Dec 18, 2008

The Magnet Tribune

Vol. 16, No. 2

December 18, 2008

Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications & Fine Arts, 1701 Victoria St., Laredo Texas 78040

A state- and nationally recognized student newspaper Force of Creation

Recognition for ‘Head of the Class’

Seniors nationally recognized

BY JON COX MT STAFF WRITER

T page 2

Director likes how year is going

page 3 Groups perform on Fridays

hree VMT seniors received the prestigious title of National Hispanic Scholar in November.

“I’m proud to carry the title National Hispanic Scholar with me. It’s really quite a honor,” said Maria Rivera, a student at Nixon.

Another did not expect to receive it.

“It was a big surprise because I thought I wasn’t going to get the award,” said Shaula Rocha, who attends Cigarroa as well as VMT. A Nixon student believes the award will open new opportunities.

“There was plenty of opportunity already. Our counselors make sure of that, but this should open up more doors for me,” said Raoul Moreno, a Nixon student.

All three want to stay in the state to attend college.

“I’m hoping for the big U.T. I still haven’t decided if

Hispanic Heritage Festival shows talent

pages 5-7 School turns out for Halloween fun

Excitement and fun were on display at St. Peter’s Plaza during this year’s 16th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival, held on Oct. 30.

This year the festival’s main speaker was Julio Mendez, director of Fine Arts for the school district.

Mendez explained why many people celebrate their Hispanic heritage.

He gave a history of how the Hispanic people developed, from the time of Spanish explorers to now.

Mendez said the occasion is decreed by a presidential proclamation.

Parts of his speech were in English and Spanish.

Mendez gave a challenge

Columns, pages 8-9 Opinions, pages 10-11

VMT on the Internet

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E-mail The Magnet Tribune mt_writers@hotmail.com

RAOUL MORENO ilar reactions.

“I got to be in the local newspaper, and a lot of teachers congratulated me,” Rocha said.

The National Hispanic Recognition program was founded by the College Board in 1983 to identify outstanding students of Hispanic/Latino decent through the PSAT/NMSQT test. Approximately 5,000

MARIA RIVERA out of about 250,000 Hispanic/Latino high school students are given the title.

Though no financial aid is given to the student for college, academic recognition is extended. If chosen, the award gives a boost to one’s college application. A CD with a list of names of those who achieved this accomplishment is sent to

SHAULA ROCHA subscribing universities.

To be given recognition would mean surpassing the cut-off scores for the state of Texas. The score is a combination of critical reading, mathematics and writing skills on PSAT/NMSQT, taken during a student’s junior year.

The student must also be at least one-quarter Hispanic/Latino.

Speakers’ Series, 5 Festival photos, 6-7 to all VMT students.

“Continue your hard work. Don’t stop learning.

Most important, don’t let anyone stop you from your dreams and your goals for your life,” Mendez said.

Art department head Armando Hinojosa was one of the organizers of the Hispanic festival. He suggested the school recognize Hispanic Heritage Month 16 years ago.

“I think this was the best festival I have seen in 16 years. In the first Hispanic festival there was only one booth, and we gave away free chalupas,’’ he said.

This year no elementary school students attended the festival.

MT photo by Ana Gonzalez Dancers Nicco Crofford, Azahy Ayala, Isabel Gonzalez, Amanda Garza, Ruben Prieto, Ale De la Sancha, Orlando Moreno, and Alyssa Rodriguez performed at the Hispanic Heritage Festival.

“I would like to see elementary students come so they could learn more about their heritage and so

they could have some fun,” brated at the end of Hinojosa said.

October.

This year the Hispanic He’d like to see it held Heritage Festival was cele- See FESTIVAL, page 2

Junior compares former school to those in Laredo

BY KEILA I. GRANADOS MT STAFF WRITER

page 12

MT photos: Krystal Battistata, Samantha Hawkins, Jon Cox

School celebrates 16th Hispanic Heritage Festival

BY ANA S ILVA MT STAFF WRITER

page 4

I want to major in law or computer science,” Moreno said.

Rivera is also planning to attend U.T. “My goal is to attend UT at Austin and major in communication,” Rivera said.

Rocha may be close to them, in San Marcos.

“I’m going to Texas State and want to major in English and Sociology,” she said.

All have received extra recognition because of the award.

“Colleges have sent letters and e-mails congratulating me, and trying to make me very aware that they are interested in me attending their school,” said Moreno.

Rivera has gotten a different reaction.

“Three of us who were granted the award received certificates of recognition along with many pictures taken, an interview, and lots of smiles from our counselors,” Rivera said.

Rocha also has seen sim-

“Here there are a lot of things and future to make but very few people care.

Over there [in Mexico] the people are committed to their future but the lack of opportunity and economic issues stop them from becoming someone impor tant in this world,” observed Rafael Lopez, Martin junior and VMT art student, of students in his former city of Leon, Guanajuato.

Lopez discussed his for mer school, Angela Lopez de Sanchez, a “primaria” (elementary) school, where he studied before coming to the U.S. at age 11.

He said when he enrolled at Christen Middle School he observed that the students seemed disrespectful, no one wore uniforms, and students were below grade level.

“My school in Mexico is entirely different even

though the buildings were old and had no air conditioning. It had a higher level of learning and growing [experiences],” he said. “My school in Laredo is full of opportunities and has a good quality of learning, but the students could care less.”

Lopez added English was not taught at his former school.

School in Mexico seemed better to him because the academic grade levels were higher, the classes were more complete, more things were taught and the teachers were more committed to the well being of their students, Lopez explained.

He said there was not wide-spread testing such as TAKS in Mexico but rather only tests for those who are in the highest level classes.

A typical day at a school in Mexico, he said, would be getting the whole school together, saying the pledge to the flag, going to class

and recess, parents giving their “torta de frijoles, aguacate o jamon” over the fence, playing soccer, returning to class and then waiting for the bell to ring.

At VMT, where Lopez studies art with Jorge Vasquez, he describes his view on lunch.

“Lunch here seems like jail. The students wait like prisoners to be served, and we have securities watching us,” he said.

Classrooms at his former school, he added were decorated with projects made by students, and uniforms were required. He described the uniforms as a white polo shirt, maroon pants and sweater, a belt and black shoes.

Lopez said his goal is to finish his education and become a doctor to help the poor in his home country.

“I’d like to go to college, study, get prepared to be a pediatrician and work to make enough money to put

MT photo by Keila I. Granados Rafael Lopez stands against a mural of the American and Mexican flags near his art classroom. clinics in the poorest parts ical care and I don’t want of Mexico. I suffered my people to suffer anymore because of the lack of med- [either],” he said.

Read The Magnet Tribune on the Internet: http://my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt

2 Dancer gets Border Patrol award

BY VALERIE BRISEÑO MT STAFF WRITER VMT’s first student of the month has had perfect attendance throughout her high school career.

Christina Vasquez, a senior in dance, was surprised about receiving the Border Patrol Head of the Class award for September.

“I was shocked,” Vasquez said.

She credited her parents for receiving the award.

“I think I got it because of my parents’ help through many years of school. It helped me get good grades and become a helpful person,” she said.

Some of the qualifications one needed for this award were to be a high school senior, have a nominating educator, and have an overall average of a B. Her nominating educator was Carmen Beltran, Algebra II teacher at Martin High School.

She thought this award would help her look good in future careers she embarks on.

“I think it would look good in my resume for col-

School News

The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

Student proud of her honor

BY EVANGELINA MARTINEZ MT STAFF WRITER In the past seven years Leslie Cortez has received many awards to honor her accomplishments. In those years they all meant something different.

This year in October she received her first Head of the Class award, to recognize her scholastic efforts and achievements.

“I submitted an application after being recommended by one of my teachers,” she said.

When she was asked who nominated her for the award, she replied, “My MT photo by Valerie Briseño band director and flute Christina Vasquez, a senior in dance, received the teacher, Mrs. Parker.”

Border Patrol Head of the Class award for Cortez felt astonished September. when she received her lege and future jobs. about was ‘Write about award.

Colleges and employers yourself as a family mem“Well, during that time I look for people that are ber, as a student, and as a was in a lot of physical pain smart and go the extra person to this community.” because of a tooth I had gotmile for awards and comVasquez is ranked No. 6 ten extracted, but when my munity service hours,” in the senior class with a counselor called me to let Vasquez said.

GPA of 102.2. She has close me know that I was selected Some of the questions to 1,000 hours of commu- as Head of the Class for the she needed to answer were nity service hours and has month of October, I was so “Who are your role models had perfect attendance ecstatic, I forgot about the and why?” “What do you since Pre-Kinder. pain,” she said.

Cortez’s parents are plan to do after college”, She said everyone is very and “How would you help proud of her. extremely proud and couldstudents in prevention to “I’m still getting congratu- n’t be happier for her, she drugs?” lated to this day,” Vasquez said The essay topic she wrote said.

“They were extremely

MT photo by Krystal Battistata Leslie Cortez, who also attends Nixon, received the Head of the Class for October. proud of me because they know this recognition was something I worked hard for,” Cortez said.

Cortez was really proud of her accomplishment and believes this award will help her in the long run.

“This award will benefit me in several different aspects, like it granted me confidence; a kind of confidence that I will need to succeed in life. This award will also benefit me in my college endeavors, i.e. résumés, applications, etc. The most

important benefits I have inherited from this award in my opinion, would have to be the pride my parents have for me; it means the most to me,” Cortez stated.

Cortez was really proud of her achievements and was glad to be recognized.

“After receiving this award, I realized that things of this sort are what makes me most happy. I’d rather be recognized and remembered for being an exceptional student that anything else.”

Journalists hear how Internet has changed field

BY SAMANTHA HAWKINS MT STAFF WRITER VMT communication students from radio/television and journalism classes heard about the future of the Internet at the annual Texas State University’s Mass Communications Week in San Marcos on Oct. 22.

