Dec 20, 2012

Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications & Fine Arts

T ribunE Th e M a g n e t

A state- and nationally recognized student newspaper

Vol. 20, No. 1

http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt

December 20, 2012

Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts, 820 Main Avenue, Laredo, Texas 78040

Celebrating our 20th year with our first nameplate

Student publication of the Communications Division State grant allows freshmen laptops

Teddy bears to aid children

By Daisie Urdiales MT staff writer

T

Pages 6-7 ‘Breaking Dawn-Part 2’ ends with a bite

Page 11

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he Teddy Bear drive VMT Campus Crime Stoppers and Quinta Essentia service club have collected 26 stuffed animals, so far, for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office.

“Growing up, I got a bear for everything I did. Over the years I would just put them on my shelf and leave them there.

I noticed I never played with them or even look at them.

When I heard about the drive, I thought it would be a good way to give these lonely teddy bears a home. I know that somewhere a child is hugging one of my teddy bears and is happy they have it. I think every child, boy or girl, deserves to have a stuffed animal once in their lives. I’m glad that I got

MT photo by Daisie Urdiales Gabriel Guerra, junior guitar student, holds onto a teddy bear in AP English III instructor’s Gerardo Flores room, collected as part of the teddy bear drive.

to be one person to donate to them,” said Alyssa Fernandez, VMT theatre and piano student, senior, who also attends Cigarroa High School.

The reason?

“When they (deputies) find a child crying for any reason and needs to hold something, they will hand over the animals to comfort the child,” said David Blumberg, a CATE and AP Art History teacher, and sponsor of the VMT Campus Crime Stoppers in an earlier story.

The Sheriff’s Office may be hosting this drive, but they “will give teddy bears to the police department and Border Patrol, to help the children,” Blumberg explained.

The drive is accepting “any stuffed animal. It does not necessarily have to be a teddy bear, but preferably a new one,” Blumberg said.

Festival celebrates students’ Hispanic heritage

By Rebekah Rodriguez MT staff writer

W

ith not a single cloud in the sky, and the scent of fajitas filling the air, VMT celebrated its annual Hispanic Heritage Festival on Oct. 25.

A brief and formal opening ceremony which focused on the significance of Hispanic culture preceded the celebration.

Sophomore theater arts student Anny Rodriguez opened the ceremony by reading fragments of the Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation by President Barack Obama.

“Our nation’s story would not be possible without generations of Hispanics who have shaped and strengthened the fabric of our Union,” she read as students and faculty members listened attentively.

School director Dr. Martha Villarreal also spoke of the festival’s special meaning to the school.

“This is a very special event for VMT, one we hope to continue for years to come,” said Villarreal, adding “This is a special day…un día maravilloso, tan especial (a marvelous day, very special).”

Festival founder Shortly after, Spanish and World History instructor Gregorio Garza introduced a guest speaker, former VMT art department head Armando Hinojosa. Hinojosa, a member of the founding faculty who taught sculpting at VMT for 17 years before retiring in 2010, was the original founder of the Hispanic Heritage Festival.

“He has been behind every activity to promote culture and education,” said Garza of his former colleague.

Following Garza’s introduction, Hinojosa briefly spoke of the history of Hispanic culture in the United States, and spoke of the numerous contributions Hispanics have made to modern society.

“I have a list of things they’ve given us,” he said. “That’s why

MT photos by Arlen Barba Top: Dancers perform a modern dance during the Hispanic Heritage Festival at St. Peter’s Plaza.

Left: People hang out at the food booths.

we’re proud to be Hispanic.”

Students and faculty members agreed with Hinojosa and shared what made them proud to be Hispanic.

Spanish culture “The food, the music, and the fact that it makes you closer to other Hispanics as well as your family is what I love about my culture,” said Andres Regalado, a junior theater arts student. Regalado later recited poetry by renowned Chicano poet Trinidad Sanchez Jr. Piano instructor Dr. Mary Grace Galvan Carroll later shared what she appreciated most about her heritage.

“The passion of our heritage

and the love of life,” she said.

As the day went on, performances from both the dance and music departments took place as students and teachers alike enjoyed the festivities.

Favorites Students shared their favorite aspects of the festival.

“My favorite part is everybody showcasing their talents while having a fun time,” said senior theater arts student Tony Bondoc.

Bondoc added that as a senior, this year’s festival had a different tone to it than previous years.

“It’s a bittersweet thing for me…I have it in the back of my

mind that this is the last time I’m here as a student,” he said.

A fellow senior shared her thoughts on attending her last Hispanic Heritage festival.

“I’m proud to be a student here, and I really want to come back for the twentieth anniversary festival,” said Alexa Arredondo, a senior guitar student.

Toward the end of the festival, as music became softer and the crowd began to dwindle, one student summed his thoughts of the day’s events in a single sentence.

“It’s really hot today,” said Martin Davalos, a senior strings student, referring to the near triple digit weather. “But we’re all very happy to be here.”

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Responders, soldiers attend 9/11 ceremony

By Vanessa Torres MT staff writer As the Nixon JROTC lowered the flag to say “The Pledge of Allegiance,” VMT commemorated Patriots Day on Sept. 12.

On one side of St. Peter’s Plaza was a photo display of scenes after the attack. Students surrounding the display wore expressions of shock while looking at the photos.

On the opposite side, a small selection of Ovation Brass players played an array of songs consisting of “American Pride,” “The National Anthem,” and “Amazing Grace.”

Student emcee Tony Bondoc then proceeded to welcome the staff, student body, veterans, Mayor Raul Salinas, and Superintendent Dr. Marcus Nelson.

Dr. Martha Villarreal, school director, took the stage, welcomed everyone, and said a few words about the memoriam.

“This is a solemn occasion.

We take our first responders for granted. They are caring citizens who answer the call when needed,” Villarreal said.

Student Jackie Quilantan, senior, then recited a proclamation speech originally given by then-President George W. Bush.

“We will not forget the events

of that terrible morning nor we will forget how Americans responded in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in the skies over Pennsylvania with heroism and selfishness, with compassion and courage and with prayer and hope,” Quilantan said.

The presentation of colors was next, along with “The National Anthem” played by the brass players and sung by staff and choir students. “The Pledge of Allegiance” was next said by Kimberly Luna, senior.

Gaby Banda, senior, then described what happened on Sept. 11, 2001: “The buildings burst into flames and then collapsed, killing thousands,” Banda explained.

Three special guests made speeches about the event. The first one that went up was military veteran Valentin Cuellar.

Cuellar discussed about planes that hit the towers and how Flight 93 passengers fought the hijackers; “Life as we knew it changed completely,” Cuellar said.

The next guest speaker was Sheriff Martin Cuellar. Cuellar talked about how he was taking his daughter to the doctor when the accident happened.

Also, how the country can prevent this from happening again.

MT photos by Jenny Gomez Top: Soldiers and officers watch the ceremony at the St. Peter’s Plaza.

Right: A display of firefighting uniform and equipment was part of the 911 ceremony.

“Law enforcement will work together to never let this happen again,” Cuellar said.

Lastly, Mayor Raul Salinas, a former FBI agent, talked about the incident and how America was able to recover from the act of terrorism.

“Some thought it was the end of the world, but yet we were able to recover... they wanted to hurt the United States of America,” Salinas said.

Next, Taps by music instructor Roberto Lopez were given in remembrance of all of the people that passed away

that day 11 years ago, followed by a moment of silence.

To conclude the memoriam, “Amazing Grace” was played by the Ovation Brass players,

then student emcee Tony Bondoc explained the significance of Dona Nobis Pacem and the choir students sang it a capella.

Constitution is at center of celebration

By Selena Borjas MT staff writer Diana Lopez, AP English IV instructor/Dual Enrollment advisor, walked to the podium, and began to talk about interesting, maybe unknown to some, facts about the U.S. Constitution to students and staff. Lopez talked about the delegates that signed the Constitution and attended the Federal Convention.

“They were a well-educated group,” Lopez commented on the men who signed the Constitution.

The presentation of the Constitution Day was kicked of with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by Nicolas Moncayo, afternoon class president, on Sept. 17. He then presented Lopez as speaker.

Lopez commented on how the 55 delegates helped write the U.S. Constitution and what their lives where after the Constitution was made.

“George Washington and James Madison became presidents of the United States,” she added, “And two came to be nominated and became candidates for the office.”

Matias Arambula, AP U.S. History/Economics/Dual Enrollment advisor, described the delegates as, “common citizens [that] wrote down a very important document.”

Arambula, also a presenter, emphasized the importance of the Constitution and the amendments that were passed. He said 10 out of the 12 amendments were agreed to; they are known as the Bill of Rights.

“All ten amendments are important, yet the First Amendment rises above the others. A lot was said in that one statement, that one amendment, that guarantees us pretty much five rights,” he said.

Arambula also emphasized the First Amendment right to vote and how long it took for everyone to be able to vote.

“Little by little sovereignty, or the right to vote, had become inclusive. Yet again during the height of the unpopular

MT photo by Martha Inguanzo Seniors hold a U.S. flag during a Constitution Day program in the school board room. From left, Rene Garcia, Vanessa Guevara, Felipe Tovar and Vanessa Lopez.

