Feb 25, 2005

Valentine’s pull-out inside!

The Magnet

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R I B U N

Vo ol. 12, No. 4/5

Special double issue!

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February y 25, 2005

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

A state- and nationally recognized student newspaper

Our 2nd decade of service to VMT

Art students create mural series

Teachers join staff Farias begins new career

BY JORGE NEGRETE MT STAFF WRITER

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page 2A Paper gets eighth national award

recent addition has been made to the VMT teaching staff.

Guillermo Farias, new World Geography instructor, is teaching for the first time in his new career. His classes mainly consist of freshmen.

Farias not only teaches the subject, but works to get students connect geography to real life.

“I’m not interested in teaching the subject, but mainly to get the student to tie in geography into real life experiences; it’s a challenge,” Farias said. “There are so many ways to tie in geography with every day life, both physically and

District reimplements password for Internet

BY CHRISTIAN SANCHEZ AND LUIS HERRERA MT STAFF WRITERS

MT photo by Cynthia Sifuentes

Guillermo Farias mentally.”

He pointed out that people usually make a mental map or image of where they are going. Before they begin to drive, they visualize their destination and the best See FARIAS, page 15A

Flores replaces Reyna

BY DELIA DIAZ MT STAFF WRITER

N page 5A Society, section C.

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ew teachers have been arriving at VMT while others have left.

One of them is Gerardo Flores, English teacher who is replacing Elsa Reyna.

Reyna was promoted to secondary reading instructional coordinator.

Flores chose VMT for many reasons, but mostly to work with high school students.

“VMT is something new for me because of the concept of being able to explore,” Flores said.

Flores explained his perspective of the students here at magnet.

“The students are very talented. They seem to be very involved in their classes.

MT photo by Delia Diaz

Gerardo Flores Students really seem to care about their education,” Flores said.

“My goals toward my students in literature are to introduce them to different genres and to communicate using literature overall,” See FLORES, page 13A

The Laredo Independent School District is reimplementing a security measure for students and personnel.

The process has already started.

The security measure is reinstituting a login for Internet access from school district computers.

Some students have violated the district’s rules for technology usage and also Internet usage, a technology trainer said.

Until three years ago in LISD, students, teachers, and staff had to use a login before accessing the Internet. The new login system will be similar to the old one.

The old system was discontinued to facilitate direct access to the Internet, but on the other hand it facilitated things for people who wanted to misuse it.

According to VMT Technology Trainer Scott Roberts, the user and password login will help the district keep track of user behavior, and of visiting inappropriate sites.

“It is unfortunate to use this system because students and staff might get the feeling of distrust, but this is an educational environment and student security comes first.” Roberts said. “Most of the problems are created by

middle and high school students.”

He gave as examples going to inappropriate sites with the Internet. He added elementary school students should not be going to such sites, either.

The district will now know who is accessing music and entertainment sites, for example.

“With these new security measures, teachers will be relieved of the responsibility of checking on students to make sure they are using the Internet appropriately,” Roberts said.

Eric Chavez, also a sophomore at Nixon High School, thinks the new security measure is a good idea because now elementary school children are going to be supervised and protected by the district, and older students are not going to be able to go to inappropriate sites.

“I hope students will be more involved in education, not in Web sites they are not supposed to go into,” Chavez said.

Claudia Vasquez, also a sophomore at Cigarroa High School, thinks having a password in order to use the Internet is a good idea.

“Since many students misuse or mistreat the privilege of using the Internet,” Vasquez said, “it is important they all own a password so that they learn a lesson and treat the privileges they get right.”

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

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School Ne ws

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Art students work during holiday to create murals

BY SARA RODRIGUEZ MT STAFF WRITER Santa Clause was not the only one working this holiday season; a group of students from the art department were dedicated to work on the Zacate Creek Linear Park Murals.

The city obtained a grant to build a park and VMT art students were asked to paint five pillars, (10 murals).

“I felt very honored and excited to work in a project of such importance. The contributions that the murals were going to serve to the community had a great impact on me,” Nancy Guevara, junior third year art student said Celina Rivera from the City of Laredo Parks and Recreation Department contacted Jorge Vasquez, VMT art instructor, on Sept. 7 for this project.

“I would like to think they contacted me because they liked the mural the kids did in March of 2004 in the Azteca neighborhood (the Azteca Mural Project),” Vasquez said.

To complete this project there were two phases: (1) research and planning and (2) the actual completing of the walls.

“The first phase was done in class during my advanced art class and took all of the first six weeks period.

The second phase which was the actual painting took eight days, eight very cold days during

Photo courtesy of Jorge Vasquez These pillars, once trolley line supports, were turned into murals by Jorge Vasquez’s art students during the Christmas holidays at the Zacate Creek Linear Park. In the background is J.C. Martin Elementary School.

Christmas vacation,” Vasquez said.

There were a few problems while working on this project, but solutions were found.

“The biggest problems that we faced were the weather conditions and working with the texture of the wall, problems you don’t have while working inside. In the piñata scene, working with other people and putting your ideas together is a little challenging because of our different

styles and taste. But other than that it was a great experience working on the Mural project, ” Guevara said.

The murals had no specific theme although there was something that tied them all together: they all included some “historical and cultural value”.

“I designed and painted the mural reflecting the sunrise; I also assisted in the piñata scene mural,” Guevara said.

Music instructors create 2nd holiday music album

BY ERIKA BERLANGA MT S TAFF WRITER In 2002, V.M.T Music Department faculty and staff introduced a new holiday album initiated by then school Director Ernesto Guajardo, something that could be done every year.

In 2004 the music instructors decided to have a new album, called “Holiday Serenade 2004.”

The title was decided by the VMT Music faculty.

They did not produce a CD last year.

Instructors John Reimund and Robert Lopez were in charge of the project. The musicians were VMT music teachers, and brought in Brendan Townsend, the conductor for the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra, as a guest musician.

Teachers picked their favorite songs they enjoyed playing, and

graphics for the album were designed by Lopez.

The albums would not be sold because, “They are meant to be give as audio holiday cards,” Lopez said.

Many of the reactions from this album were simply “fantastic,” Lopez said.