Students were given a tour the fields in Mass Communications at the university. The students visited The University Star newspaper, KTSW-FM, and Bobcat Update cable television.

Students also attended conferences throughout the day at the university.

One of the conferences offered to the students was “Web 2.0 in the Real World.” Speakers discussed how social networking and the Internet in general are taking over the media.

“Media travels faster through the web,” said Web 2.0 speaker Omar Galaga from the Austin American Statesman.

Galaga also spoke about how journalists now use MySpace to dig up many stories.

“MySpace is an easy way to find out things about people by comments from

their friends and digging up information,” stated Galaga.

Journalists are now using networking sites such as Face Book, MySpace, Twitter, LinkedIn, and others as a new way of distributing media across the globe. Many are even using video blogs and posting video interviews on YouTube.

“I can say a lot more with a five minute video than a six hundred word story,” explained Galaga, “The average age of a newspaper reader is around the age of fifty.”

“Social networking sites aren’t only for young people,” stated Sheila Scarborough from Every Dot Connects, “but it’s what journalists use for sources.”

Speaker Kim Haynes from Bulldog Solutions explained the two new social networking sites. She spoke on both Twitter and LinkedIn and how she has used both to keep up with the media.

Twitter is a blogging site for friends, family, and coworkers to stay connected and in the know.

“You have followers instead of friends like on MySpace,” said Hayes,

MT photo by Ana Silva Texas State University Communication students Alejandra Hering, left, Matt Renard, and Jacqueline Baylon discussed their fields during the trip by VMT Journalism students during Mass Communication Week.

Alejandra Hering, “Jackie and I were fortunate in that we Jacqueline Baylon, and spoke to students that were genuinely Matt Renard. interested in the craft.”

The speakers spoke on what they do at the university and what they are Alejandra Hering, Texas State student majoring in. They said they “People post blogs on the look for you; it’s a great hoped they can be somecurrent news stories even place to put your resume, one the students can look before they’re out and you better than using up to.

“I was just happy about just answer the simple MySpace,” said Hayes. question, ‘What are you Some students also being there are being able doing?’” attended “The Rising Stars” to give people advice,” said “LinkedIn is a site for presentation.

Speakers Baylon.

The speakers were also business people to basically were university students

Quinta Essentia helps clean Paseo Del Indio

BY CHRISTOPHER AVALOS MT STAFF WRITER Quinta Essentia is a group of student volunteers who help the Laredo community and gain community service hours for college.

Many may remember them as the people who volunteered at the Animal Shelter function near H.E.B and also helped in adopting five families last year by selling Christmas tree ornaments.

Now they took on a new task. Quinta Essentia helped clean-up a trail called Paseo Del Indio near

“This thing helped me work my butt off, and it felt good to help” Francisco Dominguez, junior LCC on October 18.

Students were assigned to clean-up overgrown trees and weeds on a section of the trail.

“About 14 students helped out in the trail clean-up,” said Gerardo Flores club sponsor and English instructor for grades 10th and 11th.

“This will help gain community hours for students about to graduate, but more importantly,++++

gives them an opportunity to participate in something bigger than themselves. It gives them a chance to work together to help others,” he said.

Flores said he is “very proud of the work the students did. They were able to see the end results of their hard work and they were complemented by one of the LCC science students who was their group leader.”

Flores said he “plans on doing the same events the club did last year and to add more to them.”

One of the students who helped in the trail clean-up, junior Sergio Niño, piano student, helped in putting the rocks on the trail.

“Yeah it was cool being there and I met a lot of new people,” he said.

Another student, junior Francisco Dominguez and art student, who also helped with the trail cleanup, enjoyed the work.

“This thing helped me work my butt off, and it felt good to help,” he said.

excited to see the students taking down notes and taking photos.

“Jackie and I were fortunate in that we spoke to students that were genuinely interested in the craft,” said Hering, “I was so happy to see that students in the Laredo area are getting involved in journalism from a young age. It is so encouraging to know I won’t be alone in my love for writing and the media.”

Kym Fox, senior lecturer at Texas State University, was impressed to see the background the students have in journalism, print, and broadcasting.

“The visit by the VMT high school students from Laredo is always one of the highlights of my semester,” said Fox, “The fact that high school students are willing to get on a bus at 5 a.m. and spend four hours on the road to come for a college visit speaks to their dedication. It shows the students are willing to invest in their education beyond high school.”

A slide show featuring VMT’s visit, prepared by Texas State communication students, is available online at www.txstatemcweek.com.

FESTIVAL, from page 1 “One thing I would change is for the Hispanic festival to be between September 15 and October 15,” he said.

Nevertheless, he thought this year’s festival was successful.

“I would like to thank my co-workers for their hard work and cooperation for making this Hispanic Heritage Festival the best. I hope next year we will do better,” Hinojosa said.

The Magnet Tribune Coming on our Web site: Crimestoppers, TV/radio students excel ‘Nutcracker’ opens Dec. 18 Hollywood make-up artist Joe Cedillo UT-Austin College of Communication visits In the next issue: Crimestoppers ‘Nutcracker’ More “Head of the Class” recipients UT-Austin College of Communication visits

3

School News

The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

Director enjoys helping develop artistic talents

BY NATALIE CASTILLO AND ANA GONZALEZ MT STAFF WRITERS

cance that the arts have in developing the brain to be able to handle more complex and analytical type of learning. This by far is the New Director Dr. Martha best assignment anyone can ask Villarreal has settled into guiding for. I work with the finest profesthe school. sionals and the most talented She is pleased with her assign- students. You cannot ask for ment at VMT. more. I have a great vision of “I am very excited having the where I want to take this special opportunity to work in a setting campus,” Villarreal said. that provides so many different She cited the vision of the foropportunities for students to mer superintendent whom the develop their potential not only in school was named after. the academic realm but most “Mr. Vidal M. Treviño was my importantly to develop as a mentor and he was truly a whole,” Villarreal said. visionary. I am humbled by the Villarreal is ready to help carry opportunity to carry on his legaon the work of the school. cy. I am dedicated to making his “To have this opportunity to vision grow and to become the develop specific talents whether it beacon of this district,” Villarreal be in the manual arts, communi- added. cations, musical or performing As she stated in her “Principal’s arts is an indescribable opportu- Message” on the school’s Web nity. I am a staunch supporter of site: “I am committed to my own the integration of fine arts with self-growth, the enhancement of education and I have done exten- teacher quality, and the need to sive research in this area for a embrace research in order to number of years and can speak improve learning opportunities knowledgeably about the signifi- for all students. I strongly believe

in the value and advantage of infusing the Arts and Communication skills for the development of the “whole” student; and, the role these skills play in helping students find their own voice, instill character and human values.”

Villarreal was principal of Cigarroa Middle School last year, and was previously principal of Santo Nino, Macdonnell and Ochoa Elementary schools.

Villarreal was also instructional technology coordinator, assistant principal-curriculum specialist and school counselor.

She taught at Buenos Aires and Milton Elementary Schools.

Villarreal has a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M in Corpus Christi, a Master of Science in Education from Laredo State University (now TAMIU) and a Bachelor of Science in Bilingual Education, also from Laredo State. She also holds several certificates in school administration and counseling.

MT photo by Natalie Castillo Dr. Martha Villarreal, school director, is shown in her office.

Drug-sniffing dog focuses attention on war on drugs

BY S ANDRA MINJARES AND ROSALINDA TAYLOR MT STAFF WRITERS

MT photo by Ana Loera Poncho, a drug-sniffing dog, alerts to finding a towel containing the odor of an illegal substances during the Red Ribbon Week presentation in the School Board room on Oct. 22.

Secretary/ bookkeeper has much experience

BY LISA VALDEZ MT STAFF WRITER New secretary/bookkeeper Laura Garza said she enjoys her job.

Garza worked 14 years at Nixon as an attendance clerk and another 14 years at Cigarroa as a secretary to the principal. ”I’m excited to be at V.M.T. It’s a new challenge and I’m up to it,” Garza replied.

She likes the school and thinks it’s the best one she’s been at.

“Of my past previous schools I feel that V.M.T. Magnet School is the best of the best,” said Garza.

“It’s a great school and has great students and faculty. I wouldn’t change it for MT photo by Ana Silva

Winter Ball Seniors Class organization members sold Chick-Fil-A lunches on Dec. 11 to raise money for the Winter Ball.

Standing, from left, Matias Arambula, cosponsor, Philip Balli, Cynthia Garcia, Alfredo Rivera, Lily Valls, Isabel Gonzalez, and Azahy Ayala. Seated, left, Christina Vasquez and Ruben Prieto. Class members sold 350 meals.

MT photo by Lisa Valdez New secretary/bookkeeper Laura Garza has also worked at Nixon and Cigarroa. any other school,” Garza said.

She has several responsibilities as a secretary/bookkeeper.

“As bookkeeper I maintain all the campus/student funds and as secretary

I maintain secretarial responsibilities for the principal and faculty,” Garza said.

A typical work day is, “Busy, very busy. There are many projects taking place at the same time.”

Red Ribbon Week is celebrated every year in honor of Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. The red ribbon reminds people of Camarena’s courage towards keeping the community safe from drugs.

On Oct. 22, officers from U.S. Customs and Border Protection came to VMT to remind students about the importance of staying drug free.

First the officers started by introducing themselves.

Public Affairs officer Mucia Dovalina started the presentation.

In the presentation students were informed about history of how Red Ribbon Week started with a power point presentation.

Enrique Camarena was an average man that believed about being Drug Free. Camarena was sent to investigate drug cartels in Mexico. He was in disguise, but was secretly out to get dangerous drug dealers.

On Feb. 7, 1985, Camarena went out to lunch with his wife. A car with five individuals drove up to him and kidnapped him. He was tortured to death. A month later his body was found.

After his death people started using the red ribbon to honor Camarena.