Vietnam War of the 1960s an- in other countries can only to celebrate the signing of the of the American population other amendment was intro- dream of and with those rights Constitution. doesn’t know who the ‘Father duced on the floor of Congress comes a responsibility to exerHumberto Esquinca II, sin- of the Constitution’ is. (“James concerning the right to vote. cise them and to pay tribute to cerely answered he didn’t know Madison,” he said.)

The 26th amendment was rati- the day they were created,” she there was a special day for the Arambula spoke as well fied in 1971, one of the fast- said.

U.S. Constitution. He didn’t about how these kinds of preest amendments to be ratified.

She said she learned new know there was a holiday for sentations on our country’s It gave sovereignty to citizens things about the U.S. Consti- the signing of the Constitution. history are important for the who are eighteen years of age tution.

“I honestly didn’t know that public to be educated. or older,” Arambula stated.

“I learned a lot! Especial- there was a day to celebrate “The presentation we had He continued the impor- ly, with Mrs. Lopez’s speech I the signing, but I now know on Monday is but a “drop in tance of voting by telling the learned that the founding fa- that. I wouldn’t celebrate it as the bucket.” More of these audience to go vote in this thers of our Constitution were much as the 4th of July. It’s types of events are needed to election year. normal people like you and just a small thing that would educate, not only high school “As election day 2012 ap- I. If you ask me, that’s what be nice to know as a fun fact,” students, but the population proaches, let us remember the made it so efficient. The fact Esquinca said. in general. The American peoright that the U.S. Constitu- that common folks created it,” Arambula said that people ple must be aware, or at least tion guarantees us. Remem- Luna said. need to be aware of this impor- reminded, of the sacrifices our ber those who govern us have Ashley Salas, junior, as well tant document. When ques- founders made in order to semade it possible for us to live commented about why is it im- tioned about why is it impor- cure the freedoms and rights our lives as independent as we portant to celebrate the Con- tant for students, or people we so cherish and practice want,” he said. stitution. in general to be aware of the today. The population of the Kimberly Luna, senior, “Because without the Con- Constitution, Arambula said it nation is growing day by day commented after the presenta- stitution, we wouldn’t have is “…important for people be with many immigrants coming tion on how important is to be the rights we have today,” she made aware of the place our through our borders, legally or aware of the U.S. Constitution. said.

Constitution has in our lives.” illegally. Yet,all these people “It is important because the As much as some students “Unfortunately, many peo- know is that they have freeConstitution is the framework knew about the Constitution ple in our country take our doms and rights not granted to our government. It is what Day and what the U.S. Con- rights for granted, but are very to them in the country they makes the U.S. so special. We stitution is all about, others quick to abuse them. It’s esti- came. They must be educated have rights that some people didn’t know there was a day mated that almost 75 percent also,” he said.

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Students create islands for projects

By Francisco Carreon MT staff writer

From a poster and clay, to a cake, or anything their imagination could come up with, freshmen started on their first school project in World Geography class.

“All they had to do was to create their island on a poster, for them to bring together what they learned in the first two weeks and explain their own creativity. Also, to get an overall understanding of the project is to get a better feeling of what VMT will be like,” said Sylvia Velasco, World Geography instructor.

Cindy Hernandez‘s World Geography classes also participated with their projects.

“Seventy-five percent liked the idea and the others were reluctant,” Velasco said of her students’ reactions.

Voting Students had the opportunity to vote on their classmate’s projects and put them into categories.

“Some liked the idea of vot-

MT photo by Susana Ginez Students in Sylvia Velasco’s World Geography class vote on the inland projects created by freshmen. ing for the different categories,” Velasco said.

The project was based on a island, that island contained “six cities, one capital, two riv-

ers, two lakes, ocean, and you could name the island and landforms,” said Freshmen Alexis Rosales.

Most students began in dif-

ferent ways.

“By watching television in search of good ideas, and drawing diagrams,” said Pedro Contreras.

Others simply just went simple.

“By getting the materials, draw out what you put together,” said freshmen Kassandra Vasquez.

Finishing projects Students used varying amounts of time to complete their projects.

“One night,” said Contreras, while Vasquez said “An hour and half.”

Some challenges students had with the project were things such as “Problems with the clay because it would crack or dry up too fast and fall apart,” Contreras said.

Also, freshmen Flor Renovato said she faced a different challenge.

“I baked a cake but it tipped over and I came up with something else,” Renovato said.

In the end these students learned things from “Land forms, land features, how land looks and how to create things with a lot of imagination,” said Vasquez, to “Not to wait until the last minute,” Renovato added.

All-State choir hopeful

MT photo by Jessica Castillo Students from Martin, Nixon, and Cigarroa seem to enjoy the performance given by the Rock the Vote band.

Debate, performances mark Rock the Vote

By Jenny Gomez MT staff writer

Seniors from the three high schools came to see a mock debate and musical performances as VMT hosted Rock the Vote on Nov. 1 at St. Peter’s Plaza.

School director Dr. Martha Villarreal was the first to speak about the importance of voting.

“We receive opportunities that other countries don’t. Every single one of you should vote,” she said.

AP Government/Economics instructor Matt Arambula talked about the history of voting and the changes it had made in American society. He

was also head of the committee that organized the event.

Seniors Lorena Delgado and Tony Bondoc, who posed as Mitt Romney and Barack Obama, discussed issues such as foreign policy, taxes, healthcare, and immigration.

“It’s important to have elections because we have the future of our nation and we have to listen to the different candidates’ views on economy and other issues,” Delgado stated.

“I think Rock the Vote is important for the students to have that first-hand experience and choose a candidate that suits their needs, and not only to come out and listen to music but to enhance their

knowledge on politics and letting your voice be heard,” Bondoc said.

Senior Kimberly Luna was moderator.

Katie Sanchez, Nixon senior, shared her opinion on Rock the Vote.

“It’s fun because I don’t come to VMT and I got to see this event and the scenery. I like how we get to know the candidates a little better in an environment we’re comfortable in,” she said.

The event ended with a musical performance by Rock the Vote Band, which covered “Yellow” and “Shiver” by Coldplay.

Music teachers also formed a group to perform.

MT photo by Vivianna Resendez Jesus Luna, a junior choir student, is going to compete in the TMEA state competition in January.

Red Ribbon Week

MT photo by Martha Inguanzo Agents with Customs and Border Protection visited afternoon students at VMT on Sept. 17 in honor of Red Ribbon Week. Agents discussed their lives, and their work as catching smugglers and other law breakers.

MT photo by Jessica Castillo A band of teachers including music instructors Ric Cortez, left, and Billy Thatcher, right, perform after the debate.

The Magnet Tribune online

A look at what’s on the newspaper’s website.

•Left: McTeachers Night.

•Right: Constitution Day.

School News 4 Activities showcase students

The Magnet Tribune December 20, 2012

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MT photos by Victoria Cardenas (above) and Selena Borjas (below left and right) •Top: Folklorico dancers perform at the 16 de septiembre celebration.

•Below left: Sophomore William Rodriguez does a Michael Jackson move at The Magnet Tribune’s afternoon Halloween contest.

•Below right: Keanna Panko, dance student, was elected Martin High School homecoming queen.

MT photos by Victoria Cardenas (above), Rebekah Rodriguez (above right), and Matthew Castañeda (right) •Top: Jesus Cantu, of Mexico, performs at the 16 de septiembre celebration.

•Above left: Nadine Hernandez, Jessica Perusquia, and Hector Lopez enjoy a conversation at McTeacher’s Night on September 18.

•Below right: Danny Martinez, steel drums, left, and Emmanuel Valdez, guitar, joust on the cafeteria’s outdoor stage during the senior’s Renaissance Fair.

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5

Mass Comm Week features columnist

By Vivianna Resendez MT staff writer

VMT communication students met Gustavo Arellano, nationally syndicated columnist and newspaper editor, during Mass Communication Week at Texas State University on Oct. 30.

This was the ninth year VMT communication students attended this event.

Before his presentation, however, students toured the campus.

The tour was a highlight of the VMT students’ day. The students were able to see several buildings, including a new residence hall.

The brand new Gallardia residence hall opened this year. It has a courtyard for the students that include a 55,000 gallon well to collect water to water the grass.

This building can hold up to 612 students with many features for the college students to enjoy. The rooms have a dressing area and also moveable furniture. This makes it easier for the students to rearrange their rooms the way they want.

Students also visited KTSW-FM and University Star newspaper.

Before his public presentation, VMT students met privately with Arellano in an office at KTSW-FM, where he also answered questions and posed for photos.

“How do you get people to read your column?” asked senior Rebekah Rodriguez, one of several questioners.

“Don’t be afraid to shamelessly promote your work. Networking is extremely important to journalists,” Arellano said.

He also spoke about how powerful Twitter is to journalism nowadays.