He said it was enjoyed by all who heard it, and that there were more requests for copies.

If another one would be published, teachers would include more arranging and add even more originality.

“Holiday Serenade 2004” consisted of 13 songs, which include one performed by creative writing students.

The songs were arranged by the instructors, and were either solos or ensembles “This is a perfect opportunity for the music faculty to showcase talent,” Lopez said, “since we are

MT photo by Erika Berlanga Music instructors John Reimund, left, and Robert Lopez were in charge of the Music Department’s “Holiday Serenade 2004” holiday music album.

At right is the CD cover, created by Lopez.

not only teachers, but performers.”

While the students were on site painting murals, Holiday Inn, Burger King, and Pizza Hut provided both the breakfast and lunch.

Vasquez said he enjoyed working with students on this project.

“It was a blast working with a group of students who not only have great talent but also share the same love and interest for art as I do,” Vasquez said.

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

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Departments featured at progress report nights but turnouts poor

BY VERONICA LARA MT STAFF WRITER Student artwork was on display during progress report night on January 26 in the Art/Communications courtyard.

The art department hosted the event from 6-8 p.m., when parents met their child’s teachers.

“The purpose of having progress report night is to first: expose parents of what students do here at VMT, and second: for them to come and visit the campus,” Blas Martinez, school director, said.

There was a showcase of artwork from students that included sculptures, jewelry, and paintings. Along with the artwork was a chamber music quartet provided by Melissa Hinojosa, woodwind instructor. They played four numbers.

“There wasn’t much of a turnout from parents, there was only about 50 parents in total,” said Armando

Hinojosa, Visual Art Department dean. “I was expecting more,” he said.

“I don’t know why, the weather was great … the location was excellent … and the gazebo looked like a ‘Villa in Italy,’” he said.

The first Progress Report Night for the second-sixth weeks wasn’t much of a success.

“It wasn’t a good turnout from parents,” said Martinez.

“The second one we had (third-sixth weeks) went really well. We had about 10-15 parents per teacher,” Martinez said.

It featured music and dance students in the Urbahn Building.

“Most teachers were here and available to talk to parents … other teachers that teach at the university weren’t able to come,” Hinojosa said.

“I would hope to get parents aware of what their kids are involved in and know what they do for half of their day,” Martinez said.

English instructor James Buckley speaks to parents during progress report night, Jan. 26, in the Arts/Communications courtyard.

Piano classes help tsunami victims

BY JENNIFER SOTELO CLAUDIA RAMOS MT STAFF WRITERS

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Piano students are raising money for Tsunami victims.

Their goal is to raise $500, according to Director of Piano Studies, Dr. Mary Grace Carroll. They are accepting donations of any amount.

Students began raising money around mid January.

According to Carroll, students have raised about $100.

Ideas for the fundraiser came up during fourth block while piano students talked about the Dec. 26 tragedy.

According to CNN.com, the death toll for the tsunami was 154,529 people to date.

It was the worst natural dis-

aster the world has seen in decades – a massive earthquake that sent walls of water crashing into coastlines from South Asia to Africa, killing people in 11 nations.

“It’s a good thing we’re doing this because if we don’t do anything, who else is going to do anything about it?” asked piano student Gee Moreno.

Piano students participating are spreading the word and posting flyers.

“It’s good, but everyone should donate the money to one organization because it’s going in all these different directions,” John Perez, piano student, said.

According to Carroll, the fund raiser is still in process.

All donations will be given to the Red Cross.

MT photos by Mark Webber Martin Gonzalez shows off his painting to family members on progress report night, Jan. 26, in the Arts/Communications courtyard.

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The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Two music students achieve All-State band; 8 reach area

BY DALIA OLIVARES RAMON MT STAFF WRITERS

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Two VMT students advanced not only to area but also to state in the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) band auditions this year.

Tony Oliva, a junior who also attends Cigarroa, was very excited of becoming an All-Stater.

“I felt very excited and kind of nervous because I met fine musicians from across the state of Texas,” he said.

Juan Zamarripa, a sophomore who also attends Martin, achieved that same goal.

“It feels good and it was a big accomplishment. You can do anything you set your mind to.”

Zamarripa said.

They performed at the TMEA state convention on Feb. 12.

This process was held on Nov. 20 when several music students including those two competed in these auditions.

The competitions have categories ranging from district to state in which students are chosen by how well they play etudes.

Ten of the VMT students advanced to region. Not everybody has gotten this opportunity to advance for the fact that these competitions are very tough and competitive. It took them a lot of hard

work and dedication, student said.

Advancing were Reynaldo Flores (bassoon), Roel Esparza (trumpet), Carolina Villarreal (flute), Amy Molina (baritone sax.), Javier Garcia (tuba), Reymundo Ortiz (trumpet), and Thomas Moncivias (clarinet) for Area.

All-State alternate was Victor Vedia (piccolo). All-Staters were Oliva (trumpet), and Zamarripa (baritone).

It has been a great accomplishment for these students especially those who advanced for the first time.

“You have to put a lot of effort into it for it to work,” said Esparza, also a sophomore at Nixon.

“It felt very good because it’s only one step away from state, and it gave me an opportunity to see my competition for next year,” said Flores, junior who also attends Martin.

“I feel very excited because this was my first time advancing in this competition. Well all it takes is just practice and be prepared before the competition and don’t procrastinate,” said Ortiz, also a senior at Nixon.

Being in the Magnet School has helped several of these students accomplish their goals, they said.

Not only by getting individual attention but by having an extra hour and a half to practice on their own.

“It has helped me out tons. Being here has helped me develop a better tone and has helped me understand

MT photo by Christian Sanchez Tony Oliva, left, junior, and Juan Zamarripa, sophomore, advanced to state in the Texas Music Educators Association. They performed at the TMEA state convention on Feb. 12.

rhythmic figures (musical notations a musician reads) a lot better,” said Moncivias, a senior who also attends Nixon.

“It’s an extra block to practice and most students don’t have that luxury. Mrs. Hinojosa helped me with my nervousness and my classmates critiqued my playing,” said Vedia, junior who also attends Nixon.

VMT teachers Melissa Hinojosa,

John Reimund, and Robert Lopez were very proud of their students.