Students were also informed about new types of drugs, such as strawberry pop, a form of crystal meth, and how serious drugs in Laredo really are.

“We were notified about the new drugs. How if we get caught with them we get in trouble. It’s good to know,” said Kendra Guillan, freshmen art student.

In 2007 Laredo had 80 seizures of heroin. In 2008 Laredo has had 110 seizures. Students’ reaction was one of surprise towards this fact.

After the PowerPoint presentation Officer Victor Arriaga went into the boardroom with Poncho, a German Sheperd, a search dog. Poncho entertained his audience by impressing them with his sniffing skills.

Arriaga hid a towel near a Nixon student’s gym bag, showing Poncho’s abilities to locate illegal drugs. Poncho

identified the bag in seconds.

“I think it helps students feel a better connection with law enforcement and makes drugs less abstract,” said Shannon Beck, science instructor, when asked about how she felt about the presentation.

Guillan was asked what she liked most of the presentation.

“The dog because it’s cool that you can train dogs to do things even if he thinks it’s a game, but he is actually helping out a lot,” Guillan said.

Mario López Villarreal 2824-B E. Bustamante St. Laredo, TX 78043 Tel. 235-8098 337-4799 mariolopezvillarreal@hotmail.com

SALSAS LA SABROZITA Limon Chamoy *M

i c h e l a d a

*C a s e r a s Verde Cilantro Chile de Arbol Jalapeño Habañero

*B o t a n a s TAKIS *D u l c e s Mexicanos Natillas Obleas Palanquetas *G l o b o s y P e lo t a s

e n tu b o c a

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School News

The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

Groups perform during morning B Y FRANK X. TREVIÑO MT STAFF WRITER This year music groups have been playing second periods on Fridays.

Music instructor Robert Lopez came up with this idea. He said his students had done this before, but instead it was a monthly performance.

“It is their goal to learn new songs every week,” said Lopez.

The groups start learning the songs on Monday and on Tuesday they start tuning up their performances.

There are 12 freshmen, 15 sophomores, a few juniors and about 10 seniors.

The groups play Tejano, cumbias, international music, and Latin rock.

Lopez said he had to modify the performance schedule due to the bell schedule.

The audiences have liked the performances so far. According to Lopez a group should know 12-15 songs to perform in public.

“The students have performed very well,” said

Lopez.

Freshmen Oscar Treviño, accordion player, likes the idea of playing on Fridays.

“I think the performances are great because they help us as a practice for when we have a big performance,” said Treviño.

Sophomore Roy Aguiar, keyboard, thinks it’s a good way for people to practice and not get embarrassed.

For Aguiar, learning songs every week is not difficult.

“It’s pretty easy. Just listen to the song over and over,” he said.

For Treviño, learning new accordion keys is a challenge.

Another musician liked how audiences have responded to their performances.

“The audiences have sent us shirts, drawings, and posters for the band,” said Misael Cantu, senior guitarist.

“The performances are cool because we can get experience playing in front of a crowd, we can show

MT photo by the staff Members of Magneto are, from left, Ruby Rodriguez, Delia Malacara, Christian Ramos and Tom Ortiz, all sophomores. They are shown performing in the Recital Hall during an October performance. our new material and we get compliments on the performances,” said Jerry Olivares, bass player

“We would like to thank our teachers, the audience, and a special thanks to Mr. Lopez for letting us

make the band, Mr. (Gene) Granado (music instructor) for letting us practice, and Mr. (Jesus) Sandoval

(music specialist) for letting us use the instruments,” said Jesus Rodriguez, guitarist.

Newspaper staff wins 12th national award

MT composite photo The Magnet Tribune received its 12th national award from the National Scholastic Press Association for papers published last school year. Returning staff members are, standing from left, Samantha Hawkins, Ricky Soliz, Shaula Rocha and Natalie Castillo. Seated on pedestal, Veronica Medellin, Keila Rocha, Melissa Cadena, Nereyda Serrano and Ana Gonzalez. On ground, Juan Olivares, Krystal Battistata, Sarah Rodriguez, Jennifer Garcia and Evangelina Martinez.

Not shown, Jon Cox, Claudia Alba and Tanya Salas.

BY NIDIA GOMEZ MT S TAFF WRITER A former Magnet Tribune staff member was happy the paper received its 12th national award.

“I was greatly honored that all the hard work that was put into the paper was noticed and appreciated,” former four-year staff member Nick Lopez said in a MySpace message.

The paper received the 1st Class Award with two marks of distinction from the National Scholastic Press Association. The two marks of distinction were in coverage and content and leadership.

Lopez was greatly satisfied that all the hard work that was put into the paper was noticed and appreciated.

“The paper received this award simply because of the hard work the writers and staff put into it,” Lopez responded when asked why he thought the newspaper received the award.

Lopez said he wouldn’t like to see anything differently done to the newspaper.

“Everything is fine the way it is.

We have won this award mainly because of the paper and how it is,”

Lopez responded.

Mark Webber, Journalism teacher, said he was really pleased the paper won the award.

“I’m happy for everyone who contributed and also for the students who already graduated,” Webber said.

Webber feels they received the award because the paper has a lot of variety, good photography, and is well designed.

Former columnist and staff writer Jessica Rodriguez said she felt proud of the paper winning the award.

“I was once part of that newspaper and knowing that we got that award makes me prouder because I know that everyone worked really hard and it’s a well deserved award,” Rodriguez replied.

Rodriguez wrote the humor column “The Useless Fax.” She thinks the newspaper should have a little bit more color and interactive columns, something that will catch the reader’s attention. She believes the newspaper won this award because everyone put hard work into it.

“It takes a lot of talented people, and proudly the Journalism kids of VMT have that!” said Rodriguez.

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The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

Hispanic Heritage Festival

Doctor keeps the beat with conga drums

BY KASSANDRA ROCHA AND S ERGIO LUJAN MT STAFF WRITERS

A

dermatologist — skin doctor — helped demonstrate the unique qualities of Latinjazz music in a presentation in the boardroom on Oct. 24.

Dr. Nedil Antonini, who played conga drums along with VMT music instructors, entertained afternoon students with music that included students playing handheld rhythm instruments.

Carlos Morales, a former VMT student, played the bass. Also performing: Dr. Mary Grace Carroll, piano; Ric Cortez, guitar; and

Robert Lopez, trumpet.

Several students in the audience played the guiro (hand-held rhythm instrument) and the clave, (two sticks which are hit together).

Antonini compared European classical and Latin-based music. He also compared the beats of classical and Latin music.

He spoke of different cultures coming hand in hand to form music and create artistic projects.

“If you’re patient enough and if you’re willing to learn you could do anything you set your mind to,” Antonini said.

“It was interactive; I felt if I was a part of it. Half of the fun was trying to compre-

5

MT photo by Kassandra Rocha Dr. Mary Grace Carroll, far left, accompanies Dr. Nedil Antonini, a dermatologist, during his presentation on Latin-Jazz music in the School Board room on Oct. 24. hend what the speaker was saying. It really inspired me to continue building my

“musical career” per say.”Agustin Dovalina A teacher who accompa -

nied Antonini thought it was very interesting.

“I had fun, super fun and

I liked the presentation,” Ric Cortez, music instructor said.

Poetry reading has Hispanic influence

BY SHARRON BIRD MT STAFF WRITER Fernando Juarez, also known as “H poet”, came to VMT and spoke about his career as a poet on Oct. 28.

H poet, also known as a performance poet, read many poems. One was called “Don’t Fit In.” “Don’t Fit In” is about being an oddball. He explained that the poem was about loving and respecting everybody, but just not fitting in.

The poem said things like “come cry with me” and talked about dreaming there is someone like him in this world. In the end he finds someone, and they fit together like the last pieces of a puzzle.

Another poem he read was titled “Fully Committed” and

it started off about being an artist in the art world.

Then it said how he never wanted to be a one-man show, but now he has no choice. Then the poem changed tune and said, “Move your feet.”

The poem continued with sayings like “If bad news travels fast, then I must be good news,” and “What good is all my talent if I keep it to myself?” The poem ended with saying he will not fall through the cracks of time.

One of the crowd’s favorite poems was titled “Straight from the Barrio” which is incidentally the title of his first book.

This poem mentioned how sometimes people need more than God to protect them. He spoke about how he used this poem in a com-

petition and someone told him he should re-title it “Straight from the Hood.” He replied by saying there is no “hood” in the barrio.

Another poem he read was called “Your Time” and was written for his daughter on her fifteenth birthday. This poem was about how time goes by and about how much she has grown up.

The crowd also liked another poem called “Chump Change.”, an interactive poem where the crowd had a part to join in and say “Chump Change.”

One of the last poems that was read is called “Walk In,” and it was about why the school is celebrating Hispanic heritage. He mentioned, in the poem how some Hispanics were being treated poorly, and how they

MT photo by Paola Hernandez Fernando Juarez, known as H poet, recites a poem during his presentation in the School Board auditorium on Oct. 28. did not have many rights in from a college English class artist, write about what you the past. he took. know, what you love,” H poet did not grow up H poet likes writing on Juarez said. knowing what he wanted to subjects common to everyToday he said he is a be, and did not like writing day life and that people can highly succesful poet and when he was younger. relate to. has traveled and won Surprisingly, his drive came “If you’re going to be an many competitions.

College president urges students to reach for goals

BY ROLAND CHAMBLEE MT STAFF WRITER “Most of us weren’t born with a spoon in our mouth,” Dr. Juan Maldonado, LCC president said. “It means that most of us don’t come from a rich family.”

Maldonado was one of taught three and half years the speakers on Tuesday, in L.J Christen Middle October 28, for Hispanic week. Maldonado has School.

In appreciation to their been the president of Community presence they were given a Laredo “VMT” package which College for about a year.

