of the Worlds” to thousands of radio listeners. Many people believed that an interplanetary conflict had really started with invading Martians spreading death and destruction in New Jersey and New York. The novel is set in England during 1898. The narrator, writer of scientific text, and Ogilvy, an astronomer, observe Mars. As they gazed upon Mars, the planet seemed to advance and recede. As a result, Mars was observed on a regular basis for 24 hours. The appearance of the planet contained gas explosions. Astronomers and scientists believed that life on Mars would be a one in a million. Yet their beliefs were soon found to be false. There was in fact life on Mars. As men busied themselves with their daily life, Martians were busy analyzing every detail of the human race. Suddenly, in the still of the ebony night, the first UFO shuttle landed between the
Waffle Iron by
Nick Lopez
Confused Spring Holidays Top o’ the morn! Isn’t it early for Easter?
It’s never too early for Easter vacation!
by
Annie Miller English towns of Horsell, Ottershaw, and Woking. Witnesses were curious to see this so called “meteorite”. Ogilvy arrives in the nick of time to see this peculiar occurrence. It was identified as a hollow cylinder whose top begins to unscrew. Soon, the civilians discover that the meteorite in reality is a UFO shuttle. Martians begin to emerge. A metallic tentacle sticks out of the cylinder as people press around the shuttle. The Martians slaughter many, including Ogilvy, by using their electronic heat-ray. The victims were instantly dissolved. The narrator, who is a witness, flees and arrives home. He informs his wife of the Martians and takes her to his cousin in Leatherhead. Then a second cylinder attacks earth. The army begins to combat Martians who ignite everything in their range with the heat-rays. The narrator leaves his wife at a cousin’s house to aid his neighbors and friends. He notices the arrival of another UFO shuttle. At the narrator’s house, an artilleryman emerges and tells him the situations that are occurring. Later they plan to return to Leatherhead without confronting the Martians. They travel to Weybridge via Byfleet where total chaos is occurring. Martians are destroying while people struggle to survive. There is a mass of armies fighting these creatures. Soon, they split up and the narrator escapes by boat to London. The narrator’s brother, a medical student, takes up the tale. In other parts of London, people are not aware of the threat of the Martians. Quickly, newspapers are printed which lead people to evacuate the city. Another shuttle attacks by spraying poison-gas over the city. The brother flees to London and rescues a woman and a child. The story leads back to the narrator struggling to save his wife. He notices the brutal torture of the victims being captured by Martians. Shockingly, the Martians begin to die. Human germs annihilate the Martians. On Primose Hill, he discovers Martian’s graves. The narrator successfully returns to his wife and cousin. The battle of the worlds ended. No one knew a single germ could destroy these creatures. They were too weak to survive on Earth. As you may see, this is an excellent novel for all you science- fiction lovers.
Lif estyle
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
17
MT photos by Joseph Mendiola Zandra Flores, left, and Kimberly Evans work in the darkroom as a mysterious cloud seems to engulf them. It can only be seen in digital photos.