“I’m very proud of their hard work.

It is a tough audition to qualify for,” said Lopez.

“I’m glad that their hard work paid of. They all have excelled in their music skills,” said Hinoj1osa.

Reimund added, “I’m proud of them. They have improved greatly throughout the semester.”

South Texas superintendents visit VMT campus

MT photos by Manuel Martinez Above, Jose Luis Salinas, of Edinburg, left, and Eloy Castañeda, of Raymondville. Left, superintendents pose on the Treviño Center steps.

BY MANUEL MARTINEZ MT STAFF WRITER Superintendents from Region I in South Texas visited VMT’s campus Monday, Feb. 28. School Director Blas Martinez took them to the fine arts areas and academics areas.

“The school is beautiful. Everyone is so involved. The buildings are very nice and the students are so in tune with education,” Eloy Castañeda, superintendent of Raymondville ISD, said.

“Very impressive (school). This is a great opportunity that is afforded to the students,” Claudia Rodriguez, Mirando City superintendent, added.

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

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History class visits medical museum in San Antonio

BY TIFFANY SANTOS MT STAFF WRITER Matias Arambula and students in his U.S. History class went on a trip to a San Antonio museum that displayed old army medical equipment, risky medical procedures, and something known as the iron lung.

“The goal of the trip was for them to see and experience American history from a different perspective,” said Arambula.

The trip took place on Friday, Dec. 10, at The United States Army Medical Department Museum at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio.

The museum’s collection also contains vehicles (including a 1953 hospital train ambulance car), uniforms, artwork, insignia, and scale models.

The exhibits gave students an overview of history of the medical corps from the American Revolution through the Iraqi War. The tour took approximately two-and-a-half hours to go through, and students visited a Barnes and Nobles bookstore afterward.

Arambula said students were “surprisingly” interested at the variety of books available.

Arambula also said students were very interested in the museum amputation kit.

Others found the collection of ambulances and helicopters interesting.

“I think the most peculiar thing students

were really impressed with was the iron lung,” Arambula said.

The iron lung is a large machine that was used to help patients breathe because they had lost control of their breathing muscles. It fits nearly the whole persons body except for the head.

Junior Joel Gonzalez described the museum as being different compared to other museums and having plenty of information.

“It was educational. I got to learn a lot about history,” Gonzalez said.

Junior Jessica de Leon said she enjoyed seeing the airplanes and aircraft from back then and the iron lung.

“It was really interesting. We got to see different things like tools and old military equipment. It was a really great experience for me. I learned a lot,” de Leon said.

When asked what students may have learned from the exhibits, Arambula said, “I think they’ve learned to appreciate the armed forces through contributions that they’ve made to the field of medicine. They also learned that medical procedures were pretty complicated and risky. I only wish we could take more students to things like this, and I feel every student should be exposed to a book store.”

Arambula said juniors may go on a similar trip next year.

MT photo by Melissa Vazquez A student in U.S. History Instructor Matias Arambula’s class looks at ambulance train car at the U.S. Army Medical Department Museum in San Antonio.

Magnet Tribune receives eighth national newspaper award

BY IVANA MARTINEZ MT STAFF WRITER The Magnet Tribune has been informing students and other readers of events since it was established with the opening of the school 12 years ago.

The newspaper has received numerous awards throughout its history. Recently, Mark Webber, journalism/photojournalism instructor, announced the paper’s recognition from the National Scholastic Press Association. This is the eighth national award the paper has received.

The Magnet Tribune’s 2003-2004 issues received an honor rating of First Class with Two Marks of Distinction, which were for content and coverage, and writing and editing.

Webber expressed his appreciation towards students’ hard work and dedication.

“I am proud with what the students do for the newspaper. The result is recognition such as this one. This award shows this staff is as good as any high school newspaper staff in the country,” Webber said.

The press association is one of

many professional groups that invite journalism students to enter their work in clip contests and other competitions for judging and evaluation.

With the award, Webber received a booklet that featured comments from the judge.

“Writing is definitely distinctive.

Staff writers have adopted consistent journalistic style. Paragraphs are short. Writing has nice clarity to it. Articles incorporate healthy number of sources,” wrote the judge.

Adriana Aun, February editor, and Daniela Romo, January editor, were thrilled upon reading the comments the judge made.

“I think it’s great that other individuals understand our work and recognize our efforts. These comments reflect exactly what the newspaper is about,” Aun said with a smile.

Romo agreed, and added, “I feel honored to be a part of The Magnet Tribune. I believe these comments encourage and motivate the staff to keep on producing extraordinary work,” Romo said.

New staff member, freshman Annie Miller, looks forward to keep-

MT composite image Members of the last year’s award-w winning Magnet Tribune staff who are back this year are, front row, from left, Sara Rodriguez, Delia Diaz, Ed Herrera, Ernesto Cavazos Jr. and Robert Tenorio. Seated, middle, Veronica Cruz, Adriana Aun, Christian Sanchez, Claudia Ambriz and Irma Hernandez. Back, April Magaña, Manuel Martinez, Luis Herrera, Graciela Garcia, Veronica Lara, Melissa Vazquez, Cynthia Sifuentes, Daniela Romo, Jessica Rodriguez, Jorge Negrete and Ivana Martinez.

ing The Magnet Tribune tradition by helping it receive more awards.

“I’m excited to be a part of the

newspaper,” Miller said. “I want to help it win its ninth recognition next year.”

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Militar y Ser vice

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

ROTC students discuss views towards the military

By Robert Tenorio and Nick Lopez MT staff writers The United States declared war on terrorism after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The country sent troops to Iraq and Afghanistan to combat terrorism and to establish democracy in those countries.

Both countries have since held elections, important to a democratic society.

More than 3,000 people perished in the attacks of Sept. 11, when airliners flown by terrorists crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Pennsylvania.

Since then, the United States moved into Afghanistan on October 8, 2001, and Iraq on March 19, 2003.

As of Feb. 11, there have been more than 1,400 American deaths in Iraq since the United States’ military started the war on March 19, 2003. This figure include a Laredoan, Marine Juan Rodrigo Rodriguez, who dies of wounds from enemy fire on Jan. 13, 2005.