A graduate of Martin in included the October issue of The Magnet Tribune, a 1967, he has loved learncopy of Tapestry, and a ing and followed that love “Best of The Best” perform- to eventually become president of LCC. His speech ance CD. “It was interesting to was mainly about overknow how long and how coming the obstacles to hard we have to work to get get a good scholarship.

He said struggling was to what we achieve in life,” said Karina Mendoza, RTV, part of getting to a goal. If when asked about the pres- someone doesn’t struggle to get what they want then entation.

Students thought it’s a they won’t appreciate it as great opportunity to learn much.

Everyone is going to what’s waiting for us in the struggle but that shouldn’t future.

“With this presentation I stop you from getting felt more encouraged to On the Web site: study in the Border Patrol

MT photo by David Contreras ICE agent Ruben Teniente hugs his daughter, Border Patrol agent Denise Teniente, during a presentation in the School Board room for Hispanic Heritage Month.

ICE agent describes career

BY ANA LOERA MT STAFF WRITER VMT celebrated National Hispanic Heritage month with special guests coming to talk to the students.

On October 29, Officer Ruben Teniente, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE agent gave a story presentation about his career.

Teniente was born in Laredo and graduated from Martin High School. He obtained a major in criminal justice and in 1986 he became a police officer.

Teniente has worked 17 years for the Border Patrol.

He has lived 30 years in San Antonio, where he received special agent training.

He has performed under-

cover work and conducted numerous kinds of investigations.

“Being here in front of you to talk about my life, to me it’s a great honor. A great feeling,” were Teniente’s words when asked about one of his best achievements.

Teniente was proud of how Hispanics have come far in accomplishing goals.

Part of the presentation was made by Border Patrol agent Denise Teniente Moreno, daughter of Teniente, who is assigned to the Zapata station.

Moreno, who graduated from Alexander High School, obtained her degree in criminal justice in 2003.

Moreno received a 2 year scholarship at TAMIU and

MT photo by Ana Silva School Director Dr. Martha Villarreal and LCC President Dr. Juan Maldonado after his presentation in the School Board meeting room. there. It takes tenacity, determination and the will to achieve something desired, he said.

Since he, as he said, wasn’t born from a rich family he had no choice but to get really good grades so he didn’t have to pay as much to get into college. As he said, he struggled too, and at one time or another the struggling can make someone be doubtful, but that shouldn’t stop anyone.

“It’s okay to take one or two steps back before we can take four or five steps forward.”

He said people have weaknesses and strengths, but don’t neglect those weaknesses.

When he was in high school, he was better at his smarts than his physical education skills so he forced himself to join the football team.

Maldonado then gave time to answer some questions from students.

“Are you happy doing what you do?” someone in the crowd asked.

“I love to do what I do, I love work, and work is my life.”

“You mentioned you weren’t as rich so how did you get to college?” another person asked.

“I had scholarships that paid for it.” He said it was either he worked for the money to get into college or get good scholarships.

Maldonado lived around the Spanish language his whole life. So, attending Texas A&M University was hard at first.

There was about three Hispanics out of every 500 people, he said. Some students also behaved in a negative manner but that only made him stronger, he said.

Hollywood makeup artist Jose Ceballos

6

Hispanic Heritage Festival

The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

MT photo by Nicole Banks Students saying the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of the Hispanic festival are, in the front row, Jesus Murillo, in blue shirt, Ernesto Banda, Ana Gonzalez, Jennifer Garcia, and Ofelia Gonzalez.

Hector Perez, far left, and fellow art stud

MT photo by Ricardo Soliz Jessica Gomez performs “Maletero.�

Above: Folklorico dancers Karinna Monte

LEFT

MT photo by Ricardo Soliz Azahy Ayala and Orlando Moreno concentrate on their performance.

RIGHT MT photo by Evangelina Martinez Members of the Golden Chords salute the audience after their performance. From left, Cindy Garcia, Eliza Villafranca, Estefania De Hoyos, Cristal Flores, Ruben Prieto, and Nicco Crofford.

BELOW

MT photo by Ana Gonzalez David Acevedo, left, Lisbeth Sanchez and Griselda Bernal play a Caribbean favorite.

MT photo by Ana Gonzalez te colorful images with chalk.

77

School News

The The Magnet Magnet Tribune Tribune December 18, 2008 December 18, 2008

ABOVE MT photo by Eunice Rodriguez Performing are, from left, George Vazquez, Alexis Diaz De Leon, Gilbert Perez, Edy Garcia, and Olivia Flores.

RIGHT MT photo by Ana Gonzalez Theater students Kimberly Peña, left, Robyn Reyes and Alexandra Ramirez offer pickles at their booth.

MT photos by Ricardo Soliz nd Mario Flores dance to “Derecho Viejo.”

MT photo by Ricardo Soliz Kassandra Cardenas dances “La Copa de la Vida.”

MT photo by Sharron Bird Karinna Montemayor performs “Aragonesa.”

8 ‘Doll Domination’ not quite as good as first album Columns

Doll Domination The Pussycat Dolls HHHII “Doll Domination” is the second studio album from the Pussycat Dolls.

T h e a l b u m debuted at number four on the Billboard 200, with 7 9 , 0 0 0 copies sold in its first week, one notch lower than their 2005 debut multi-platinum album PCD which debuted and peaked at number five and sold 99,000 copies in its first week.

“When I Grow Up” is the album’s lead single.

Though it wasn’t as big as previous singles it did well in the US charts, giving the group their fourth top ten single in the charts.

After being released as the second single, “Whatcha Think about That” (featuring Missy Elliott) proved to be unsuccessful in the U.S., leading to the worldwide release

What’s on my iPod

Hear, say

By Ricky Soliz b e i n g scrapped.

The third single, (second outside the U.S) “I Hate This Part” is a slow breakup ballad, but the question is: Will this single surpass the group’s previous balled from PCD, “Stickwitu”? I would say “Yes.” The track has a nice beat and meaningful lyrics.

“I know you’ll ask me to hold on and carry on like nothing’s wrong, but there is no more time for lies because I’ve seen sunset in your eyes.”

The one thing that really bothers me about this album and the group is the dominating presence of lead doll Nicole Scherzinger and the apparent absence of the other members.

Through most of the album

The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

you’ll hear Scherzinger in the spotlight. After a while you might question the name of the group. Is it “The Pussycat Dolls” or “Nicole and the Pussycats”?

The group has 5 beautiful and talented ladies, and just hearing the four other girls doing back up and adlibbing is boring. In a way it makes the album very one note.

A Deluxe Edition was released with a slight change of the cover. It also included 5 solo songs sung by each of the dolls.

“If I Was a Man” – Jessica Sutta, “Space” – Melody Thornton, “Don’t Wanna Fall in Love” – Kimberly Wyatt, “Played” – Ashley Roberts, “Until U Love U” – Nicole Scherzinger After listening to Scherzinger throughout the whole album, the bonus tracks were great and a good uplift. I don’t see why Scherzinger had a solo

1. Starstruck (featuring Space Cowboy & Flo Rida) –Lady GaGa 2. Womanizer - Britney Spears 3. Bad Influence – P!nk 4. The Sun Ain’t Shining No More–The Asteroids Galaxy Tour 5. Fly On the Wall – t.A.T.u.

6. Bruises - Chairlift 7. You’re Not Sorry – Taylor Swift 8. Syrup & Honey - Duffy 9. Right Now (Na Na Na)Akon 10. Cold – Alex Young

track, though.

I personally think their first album was a bit better.

It had a lot more radio hits.

Domination has a few good tracks but lacks any real hits that will receive a lot of air play.

High School Musical 3: Senior Year (Motion Picture Soundtrack): HHHHI This is the soundtrack for the Walt Disney Pictures film of the same name.

In the U.S. a two-disc Premiere Edition version of the soundtrack was released on the same day as the standard version. The two-disc version

features the original soundtrack along with a DVD with video bonus features.

The genius of the “High School Musical” machine becomes more apparent in its third installment – the first for the big screen.

The music from HSM 3 is a huge difference from the first two installments.

The music from the first two films was catchy but at times cheesy. This time around the tracks are brilliantly thought out and sound like songs that would be playing on radio stations that aren’t Radio Disney.

The soundtrack has catchy tunes one right after the other.

There are a few tracks that stand out: one of them not so coincidentally a duet showcasing the franchise’s two biggest stars, Vanessa Hudgens

Get your ¡SouljaBoyTellem poster in The Magnet Tribune classroom.

(Gabriella) and Zack Efron (Troy).

“Can I Have This Dance”: The beautiful duet proves that the HSM series isn’t just a kid’s franchise that’s thrown together with cheesy one note love ballads, but rather well thought out lyrics that relate and tell the story of the movie without having to watch it.

“Now Or Never” (sung by the cast of HSM 3) is the first song of the movie and was released as the first single of the soundtrack.

It’s really fun and pumps viewers for the rest of the movie.

“I Want It All”, sung by siblings Sharpey & Ryan Evans (Ashley Tisdale and Lucas Grabeel), is one of the movies “ B i g Numbers” s h o wcasing a big proSee HEAR, SAY, page 11

‘High School Musical 3’ topped box office when it opened High School Musical 3: Senior Year HHHHI If you’ve been waiting for an over-the-top version of a musical, your wait is over. High School Musical 3: Senior Year, a Walt Disney production, was released into theaters October 24.

High School Musical 3 is a sentimental goodbye to East High and the Wildcats as they take their final bows on the High School Musical stage.

Though you wouldn’t want to be stuck in a movie theater with a bunch of elementary kids screaming “High School Musical, High School Musical” and grossing out at any sign of PDA (public display of affection), this is a movie to take your significant other to see. High School Musical 3 is like a modern Broadway musical with a twist of kid-friendly songs and choreography.

In the first and possibly final big screen production of High School

Cinematic

By Samantha Hawkins Musical, the sets, choreography, stunts, songs, and drama are bigger and better than ever before.

What grabs and keeps your attention are the pretty faces, infectious songs, and eye catching dance moves.