At Arellano’s public presentation, titled “The Most Amazing Starting-in-Journalismand-Finding-Success Story You’ll Ever Hear and You Can Do It, Too!” for VMT and university students in a large lec-

MT photo by Kimberly Luna Seniors Rebekah Rodriguez, left, and Savannah Peña and other VMT communication students walk on the Texas State University campus during Mass Communication Week. ture room, he spoke about his experiences in journalism. He explained how he was able to accomplish so much without majoring in journalism.

He said he started by giving ideas to the Orange County Weekly newspaper’s editor and then later became a food critic.

“Being a food critic is probably the best job you can get.” said Arellano. ”You get your meals paid for, and you get paid for eating.

Arellano said he is also a professor at Chapman University, and became editor in chief of Orange County Weekly last year.

Arellano spoke of how he got his start — he wrote a letter to the editor to make fun of a story that he described as insulting to Hispanics. He called the editor after the letter ran to thank him.

Before he became a fulltime reporter he was paid to write stories and then later worked part-time as a food editor. Last year he was named editor in chief.

He began his “Ask a Mexican” column in 2004, became

syndicated in 2006, and he also received lots of offers for books, movies and other work.

Arellano wrote three books, “Taco USA-How Mexican Food Conquered America,” “Orange County,” and “Ask a Mexican.”

After telling his success story, Arellano held a question and answer session. Three VMT journalism students asked questions.

“How has the Latino-Hispanic community responded to your columns and books, and have you had any backlash?” asked senior Selena Borjas.

“The vast majority of Latinos, once they understand what I’m trying to do, they like it,” Arellano said.

“Do you ever find yourself in a rut? How do you overcome it?,” asked senior Rebekah Rodriguez.

“For story ideas, no. Always have three story ideas. Always.

Always. Always. This shows me you have initiative and shows me you’re really interested in getting this job,” Arellano said.

“What kind of questions do you get asked about your column, and how do you choose

which one to answer,” asked Kimberly Luna.

“I get asked every possible question you can imagine. Every single topic. The hardest thing to do for the column is to is to pick which ones to answer.”

In an interview with The Magnet Tribune after his presentation, Arellano said how he would like to be remembered.

“I would like to be remembered for giving it my all and comforting the afflicted,” Arellano said.

He also gave advice to high school journalists.

“Don’t be scared of your administrators. Don’t be shy,” he said.

After Arellano’s public presentation, a group named Hip Hop Congress at Texas State rapped a few of their pieces to VMT students during lunch.

Students also heard from the Admissions Office, which sponsored the trip.

Another presentation was held after lunch by communication students that attend Texas State. They discussed

their experiences at the university’s student media and how they became involved.

The three students who worked at campus media described their work at KTSWFM, University Star newspaper, and Bobcat Update television. A fourth student, the moderator, also works at the University Star.

Students later visited either the recreation center or the Wittliff Collections photography gallery in the library.

The recreation center has two basketball courts, a gym and a pool. The Wittliff Collections had as its major exhibit, a collection of photos titled, “Las Sombras/The Shadows: Photograms by Kate Breakey.”

Students then shopped at the university bookstore before leaving.

Kym Fox, senior lecturer and sequence head, spoke about VMT students visiting the university during Mass Communications Week.

“The VMT students come to Texas State already having a firm foundation in journalism and electronic media. The work they do in newspaper and radio at VMT is really impressive. When they get to Texas State, they ask great questions and fully participate in Mass Comm. Week right alongside the college students. The panelists and speakers presenting at Mass Comm. Week often can’t tell them apart from the college crowd.” Fox said.

VMT Journalism students gave their opinions on the Texas State strip.

“I really liked walking around everywhere and actually being in a college. It was really fun,” said junior Elizabeth Flores. “I found the tour the most fun.”

“From my previous years I think this trip went a lot faster, but it was still pretty fun and interesting,” said senior Franky Carreon. “We had different people, different events and different conversations.”

The Mass Communication Week website is www.txstatemcweek.com.

Former teacher back as asst. principal

By Ashley Galvan MT staff writer They say you eventually end up where you belong. For Elsa Barron this just might be true.

She taught English for almost 10 years at VMT, left in 2004 to be the reading coordinator and English Language Arts dean, and now she’s back on campus as assistant principal.

“As a teacher, my primary responsibility was to make sure students were successful learners; as an assistant principal, not also do I have to make sure the students are being successful, but now, also I have the responsibility to make sure the teachers are also being successful,” Barron said when asked what was the biggest difference of being an

English teacher to assistant principal.

Barron said thee are numerous duties that involve her job as assistant principal, but that her main responsibility is that the students receive and equitable learning experience.

“When I talk about equitable I mean that every student is equal when it comes to receiving a high quality education, and that teachers have the necessary tools to perform their duties,” Barron added.

When asked to compare VMT to then and now Barron responded, “Then and now, our teachers continue to work together, the difference I see here at VMT is that the teachers actually go up that notch and challenge our students.

Our students continue to have

New teacher teaches English

By Matthew Castañeda MT staff writer Carmen Cuevas, a TAMIU graduate and the new Pre-AP English I and creative writing teacher, likes teaching at VMT. “I think it’s a really good school. It provides a lot of opportunities for students in the different fine arts. It’s a very diverse school, as far as the fine arts that the school offers, like dance, theatre arts, visual arts, music and communications and in the English de-

partment and social studies department,” Cuevas said.

Cuevas described her first year as a new teacher.

“I feel that I’m doing well.

It’s a work in progress. I will continue to learn every day from my co-teachers. I have support from my principal and the administrations as well as from my students. I feel that I can learn from them and they can learn from me, so its super cool and the progress is very nice,” Cuevas said.

She explained how school

the urgency to learn, they want to be here. Our staff continues to be diligent, hard workers as always, and our principal, Dr. Villarreal, continues the tradition of having a great passion and interest in our students’ achievements.”

Barron said she didn’t see herself in this position right now, although she confessed to imagining coming back one day as an administrator.

“I only thought about that possibility to myself, so no, not exactly, it really did come as a surprise—a wonderful surprise from heaven,” Barron said.

After being questioned about what she saw the biggest challenge VMT faces this year Barron answered, “I wouldn’t call it a challenge, but rather another task we need to tack-

le—and that is to improve our STAAR Writing scores.”

“I am so fortunate to be back

was different from when she was a student herself.

“I think it’s expanding. For example, I feel that students are little more advanced technology wise because when I was in school laptops were not offered, so I feel that with the opportunity, students can have access to technology more easily than before,” Cuevas said.

Cuevas told why the subject of English is challenging.

“It’s a diverse subject; it offers many opportunities, where other subjects can sometimes have right and wrong answers.

A lot of times in English Language Arts, it’s not always about that right or wrong answer. There are wrong answers when it comes to grammar, but

for the most part students really get the opportunity to improve in their ways of expression and in their ways of grammar usage and their ways of communication,” Cuevas said.

Cuevas said she appreciates the MT photo by Matthew Castañeda school direc- New Pre-AP English I teacher Carmen Cuetor’s support. vas likes the challenge teaching English.

“I would like to add on and other administrators offer the type of support that VMT that I feel is very unique here principal Dr. Martha Villarreal at VMT,” she said.

MT photo by Ashley Galvan New assistant principal Elsa Barron was once an English teacher at VMT several years ago. working with such special and talented group of individuals,” Barron concluded.

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State grant provides laptops

1:1 learning initiative puts technology into hands of freshmen

tops in class for a lesson is a fun and easy way to learn. I think the lessons have gotten more fun,” she stated.

Azeneth Gonzalez, also of VMT, agrees with Rodriguez about classes becoming easier.

“The laptop is a lot of help during classes. It gives me more information in assignments and it’s easier,” she said.

Some students think having a laptop has saved paper and time in class.

“I use my laptop in class by doing notes, and I get to save a lot of paper,” Madrigal said.

“We do our journals on the laptops. Typing is faster than writing,” Jose Lopez, of VMT, said.

Lara also thinks the same way as Lopez and Madrigal when it comes to the quickness of doing assignments.

“It’s a lot faster to do my work. It helps me with my typing skills and grammar,” Lara said.

Story editors Selena Borjas and Vanessa Torres Reporters April Garcia Felipe Peña Gerardo Alcala Martha Inguanzo Susana Ginez Freshmen students now have laptops because of the 1:1 learning initiative at LISD. The objective for the laptops is to make classes easier for all freshmen students by making technology available to them, according to Las Escuelas de Laredo ISD magazine.

The LISD district received funding from the Texas Title I Priority Schools grant (TTIPS) to pay for the laptops.

Las Escuelas de Laredo ISD states: “all current freshmen will be receiving a laptop for use throughout the year. The laptop will be reissued to these students as they progress to their senior year.”

MT photo by April Garcia Yasmeen Galvan, a freshman in World Geography instructor Sylvia Velasco’s class, works on an online project during a recent class.

Gilbert Moreno, Cigarroa High School World Geography teacher, teaches a lesson as students follow along on their laptops.

MT photo by April Garcia Students in Sylvia Velasco’s World Geography class work on an assignment using their laptops.

“My first reaction was ‘wow’ “I have mixed emotions tobecause I couldn’t believe that ward getting a laptop. Some the teachers trust us,” she students use it for purposes said. other than school unlike me who uses it for school purposMakes class work easier es only,” Lopez said.