Are they mysterious clouds or flash problems? I became interested in taking photographs in the darkroom because of an assignment to take pictures of objects without corners. I had some weird images in my photos. Some of the pictures had unusual shadows, or at least black cloud-like shapes, in random locations. I showed the instructor (Mark Webber). He quietly stared at them for a while and finally said, “that’s weird.” A friend said it might just be the flash, that I’m not giving the flash enough time to recharge. I asked Webber how long it would take for the flash to
recharge. He said, “a good 20 to 25 seconds.” I decided to go back and take pictures with classmates present, but I would have to count to 30 before even thinking of taking the next picture. I went back with classmates Kimberly Evans and Zandra Flores. Nothing really happened until a good 10 minutes into the picture taking. A shadow appeared out of nowhere right next to Kimberly and Zandra. I was mean and didn’t tell them anything. Later, I was taking a picture of Zandra stretching her arms, and a shadow came out very close to her. I
told them, and we ran out of there as fast as we could. This was not the first experience with the mysterious clouds. My first experience was taking digital pictures in the darkroom, and I got regular images till a little while into the picture taking I had my first manifestation of clouds appearing in the image. I thought it was nothing until I took another picture and the clouds grew even larger. I continued taking pictures, following the cloud around the room until it ended right next to the darkroom door where I stood. I ran out. --Joseph Mendiola
Bright colors key to spring styles Spring has got to be the best fashion season. The colors take a bright and fresh turn, and wedges make a comeback. This Spring 06 fashion season is going to be the best on record – preppy and pretty is the theme, and there are so many trends to follow! You can pick your own, or mix them all. They key is casual, comfort and fresh. Check out our breakdown of the most popular Spring 2006 fashion trends. What to wear with gauchos Gaucho pants are such a great Spring accessory. I especially love that the new spring looks are not only in jersey material, but also more constructed looks so they can be easily dressed up. Week of April 24-30 ARIES (March 21-April 20) Employment and career opportunities will soon increase. Over the next few days, take extra time to explore new educational programs, research funding opportunities or complete applications. Friday through Sunday highlight subtle romantic changes in long-term relationships. Daily obligations and renewed commitments are accented: stay open. TAURUS (April 21-May 20) Home expectations, group plans and family routines now expand: before mid-week, expect loved ones to express a strong desire for creative activities or social freedom. Refuse to be unnerved by bold opinions. In the coming weeks restlessness may be an underlying influence: stay balanced and wait for meaningful progress. GEMINI (May 21-June 21) Over the next eight days, family disagreements may be unavoidable. In the coming weeks, daily responsibilities, romantic goals and long-term commitments will demand delicate attention. Take extra time to respond to complex emotions
Dress them down by pairing them with tank tops – I love layering two different colors over them. Don’t forget to wear flip flops; they’re the ultimate in a laid back style. Dress them up with a pretty camisole and wedges. Accessories will be the key for dressing up gauchos, so make sure you wear some pretty necklaces and earrings. Knickers are also the some of the latest bottoms, which feature a fuller thigh and a banding around the knee. These can be combined with a logo T-shirt or a Polo. Add a platform shoe to compliment them. We saw Bermuda shorts make a big splash last year, and guess what?
Gals and Guys by
Amanda Cruz, Lucia Villagomez and Joseph Mendiola They’re back this year! They’ have such a great length, and look great on everyone. They can be worn casual with a Tshirt and some flip flops, or dressy with a ruffled top and some heels. Just make sure you find the pair with the right length, which is right at, above, or below the knee. We’re seeing a lot of neutrals, such as browns, khakis, and whites. Bright colors are also in this season. You have your
Mystic Stars by
Lasha Seniuk Tribune Media Services, Inc. and sudden social reversals: loved ones may this week need to openly discuss their private doubts or observations. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Attraction and physical awareness are now a powerful influence in key relationships. Respond honestly to unrealistic proposals or invitations. Later this week, a workplace power struggle may demand completion. If so, remain quietly detached: political reactions may be unpredictable. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) A recent battle of wills between relatives may this week need to be openly debated. Loved ones are now motivated to end social differences and improve daily relations. Over the next four days, friends and fam-
Zandra Flores is engulfed by the mysterious cloud while posing for a digital photo.
ily members will rely heavily on your ability to mediate group dynamics: if possible, plan genuine encounters and unique VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Business agreements are easily abandoned this week: before mid-week, expect close friends and trusted colleagues to present unrealistic facts, numbers or opinions. Although long-term aspirations are positive and secure, immediate results will be delayed. Advocate caution: a clear understanding of daily restrictions and financial limits is necessary for success. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Social trends are intriguing but unreliable this week. Misleading invitations or unexpected group reversals are
hot pinks, yellows, green, orange, etc. Shoes are an essential piece to your outfit. Wedges, ballet flats, and peep-toe shoes are all back from last year. Oh, and also if you’re going to wear baggy pants don’t forget to wear tiny on top. Also keep in mind accessories, make the outfit stand out, but don’t over do it. No matter what you decide to wear just remember to keep it clean, fresh, and bright!