As the Wildcats face their last year at East High, they all begin to make their college selections, tough decisions, and tough goodbyes.

Troy Bolton (Zac Efron) and Gabriella Montez (Vanessa Hudgens) are a pair of the Wildcat bunch that are to make a tough and painful decision. And with the encouragement of Ms. Darbus (Alyson Reed), the Wildcats agreed to put on one final show- a musical about their senior year. The

musical reflects on the Wildcats senior year experiences and their hopes and dreams for their future.

The movie also features 2 fresh faces. Tiara Gold (Jemma McKenzie-Brown), a British exchange student whom Sharpay Evans (Ashley Tisdale) hires as her own personal assistant and Jimmie “The Rocketman” Zara (Matt Prokop), a true basketball player and a Troy wannabe. These fresh faces are definitely the ones to keep your eye on for any future High School Musicals.

There were some sentimental moments in the movie as well as the funnies. I wouldn’t want to ruin anything for you, but just listen out for the songs “Can I have this dance” and “The boys are

back.”

T h e songs in the movie are also a bit different from the ones released in the first two musicals, High School Musical and High School Musical 2 which were released on television. The movies’ soundtrack includes some slower songs than in the first two movies and a much slower version of the song “We’re all in this together” which was featured in the first movie.

This is a movie you would expect to see in theaters. And it’s fine if you just want to see Zac Efron or Vanessa Hudgens. And it’s fine if you take your little siblings or family members to use them as your “reason for going”.

In my opinion, I thought the movie was great. I’d give it 4 stars out of 5. One thing I really disliked was the large ratio of kids to adults or teens, so that was a huge two thumbs down. Other than that the movie was definitely

better than the first two releases. It was definitely worth my $6.50.

High School Musical 3: Senior Year grossed $42 million in the U.S. in the first three days, breaking the record for the largest opening weekend for a movie musical and was ranked as the number one movie in the world.

Upcoming movie releases Dec. 25, 2008 --Bedtime Stories --The Curious Case of Benjamin Button --Marley & Me --The Spirit Dec. 26 --Valkyrie --Revolutionary Road

--Not Easily Broken --The Unborn Jan. 16, 2009 --Hotel for Dogs --My Bloody Valentine 3-D --Paul Blart: Mall Cop --Notorious --The Brothers Bloom --Gran Torino

Jan. 9, 2009 --Bride Wars

Hiding problem areas with a fall fashion flair

M

any of us girls have the same problems with fashion. It all adds up to the age old question: “Does this make me look fat?” Well ladies guess what? Girls of any size can be fashionable and trendy, as long as you know how to dress your body well. With fall fashion right around the corner, here are some helpful hints to camouflage your trouble spots.

Having trouble with your hip and thigh area? A fall favorite this year is dark washed jeans. A darker washed jean adds less attention to your thighs than a light or faded jean.Try using a straight legged jean instead of skinny jeans. Skinny jeans make you look shorter and wider, and that’s definitely not good, unless you’re tall, in which case you can probably pull off wearing them.

Skirts are also a good way to hide your thighs; floral skirts are very popular this fall. Use skirts that reach right above the knee and flare out, but be sure not to use too much volume because it will make you look larger.

High waisted jeans and pencil skirts both hide your tummy and make you look taller and curvier.

Now here’s an area where I know all girls have problems with: our midsection! Very popular fall colors this year are neutrals (brown, black, navy), along with other colors like purple, mustard, fuchsia, emerald, and burgundy.

ll Ha

Fashion Runway Tanya Salas, Nereyda Serrano

Fashionista extras Some other very popular fall fashions this year are black leggings paired with mini skirts/dresses. Plaid and vests are also a big hit this year.

MT photo by Nereyda Serrano Tanya shows off a black-andwhite frilly top from Kohl’s.

It is accessorized with a black beaded necklace.

MT photo by Nereyda Serrano MT photo by Nereyda Serrano Tanya displays a blue plaid Tanya is wearing a gray coat frilly button-up blouse from from A’gaci paired with darkA’gaci, with a black belt washed jeans. underneath her bust.

Jackets are a great way to hide your tummy, but be sure to get a well structured jacket. If the jacket has ripples on the abdomen area, get a bigger size!

Remember: the abdomen area is supposed to look nice and smooth.

Another way to hide your midsection is to use tops with

bands, and seaming under the bust, because they hug the narrowest part of your body, giving you an hourglass shaped feature.

MT photo by Nereyda Serrano Tanya models a dark denim pencil skirt from Beall’s.

Complimenting the skirt is a pair of open-toed white heels.

9 Platformer game ‘Little Big Planet’: lots of fun Columns

The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

Little Big Planet. What pops into your mind when you say that? A mediumsized planet? Some RPG game? Another alien game?

Well, it’s rather a fun platformer game for the new video game generation.

What is a ‘platformer’ game?

It’s any video game played on one side (left) and ending on the other side of the level (right). Like Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog. Remember those good ol’ days?

Little Big Planet offers an extremely unique quasi-2D platforming experience. The game itself is solid, with wonderful art direction, extremely cite characters, and a gaming experience unlike you’ve ever played.

Gameplay (10/10) Little Big Planet is an amazingly fun platformer, with sharp, intuitive controls and a minute’s learning curve (for playing, not creating a stage). Such a simple game, however, surprises you with its creative level design and impressive array of obstacles and pos sibilities. Repetition is minimal, and the game feels constantly fresh. Puzzles in

Game Break

By Juan Olivares the game range from inyour-face simple to some that require a bit of thinking and tricky timing. No puzzle, however, can be considered difficult or headscratching, so don’t you worry. The game moves at a light and breezy pace, with enough time to soak yourself in the amazing graphics and action without holding you back by tedious puzzles. The difficulty can be considered rather easy to moderate at best. (Not the hardest game, that’s for sure.)

The level creator has simple controls, and is made surprisingly easy to pick up thanks to dozens of tutorials that come in the form of practical lessons or videos.

The videos are made amusing though, so no worries that you’d fall asleep or be bored to death. The only thing you’re going to feel is that tense urge to quickly skip through everything so

that you can get to levelbuilding already.

Story (8/10) The story is light and dream-like, not seeming the least bit serious. It gives you instruction to go from level to level, but the story is forgettable or insignificant at best. The most engaged you’ll feel in the single-player story would be in the last area, but even then it’s light-hearted and silly at best.

Graphics (9.5/10) Graphics are spectacular and amazingly life-like at times, but the one card this game’s graphics play well is the fantastic art style. Their art style blends an indescribable mix of “Hey! This feels like stuff I find in my home put together with bolts and painted to look like things!” and incredible creativity. The art direction can be described as dreamy and psychedelic, with bright colors and immersive

themes. some time. To ace each stage Sound and Music (9/10) also reaps a gift or two, Sounds are comical and which will take even more cute, with a practice to light-hearted achieve. c a r t o o n Overall howtheme. Things ever, the may not replayability sound exactly offline is not how you’d the best— expect them Unless you to, as they have plenty may sound of friends comical. It fits who come to in perfectly your place or though, and who you visit makes the that you can Little Big Planet for experience all share levels PlayStation the more with. Then immersive. you can unleash the monMusic in the game is very ster of replay that is the levelgood. Not only are the tunes creator. very well made, the tracks The secret of the game lies are diverse and fit different in the immense replay value themes, each pleasing to that is the level-creator and the ear. user-created content. While Replayability (9/10) not much user-created conThe single player mode is tent is available at the time rather short, and can easily this review is written, the be completed in a day. If you level-creator has been fully have friends to play with, the explored and I am very sure single player mode can serve the user-created content to amuse them and provide that ensues will be nothing a tad bit more replayability. short of endless, both in There will be plenty of terms of possibilities and secrets and items to return number. Objects can be to each stage for as well, and shaped at will, in varying getting them all will require thicknesses, no less.

Anything can be made lethal, anything can be made to be a platform, or generate sounds. EVERYTHING is truly at your disposal, and it truly is possible to create your dream level. There is nothing holding you back except for the few dozen tutorials you have to go through in order to learn the tools of the trade. Level creation, while blankly simple, can still take hours for the simplest hundred meter dash to days if not weeks and months to complete. The fun you get from sharing it with friends; that would be priceless.

Buy or Rent?

This game is definitely worth a purchase. If you have doubts about the levelcreation modes and usercreated content, then perhaps you may want to rent as a try first. Those looking to play alone or just the single player mode will not find as much value in a purchase, and may prefer to rent as well.

Reviewer’s Score: 9/10 Game Release: Little Big Planet (US, PS3 — 10/27/08) for $59.99

Vampire, girl are a better couple in the book Ana: Hey have you watched the movie “Twilight”?

Sandra: Yeah it was pretty good, except I thought the books were better.

Sandra: What did you think about the movie?

Ana: I thought it was pretty cool except they change and skipped important chapters from the book.

Sandra: Yeah! I thought the same thing.

Ana: Well the actor was pretty HOT!! ;) Y Sandra: What did you think about Kristen Stewart (Bella Swan)?

Ana: I think she did a good job acting but maybe she should have put a little more effort into it.

Sandra: True.

Ana: Hey, what about you? What did you think about Robert Pattison (Edward Cullen)?

Sandra: I think he did a good job playing Edward.

Y He was really into the character.

Let’s Talk

By Ana Loera and Sandra Minjares Sandra: Were you surprised with Cam Gigandet?

(James) Ana: Yeah! I REALLY imagine James being like that.

Ana: Was this movie different than from other vampire movies you have watched?

Sandra: Yeah, I never imagined me watching a vampire movie where the vampire falls in love with a HUMAN girl. I mean that is a lot of imagination from Stephanie Meyer.

Ana: Yeah! So what would you rate the movie from 1-5?

Sandra: Well I would give it a 3 1/2. Just because it was so different from the book. What about you?

Ana: I would give it a 4.

The Cullens acted very well. They really looked like a vampire family.