Students explained how VMT student Alexis Rosales’ classes are different now that reaction is more positive compared to Lopez. She says it they have laptops. helps her do her homework more quickly.

“My reaction is very good because well now I can do my homework faster and turn in assignments that need Internet assistance. To me it is great that way. I would need to go the library every time I do an essay (before the laptop),” Rosales stated.

Lopez has a different perspective towards getting one.

Classes are different Ruiz said his classes are now unlike others he has taken.

“Classes are way different with laptops because we don’t have to be looking through books,” he said.

Nicole Rodriguez, VMT student, thinks classes are more fun and easier.

“I think teachers using lap-

Students also shared their thoughts on how learning will be like in two or three years with the laptop.

Diaz thinks learning will decrease since students aren’t taking full advantage of the laptops.

“Internet usage will increase and learning will decrease since students nowadays have been using the technology for the same things,” he said.

Lara thinks differently.

“It will be a lot faster. Therefore no paper will be wasted,” Lara said.

Rodriguez thinks learning in the future would be different from nowadays for students.

“I feel that they would be a lot easier for teachers and fun for kids, but yet it won’t be the same as the old fashioned board and marker,” she said.

Upperclassmen claim it’s unfair freshmen have laptops

Story Editor Kassandra Rico Reporters Mauricio Vasquez Moses Chapa Tina Delgado Kassandra Rico Upperclassmen do not like the fact that freshmen received laptops, while others had different thoughts as unfair, a great idea, or that it didn’t matter.

Two seniors said they were surprised when they found out freshman received laptops.

“I was in shock when I heard freshmen were receiving laptops,” VMT senior choir and theatre student Jessica Garcia said.

“We had been promised our freshman year that we were going to receive laptops, yet nothing happened,” she said.

Garcia explained how

Seniors think they should have laptops instead freshman having laptops was not important because she has one through dual enrollment at Nixon.

Other upperclassmen thought that freshmen receiving laptops was really unfair for them.

Andrea Martinez, an 11th grade theatre arts student, thought upperclassmen should have received laptops.

“How come we didn’t get laptops if we are upperclassmen?” Martinez said.

A student in steel drums did not like the idea of freshmen having laptops.

“I think it’s stupid because all the freshmen do is play games and don’t use it for useful things,” said a student who asked not to be identified said.

“The seniors need them the most,” she said

Cesar Arriaga, a senior who attends Nixon, feels as if upper classmen are more deserving of laptops.

“I was appalled at the magnitude of inequality being presented from the administration and school board by giving the younger generation a better education with borrowed laptops,” he stated.

Arriaga believes that assignments that involve research and writing essay papers would become trivial due to the Internet.

While some upperclassmen were against this situation, others thought the younger generation deserved to have a great education.

Jackie Quilantan, a VMT senior Theatre Arts student, said she thinks laptops are a good thing for the freshmen because they will find it easier to

type out their work rather than writing it out.

“I do think they’re going to break them or lose them though,” she stated.

Quilantan explained how having laptops would be easier for freshmen to do their work because they’ll be able to have it at any time of the day and won’t have to worry about losing their work.

In the end, most upperclassmen got used to the fact that these freshmen received laptops and ended up saying that it didn’t really matter.

When asked about their final thoughts on freshmen receiving laptops, Martinez was glad upperclassmen didn’t receive any.

“I’m glad that we do not have laptops because we don’t have to carry them around,” Martinez said.

7

Responses from our online poll )Online poll created MT staff writers K assandra Rico

by

Martha Inguanzo Susana Ginez Gerardo Alcala

MT photo by Kassandra Rico Melissa Guevara, Aaliyah Olivarez, Armando Diaz, and Analysah Cavazos, all freshmen, take an online test in PreAP English I instructor Ashley Ramirez’ class.

Teachers find laptops useful

Story editor Francisco Carreon Reporters Victoria Cardenas Susana Ginez April Garcia Felipe Peña

Students’ thoughts

Felix Ruiz, Nixon High Machuca, VMT student, said.

Students reacted towards School student, felt he’ll do well thanks to having a laptop. the news of getting a laptop in “I felt that I can succeed in different ways.

Juan Madrigal, Cigarroa school a lot more,” Ruiz said.

High student, was in awe that A better education LISD issued the laptops only Opinions all around Matthew Guzman, also a to freshmen.

Some VMT freshmen and “I was surprised in getting others at Cigarroa and Nixon Nixon High School student, shared their opinions on the had a similar opinion when it the laptop because I didn’t laptops all freshmen from the came to bettering his educa- think they’d give them to freshmen; I felt really excited tion. three schools received.

“I feel that the education and shocked because I don’t Students had a variety of opinions on how they felt upon for the ninth graders will in- have to do (written) assigncrease, and [help us] pass the ments anymore. I can just receiving their laptops. type them,” he said.

“I was so excited that I was STAAR test,” he said.

Some students were happy going to get a laptop. The bad for something they obtained to ‘Wow’ thing is my teacher wants me Abigail Garibay, VMT stuto bring it every single day. I felt do better in school.

“I felt excited and more re- dent, is surprised that teachreally lucky the district is giving us free laptops,” Daniel Lara, sponsible of having the trust of ers expected their students to getting a school laptop,” Brian learn with laptops.

Cigarroa High student, said.

MT photo by Victoria Cardenas

Technology

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Poll takers’ comments

Answer: It doesn’t really matter.

“At first I didn’t like the idea. I thought it was totally unfair and we, the upperclassman should have gotten the privilege of using them. We deal with more work and fool around less. But now that I have seen freshman with them, I really don’t mind.

I basically never needed it just the thought of them having it bothered me.” — An LISD junior Answer: “It’s not fair.”

“I don’t mind them having laptops, but I think the district gave them to a lot of kids who don’t use them productively. They should’ve given them to students who fit a certain criteria so there would not be as many using them to play games, use Facebook, or just plain abusing them.”—An LISD upperclassman Answer: “I don’t like it.”

“I think there are too many distractions in the classroom. Laptops would only add to that.

All students have access to the library for research or to use a computer, and most of them have a smart-phone or a computer with Internet access at home. If this question is asking about students having laptops at school, I say no...”— An Adult Page design: Savannah Peña and Rebekah Rodriguez

Freshmen now have their laptops for them to use in their classes due to the 1:1 initiative. Teachers of freshmen have positive things to say about classes with this additional technology.

VMT Pre-AP English I teacher Carmen Cuevas said laptops are a good idea.

“I think it’s a good idea because students get exposed to first-hand technology with Internet access,” Cuevas said.

“It has prompted motivation for both teachers and students,” said Ashley Ramirez, also a VMT Pre-AP English teacher. She said she thinks class is now different with students using laptops.

“It’s a lot smoother to transfer information and complete tasks,” she said.

Students have more opportunities with laptops, Cuevas added.

“Students have the opportunity to use computer software that assists them with their assignments and projects,” Cuevas said.

Before teachers could teach with a laptop they had to go through training session.

“We had to go through a Student-Parent agreement for technology use,” Cuevas said.

Students also find information faster with laptops.

“Students can obtain required content (and) related information quickly and effectively,” Cuevas said.

Classes with laptops will be different in the future, she said.

“Learning would be at a faster paste,” Cuevas said.

Sylvia Velasco, World Geography teacher, thinks learning will be more advanced in the future with the laptops but writing skills could decline. ”However, it has its defects, like are the students paying attention or are they on Facebook, since it’s not blocked for some kids,” Velasco said.

Ramirez felt students’ learning has increased since they started using laptops.

“Students are more engaged, not only in the lesson but in their own learning capacity,” Ramirez said.

Alma Lopez, biology teacher at Cigarroa High School, said capacity for learning in the students changed.

“It makes my students want to learn more,” Lopez said.

MT photo by April Garcia Irma Alcorta, a freshman in World Geography instructor Sylvia Velasco’s class, works on an online project.

MT photo by Kassandra Rico Marcos Cuellar, a freshman in Pre-AP English I instructor Ashley Ramirez’ class, takes an online quiz.

8

Reviews

The Magnet Tribune December 20, 2012

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PSY rides with ‘Gangnam Style’

H

ey guys, how are all you K-Pop lovers doing out there? I bring you the latest music that is hitting the charts and peoples’ iPods.

You are familiar with the phrase “Eh, sexy lady,” right?

Yes, that’s South Korean singer PSY from “Gangnam Style.” If you don’t know who this is I suggest you leave. No I’m kidding, don’t leave but if you don’t know who he is then keep reading and you will see.

This was the weirdest, funniest video I have ever seen. A while back I mentioned other weird MV’s but this one got first place. It really made me laugh. I liked it. Then I showed it to my brother and he started laughing too and moments later I found him dancing the “Gangnam Style.”

This song has become very popular. Everywhere you turn you see people dancing to it and some even sing the whole song.

I have heard this even on the Mexican channels. I was walking and a commercial on Gangnam Style came out. I was like “Oh, my God!” Even Mexico is dancing the Gangnam Style. It has evolved to the whole world.