highlighted over the next nine days. Avoid private discussions, if possible, but expect close friends to reveal more personal information than is warranted. Reserve judgment: sensitive emotions need to be respected. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Over the next eight days, bosses and managers will expect renewed devotion to troubled projects. A recent wave of workplace mistakes will soon be publicly resolved. Listen carefully for revised instructions and ask questions. Improved policies will soon prove highly political: remain dedicated to small details and complex calculations. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Roommates and close relatives may this week reveal unexpected social disputes. Private triangles between friends or ongoing workplace differences will demand public confrontation. Provide a detailed account of your own experiences: your ability to interpret subtle emotions or describe hidden agendas will be appreciated. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) Career decisions will eventually prove rewarding. Over
the next few days, expect loved ones or romantic partners ask for reliable schedules, predictable plans or new financial agreements. Research all potential avenues for business advancement: employment permissions and new job applications will soon work to your advantage. Remain determined. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21-Feb. 19) Private romantic overtures may now require special diplomacy. Before Thursday, new friends and potential lovers will expect a serious response to unique or seductive invitations. Offer an honest description of emotional limits. In the coming weeks, misinterpreted or mistaken affections will not easily corrected. PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Minor social disagreements may now intensify. Over the next five days, close friends will expect your undivided attention and continuing support. New home obligations and work commitments may further strain key relationships. Don't, however, be unnerved by sudden reactions: wait for clarity and respond only to constructive criticism.
Opinions
18
Comments? Write us at mt_writers@hotmail.com
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
We look forward to much student success with new chief We at The Magnet Tribune welcome Dr. Daniel Garcia Jr., Laredo I.S.D.’s 14th superintendent. He moves upriver from the Brownsville Independent School District in the Rio Grande Valley. Garcia told this newspaper that he has already started working on ways to improve education in the district. He added that VMT is a great
EDITORIAL
The Magnet Tribune welcomes new superintendent Dr. Daniel Garcia Jr. to the school district place for students to realize their talents.
Garcia visited the school March 31. He first was interviewed for a story (see page 1), then was taken on a tour of our facilities. He comes from Brownsville, and applied with the district when the superintendent’s position came open. He said he saw the potential students in Laredo I.S.D. have. Garcia said he is happy to be here in Laredo, and was impressed by
the level of dedication shown by the teachers and staff. “Laredo has a lot to offer,” Garcia told our reporters, “and it is a great opportunity for me and L.I.S.D.” The Magnet Tribune looks forward to much student success under our new superintendent. We invite him to visit the school anytime.
Preparing for the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills As the days go by, the big week gets closer. I’m talking about the famous week of the T.A.K.S. test; with this in mind, we asked the students at V.M.T.: “How do you prepare yourself when the T.A.K.S. test is “around the corner”? This is what they said. “I just chill out and relax. I try to have a good night rest and a nice, calm morning,” Jessica Castellanos, sophomore. CASTELLANOS
A Penny for your Thoughts
“Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial. An energy drink works, too,” Armando Lopez, sophomore.
by
Christian Sanchez
LOPEZ “By sleeping, eating and relaxing,” Robbie Castro, freshman.
“Don’t worry about it, get rest and eat because the more you worry the more stress you get and that is not good. So just relax,” Oscar Alex Cabrera, sophomore. CABRERA “I try to get a good night sleep and try not to stress out too much. I study a lot months before, but when it comes down to the actual week I try to relax. I also try ARELLANO to have a good breakfast,” Norma Arellano, junior.
CASTRO “By having plenty of sleep the day before and remembering to study,” Lucy VILLALOBOS Villalobos, sophomore.
'The World behind Gracie's eyes' shows much is going on This is just an update to “The World behind Grace’s eyes.” It’s such a dread knowing that there is two months remaining. I mean sure I’m happy that school is almost over and that I’m going to graduate but, seriously I’ve been slacking off. That is what keeps me awake during the middle of the nights. What I detest most is that even though I know I need to do something, my “laziness” gets the best of me. You may wonder why I am writing on such a topic. Well for one…because I can; that and because just last week, I over heard this freshman in my Spanish class saying this: “I’m a freshman; I don’t have to worry about TAKS yet. This year is the year where we get to do nothing and it won’t matter.” WRONG! To be honest, I thought the exact same thing.