Sandra: Very “Dazzling” I would say. ;) Ana: J True! So which one was your favorite quote?

Sandra: Bella: [to Edward] “I’d rather die than to stay away from you,” I just think it is very romantic. Y Ana: Isabella Swan: So what you’re saying is, I’m your brand of heroin?

Edward Cullen: “Yes, you are exactly my brand of heroin.” I thought it was really cute. :P Sandra: Well although I didn’t think the movie was that great it sold $70.6 million in the opening weekend.

Ana: Yeah I also heard

MCT Campus photo Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattison are shown in a scene from “Twilight.” that Warner Bros. pushed “Harry Potter and the HalfBlood Prince” from Nov. 21 until July 2009, and moved “Twilight” from Dec. 12 to Nov. 21.

Sandra: Yeah I bet the

Harry Potter special effects were better than Twilight’s.

Like when Edward went into the sun it looked REALLY fake, and also when Edward was flying through the trees with

Review: Series features tale of Edward and Bella

BY LISA VALDEZ MT STAFF WRITER

Twilight is a very interesting story. Once you start reading it you won’t be able to The Twilight Series will put it down.

sure have you reading it till it’s over with. These books are about a teenage girl named Bella Swan who falls in love with a vampire named Edward Cullen.

Twilight will make you want to read New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn, the other books in the series.

The writer of the Twilight Series is Stephenie Meyers.

Twilight was published in 2005, and is the first book.

On Bella’s first day of school she makes a couple of new friends. Later when Bella sits next to Edward in one of her classes on her first day, Edward seems to be disgusted by her. Bella tricks a family friend, Jacob Black, into telling her the local tribal legends. Bella concludes that Edward and his family are vampires.

Edward tells Bella that he avoided her because the scent of her blood is desirable. After a while they fall in love with each other.

Bella gets in some trouble after she falls in love with Edward. James, from a dif-

Lisa Valdez, book reviewer ferent vampire coven, and two others come into Forks.

James, who has the power to track other vampires, decides to play with Bella. The Cullens think it’s best to separate Edward and Bella to confuse James and his coven.

They hide Bella in a hotel in Phoenix but James finds and tricks her. He tells her that he has her mother and Bella decides she needs to save her mom so she goes.

When Bella meets up with James she sees that it was just a trick but James has already attacked her.

Edward gets there and attacks and kills James.

Edward and his family realize they are a little too late because Bella got bit by James. Edward sucks out the venom so that Bella doesn’t turn into a vampire.

Once they go back to Forks the go to their prom.

Bella soon reveals that she wants to become a vampire but Edward disapproves.

Twilight is an interesting story. Once you start reading it you won’t be able to put it down. Bella and Edward’s characters make the story interesting. Their love is kind of forbidden which is what makes it interesting.

Edward’s family also helps with making the story interesting. Most of the family members approve of their love except one. The vampires’ powers such as mind reading and seeing the future like Edward and Alice’s powers are awesome.

New Moon is the second book. It is also interesting. It is more dangerous for Bella.

It gives you mixed feelings, of sadness, excitement, and happiness.

Eclipse is the third book.

It is one of the most interesting. Bella gets into lots of danger in this book.

Breaking Dawn is the last book. You will never want to put it down but you won’t want it to end.

Bella on his back it looked really phony.

Ana: Well yeah. They are going to start filming “New Moon” in March I hope the special effects are much better.

Who knows you better?

Luis

Nidia

Valerie

By Melissa Cadena

Two friends of Nidia Gomez, junior, compete to see who knows her better. Her friends are fellow juniors Luis Villalobos and Valerie Briseño.

Luis Villalobos How many dogs have you had?

Two What elementary did you attend?

Farias What was the first pet you had?

Dog What is your horoscope Aries What is your favorite movie?

Saw VI What do you want for your birthday?

She wants a Robot What is one thing you hate for people to do?

People snap there fingers Who is your favorite artist?

Jonas Brothers How many kids do you want?

Three How many phones have you had?

One

Nidia Gomez How many dogs have you had?

Six What elementary did you attend?

Farias and Santa Maria What was the first pet you had?

A frog What is your horoscope?

Aries What is your favorite movie?

Little Miss Sunshine What do you want for your birthday?

A limo What do you hate for a person to do?

Pinch/snap their finger at me Who’s your favorite artist?

Wisin Y Yandel How many kids do you want?

Three at the most How many phones have you had? three

Valerie Briseño How many dogs have you had?

I’m going to say three What elementary did you attend?

Farias Pr-K through fourth and Santa Maria fifth What was the first pet you had?

Dog What is your horoscope Aries What is your favorite movie?

Little Miss Sunshine What do you want for your birthday?

She wants a Limo What is one thing you hate for people to do?

She hates when people stare at her.

Who is your favorite artist?

Blink 182 How many kids do you want?

Two How many phones have you had?

Two

10 Responsible expression should not be limited Opinions

Comments? Write us at mt_writers@hotmail.com

Supreme Court rulings allow administrators to limit student expression during the school day.

Expression can include but is not limited to publications such as newspapers, yearbooks, and magazines, dance and theatre performances, visual and fine arts and oratory.

Freedom of expression has not been an issue in VMT’s 16 years, but is a hot topic at many schools nationwide.

While the First Amendment to the Constitution allows for Freedom of Speech, several Supreme Court cases allow

EDITORIAL The Magnet Tribune believes high school students should not have to deal with restrictions to their freedom of expression. administrators the authority to limit high school students’ expression, said Texas State University assistant professor Francisco Martinez at a session during the print/broadcast jour-

nalism students’ trip there for Mass Communication Week in October.

Examples of these cases are: --Tinker vs. Des Moines Community School District (1969) – Administrators have to demonstrate constitutionally valid reasons for regulation of speech in the classroom.

--Hazelwood School District vs.

Kuhlmeier, et al, (1988) – Administrators can exercise editorial control over the style and content of student speech in school-sponsored activities as long as their actions are related

The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

to educational goals.

--Bethel School District vs.

Fraser (1986) and Broussard vs.

School Board of Norfolk (1992) – School administrators can limit expression considered vulgar.

--Dean vs. UTCA Community Schools (2004) – Administrators cannot sensor the substance of student expression.

--Morse vs. Frederick (2007) – Administrators can restrict student expression when it can be viewed as promoting illegal drug use.

The Magnet Tribune is against student censorship by school

administrators and feels it is a violation of students’ First Amendment rights, even though court rulings allow this control by administrators.

As we stated earlier, restricting freedom of expression has not been an issue in VMT’s 16 years.

The school’s many performing and other groups have practiced this precious freedom in a responsible manner.

Adults in all professions practice their freedom of expression responsibly. Why should high school students be any different?

The school year seems more like an eternity I’ve grown unnaturally weary of this year sooner than I anticipated, and I guess that means I’m not having as much fun as I thought I would. The date as I type this column is November 6th, and school started on – what? – August 25th? It’s been two months (plus or minus a couple of weeks), but it feels like a most dreadful eternity. I really don’t know how I’m going to last through this.

Okay, wait wait wait.

Please understand that I’m not going to be ranting about how lowly my existence is for whatever length of time it takes you to read

The Bug

By Shaula Rocha this. Scout’s honor, I give you my word, on my momma’s cat…yeah, great.

So I think my mood’s been soured (partly) by all these abhorrent changes going on with the district. I know, I know: “Come ON, Shaula, get with it! It’s been two months!” Yeah, yeah, I know, but gimme a break! It’s just so…bizarre.

I mean, today, somebody at school announced that although it was “70s Day”

we were by no means allowed to wear jeans because that’s NOT what was worn back in the day.

Pfft. Yeah and pigs fly.

Of course there’s no love lost between the officials in power here and myself.

Who doesn’t know that, right?

Anyway, reason number two for why I’ve been a little lukewarm in regards to this year is because some people never seem to

understand when something’s over and done and stashed away whatever little boxes we decide to throw lousy memories into.

High school seems to be especially notorious for breeding this type of behavior. The majority of the people I know are incredible, don’t get me wrong. They’re a lot of fun to be around, and a hella mad trip under optimum conditions … or when they’re in a good mood.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of people out there who can’t wait until you mess something up. Maybe they’ve got bad blood with you because you didn’t give

them the answer to number seven on the last test.

Maybe they just really, really don’t like you.

Nonetheless, these people are a pack of rabid animals: They chase, and they chase, and they bite, and they rip, and they don’t give up until your dead.

Catch my drift? Come on, I know you’re nodding your head in agreement.

Not that I should be complaining about anything.

I’ve got a lot heading my way, and this year has proven to be full of charming little things from participating in all the senior class activities to all the essays I’ve been filling out

for scholarships…you know, things of that nature.

I guess I’m more bothered by them than I’m whining about them. It’s no big deal, normally. Today, of all days, though, the saying “One bad apple ruins the whole bunch.” (or however the thing goes) seems to be more true than all tangible things around me.

I really don’t enjoy being the target of a whole group’s musings. I don’t like going out to a school function and having the same little gaggle of rascals huddle and spy on me when they think I’m not See THE BUG, page 11

Please do me a favor and just teach your class Teachers are far from being flawless.

I’ve noticed that teachers have always had this bad, annoying habit of forgetting we are just their students and not their psychiatrists.

Oh, but when it comes to the rules and what not, we’re merely students to them.

“Nomas cuando les conviene.”

Since elementary I’ve had teachers start off with lectures about school work and ended up with nonsense. I’ve probably learned more about their past, present and how to ignore or pretend I’m listening than their actual subject. It never 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 distributed free.

really bugged me before because my mind would just wonder off. I had better and more important things to think about than his/her life issues…like mine. Now, it bugs me because I get in trouble for not wanting to pay attention to their nonsense.

It’s one thing having to put up with class lectures which are mostly boring but having to listen about teachers’ lives is like having someone drill right through your ear drum.