Anyway, this is a fun, crazy video. At the beginning PSY is

Hear, Say

By Diana Zamarripa chilling out in a park as if he was on the beach and there is this boy that comes out dancing. He looks so cute with his little sunglasses.

You may have noticed the dance movements resemble a person riding a horse. To be honest, I didn’t see that at first.

It’s a really random video; PSY appears in different places. I thought it was funny when he came out with the two models walking, and trash, leaves, and newspapers were flying in their faces. They were trying to look attractive and the wind messed them up.

Then there are two guys.

One’s standing and stretching with awesome tattoos on his back; the other is a big guy and then it’s PSY. Later on the guy with the tattoos starts dancing and PSY just leans on the big guy’s shoulder. It’s really weird.

Then PSY starts dancing the Gangnam Style dance. He appears on a merry-go-round and on a boat, dancing. He’s then dancing in a parking ga-

rage and out of nowhere a guy with a yellow suit appears, and starts dancing very funny, doing some strange moves.

PSY later enters a subway car, and he’s amazed by this girl that is sitting there and later begins to dance. After that everyone starts dancing the Gangnam Style.

One part that completely threw me off is when he is in the bathroom. I didn’t expect that.

The lyrics are difficult to explain and I didn’t want to give you guys the wrong translation so here is the link: www. kpoplyrics.net/psy-Gangnamstyle-lyrics-english-romanized. html.

This song has hit number one on world music charts, and so has the dance and the phrase “Eh, sexy lady.” That is how some people remember it, with that phrase.

What I don’t understand is that ever since I got into KPop my friends and my brother thought I was crazy.

“Why do you like that if you

don’t understand what they’re saying?” they’d ask.

I would just ignore them.

Oh, but once the Gangnam Style came out there they are all dancing and singing to it.

They love the song and can’t stop listening to it. I’m like “What! Who’s the crazy one now?” I don’t get it. Someone please tell me what does this song have that makes everybody like it?

By the way, if you guys didn’t know he received a certificate from the Guinness World Records. He beat LMFAO “Party Rock Anthem.” Gangnam Style had the most likes and most views. The video has almost 1 billion views on YouTube, far ahead Justin Bieber’s “As Long As You Love Me.” Yes it has been a great sensation. His single has sold more than 2 million copies.

He also won the MTV European Music Award for “Best Music Video” and has been snapping photos with great celebrities: LMFAO’s Redfoo, Hugh Jackman, Steven Spielberg, Jersey Shore cast, Kim Kardashian, Kanye West and Heidi Klum.

As I said earlier, PSY has become very popular. It does not stop there. He has also snapped a picture with Carly

Rae Jepsen, David Hasselhoff, and with the Irish pop band Jedward.

PSY is on a roll. Jedward invited him to Ireland and he likes the idea so you might be seeing the “Gangnam Style” over in Ireland.

Oh wait it still doesn’t stop here. PSY joined the great pop legend Madonna on stage at Madonna’s Madison Square Garden concert. According to PSY it was the best experience he had ever had.

More albums Stay tuned for more upcoming new music. You guys should also check out Epik High. They came out with their seventh album “99.” Check out “UP” featuring 2NE1’s Park Bom and also take a peek at “ITS COLD” featuring Lee Hi. Until next time, K-Pop lovers!

Popular Mario games are still fun

I

n the arcade game Donkey Kong released in 1981, you play as Mario better known as “The Jumpman.”

The story behind it is that he has a pet ape, and mistreats it, later the ape breaks out of his cage and kidnaps Jumpman’s girlfriend known as “The Lady.” The player will take the role of The Jumpman and save his girlfriend. (Jumpman was later renamed Mario in Donkey Kong Junior) Super Mario Bros was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System, better known as NES, or Super Nintendo in 1985. You take the role of Mario again and rescue Princess Toadstool of the Mushroom Kingdom (best known as Princess Peach).

To save her you must go through eight worlds and defeat each minion in each castle. In order to reach each castle, Mario has to go through three sub worlds and defeat three of King Koopa’s henchmen. Then as he reaches the last level, he goes through his

Gamebreaker

By Robert Alvarez and Chris final fight with King Koopa and frees Princess Toadstool.

Super Mario Bros. 2, released on July 10, 1987, is set in the dream-land known as Subcon. Mario’s task is to free Subcon from Wart, the game’s final boss.

At the beginning of each stage, the player is given a choice of four different protagonists to control- Mario, Luigi, Toad, or Princess Toadstooland each protagonist has different types of strengths.

Unlike previous Mario games, instead of jumping on enemies in order to kill them, you throw many different objects at them to defeat them.

Super Mario 64 was released June 23, 1996. The plot of this game is that Princess Peach has given Mario an invitation to her castle for

some cake. Just then, Bowser stole all 120 power stars and trapped Peach inside the paintings. Mario must now set out to retrieve all 120 stars and defeat Bowser to rescue Peach!

Super Mario World, released Nov. 21, 1990, was one of the many popular Mario games. The story is about short, pudgy plumbers (Ma-

rio and Luigi) who after saving the Mushroom Kingdom, agree to take a vacation to a Cantu place called Dinosaur Land.

However, while resting in the beach, Princess Toadstool disappears. When Mario and Luigi wake up they try to find her and, after hours of searching, come across a giant egg in the forest. It suddenly hatches and out of it comes a young dinosaur named Yoshi, who then tells them that his dinosaur friends have also been imprisoned in eggs by evil koopas.

Mario and Luigi soon realize that it must be the evil King Koopa Bowser and his Koopalings.

Mario, Luigi and Yoshi set out to save Princess Toadstool

and Yoshi’s dinosaur friends, exploring Dinosaur Land for Bowser and his Koopalings. To aid him, Yoshi gives Mario a cape as they begin.

Mario and Luigi continue to follow Bowser defeating the Koopalings in the process and saving all of Yoshi’s dinosaur friends. They eventually make it to Bowser’s castle, where they fight him in a final battle.

They defeat Bowser and save the Princess, restoring peace to Dinosaur Land.

What the columnists say Chris: “Out of all the many Mario games I have played, my favorite game would be Super Mario world because of its many levels and unique difficulties as you make your way through the game.”

Robert: “I love each and every Mario game I have owned and played, but my favorite would be Super Mario 64, because of many worlds and different levels, as well as each secret level and Easter eggs.

It’s just endless fun!”

Novel shows killer’s point of view

T

he Surgeon is a book I’ve wanted to review for a long time, but never got the chance to. Now I can and will. On a side note, it happens to be one of my favorite books

by Tess Gerritsen.

There is even a show on TNT based on the books called, Rizzoli & Isles. An extra plus is that The Surgeon is a Rizzoli & Isles novel.

It was an accident that I found this book, actually. It was my freshman year when my English teacher made us check out from the library.

Thing was, I didn’t like any of the books at the library. So I picked the first one I saw and checked it out. Lo and behold, it turned out to be The Surgeon. At first glance, it looked boring to me and I never bothered to read the summary. So the book would just be tossed around in my back pack for weeks before I finally decided to read it.

I decided to read it when I got bored in class after finishing my assignments. I was literally amazed by such writing!

I couldn’t believe what an interesting book it was after only reading the first three chapters. Ever since then, I’ve been

The Book Look

By Jessica Contreras addicted to The Surgeon. I can honestly say I’ve read that book more than 20 times.

The intro is really eye catching, because it starts with the killer’s point of view. (It’s a murder mystery, by the way.)

He goes on to picturing what the scenario will be like once they find the woman he murdered. He feels pleased with himself and wishes he could be there when they discover the body.

That’s only the beginning!

When I read that first chapter I was hooked. It is the type of book you can’t put down. Or like novelist Tami Hoag’s quote on the book, “Grabbed me by the throat and didn’t let go.”

This is EXACTLY how I felt about it when I was reading it.

It’s about a man who slips into the homes of women and eventually steals the one thing that makes them a woman, their uterus.

The twist is that there was a nearly identical crime

two years ago in Savannah.

Except the killer was shot to death by a Dr. Catherine Cordell. So it makes you wonder, who is this killer? And what does this have to do with what happened in Savannah two years ago? How is it connected? How does the killer know details that weren’t released to the news media?

Catherine Cordell is seen as this woman who has everything in the palm of her hands now. She’s got the posture of someone who faced her fears and conquered them. Which I believe was true. At least until two detectives came and asked her about Savannah and the recent murders.

One of the detectives happens to be a man named Thomas Moore.

I really liked his character, because he was the type that is the idea man of a knight and shining armor. I sure do like a little romance in a book and this one has just the right

amount to please mystery and romance lovers.

He turns out to be the one trying to protect Catherine Cordell from the fixation the surgeon has on her. Though a cop can only do so much, because The Surgeon eventually gets Catherine.

The real bonus in this book is that the other detective turns out to be Jane Rizzoli. Boy, do I love her character. In a way I can relate to her character, because she has to be this macho type of girl. Especially, the men with the inflated egos she grew up with. She has to prove to everyone that a girl is just as good at doing her job as if a male detective would.

What I didn’t like was that she makes it seem as if all men are bad. I also didn’t like it when she takes out her anger on Thomas, who has always been nice and fair with her.