Observations by
Grace Garcia My freshman year I use to cut classes, and not give a care in the world. It was my “drug” I guess you can say. I thought I’d never get caught. Once again I was wrong. I also use to fall asleep and just gossip with friends during class thinking it didn’t matter, that I’d be just fine. Wrong again! That year I failed about six classes out eight … those two that I passed were my fine arts. As a senior, I speak from experience and hope that you take me seriously when I say that for you freshmen … this is just a preview to what lies ahead. I’d get ahead if I were you. Finish with all the credits you
need and maybe, just maybe you’ll have a “free” year. Who knows, you just might graduate early, in which I also recommend. Every morning, I wake up … dreading the thought of high school. I know most of you do too. Who wouldn’t want to sleep all morning? If you find yourself answering “I do” to my previous question then I got another question for you. If you hate school so much, why don’t you just get it out of the way? Finish school as soon as possible. Believe me; you don’t want to fall behind. Picture this, graduation day, you’re sitting there proud.
Proud of what your friends have accomplished, then you begin to frown when they get to your name. Your name isn’t mentioned, and you realize, you’re sitting with all the other guests. It isn’t a pleasant feeling sitting there, listening to the speakers say how proud they are, listening to them go on for hours about what a good class they were and knowing you’re no longer part of that class. I didn’t enjoy it one bit. About TAKS, get that out of the way as soon as possible too. You don’t want to wait till your senior year because what if you don’t pass it? What are you going to do then? The last chance you get to take this TAKS c**p will be in April and results won’t come in till a week before graduation. If you don’t pass it, you won’t graduate. What about the cap and
gown you already purchased? What about all the invitations you already sent out? What about the summer trip you had planned out? Well you can kiss all of that goodbye, and even the money you spent on the cap and gown that you’ll never wear. You’ll end up going to summer school, taking the TAKS then graduating without the ceremony. This whole education talk calls for a change of subject, don’t you think? Recruiting this year was not the same, but nothing has been the same since the class of 05’ left. Though I must admit, there was some good talent out there that either kept me speechless, or gave me the chills. During the Memorial Middle School recruitment there was these great (Salsa) dance stu-
See OBSERVATIONS p.20
Opinions
The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
19
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Parents should lighten up when dealing with kids “You’ll understand when you have children of your own” is what most of our parents say when we get punished or not given permission to go out. Most of us get so mad at them and we think to ourselves, “how could they do this to me,” or “they don’t understand.” Sometimes we should stop and think. They’re our parents; do they really want something bad for us? Maybe everything they do is for a reason. Our parents just want us to have a better future and maybe a better future than what they
have. They know there is a lot of danger out there like drunk drivers. They just want what’s best for us right? Right! I’m sure most of us know that and we know that parents should control us and help us make right decisions. Then there are some parents that are too overprotective and want too much control and think the world is a bad place and is out to get us or something, which is the reason in some cases why they won’t let us out. Mainly parents restrict us going out for the simple reasons of drinking, teen pregnancy, and
because teenagers don’t think about consequences. Or with some people it might be that they are the only person not let out in the household. Sometimes parents just let the older siblings go out or vice versa which ever the case it can sometimes get on our nerves! Yes, there is danger out in the world and especially at night when most of us like to go out but that doesn’t mean we should stay on lockdown in out rooms for the rest of our adolescent years or till we move out. Sometimes parents have to
The Bug by
Irma Hernandez learn how to just let go and loosen our leash a bit more or sometimes just moms. Moms make a bigger deal about letting us out. Dads usually don’t have an opinion, or just don’t want to have a huge argument. I’m speaking for those of us who try to do chores and respect their parents but still get their curfew at 10:00 p.m.
or are only allowed at certain places with certain people depending, on what their parents decide. I guess it’s just different with all parents and teenagers. All I could say is parents trust us; we’re not that bad, and teenagers keep trying, maybe they’ll lighten up. Then again parents still have the last word!