Reasons Students in LISD’s ROTC programs spoke about the war and

“

MT photo by Diana Santillano J.W. Nixon High School R.O.T.C. commander Jose Salazar, front center, and his squad perform a routine at the Lamar Middle School gym during a VMT recruiting session Feb. 3.

how it affects their view towards military service.

ROTC members at Martin,

Nixon and Cigarroa discussed their thoughts on the fighting. *“In my opinion, I think the

MT photo by Diana Santillano J.W. Nixon R.O.T.C. members salute during a routine at Lamar Middle School during a VMT recruiting trip Feb. 3.

wars are useless because we are not solving anything,” Private Brian Montemayor, a freshman, said. *“We only went for the fact that we need to stop terrorists from invading the U.S.,” Private First Class Maggie Ortiz, freshman, said. *“I believe that the wars do not help whatsoever. It is George Bush’s fault and not ours,” Nidia Quistian, sophomore, said. *”For me, I think the wars are bad because soldiers are being killed in Iraq and Afghanistan,” Monica Villarreal, freshman, said. *”I think that soldiers in Iraq are just killing each other for no reason,” Cecilia Gonzalez, a freshman said. *”I don't really have an opinion on it, just that it should come to an end,” Private First Class Adrian, a junior, commented. *”I think that it is pointless because we are fighting against See ROTC, page 8A

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

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National Guard basic training is next for theatre student

BY ANNIE MILLER MT STAFF WRITER The National Guard is an armed force that protects our nation from invasion by hostile forces.

Blas Martinez Jr., a theater student who will graduate in May, discussed his motives for joining.

“Well, really it’s just I wanted to be in the military, and I wanted to go to school at the same time. So I saw this was the best way to do it. It was something I wanted to do since I was young,” Martinez said, who also attends J.W. Nixon High.

Before joining the National Guard, Martinez will be attending basic training.

“I will be in basic training for nine weeks and then after those nine weeks I will start my AIT which is my advance individual training. It will be about 14 weeks and I will be gone a total of about 22 weeks,” Martinez said.

Martinez is planning to stay in the National Guard for about eight years.

Martinez being sent to war.

“The possibilities of me getting activated depend on your MOS ( M i l i t a r y Occupational Specialty) mostly, but I mean, you can get activated anytime. So if you finish your AIT and basic training, you can get activated to go if you get your orders and you don’t know what the possibilities are until you are actually there.

You can get your papers anytime MT photo by Manuel Martinez basically to go. It is a voluntary Blas Martinez, Jr. thing or they can “I enlisted for eight years. I am going six years active and two order you to go,” Martinez said If Martinez is sent to war, he years inactive,” Martinez looks upon it as a new experiexplained.

There is a high possibility of ence.

“If I get ordered to go, well, I will go because it is what I have to do.

But I would look at it as an experience first of all, and basically something you sign up and you are willing to do,” Martinez said.

Martinez shared his thoughts about the war in Iraq.

“My personal opinion is that we shouldn’t be there to begin with right now, but you can’t really say anything about it. It was their decision to go and you just have to live with it. You agree or don’t agree with it. There it is, nonetheless,” said Martinez.

“The war really had nothing to do with me joining the National Guard because originally I was going to the Marines but I wanted to go to school. So I saw this way was the easiest way to do it.

It was something I wanted to do,” Martinez explained.

He has had some close conversations with National Guard soldiers.

“I’ve talked to a couple in the See GUARD, page 8A armory. I’ve talked to the captain, my first sergeant, and my

Marine Corps drills await senior in Delayed Entry Program

BY CLAUDIA AMBRIZ MT STAFF WRITER Joining the military service is not an easy decision to make. No one can make this decision but the person that is enrolling. He or she needs to remember they are leaving their families. Future Marine Mayte Guevara explained this decision was not difficult for her.

Guevara felt more enthusiastic about her decision than anyone else.

“I believe the U.S. Marines will help out bring the best of me, to make me an even more determined person, to have courage, honor, commitment, and values.

Overall, to be more responsible, not to mention physically fit and ready to do anything.”

She’s also a senior at Martin High School and plays guitar here at Magnet. Whenever Guevara begins something, she doesn’t give up until she accomplishes her task.

Some may be scared to enlist

Mayte Guevara in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard or Marine; this young woman isn’t.

Guevara not only wants to be a

Marine -- she wants to be the best.

Laredoan and United States Marine Lance Corporal Juan R o d r i g o Rodriguez, 23, died from hostile fire on Jan. 13 while serving his country in Iraq.

After this tragedy, a reporter wanted to know if there were people still willing to join the U.S. armed forces.

“Although I do believe this is very sad, to have someone from MT photo by the staff our community die, my choice of joining has not changed. It has helped me want to go more rather than to stay home, seeing how many die and that I can do

something about it,” the future Marine said.

The Marines are devoted to country and corps. By joining the Marines, one has to be devoted forever.

“I thought that if I was going to join a military service, I had to be the best,” Guevara said.

When joining a military service, one needs to know what physical requirements lies ahead.

Guevara has been running, lifting weights and doing crunches with other future Marines.

“I run and do small physical fitness tests to keep progressing to be completely ready when I arrive at boot camp.”

According to Guevara, her basic training starts June 27 and runs into September at Parris Island, South Carolina.

Guevara is in the DEP (Delayed Entry Program). She has learned that once she completes basic training and becomes a Marine, she is one forever.

See MARINE, page 8A The minimum service for a

Militar y Ser vice

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The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005 ROTC, from page 6A

MT photo by Diana Santillano Above, J.W. Nixon R.O.T.C. female squad members salute during a routine at the Lamar Middle School gym during a VMT recruiting trip Feb. 3. Below, drill team members stand at attention.

ROTC, from page 7A armory. I’ve talked to the captain, my first sergeant, and my recruiters there and to other soldiers there. Everyone kind of takes care of each other,” Martinez said.

School Principal Blas Martinez discussed his feelings toward his son joining the National Guard.

“I am concerned like any other parent would be. But I am very proud of my son joining the National Guard.

Hopefully we can guide him as a military officer,” Martinez explained.

Martinez discussed with his son about ROTC programs he [Martinez jr.] can take part in at college that will be essential for the National Guard.