Other than the fact that she makes it seem like she hates men, I really love her persona.

The tough girl persona really set this book apart compared to others to me, because it was really fitting. I loved the teamwork that Thomas and Jane did.

Every time I think of this

book, I just think the wonderful way how detailed the murders were. The way the killer thought intrigued me. I honestly felt as if I was actually hearing a killer’s thoughts. It was just so vivid, I can’t even begin to explain what I felt every time I finished reading a chapter. It was just so grasping. Though, I wouldn’t recommend it to people who get sick easily. Ha-ha.

Truly such wonderful and amazing writing! I recommend it to the people who can stomach a book like this. One of Tess Gerritsen’s best novels yet.

Opinions

The Magnet Tribune December 20, 2012

Comments? Write us at mt_writers@hotmail.com

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9

Senior year marks new beginning

S

enior year. The one year in which seventeen and eighteen year olds everywhere must learn to balance their last year of high school (and thus their youth) with preparing for their impending adulthood. It’s also the year many of us try to use to its full potential, the one year we have left to prove ourselves to the people around us what we’re capable of.

I, of course, aspire to do that this year. Yet I’m not really trying to prove anything to anyone but me. For once, I want to be able to do all the things I backed down from doing the past twelve years.

I want to show myself what I can do when I silence the loud, doubtful voices that I listen to all too much. In other, more hip terms, I’ll be implementing YOLO (or “Carpe Diem” in my case) into my everyday life a little more.

Though I’ve set a long list

Observations

By Rebekah Rodriguez of goals for myself this year, I decided to take a simpler approach with five major goals that I could apply to any situation this year: 1. Be calm.

I’m not exactly the laid-back type sometimes, and I know it’s probably one of my biggest downfalls. Actually, it’s most likely the biggest one. I don’t know how to relax, I lose my mind when there’s no need to, and I’m one of the nastiest people under pressure. Junior year tested my emotions and temper more than any other year, mainly due to my inability to handle the sudden stress that came with it. It’s too early to tell if this year will be any better or worse, but I’m deter-

mined to learn how to keep cool amidst the testing, deadlines, expenses, and (God forbid) any drama that will come with my final year of high school.

It won’t be easy, but I’m sure learning to give myself (and possibly even others) a break will pay off and keep me from snapping and pulling a Carrieesque episode at prom when I realize I’m missing an earring.

2. Be kind.

Anyone who’s known me for a good while would say I’m a pretty nice person for the most part. Yes, I’ve had moments where I’ve snapped (and still regret), but I try and keep those to a minimum. I open doors for people, give compliments, and try to stay out of

everybody’s way. They often tell me I’m too nice for my own good, having been bullied before and done nothing about it. I’ve been told that I need to learn to be mean and to fight back. While I’m all for standing up to those who have wronged me, I don’t think revenge is a dish best served cold. If anything, I think revenge is a dish best served sweet. Ever heard the expression “Kill them with kindness”? I feel that’s the best way of putting my bullies in their place, without going down to their level. Just turning the other cheek could make more of a difference than my fists or vile words ever could.

Besides being kind to people who aren’t, I just want to be known as someone who has a smile on their face, isn’t hesitant to lend a helping hand or say kind words when needed.

Everyone deserves to be told how much they mean to the people around them. I’ve always

been grateful to the people who have done that for me, so I’d like to pay it forward by doing the same thing for others.

3. Be unforgettable.

We all strive to be remembered in a great way; it’s practically the driving force in our existence and everything we do. I’m determined to do that myself. Though I dream of becoming a household name someday (don’t ask me how or why, I just do), I know that dream’s a little farfetched at the moment. Yet I’ve come to realize that I can make a name for myself right here, right now.

This is one of the best times in my life to do something amazing, which is exactly what I plan on doing in the months to come. As much as I like being a behind-the-scenes kind of girl, I want to know what it’s like on the other side of the camera lens or auditorium. It’s something I’ve wanted to experience See REBEKAH, page 10

Being a friend means a lot to bullied person

G

rowing up is hard because you grow up around a lot of different kids and you never really know truly how a person is. I for one can say that there are many mean people out there, but along with the mean people come nice people who can really make a difference in your life.

I got bullied since I was about eight years old. I was always the biggest one and the quietest in the class and I had no idea that those two flaws could make me so different from other people.

I still remember how people would call me fat or ugly.

They would always hit me and were always so mean to me. I felt so alone and hopeless because I believed every single thing they told me. At that point I had no friends because I thought everyone was the same, so I went on be-

Photo by Adrienne Flores

Addy thinks

By Adrienne Flores

Best friends share a laugh near the VMT hand.

ing bullied until I was in the 8th grade and that’s when I met my now best friend who was bullied throughout her life just like I was. We would share our stories and it was sad knowing that someone else was feeling the same way that I do, but when we became friends we told each other, enough is enough we can’t let people hurt us anymore.

She was always there with me to help me through it and helped me stand up for myself to tell them to stop bothering me because they didn’t know how much they were hurting me. Truthfully, I believe if I wouldn’t have met my friend I would still be being bullied

to this day, but it takes someone telling you every day or even telling yourself that you are beautiful for whom you are and no one and nothing can change that.

Being bullied has to be the worse feeling in the world due to the fact that when the bullying is going on, you feel so alone, but I am here to tell you guys that you are never going to be alone. Somewhere along the way you will find someone that is going through the same situation that you are, and I am here to tell you that things will get better.

To this day many kids have given up their own lives because of bullying; being called names, being beaten

up, being laughed at because of their looks and for some many other horrible things.

If you are being bullied there are so many things you can do to stop a bully; telling a teacher, telling your parents, telling anyone. Don’t be afraid to speak out, because

if you don’t things will get worse.

Nobody in this world is perfect, we all have flaws and we should love ourselves for who we are, no matter what anyone says and never forget that.

lives as if they know everything.

For example, I was walking to my class when I heard two girls talking about my brother.

That really pissed me off.

They were talking about how my brother had broken up with his girlfriend, and they were in his business as if they knew what had happened. But they didn’t know I was the sis-

ter of the guy they were talking about.

So as not to cause problems, I just kept walking and pretended I didn’t know what they were talking about.

When I comment on something I don’t just comment. I tell people off right then and there because I don’t like making the long story short. I just tell them what I want to tell them. Why are they in someone else’s business when they don’t even know what happened?

Really people, it isn’t that hard to understand. Don’t talk about other peoples’ lives; mind your own business and don’t get into other peoples’ relationships.

Not only did they do this but they started telling me things about why my brother was the way he was, and why he would do that.

The reason why it bothers me though is because people have their own lives, and just because you have your own life doesn’t mean that no one is going to ruin it and that you are going to have the best life ever.

No! KARMA is for real and when gossipers ruin your life like how you ruined someone else’s, don’t freak out and get mad. They are doing it behind your back without them knowing that you know. Since they don’t know they just keep talking about your life and all you are doing is getting a lot of anger you can’t let go because you were doing the same thing.

It’s simple: don’t talk about See MARTHA, page 10

People will find out karma is everything

By Martha Inguanzo MT staff writer

S

omething I hate about people is that they talk about other peoples’

Waffle Iron

The Magnet Tribune The Magnet Tribune is a publication produced by students in the Journalism, Newspaper Production and Photojournalism classes of the Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts, Laredo Independent School District. This publication provides readers with information relating to the school and its students, provides students a lab for producing a newspaper using professional-level computer software and offers an open forum for student opinion.

The Magnet Tribune is distributed free of charge.

By Savannah Peña

Dr. Martha Villarreal School director Mark Webber Journalism instructor and adviser The Magnet Tribune Vol. 20, No. 1, December 20, 2012 Editor of this issue: Savannah Peña Page one shows the bronze statue south of the Harding Building, “The Force of Creation,” created by former art instructor Armando Flores and students in 1993-94.

Production is by VMT journalism students using InDesign and Adobe Photoshop on HP computers.

Printed by Greater Dallas Press Copyright ©2012 Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts and The Magnet Tribune.

It is the policy of the Laredo Independent School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, limited English proficiency, or handicapping condition in its programs.

First Class Award: 1996-97, 98-99, 99-00, 02-03 03-04, 04-05, 05-06, 06-07, 07-08, 08-09, 09-10, 10-11

Second Class Award: 2000-01, 01-02, 10-11 (website), 11-12 (paper and website)

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Award of Distinguished Merit: 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010 (Star nomination), 2010 (online) Award of Achievement: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2008, 2011, 2011 (online), 2012 (online) Award of Honor: 1998, 2004, 2005

Contact The Magnet Tribune By e-mail: mt_writers@hotmail.com || On the Internet: http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt || Facebook || Twitter Address: Vidal M. Treviño School of Communication and Fine Arts, The Magnet Tribune, 820 Main Ave., Laredo, Texas 78040 In person: Room TM-23 (Journalism classroom), or drop off items for Mark Webber in the school office.

Entertainment

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The Magnet Tribune December 20, 2012

http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt, Twitter. @Magnet_Tribune, www.facebook.com/MagnetTribune

Dinner at Carnes Asadas La Palma is great

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ello and welcome to Reader’s Digest--haha, no I’m kidding.