There are some teachers who aren’t aware they are doing this until the end of their discussions. Fine by me since these are the kind

Observations

By Jennifer Garcia of teachers who at least apologize about it, and get back to business I don’t sit here blaming you, the teacher, for our lack of education as other students do but only hope you’ll be more aware of things as of now.

Here are my lessons to you.

Lesson one Avoid students who continually ask why.

When students ask why

after you’re done explaining your experience in life, it’s not because they are caring.

It’s done on purpose so that class work for the day can be delayed till tomorrow, so you’ll forget about today’s lesson. You’ll keep talking and they keep nodding their heads to waste time.

Lesson two Keep your religion at the door!

Whether you’re Catholic, Christian, Atheist,

Whatever

Story by Nidia Gomez, art by Lisa Valdez

By Krystal Battistata

Takis...

Vitamin Water...

Wouldn’t you rather have this for lunch?

Mark E. Webber Journalism instructor and adviser, The Magnet Tribune Vol. 16, No. 2, Dec. 18, 2008 Co-Editors of this issue: Ricky Soliz, Shaula Rocha 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.

Newspaper redesign upperclassmen in August 2008.

Production is by VMT journalism students using QuarkXPress and Adobe Photoshop software on Dell computers.

Printed at Laredo Morning Times Copyright ©2008: Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts and The Magnet Tribune

Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

handicapping condition in its programs.

Stick to your subject If you’re my language teacher, teach me about grammar, or if you teach other subjects teach me about that subject.

Unless I’m going to get two credits for one class then, fine by me, keep on, but if not then don’t sidetrack yourself.

Just because you may have a degree, bachelors, whatever piece of paper saying you’re authorized to teach a certain subject doesn’t mean you should be teaching us about something unrelated. That’s favoritism towards a class I’m not enrolled in.

See OBSERVATIONS, p. 11

Waffle Iron

Dr. Martha Villarreal School director and publisher

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

Buddhist, Jewish, Agnostic I don’t mind. If you’re smart though, you won’t bring it up. The only time it’s ever an exception would probably be in a history class but remember to stay on topic.

Start a debate and it will never end pretty; people will be offended, and you wouldn’t want it to get out of hand. Lets not forget that as a teacher, you shouldn’t preach to students. If I looked forward to that, I’d sign up for Saturday/ Sunday school. Have I? NO! I will never think more of you or any less for your beliefs and only expect the same from you.

Lesson three

First Class Award: ‘96-97, ‘97-98, ‘98-99, ‘99-00: ‘02-03, ‘03-04. ‘04-05, 05-0, 06-07 Second Class Award: ‘00-01, ‘01-02

Staff Superior: ‘99-00, ‘01-02 Staff Excellent: ‘02-03, ‘03-04 Staff Hon. Mention: ‘97-98. ‘98-99

I’m not interested in your foolishness The other day I was staring up at the sky and wondering if there was anything bigger, better, and adventurous than this old boring life I was living. The sun was setting on the horizon and I closed my eyes to think it through.

I realized this: My life was mundane but trying to be someone who I was not was worse. People should leave all the material BS and drama to shows on MTV. I am who I am and people are going to have to learn to live with that, including myself.

I had just awoken to reality and realized that even though my friends, boyfriend, brother, and parents have a boring life, it is much better than faking and living a nightmare.

Having dreams makes it possible for young people to strive for more, all the

ILPC

while creating “realistic” adventures and endeavors.

You and I still have the rest of ours lives ahead of us, so why rush through it?? Is it just me or are you also annoyed when someone tells you, “Oh man, I got so drunk last night. It was so crazy! I drank like five Smirnoff’s dude!”

When you have to brag about getting drunk, the quantity of alcohol you consumed, and how crazy it was then you are not mature or cool enough to be drinking or talking to me. When you use the money your parents give you to buy weed or any other drug you consume then I am going to laugh at your dumb, high face.

So please, I care more about how bad the cafeteria food is than you getting high and drunk when See WHATEVER, page 11

Award of Distinguished Merit: ‘05-06; ‘06-07 Newspaper Star rating nomination: ‘06-07 Award of Achievement: ‘98-99, ‘99-00, ‘00-01, ‘01-02, ‘02-03 Award of Honor: ’97-98, ‘03-04, ‘04-05

Contact 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: TM-23, (Journalism classroom/darkroom), or Mark Webber’s box in the school office.

Opinions 11 It’s important to keep everything in perspective The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

I recently had an altercation with somebody I don’t know very well, but who happens to be the best friend of another somebody I really care about … actually kinda love. Well, whatever.

Now, I won’t go into the subject matter, (you can infer enough from my column), but I will say that this little spiff really affected my attitude toward writing “The Bug,” and – initially – the editor’s commentary for this issue.

It’s a little too late to go

back and rewrite what I put into my column, (not that I regret anything, tee hee) but it isn’t too late to say this: Sometimes all it takes is an absolutely incredible show to repair something that never really fell apart in the first place, to put things into perspective, if you will.

It all depends on being adults while confronting the situation, and not just looking at it through a needle-thin hole. Much like being the editor of the school paper, a friendship

You know the quote from the movie Mean Girls; “You may think you like someone, but you could be wrong.” Funny but in a way it’s true.

I’ve only been in love once and I don’t even think I can really call it love.

“How can I tell I’m in love?”

It’s a very common question and it’s not an easy question to answer. What feels like love to one person may be nothing more than attrac-

tion or even nothing at all to another.

Some people fall in and out of love quickly (self included) while others are never really in love as much as they are in lust.

Romantic love isn’t really a relatively new concept for me but I still don’t know what to expect.

I’m mostly overwhelmed with feelings and social pressures. They’re really confusing!

Editor’s Commentary

By Shaula Rocha co-editor of this issue 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.

takes a lot of work (on both sides) to maintain, something not too many people can see. I know I didn’t.

But, I mean, really. Think about it. When something

goes wrong, or an unprecedented, unexplained situation arises, it’s immediately all about pointing hurtful fingers or throwing false accusations around to

make yourself look good, to cover what you’ve done.

I’m not gonna lie: I’ve been a bad person these past couple of years. I won’t play false innocence when I say I’ve hurt a lot of people lately. But you know what?

Forget it. Life’s life, why waste it fighting and hating? I’m done, dropped it, so solemnly swear.

Now it’s your turn. Think hard. How many of you there have an enemy? Don’t be shy now, I’m sure we all do. How many of you spend

unneeded time spoiling over another person, plotting their ruination?

Well, no more. Forget it.

Be a man (or woman) about it, talk things over. Work it out. Give yourselves a pat on the back, a teary embrace, and move on to bigger, better things. Go to the mall, a party. Have a picnic lunch outside. Feel the wind on your face, the warmth of the sun on your skin. Listen to good music, be around good people.

Just chill. Live.

a waste of time to figure out.

I’ve come to the decision that if I don’t ask questions I won’t hear lies or excuses.

“You’re a great person, but I don’t see this going anywhere,” “It’s not you it’s me,” and my favorite one, “I only see you as a friend.”

As a result I’m going to say the one thing you shouldn’t say: I love myself a lot more than I do anyone else. Super conceited, I know, but I’ve been in a

relationship with myself for 17 years and that’s still the one I need to work on.

One day I’ll find … well I don’t really know what I’ll find but that’s a risk that I’m willing to take.

Some love stories aren’t epic novels, rather short stories but that doesn’t make them less filled with love.

No matter how my love story turns out I’m ready to take on the future — good or bad.

Y A new black UpStage cell phone Y For me and my boyfriend to spend X-Mas together Y A gift card to shop in all the stores in the mall Y To go to Japan Y My boyfriend to buy me something nice from Gordon’s Y A pink iPod Y An electric guitar Y Happiness and love Y Victoria’s Secret perfume Y A gold chain to match my earrings Y To meet Enrique Iglesias

Y A makeup bag Y A bear from Build-aBear Workshop Y Marc Jacobs sunglasses Y Dance Dance Revolution Y A set from Victoria secret Y To meet Fidel Castro Y A white sweater Y A Rolex watch Y The same breakfast they used to give two years ago Y A pretty silver ring Y A karaoke machine Y A portable DVD player Y To meet Penn Badgley Y Removable headbands Y Dooney & Bourke purse

Sometimes, it takes time to find one’s true love Editor’s Commentary

By Ricky Soliz co-editor of this issue 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.

What is Love? What makes **** want a romantic relationship with someone else and not me? How does

my heart choose a partner?

Or why does love end?

These questions can’t really be answered and are

What do you want for Christmas?!

What do you want for Christmas?

VMT students want…

Y Clothes and shoes Y A nice necklace Y Good health and peace Y X-box 360, Jeep Wrangler, snow cone machine Y The person I like Y A perfume purse Y A Harley Davidson shirt Y A pink laptop Y To spend more time with my boyfriend… “yay”

Y To go live in Mexico Y A plasma TV Y A shopping spree Y A big Christmas party Y The hottest boy to be my boyfriend Y New earrings Y A horse Y A digital camera Y Peace and love Y To go to Disneyland Y A steel guitar Y New pair of pants Y A new sports watch

OH-EM-GEE

By Veronica Medellin and Melissa Cadena Y To last long with my boyfriend Y Some Harley boots Y A trip to France and Russia Y An iTouch Y An Edgar Allen Poe book

Y To go to Michigan Y An iMac computer and a hug Y A pair of rollerblades Y A pink Altima Y Some cash and Adam Rivet’s number

The little things in life Story, art by Sarah Reyes

A new story for the holidays...

When Once are we going to you catch one. have turkey?

Yep!

Really?

You do know I was joking, don’t you?

Um?

What?

- Grrrr!

In the kitchen...

Awwwww!

Turkey, please!

Was that a turkey ?

OMG!

#&!)^!%@!

Here turkey, turkey turkey!

Nah!

Gotcha! *peck*

Turrrkeeey!

Uh...no turkey!