“We have discussed college, as a matter of fact,” Martinez said. “He is looking into some ROTC programs so that he will start as a freshman in the ROTC program and continue doing his OCS (Officer Candidate School), which is officer candidate training, so that when he does graduate not only does he get his degree, but his second lieutenant commission.”

MARINES, from page 7A The minimum service for a Marine is four years.

Many parents may be scared to see their children leave to sacrifice their lives for their country.

Knowing their daughter was going to be sent off where people die everyday was not easy for Guevara’s parents to accept.

“My family understands my

reasons for joining,” Guevara said, “and even though they are scared for my safety, they respect the fact that this is what I want to do.” ‘

an enemy we can’t even defend them [Iraqis] from,” 1st Lieutenant Gracy Reyes said. *”I think that it was a good idea and at the same time, a bad one. The reason why I say this is because the U.S. went to war for a safety reason but we are taking a lot of lives,” Alfredo Rigota, sophomore, said.

Reasons to join One ROTC student is planning on joining the military due to his love of flying.

“I’m planning to join the Air Force of the United States because I like to fly airplanes,” Montemayor explained.

Some members of the ROTC program are interested in joining the army. *“I am joining the army. I chose this branch of the military because you receive a lot of discipline,” Freshman Private Griselda Lopez said. *“I am considering the Army Reserve because they will award me a scholarship,” Quistian explained. *“I will join the army because I like to have a structured routine such as discipline,” Villarreal added.

No military plans Yet, two have decided that ROTC is as close to the military as they are going to get. *“No, I am not planning to join any military forces,” Julio Delgado said, a freshman. *“I will not join the military because I don’t want to kill anyone,” Private First Class Armando Rangel, a sophomore, explained.

According news reports, Iraq elections involved men, and women. The Iraqis voted for political parties, which will decide on individuals to run for office in less than one year.

More than 50 percent of registered voters voted in the election; more than what the U.S. government predicted.

In Afghanistan, elections have already been held and the citizens have already elected a leader.

Contributing to this story were MT staff writers Annie Miller, Irma Hernandez and Cassandra Perez.

Recr uiting

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

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Above: Denise Solis at Cigarroa Middle School.

Below: Victor Osorio at Lamar Middle School.

Evelyn Perez, foreground, and fellow low brass performers, play at the Memorial Middle School gym during a recruiting trip.

Magnet Tribune photos by Diana Santillano, Alejandra Villarreal, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Veronica Cruz and Christian Sanchez.

Departments recruit middle school students for next year Students and teachers spend four days in February visiting the district’s middle schools to recruit for next year Memorial was the last visit and only afternoon trip; the others took place during the morning, starting with Christen M.S.

Dance students were featured on all four recruiting trips.

Above: Adriana Aun and Graciela Garcia at Christen Middle.

Below: Principal Blas Martinez at Cigarroa Middle School

Left: Cassandra Castillo dances at Lamar Middle School.

Right: From left, Angela TreviĂąo, Lizette Cisneros and Iris Carpio show off their letter jackets from their home schools to Lamar Middle School students.

10A Spor ts Student athletic trainers join coaches, players The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

He discussed the worst injury he has seen.

“I’ve seen quite a few.

It’s hard to pick, but I’ve encountered open fractures, complete dislocations, cervical spine injuries, and many more,” Coach Sal answered.

Some common injuries are sprains, strains, and contusions (bruises).

“An athletic trainer is a health care provider

BY DANIELA ROMO that is responsible and capable for the prevenMT STAFF WRITER tion, care, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries and athletic related illnesses,” Coach Sal Have you ever wondered who those people are explained. down at the sidelines carrying water? Well if you The five student trainers cover all sports. take a close look they don’t just give water to the In order to become a student trainer one fills players but they do other things such as taping, out an application and then he’ll take from taking care of injuries, and performing thera- there. peutic activities.

Amy Castro has been a SAT since she was a Mario J. Saldivar also known as Coach Sal is freshman; she now is a junior. a licensed athletic trainer (LAT) for J.W. Nixon She had never heard about the program but High School. He also oversees the work of five when she went to her big brother’s football student athletic trainers. game as a eighth grader she asked herself, “who Coach Sal has been a LAT for 10 years. He are those people in the sidelines?” started off in Beeville, Texas.

Then her freshman year she wanted to He graduated from Angelo State University become a part of that group. and was a student athletic trainer (SAT).

“I became a student trainer my freshman year.

“I like the idea of combining sports and medi- The first day of school I went to Coach Sal’s cine and having a bigger hand in a office and me being a freshman asked, ‘How can players/sports preparation for competition,” I become a water girl’? After that Coach Sal Coach Sal said. explained to me what it really meant; a student Some responsibilities he has are prevention of athletic trainer and how it was a team which athletic injuries, recognition, evaluation, and took part in all sports,” Castro said. assessment of athletic injuries, immediate care Castro discussed why she likes about being a of injuries, treatment, rehabilitation and recon- student trainer. ditioning of athletic injuries, health care admin“It’s not about like, it’s about loving it! What I istration, and professional development and love most about the athletic training program responsibility. would sure have to be when you’re attending the athletes and helping them out in whatever it is they are in need of. Not only that people tend to see you in a different way but what makes you feel good about yourself and knowing that you doing you job,” Castro explained.

This program has given Castro knowledge when it comes to injuries and rehabilitation and she has also gained responsibility.

“At first it was just a fun experience but I’ve learned to understand my team,” MT photo by Daniela Romo Castro added.

Coach Joel Lopez gives out pointers to Daniel Madrigal and Eddie Murillo.

From left to right Daniela Romo, Sara Rodriguez, Henry Coach Sal, and Julian Garcia.

Some responsibilities that she has to do daily are making sure that the athletes are doing their rehab, examining and observing new injuries, checking the training room inventory, and teaching others more less what it is they need to know.

“Most importantly communicate with the athletic trainer daily about all the athletic injuries and duties,” Castro said.

Some of the worst injuries that she has seen are a minor concussion but that was not what she feared, it was just the parent’s reaction to it; another one was at a varsity game football game where one of the opponents had fractured his femur (the upper leg bone, which is the strongest bone in your body).