Women should be able to have the right to choose The right to have an abortion has stirred up a major storm within the White House and the American public. In the past few years, there has been a major political controversy over abortion rights. President Bush has been trying to make the Supreme Court lean to the right by appointing conservative judges. So far, he has been successful. The Republican Party along with conservative Americans are pushing to overturn the landmark decision of Roe vs. Wade and make abortions in this country illegal. I, however, believe that it is a woman’s right to choose and that they should not be denied the right to have an abortion. After all, it is a personal issue. Women have fought hard throughout the past two centuries to gain rights. It would be an insult to females if abortions were made illegal in this country. We, as citizens of the United States, should be leaders and be advocates
Editor’s Commentary Robert Tenorio, April editor The Editor’s Commentary represents the opinions of the editor, and should not be understood to represent the views of the newspaper staff, faculty and administration.
in an issue like this one. It’s a personal issue and should be kept like that. The government has no right to enter into the privacy of a woman. I also feel for women that are not able to reproduce and they may think it is horrible to have an abortion, but, they are not the ones that are pregnant. Teenagers, though, should consult an adult before undergoing an abortion. Many are not in the right state of mind when making decisions like this. Abortions do not have to be medically educed however. Recently, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved a drug called the
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morning-after pill. Women have the opportunity to take this pill within the 72 hours after being intimate. I feel this is great that women have more choices because by taking this pill, they may prevent a pregnancy. Around the world, countries are starting legalize abortions. Currently, most of the countries around the world have legalized abortions but with certain regulations. For example, it is legal to get an abortion in Mexico if a woman is raped and/or it affects a woman’s or baby’s health. I feel however, that Mexico along with other countries around the world that have strict regulations on abor-
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tions should give women more legal rights. Do we want to go back to a time where women would literally kill themselves and their baby because they did not want to be pregnant? Back before the Roe vs. Wade case, females practiced different alternatives to end their pregnancy. Many of them died. Many politicians, especially in the Democratic Party, support a woman’s right to choose. For example, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton is an avid supporter of abortion rights. According to the New York Times, Clinton said, “There are a number of forces at work in our society that would try to turn back the clock and undermine a woman’s right to chose, and we must remain vigilant.” I am and always have been pro-choice, and that is not a right any of us should take for granted. Comments? mt_writers@hotmail.com
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How to respond to The Magnet Tribune: By e-mail: mt_writers@hotmail.com On the Internet: www.my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt Address: Vidal M. Treviño Magnet School, The Magnet Tribune, 1702 Victoria Street, Laredo, Texas 78040 In person: Journalism classroom/darkroom, or Mark Webber’s box in the attendance office.
The Magnet Tribune The Magnet Tribune is a publication produced by students in the Newspaper Production and Photojournalism classes of the Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts, Laredo Independent School District. This publication’s intent is to provide readers with information relating to the school and its students, provide students a lab for producing a newspaper using professional-level computer software and offers an open forum for student opinion. The MT is published free five times during the academic year. Jose Cerda Principal and publisher Mark E. Webber Journalism instructor and adviser, The Magnet Tribune Vol. 13, No.4; April 21, 2006 Editor of this Issue: Robert Tenorio Name plate shows the bronze statue south of the Harding Building, “The Force of Creation,” designed and created by former art Instructor Armando Flores in 1993-94. Nameplate design was created by journalism student Ed Herrera in 2004. Production is by VMT journalism students using QuarkXPress and Adobe Photoshop on networked Dells and Macintoshes. Printed at the Alice Echo-News Copyright ©2006: Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts and The Magnet Tribune
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“It is the policy of the Laredo Independent School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, limited English proficiency, or handicapping condition in its programs.”
20 School Ne ws Morning students jam for fun in talent show The Magnet Tribune April 21, 2006
A talent show was held Wednesday, April 5, at the cement stage next to the Urbahn building. It was sponsered by Alejandra Rodriguez’s choir classes. It was a fundraiser for the choir, for a planned trip and performance in New York City. Six acts, all made up of morning students, took part. MT photos by Melissa Casarez
BUSH, from page 15 right to privacy has been taken from us. What’s next? I hope nothing else. How can a president have approval ratings so low and still keep his presidency? Even the republicans disapprove of him. His approval rating among them went from a very high 82 percent and fell hard to 74%. When it came to the issues the approval rating was an already dismal 39 percent and dropped to 36 percent.