ATTACK!!!

Ahhh!

CENSOREDs

for violent action

Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year!

*peck*

Ow! *peck*

HEAR, SAY, from page 8 duction with flashing lights, line dancers, and bringing to life the popular phrase “Seeing my name in lights” Overall this soundtrack is one of the best musical soundtracks I’ve ever heard.

The Fame Lady Gaga HHHHH “The Fame” is the debut album by American pop singer/songwriter Lady GaGa. GaGa worked closely with

OBSERVATIONS, from page 10 If things don’t improve who knows how much worse it can get. I mean next thing you’ll know we’ll have academic teachers doing all kinds of performances instead of teaching their classes … wait a minute, too late.

Lesson over, study hard!

producers RedOne and S p a c e Cowboy.

The title of the album “The Fame” might sound like a selffulfilling prophesy, but after listing to it, you will see “The Fame” is a self-FULFILLED prophecy.

“The Fame” is music electro-pop glory!

GaGa marries a lot of different genres, from Def Leppard drums and handclaps to metal drums on urban tracks. It’s very 70’s, with early 80’s Prince-like guitars and synths. It’s a bit

retro, a bit glamorous, and a whole lot of bass thumping. It’s very futuristic, very fresh, and very dramatic, sort of like theatrical pop.

Track after track “The Fame” is nothing but a spoon full of sugary goodness.

“Poker Face” (the album’s second single) combines the phrase poker face (putting an expressionless face on) and the game that is love.

To win at love, you need to have a kind of tuff front.

WHATEVER, from page 10

THE BUG, from page 10

hardly hitting puberty.

As for me, what I do is MY business, not anyone else’s so I do not boast about things I do and not do.

I will continue to live my mundane life. I can handle it for now, I have to. When I grow up I’ll be making the big bucks, enjoying

aware of it (for some reason these fellas think I’m huge buffoon) and I especially don’t like that I don’t know anything about these people save they’re supposed to be friends with someone I “wronged.”

I can see where they’re coming from. Gotta protect a brotha, be a good friend, have a story to tell, and all that other mumbo jumbo, NOT in that order, mind you.

my big house, nice cars, and all the money earned by me.

What will your pothead, drunkenembarrassment party friend be doing?

Talk to them, and if it doesn’t work, and they don’t listen, then flip off the light switch and tell them to go to sleep.

“I won’t tell you that I love you, kiss or hug you ‘cause I’m bluffin’” And repeating “Can’t read my, Can’t read my, No he can’t read my poker face.”

“Starstruck” (featuring Space Cowboy & Flo Rida) is one of the albums surefire club hits. It’s radio friendly and has a really cool rap feature by Flo Rida (best known for the summer hit “Low”).

GaGa also gives listeners

But, come on. How would you like it if I got a group together and talked about you and your personal life and smeared you with all sorts of trash? I’m sure you’d cry, which leads me to my point.

Don’t forget the targets of your abuse are human, with feelings and problems of their own. They don’t need you and your little group’s furtive (often not so) taunting.

two slow ballad-like tracks.

“Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say)” is one of the slower tracks, but it doesn’t stray from what the other tracks offer. It has an airy Jamaican beat with good lyrics that show a lot of emotion.

“I didn’t mean to hurt you; I never thought we’d fall out of place” and sympathetically repeats “Eh eh, eh, There’s Nothing else I can say, I wish you never looked at me that way.”

The only thing I can do is tough it out. The way I see it: a.) it’ll eventually stop, b.) they’ll get bored and find somebody else to taunt, c.) they’ll get their little hiney’s booted in a most unpleasant manner (LOL), Aaah, high school. The epitome of dramatic shenanigans and uppity, ridiculous, sappy boys and girls. What would I do without you?

Halloween

12 Scares were on the menu by RTV students B Y ALE MARTINEZ, K ARINNA L OPEZ, AND JACKIE HERNANDEZ MT STAFF WRITERS Radio/TV students were busy serving up scares on Halloween at their Haunted House.

According to RTV instructor Jamin Teran, the crowd had different reactions to the house.

“It depended on the crowd. Some people were scared, and others came out laughing,” she said.

Teran explained the haunted house decor was entirely the students’ ideas.

“I had two students in charge that came up with the idea. They designed pathways. The students were sophomores Lisa Estrada and Susanna Gutierrez. One comes in the morning and the other comes in the afternoon.

“We didn’t have enough money, not everyone wanted to work, and finding props and backgrounds was hard,” Teran said of the difficulties the department faced.

The RTV students had

some special help from a Hollywood makeup artist, Jose Cabello.

RTV student Katherine Pollard, junior, contacted Cabello.

“We’ve had a relationship with him since last year,” Teran said.

Students may have noticed the familiar face of the recent movie, The Dark Knight.

Teran explained how Roger Ramos, senior, was chosen to play the clown prince of crime.

“He learned the lines and phrases from the movie. When we started he already knew what he was going to do,” she said.

Students may have also noticed a pig, played by Jose Mendoza, freshman Iris Rodriguez, junior, on Halloween, Oct. 31. inside the haunted house didn’t appear house. overnight.

“The pig is interesting “It took about three and funny because you’d weeks, and to set up two never see that in a haunt- to three days,” she ed house,” she said. responded.

Just who came up with The haunted house was the idea? The students new for them, but not for did. the school.

“It was the students’ “I think four or five years idea, not mine,” Teran ago an art teacher did said. one,” Teran said.

Typically, the haunted Are the determined peo-

The Magnet Tribune December 18, 2008

MT photo by Claudia Alba radio/TV student, tries scaring a photographer during the haunted house ple in the RTV department ready for another haunted house next year?

“We really don’t know. It takes a lot out of the students,” she replied.

The money being made will be put to a good use.

“We don’t have any money in the department.

We’ll spend it on either a trip or a new camera.”

Sophomore Susanna

Gutierrez had trouble keeping in the giggles during the haunted house.

“Yeah, it was kind of fun.

I wanted to laugh, but I couldn’t, and then we had this girl fainting like every five minutes. It was fun.”

Most thought the haunted house was a success.

“I thought it was genius, we made a person faint two times. It MUST be

good if someone’s fainting,” Iris Rodriguez said.

“One of the best haunted houses,” commented Liza Garcia, freshman.

Even though Teran seems unsure about next year’s haunted house, the students were enthusiastic.

“Yes, we will. Expect more,” said Denise Rodriguez, freshman.

Sailors sink breakfast in a.m. costume show

BY DAVID CONTRERAS MT STAFF WRITER Morning students were at the Treviño Center outdoor stage to witness the colorful and original annual costume contest, sponsored by The Magnet Tribune.

The contest started with the Most Original. Dorian Delgado won first place, dressed as a huevo ranchero.

Second place was Orlando Gonzalez, a saltshaker and third place was Ramiro Mata, dressed as a zombie.

For Most Funniest/ Cutest first place was Jasmin Vega, hot dog.

In second was April Ayala, baby and third place was Jose Cabello,

Happy Tree Friends Bunny In the category Couples the winners were Isabel Gonzalez and Ruben Prieto dressed as sailors and in second place was Orlando Gonzalez and Dorian Delgado dressed as Huevo Ranchero and Salt.

The fourth contest was faculty. First place was David Blumberg dressed as a Viking; second place was Cindy Hernandez dressed as Frida Kahlo; third place was Diana Lopez, Queen Elizabeth.

The People’s Choice winner was Blumberg.

Judge Nidia Gomez, junior, discussed what she thought of the costumes.

“I thought all the costumes were cool. I liked most of them! There were some that were cute but

some that I didn’t like,” Gomez said.

Fellow judge, junior Melissa Cadena, agreed.

“Some were very unique and cute,” Cadena said.

They talked about the challenges of picking the winners.

“It was hard to choose because I liked a lot of them and since there were three of us we couldn’t decide one,” Gomez said.

“I had a lot because there were a lot of good costumes to choose from,” Cadena said They discussed what she thought about the entire contest.

“My impression of the contest was that it turned out good. It would’ve been better if more people dressed up and participat-

MT photo by Valerie Briseño Left, Orlando Gonzalez and Dorian Delgado give each other high five after they won second place in the couples category of the morning costume contest. At right are winners Ruben Prieto and Isabel Gonzalez. ed in the contest,” Gomez “I think everyone was they enjoyed the contest,” said. having a good time and Cadena said.

Cube is victor in the afternoon B Y JON COX MT STAFF WRITER On Halloween Day afternoon students had fun dressing up and becoming whoever they desired to be for the annual Halloween Costume Contest hosted by The Magnet Tribune.

“I think it’s fun because it allows me and others to be whoever we want, at least for that day. It’s a cool thing to have at magnet,” said A.J. Flores, junior.

The fifth annual Halloween contest took place in both morning and afternoon sessions on Halloween, October 31. This year a majority of the afternoon students were in attendance, making this year’s contest a one of diversity.

The categories for this were most original, scariest, and couples. Here are the winners.

Most were surprised by their victories.

Scariest winner was Raoul Moreno; Couples winner was

Hector Perales and Denisse Luna, and Most Original winner was Kimberly Peña, with Monica Manrique finishing second.

“It’s my first time competing.

It’s my senior year too, so I decided to try really hard. I’m surprised,” said Raoul Moreno, senior, winner of Scariest.

The couple’s winners were also surprised by their win.

“We were surprised we won because we decided to be a couple at the last minute and we didn’t really think it was well thought out. But we’re glad we won,” said Hector Perales senior, and Denisse Luna, senior, Couples winners.

The judge said picking winners was difficult.

“I believe the contest was pretty good with the exception that there weren’t many categories. They all took some time to organize and it was difficult to chose a winner with so many good costumes,” said Ana Gonzales, sophomore, judge.

MT photo by Natalie Castillo Kimberly Peña, left, won the Most Original category at the afternoon costume contest. At right is Monica Manrique, who won second place in the Most Original category.