Castro plans to stay a SAT during college so that she can take her experience and knowledge.

“The honest truth is I do enjoy what I do but there is just a problem. I really want to pursue my career in nursing not in athletic training.

Only that athletic training is helping me out for my nursing career. But I do plan to go into the medical field,” Castro added.

Coach Sal said, “I’m a liaison between the coaches, players, parents, and administration.”

“The relationships could be like a road. Some are bumpy and some aren’t. Most of them are great. Because all we look forward to is a ‘thank you’ even though we don’t get them at times; yet, sometimes I just think to myself that I’m not there to impress anybody because you’re not.

I’m just there to get my job done that’s it,” Castro said.

“The student trainers at Nixon High School are a very important part of our athletic program, whatever sport is in season,” football/baseball coach Gilberto Gomez said.

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11A rs in contributing to the success of their teams The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Internet: http://my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt e-mail: mt_writers@hotmail.com

added, “Well first of all they are more than just water girls/boys.

They are people that care for us when coaches do not. They are the people that keep control of the training room when Coach Sal is not there. Also whenever he is busy they are the ones that help us with tape, ice, etc.”

The athletes answered, “Do you appreciate the stuMT photo by Daniela Romo Amy Castro is cutting of the ice bag off Arturo Valls right ankle during his injury at dent trainer?”

“I do appreciate the one of last semesters football game. student trainers because they helped me a lot courtesy photo when I was hurt. I also appreciate them enry Cabrera, Alessandra Uribe, Vanessa Muñoz, Amy Castro, because they know what they are doing and they are never rude to me” Muñoz added.

“Yes I do because they do a lot for us the y Gomez answered what he thought a student athletes. They sometimes do stuff for g trainer is. us even when they are not in the w “A student trainer is an individual that suptraining room,” Madrigal answered. y, ports student athletes that are hurt during The student trainers help the athy practice and during a game. It saves the coachletes in many ways. es a lot of time when they aren’t these students.

“They have helped me in many - They also follow-up with rehab on that injury,” ways. For example, whenever I s Gomez added. needed to get taped they were the The role student trainers have in the team is ones who did it for me. Also, whenn very important. ever I needed to get ice they were the t “They need to be ready for any type of injury. ones who gave it to me,” Madrigal t; Other than that they don’t have any other jobs said. e but to support the athletes,” Gomez explained.

They spend most of their time in s He was asked, “How are student trainers an the training room getting their e asset to your team?” rehab for whatever injury they have.

“As a coach we don’t have to worry too much “I spend about twenty minutes a o about injuries in practices or games. We don’t day doing rehab,” Martinez said.

- have to lose practice time,” Gomez said.

“I’ve spend a lot of time at the “Every situation whether it is an emergency or MT photo by Daniela Romo training room. I spend this whole t not, the student trainer always provides the Coach Sal, Julian Garcia, and Amy Castro assist in an injury that past semester there for rehab,” occurred during a play at one of last semesters game. e value of knowledge and alertness at all times,” Muñoz said. g. Gomez added.

“Most important we apprecir Athletes explained their worst injury they have ate their help, time, and prese had though the years. ence at practices and games.

“When I broke my hand, the trainer took me to They do a great job, good work e a doctor,” football player Cezar Martinez said. and possess excellent knowl” Baseball player Samuel Muñoz added, “I tore edge. We the coaches thank e a ligament in my knee when I was a freshman. you,” Gomez said. e The trainer took me to a good doctor and after k the surgery his rehab helped my knee got ; stronger.” t Some of the Nixon athletes gave their opint. ions on what they thought a student athletic ” trainer was.

“A student trainer to me is someone that is l always there to help you when the trainer is - busy helping someone else that is injured,” ” Samuel Muñoz said.

MT photo by Daniela Romo Coach Sal and Amy Castro look at Arturo Valls ankle during a football game Football/baseball player Daniel Madrigal last semester.

12A

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The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Carlton’s ‘Harmonium’ is all about discovering herself Artist: Vanessa Carlton Album: Harmonium Label: A & M Records Ratings: 3 Harmonies out of 5 We b s i t e : w w w . v a n e s sacarlton.com Vanessa’s second album “Harmonium,” which features a variety of instrumentals is a hit. It’s poetic, and describes her true fee lings, which makes me really admire her album.

Her record is about her own experiences, and about discovering herself.

Her songs have different views especially since she has grown a lot since her

Rock review by

Veronica Cruz first album.

“White Houses” is the latest single. The song, which is about making mistakes and dealing with it, is very catchy and has made her album even more recognized. Each song has a different story about achieving harmony in her life.

My favorite song is “She Floats.” It’s mostly about seeing a girl suffer and

how she hides herself; it’s a suicidal story. The reason why I’m into it is because it’s the combination of instrumentals which includes a piano, a orchestra, a background choir, and of course, her voice. Very impressive, I’ll say.

If you’re into harmonic or instrumental music she is an artists that features all this in her album.

Artist: Gwen Stefani Album: Love.Angel.Music.Baby Label: Interscope Records Ratings: 5 riches out of 5 Website: www.gwenstefani.com Love, Angel, Music, and Baby are the names of her Harajuku girls, which represent the different music elements featured in her record. Gwen really took chances for this album and had several extensive collaborations, which I believe made this album sensational. She had to work with many people in the

music business but in the end it all paid off.

Her success started was the single, “What You Waiting For,” and then with “Rich Girl,” featuring Eve, a famous female rap artist. Also, she worked with the fabulous Andre 3000, rap artist from Outkast and the Neptunes.

A song I like is “Bubble, Pop, Electric.” It’s very catchy and reminds me somewhat of the movie “Grease”. Gwen worked really hard to finish this album and I give her props for that.

See ROCK, page 13A

Cell telephones can be one of life’s biggest distractions Cellular phones everywhere! Have you noticed people going cell-crazy?

Take my good friend as an example. Let’s give her a name: Janis.

Janis already owned a cellular phone. She just had begun her new job.

About a week into the job Janis bought herself a new cell phone. I can’t really recall what was wrong with her old one. To me this only meant another phone number to memorize. The following week, she yet had a new cell phone. Deja vu?