Welcome to another Out and About review and this time is a small local restaurant just at the corner of Tilden and Saunders. And if you don’t know where that is, it’s 902 East Saunders Street.

Yes, I’m talking about that little place that USED to be a “maquinitas” – or an arcade place where adults can go and enjoy themselves – is now a transformed Mexican restaurant, Carnes Asadas La Palma.

For the few past months – or days I can’t remember – I’ve been passing by this restaurant and not once have I stopped there to eat until these past three or four Saturdays ago, that I actually had a chance to eat there with my Aunt Connie.

I wasn’t paying attention where she was driving off to because I was messing with my phone – which by the way is brand new – until she said, “Look, let’s eat here.” I usually say ‘no’ because I’m not really that hungry. But when I

N

Out and about

By Savannah Peña looked at the place, my whole face lit up like a kid on Christmas Day, with a “Sure!” And I hurried out to the car; I was in the restaurant before my tia turned off the car.

The restaurant wasn’t that big but it wasn’t that small either, it was – you could say – just right amount of space for over forty people. Actually, I really don’t know how many people could have been in there.

There wasn’t a lot of people when we arrived – it was when we were leaving that it got packed all of a sudden – and got a table. A nice lady came over handed us two menus – like any restaurant will do, not unless is a fast food restaurant like McDonald’s or Whataburger, and asked us what we would like to drink. Me being me, asked for a Mexican – Mexicana – coke and my aunt ordered—tea?

Was it tea?

Well, that doesn’t matter, anyways, she came back and wrote down our order.

I have no clue what my tia ordered but it looked delicious but the thing I ordered was way better! The plate fajita – something that I actually forgot what I ordered –was something I really enjoyed.

Karen, if you’re reading this, it’s like what your tia made for your birthday party. You know with the small corn tortillas with fajita or something on it and you add your own little spices like onions or salsa, well that’s what I ate.

Not once have we waited for our meals, but then again it wasn’t much. Yet, the food was very filling; I took a doggie bag with me!

The service of the small local dinner was excellent and as well as the food. Don’t take my

Photo by Savannah Peña Corn tortillas with fajita and onions are served at Carnes Asadas La Palma. word for it; go and experience it yourself. Take someone with you, so they too can experience the service and food.

In my opinion, this little Mexican restaurant will be a big hit, and I mean a BIG HIT on our community considering the only thing we eat are Mexican food made by our very own mothers.

Oh, and someone texted me, because I posted this small post on Facebook; this is what was said, “Todo esta riquisimo aqui…,” and if you really don’t know Spanish, I will translated for you. “Everything is delicious here….” That’s what he told me by text.

Phone number: 795-1125.

Finger nail art takes on many forms

ail art is something that has caught our eye these past months.

From simple and plain colors, to creative and colorful ones; we have seen it all!

Back in the days nails were usually a big trend. Women walked around with plain, colorless nails. Now a day you can see the big change. Blue, yellow, red, pink, any color you can imagine. From neon colors to glow in the dark nails. From one color to a whole master piece in a fingernail. You can create anything imaginable on a 5mm-sized object.

Jessica and I are crazy girls that LOVE nail polish. We have our own collection of about 40 nail polishes each, all different colors. Each week we change the color and decoration of our fingernails. People get surprised because of the many colors we own.

So for this column we just wanted to give you a few tips and ideas on how to do your nails.

Colors Spring is usually of the light, soft colors for example yellow, green, baby blue, soft shades of pink, and so forth.

Summer it’s almost the same colors yet brighter and that stand out, like neon pink, yellow, or green.

Fall some summer colors are still seen, however earth tone shades arrive. For example the rich, deeper, and somber colors like brown, dark red, grays, blacks and oranges.

Winter tones are somewhat similar to the dark colors but there’s is a switch between earth tones to more colorful shades. Glittery nail polish is frequently seen during Christmas time.

Colors are colors, they can be mixed and matched many times, so don’t think that just because that tone isn’t right for

Fashion Hallway

By Jessica Arroyo and Elizabeth Flores the season it will look bad. Colors are a way to express yourself so just pick your favorite one and that will be good too.

Nail care Nail polish can be so fun, so may creations and things you can make, but it’s also bad to abuse your fingernails. So here are some do’s and don’ts for having healthy ones.

-Do: Keep them dry and clean.

-Do: Cut, file, and trim them regularly.

-Do: Use moisturizer daily to get soft hands.

-Don’t: Abuse your fingernails.

-Don’t: Try to not bite or cut off the cuticles.

-Don’t: NEVER ignore problems, after time these can become very severe.

Just remember that if in case you don’t take care of them, your fingernails can get a fungal infection and not look as pretty and admirable as you want them to be. So it would be much better if you look at them and prevent any big problem.

Fingernail Art has evolved: As time changes and our minds grow in imagination we get so many surprising outcomes in our work. Yet what we don’t know is that our new generation is just a mixture of the past. Here are some examples and details of what woman used to do to make their fingernails look unique and with more power.

In the 5000 BC-3000 BC period it is said that Chinese invited a “nail polish” with a mixture of beeswax, gelatin, egg whites, gum, and flower

Photo by Elizabeth Flores and Jessica Arroyo Elizabeth and Jessica’s nail polish collection takes the form of a huge pile of bottles. petals.

In the early 1900s a lot of things came up trending for the nails. Expensive “fake” acrylic nails were made. The first nail lacquer was used, it was originally made with car paint and the moon manicure was known.

Starting in 1950 to 1970 dental products were used to make acrylics. Cute pastel tones started appearing.

In the 1980s was when the creativity came to mind. During this decade woman introduced brushes, more extraordinary colors and tones, foil art, and much more, anything you could image to decorate the fingernail.

From 2000 to now it evolved really fast with the new ideas of glitter, 3D images, gel products, and more curious arts.

And a lot more is yet to arrive.

After looking at the differ-

MARTHA, from page 9

REBEKAH, from page 9

other people if you don’t want them to talk about you. They might not have told you anything while you were talking about them because they didn’t know you were talking about them but their relatives did, and yet that person you were talking about didn’t say anything because their relatives didn’t tell them because they didn’t want to cause problems.

Trust me, if I would

badly since I was young, and it’s about time I go out there and make myself known.

4. Be happy.

As a teenager, I’ve spent too many hours brooding and whining over so many things that don’t even deserve even half the time I give them.

I’m fat? Well, at least I can change that. That boy doesn’t like me back?

Then there’s someone worth my time out there, I just need to be patient.

Issues at school and home are overwhelming me? At

have told them I heard them talking about my brother they may have regretted all the things they were saying because they wouldn’t have gotten away with it.

So thank god I didn’t say anything because then rumors were going to start about them and their lives were going to be ruined just how they were ruining the other person’s life, and that’s when KARMA comes in.

ent kinds of art woman have formulate, we are going to give you some examples of this decades nails are starting to be.

Tuxedo nails First apply any choice of base color.

Paint to thick “v” like forms at the bottom of the nail with a thin brush Kind of round off the circles and then connect them with a center dot. This will be your bow tie.

After, with the same thin brush make 3-4 center dots down the center. (If the brush is too thick than you can use a tooth pick or a round booby pin) For a finishing touch paint a very thin black tip and coated up with a layer of clear nail polish.

Taping nails First apply any choice of

least I can go to school, and at least I have a home to go to, as well as a family that would do anything to see me be successful and happy. Yes, there will be days where I want to crawl under my blankets, and shut out the world; however, I’m going to make sure those days are vastly outnumbered by days where I decide I shouldn’t waste my time and energy when there’s so much to be happy about.

5. Be brave.

This is, without a doubt, the mother of all

base color. (Make sure it is dry before you start with the patter.)

Get a piece of tape (nail size preferable)and make a small design on it. For example make a heart from it or some lines.

(But remember to leave the take kind of longish to make it easier to peal of) After making the cut cover your nail with it, then apply the second color. (For this DON’T wait for it to be COMPLETELY dry, if not the second color won’t come out smoothly) Apply a clear top coat.

Zig Zag nails Apply a base color and choose another for the color of the zig zag.

Make small dots on your nails to help guide you in making the zig zags. (This will be 3 by 4 dotted lines across your nail.)

Connect your dots by going up and down, up and down, making a ‘v’ shape look.

Finally add the clean coat.

Girls, the sky is the limit to these nail creations. There’s no wrong or right, nothing is ugly when it comes from your imagination, just be original and mess around with your nails. Don’t you worry about mistakes (nail polish remover exists) just remove and start again.

Go extreme with coloring your nails, try to change those one color coat nails and add a little something to it. Search up Fingernail Designs or Creations and you’ll be surprised at what a little bottle of nail polish and some imagination can do.

Until next time With love,

my aspirations. Bravery is an essential aspect in achieving all the aforementioned goals. They’re definitely easier said than done. It’s easy to stay the way I am when I’m afraid to take the first step.

Sometimes I want to stay that way — shy, ordinary, and self-pitying — but then I remember all the opportunities and time I’ve wasted because I was afraid to speak up, ask for help, or see the other side of something.