For domestic affairs, in terms of foreign policy and terrorism approval was at 47 percent now it’s down to 43 percent. As for Iraq and the economy ratings stayed about the same but not that high at about 40 percent. With numbers that low. on a personal level, almost no one can stand to see the sight of Bush. Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan had approval ratings in the mid-60s at this point in their presidency.
Richard Nixon who was tied up in the Watergate scandal in 1974 his approval ratings were in the high 20s at the time. I think people paid more attention during those times. Even though, these numbers are some of the lowest in history and they’re only going to drop lower in the next two years. I say the democrats will take the 2008 elections not because they’re any better, but just out of the pure discontent of the
American people. And it hurts me a lot on a personal level because he didn’t steal the election like in 2000. This time we voted for him!! What’s the worst Kerry would have done? Approve stem cell research? Allow gay marriage? (If for whatever reason became an issue.) Keep church separated from state? And not waste our funds on a war? Yeah, that about sums it up what will happen from here to 2008? Only God has that answer.
the future of L.I.S.D. First he wants to insure that curriculum is aligned from Pre-K to 12 grades across all subject areas. He also wants to keep the program in mathematics consistent, and he wants to ensure that all schools have the same materials and resources to offer the same level of learning. Also, he wants to survey students to attain feedback on the education L.I.S.D.
is providing. The survey should be ready to present to the district’s board in the April meeting. With these goals in mind, Garcia will not have a hard time doing it by himself since he said he has a good panel to work with. “I think I have a good team to make the district successful. The team is still growing and being built. We’re barely getting to
know each other and we expect more people after I fill in the vacancies.” Overall, he said that he was very pleased to be in Laredo, and he was very impressed with the level of commitment and focus of staff and students. “Laredo has a lot to offer,” Garcia said, “and it is a great opportunity for me and L.I.S.D.”
explained as the ultimate weapon for world peace. Hope to hear more from her. Midi band, Divided by David, a is hit in my book. I just wish I had more to listen to. There is Ruby working her guitar and lead vocals while Anna rocks out with her bass, and Amanda Meza drumming to her own beat. All of them coming out as the new girl band in town (new to me anyhow). So the new thing online is www.myspace.com. Well, it’s not to new, it’s just real out there now. I’ve had my
account about two years now but never used it. I always thought it was just another lame site in which would just be pointless. I use to think that because, back then my friends weren’t on the Web site and I didn’t know the how to get the codes to change my profile’s broundground colors or how to add music to my page. . Well, I got friends on the site now and I’ve learned enough, made mistakes, fixed it up and got all sorts of videos on my page. If you have Internet at home, I’d
recommend the site for you but, you can’t say I didn’t warn you. The site is addictive! Onto the next topic we go. Do you remember the whole bus incident on a previous column of mine? You know the annoying people that I spoke of? Well, they (the villains) keep ruining the possibilities of a smile on my face each morning. Well, for some reason, I just began calling them “The Loud Crowd” and now I’m beginning to think that loud is too nice of a word.
GARCIA, from page 1 expect immediate changes to be made around the district, but not in this case. Garcia doesn’t plan to make any immediate changes. He first wants to review the data and documents and meet with staff members and administrators. Basically he first wants to fill vacant spots and match individuals’ backgrounds and skills to their positions. Garcia has already set some goals for
OBSERVATIONS, from page 1 dents that blew the socks of the entire school. Both Kassandra Cardenas and Orlando Moreno are excellent dancers and what shocked me most was that they’re both freshmen. Imagine when their seniors here … I think they’ll be teaching the teachers a thing or two in dance pretty soon. Fabiola Rivera. If you don’t know who I’m talking about then get out and find out. She has a voice I’d die/kill for. She has this gift of voice that can only be