This happened for the next following two weeks two more times.

I thought it was pathetic; no one has a real good excuse to do such nonsense. She finally came to

Observations by

Grace Garcia her senses though, which was the good part.

Then there are those who just can’t settle for a regular cell phone that just makes phone calls. They want everything in those little buggers. They [people] want cams and free minutes, and Internet to download music and games. How’s about download a life?

Cell phones can be so annoying. Ever been at the movie theater and you’re there watching the previews before the movie starts? As the movie gets good, and

you’re at the edge of your chair knowing the best part is coming up then you hear some idiot’s phone go off right behind you. Worst of all is that he or she is taking forever to hang up and you’re wondering why, till you over hear the conversation.

He/she is explaining the movie as it goes. What a pain!

I wonder what part of it they didn’t understand.

I’m pretty positive I’m not the only one with such a problem.

Let’s take teachers and daily speakers, for example.

Imagine this: the room silent, the teacher/speaker lecturing (of course as a student I must yawn every now and then) but you hear a faint sound: It’s a cellular phone, with the ringer getting louder and louder. If the owner is a lady, it will take her some time to turn the thing off because she must dig through her purse/ backpack. It is a lack of respect to those instructors. Don’t get me wrong, so is yawning, but at least it doesn’t call the whole room’s attention.

Don’t you just hate it, though, when you’re in the middle of a conversation with friends and the phone goes off and they have to, or choose to answer it?

Even worse when your

friend gets into his/her conversation with the caller, only to have forgotten you existed. Can we say rude? How about harsh?

Okay, let me be honest here. There are some good reasons for cellular phones.

In my case, I’m always getting forgotten. I’m pretty sure it has happened to all of us once or twice; to me it’s often. Mom usually forgets I’m waiting for her at school. So I do end up asking friends or looking/asking to see who has a cellular phone. That would be one of the reasons to want one.

The other because of the cam; Hey I’m photographer ... of course I’d like the cam.

Other than that, I ask myself, “why the h*** for?”

Green Riders are special messengers that helped win the war The Green Rider by Kristen Britain is about a young girl named Karigan G’ladheon.

Green Riders are special messengers that helped win a war against Mornhavon the Black. Since his defeat they have kept to their duty as messengers for the king.

They also serve as spies and other things as needed to get whatever information their monarch needs. Each one is chosen by a brooch and is bound to the duty of a green rider. Most die before the brooch abandons them allowing them to return to a normal life again.

When the story starts

Bookworm by

Ernesto Cavazos Karigan has just been suspended from school because of fighting with another student. The other student angry because a girl beat him and used his connections to push for her suspension.

Because of this she has decided to go to her father first to explain things to him.

Karigan is the only daughter of the newly formed merchant clan that her father

founded earning him much respect and a fortune.

On her way through a forest a horse coming out from the bushes with a rider on its back startled her. The Rider was badly wounded and near death with a black arrows sticking out of him.

Karigan tries to help him but he is to far gone, but right before his death he gives his mission, a golden brooch, a

satchel containing a message and his horse. Her mission now is to give the letter in the satchel directly to the king of Sacoridia.

At first she doesn’t know what to do but as in keeping with her word decides to go.

She hides his body as not to be found quickly by any pursuers, and sets off on the horse, which seems to know the road better than she. The horse, a bit mischievous, starts taking different route to Sacor City than she had planned.

And as she starts her journey the antagonist of the story starts his plan to

destroy the D’Yer Wall. This wall has held for thousand years against the test of time by the power of old magic and protected all of Sacoridia from the dangerous effects of the Blackveil Forest. Mornhavon the Black tainted the forest to the utmost before his death.

But as he cracks the wall, a crack that would spread like a disease across the wall, he fears what message the green rider has. And what might it reveal of his plans for Sacoridia.

But before she is long on her journey those that killed See BOOKWORM, 13A

Enter tainment

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

13A

Break-dancing character hip-hops way through new program Samurai Champloo This anime stands out from the rest of those samurai, historical shows out there. For Cowboy Bebop fans out there, this show will be a unique treat for you. It’s the same director as Cowboy Bebop so you know it’s going to be something interesting.

Mugen is a fierce animallike warrior with a unique break-dance inspired fighting style. Jin has a more traditional style but don’t think of this as a weakness because his skills are amazing. The two contrasting samurai warriors are far from friends, yet their separate paths seem to cross anyways.

Mugen is wandering aim-

Anime 101 by

April Magaña lessly through the city when he stumbles upon a teahouse where he meets Jin and Fuu (A ditzy waitress, but don‘t think she doesn‘t have anything hidden up her sleeves).

Fuu convinces them both to come with her in search of a mysterious samurai that smells like sunflowers and their journey begins. This modernized hip-hop tale breaks the barriers of the common, historical, samu-

rai anime.

Now you might be thinking that hip-hop and anime just don’t mix but this one does it so fluidly and it’s nicely executed. Everything goes well together and newcomers will be pleased with how well this show is put together.

Watch it and you won’t be disappointed with this new anime.

--Gungrave Has anyone here seen

Trigun? You know that show with that guy who could dodge bullets? Well this show is almost the same and has the same creator.

Brandon Heat, a silent and passive man, is living a laid back life with his friends. He’s got his eyes on Maria, but her uncle forbids their relationship. After the brutal murder of his friends and Maria’s father, Brandon is on the run with the only friend he has left, Harry McDowell. When he finds out custody over Maria has been taken by MillennioPn, the largest mafia syndicate in town, he and Harry decide to join the syndicate.

He goes through many

hardships after joining the syndicate but he is willing to risk everything as long as he can be close to Maria.

Brandon Heat, and Harry McDowell were best friends and partners in crime until Harry betrayed and killed Brandon in his quest to become leader of the crime syndicate Milleneon.

When a doctor finds a way to bring the murdered youth back to Life, Brandon, now known as Beyond the Grave-returns from dead to pursue the destruction of Milleneon and bring vengeance upon the man who betrayed him.

If you like those kinds of plots and characters that are dead then this anime is definitely for you.