My biggest hope right now is that I can achieve

Elizabeth & Jessica

everything I have in my mind for this year. Not only that, but I hope I can keep these five goals in mind for the rest of my life. They’re not going to be easy to reach or maintain but when I look back on this year, I want to remember it as the year I took risks and accomplished things I thought I never would. Fear can be such a crippling thing, but it’s something I’m willing to fight against in order to be the person I want and deserve to be.

The Magnet Tribune December 20, 2012

http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt, Twitter. @Magnet_Tribune, www.facebook.com/MagnetTribune

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‘Breaking Dawn-Part 2’ ends with a bite

By Selena Borjas MT staff writer

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wilight’s “Breaking Dawn-Part 2” finally hit theaters Nov. 15, wrapping up the vampire franchise with a bite.

“Breaking Dawn: Part 2” kicked off where “Breaking Dawn: Part 1” ended as Bella (Kristen Stewart) woke up as a “new born” or fresh bitten vampire after being saved from death from giving birth to their half-immortal, half-mortal daughter Renesmee (Mackenzie Foy) by her vampire hubby Edward (Robert Pattinson) with a bite.

The movie is split into two halves. The first half follows Bella’s new life as a vampire and her new perspective on the world. You get to see the few good special effects in the movie while Bella is on the hunt for food (blood). The audience sees close-ups of flowers blooming and animal life as you will see it on the National Geographic Channel to show Bella’s new vision as a vampire.

The audience also sees Renesmee for the first time as baby, which by the way was computerized and not that

good. You also learn that Jacob, (Taylor Lautner), a werewolf and Bella’s friend, imprinted on Renesmee which binds him to her forever.

Anyway, the interesting stuff comes out in the second half of the movie. The Volturi is a group of vampires who have a higher authority over all the vampires in the world and they aren’t very happy once they get news that a child has been immortalized. Of course, the audience knows Renesmee wasn’t bitten but born half a vampire and she grows, even if it is at faster than ordinary kids. The Volturi decides to kill the Cullens, Edward’s vampire family, because they don’t know anything about Renesmee. The Cullens soon find out and decide to get help from other vampires in the world so they know about Renesmee and show the Volturi she is harmless.

The audience meets many interesting vampires with special “X-Men” powers like controlling the four elements and giving electric shocks. This is what the audience, even non fans, enjoyed the most, in my perspective. Thanks to the new vampires, the movie gets a fun

cool vibe. It brings comedic moments, especially from Bella as well as some cool special effects. Also thanks to the new vampires the audience gets some suspension and action to keep the movie excited.

My favorite, and mostly all the audience’s, moment is the fight of the Cullens vs. the Volturi. The scene was perfectly staged and directed. Bill Condon really shines here as great director. Not to mention the special effects are great and better than any other scenes in the movie. This epic battle kept me on the edge of my seat and surprised me on who got killed. I almost cried along with other people in the theater to see some characters die.

Spoiler alert (Spoiler Alert: A really good yet weird twist at the end of the battle concerning reality will make you happy or angry, and might make you say a bad word or two.)

Overall, the movie didn’t disappoint fans or non-fans alike. The movie with its funny moments, suspense, and a good battle scene made it an un-disappointed cherry on top to this franchise.

MCT Campus Taylor Lautner, left, and Kristen Stewart star in “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2,” the final movies in the Twilight series.

I, personally, as a fan of ers. As well as a blank screen“Twilight” both books and mov- play, there wasn’t really any ies, give this movie a B+. The special moments with dialogue movie stuck to the book’s story the audience would remember but didn’t put events in the as with the graphics did. chronological order as in the Still, a strong group of fans book though that didn’t stop made the movie gross $71.2 the movie from being good. million on opening weekend Now, thinking without be- and top movie in the United ing biased, I will give this a C+ States. This shows that no only because it doesn’t show matter what, “Twilight” will alany flashback or memory of ways be the greatest thing that what happened in the previous happened to teenage girls and movie to non-“Twilight” follow- boys since sliced bread.

There’s actually lots to do in Laredo

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ello people, are you in need of advice of things to do in Laredo?

If you are I would like to help.

I was able to get a photojournalism student to tell me why she would like some advice on things to do in Laredo.

She responded with “Because usually I’m at home bored, with nothing to do.”

For those of you feeling the same I would like to offer some advice on what you can do.

These are just some ideas.

Besides going to Mall Del Norte because that is one of the main things to do here, which is walking around and of course being bored.

Why not go and have a movie night with friends. Invite a few of your friends over and you can all watch different

Vivi’s Advice

By Vivianna Resendez genres of movies, along with munchies that everyone can pitch in to eat.

If you’re not afraid to get dirty you can also go to the park. There is a couple I know of, one is located on McPherson called the North Side Park.

Another one is East Woods Park, located behind the Wal Mart on Clark Street. You go into the neighborhood behind it and go down Lyon Street.

If you’re bored at the park and you like sports it’s called getting a ball and throwing, kicking tossing, hitting it.

Whatever it is you can possibly think of doing with the ball just do it and have fun.

If you’re like me and you love taking pictures you can invite some friends to go and have a photo shoot around Laredo.

There’s some very pretty places to take pictures by HEB Plus!

They have a trail where you can walk and take pictures of the flowers and stuff.

I can’t forget shopping!

There is of course Mal Del Norte or TJ Max, Ross, Kohl’s and many more stores you can shop at in Laredo.

Another thing to do is bowling, you can invite some friends to help you pitch in so you can all play a few games and of course a meal.

Are you feeling caring and helpful and maybe in need of hours for your high school?

You could go help and volunteer at the local animal shelter.

To find out where it is, just look it up on the Internet for Laredo animal shelter and you can call the number. If you’re an animal lover it’s very fun!

You get to feed and play with the animals that are there. Just don’t get attached like I did because when someone adopted the dog I liked it hurt to let it go. I miss Lucky!

Anyways you can also volunteer at the orphanage; I remember my youth group went

to visit the kids. They all said it was really fun and the kids were really happy.

All you have to do is think outside the box with finding something fun to do if you’re bored in Laredo.

The problem with me and many other people is that we complain and complain that there’s nothing o do in Laredo but yet we do nothing about it. Instead of being creative we just stick to our normal routine which is doing the somewhat popular things.

Yes, you will be bored but if you’re going to be living here you have to be willing to be creative. Go out and do something that you wouldn’t normally do; just make sure its legal! It just might turn out to be fun or better than you expected it to be.

VMT visits middle schools for recruiting

MT photos by Jessica Arroyo, Elizabeth Flores VMT went recruiting on Dec. 10. Top left, an ensemble accompanies dancers at Memorial Middle School. Top, Sherline Salazar and Luis Palomino perform at Christen Middle School’s gymnasium. Left, Christen Middle School students watch a VMT performance.

The Magnet Tribune online A look at what’s on the newspaper’s website. Scan the QR code for more information.

•Left: People react to Obama’s reelection.

•Right: 9/11 photo album

•Left: Halloween slide show •Above: Audio—People react to reelection.

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Features

The Magnet Tribune December 20, 2012

http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt, Twitter. @Magnet_Tribune, www.facebook.com/MagnetTribune

Journal wants to be wrecked

By Veronica Lozano MT staff writer

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f you’re having the very annoying problem called “boredom” I would like to inform you that my fellow friends and I have come up with some entertaining news to fill your hands, solving your terrible sickness, boredom.

All you have to do is, “Wreck this Journal”. “Wreck this Journal” by Keri Smith is a, well, journal. Its purpose you ask? It’s to be wrecked.

You see, Keri Smith is persuading fellow journalists to live a little more recklessly and live outside that tiny confined box. There has actually been quite the hype about this book on the internet, posting pictures of what their book has become, and ranting about how it was such a great idea for this journal to be created.

To go into more detail about what exactly is going on inside this journal, it basically has different unique and interesting instructions for you to obey on each page.

There is a variety of crazy and hilarious commands for you

to follow, transforming this journal into a creative mess.

I’ve included some photos of our experience with this adorable journal and the book description for you people out there that want to hear more.

Book description “For anyone who’s ever wished to, but had trouble starting, keeping, or finishing a journal or sketchbook here comes Wreck This Journal, an illustrated book that features a collection of prompts,

asking readers to muster up their best mistake- and mess-making abilities to fill the pages of the book (and destroy them).

Acclaimed illustrator Keri Smith encourages journalers to engage in “destructive” acts — poking holes through

MT photos by Veronica Lozano

pages, adding photos and defacing them, painting with coffee, and more-in order to experience the true creative process. Readers discover a new way of art and journal making-and new ways to escape the fear of the blank page and fully engage in the creative process.”

Left: A person should color the entire page.

Bottom left: People are told to draw fat and thin lines pressing hard on the pencil.

Bottom: A person should put stickers from fruit on this page.

Bottom right: Readers should poke holes with a pencil on this page.

Right: A person should fill this page with circles.

The spirit of Christmas

MT photos: left, Vivianna Resendez, right Victoria Cardenas Decorations are seen on the Christmas tree in the Harding Building. Click on the QR code, right, to see more decorations online.