‘Darkness’ is short and terrible, and even lacks a decent ending The movie “Darkness” which stars Ana Paquin (Regina) and Fele Martinez (Carlos) is the worst, shortest movie I have ever seen. It is just terrible. The movie didn’t even have an ending. I was like, “OOOKKKK? What else is in the ending?”

The movie starts off in a remote Spanish home. An American family has just moved in. Little did they know what went on that house about 40 years ago.

Regina, who lives in the house, starts to notice odd

Coming Attractions before Regina and her family moved to Spain.

As the investigation goes on, Regina finds out a startling fact. People in her family that are very close to her had something to do with the inexplicable house.

After she finds out who those family members are,

tragedy strikes.

If you want to see “Darkness”, go ahead, but all I can say is that I rather watch the movie “Gigli” than this piece of garbage. Even “Gigli” would probably win a movie award if it were running against this awful movie.

Other minor characters that were involved in this ridiculous film were Stephen Enquist (Paul), Lena Olin (Maria), and Iain Glen (Mark).

I feel that these actors and actresses can do a much

better job. This movie is just a ruthless joke! I mean, everything looked fake and that just ticked me off.

For instance, Ana Paquin.

Ana has done much better movies such as the hit “XMen” and “X-Men United”.

This movie is just setback in her career. She will probably have trouble finding a movie to star in because of this no good for nothing movie.

I just feel sorry for myself because I wasted an hour and a half of my precious time watching it.

herself. And with it raining and already hard to see works just as well as turning invisible. After her narrow escape from her new pursuers she is drained of all energy from using the magical brooch and stops to rest.

Karigan’s journey is only just beginning on her adventure that will turn more dangerous by each pace she

goes down it. She has still to face two traitor mercenaries who were once weapons.

Weapons are just that human weapons, they are extremely skilled fighters with many different weapons and usually are the Monarch’s guards. And still even worse are creatures from behind the D’Yer Wall.

The antagonist whose mys-

terious powers and motives make him more dangerous than any other obstacle still hides in the shadow waiting for his moment to strike.

I read from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. on a Saturday night because this book is just that good. And I read at all free moments after that. I liked it from beginning to end and so much so that

when I found out that there was a sequel I went out and got it immediately. This one is book I shall reread (as soon as my friends finishes reading it and returns it, but this is only a side note). But if you like fantasy genre this book you have to at least borrow from a friend or something because it really is a good book.

now a Christen Middle School vice principal was the one who persuaded Flores to become a teacher.

“Dr. Linda Mitchell, besides being a teacher, was like role model for me,” Flores said.

Flores also graduated from Nixon.

He was involved in many clubs and organizations. Flores was

part of a rock-n-roll band as a teenager.

“I was in the Nixon band and played the French horn, drum major, and I was the band president in my senior year. I was involved in the LCC orchestra, and I was also in a rock-n-roll band named Close Call in the late 80s and early 90s,” Flores said.

When Flores graduated from Nixon he did several things before attending college.

“I graduated from Nixon in ‘88 and worked for awhile and then decided to join the military. Then I went to college at TAMIU and graduated in 1999. It was a lengthy process,” he explained.

Flores graduated from TAMIU were he earned his degree in order for him to be able to teach.

“I attended St. Edwards University at Austin, Texas. I was there for four years,” he said. “I was at TAMIU for about one-andone-half years, finishing requirements for my bachelor’s.”

by

Robert Tenorio things happening, so she begins to investigate.

Everybody else in the family is upset with her because they think she is just trying to stir up trouble.

While she starts investigating, she meets a guy named Carlos who has been investigating the house years

BOOKWORM, from page 12A the rider that gave her his mission come after her. She is forced to dodge them and hide from them. But as she is cornered she finds that the brooch which she started wearing (unknowing that the brooches choose the rider in whom they wear) is more than just for show, and without knowing what to do uses the magic in it to camouflage

FLORES, from page 1A Flores said.

Flores taught at J.W. Nixon High School for fiveand-one-half years.

“I decided I was happy teaching at Nixon, but they gave me this opportunity. I saw it like a new challenge.”

Flores explained.

A former teacher who taught here at VMT and is

14A

Enter tainment

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Some love songs recognized for being romantic; others are sad It’s the season where *Love* flows in the air. For this column I decided to get in the mood and pick some of the most recognized love songs for Valentine’s Day. 311--L Love Song Aw...who doesn’t like this song? I get a super sweet feeling when I hear this song.

Usher and Alicia Keys--M My Boo Whoever thought Alicia and Usher would make it to the top of the charts with that song?

Ryan Cabrera--T True His nice voice makes this song all right to listen to.

Hoobastank-- The Reason When Hoobastank came

Rock review by

Veronica Cruz out with it, it was just fine.

Now its like everywhere, its been seriously overplayed and that’s getting annoying.

Frank Sinatra--M My Funny Valentine This is an old song that I happen to love a lot.

Mario--L Let Me Love You I’m literally sick of this song…but there are a lot of people who like to sing to it.

John Mayer--Y Your Body is a Wonderland When I hear it I can still

hear the guy next door singing out loud in a sad voice.

Nelly--N N Dey Say Nelly did a good job making this old hit come alive.

Lil Jon, Usher, & Ludacris--L Lovers and Friends Another big hit for those three guys working together.

Wayne Wonder--H Hold Me Now A good soundtrack of “50 First Dates”.

Hope you liked the list and really do cherish the songs posted because one day you might need them.

--In addition there are always the sappy love songs, some featuring sadness as well as rejection and loneliness. These are the ones I happen to like the most.

There Is--B Box Car Racer It’s about a boy who walks through an empty world, but using metaphors.

Pieces--S Sum 41 A lovely song, that helps finds the soul.

Screaming Infidelities-Dash Board Confessional

Such a sad song, about a girl leaving her boyfriend after cheating on him.

I Miss You--B Blink 182 This song goes well when you miss someone.

I’m Not Okay (I Promise)-My Chemical Romance This song is awesome, its about how not everything goes well.

Vermillion--S Slipknot What I like about this song is the anger and the way it’s put to describe the good and bad things in a person.

Mr. Brightside--T The Killers This song is about a guy’s jealousy over the girl he See ROCK, page 15A

Who knows the difference between love and fatal attraction?

Why do I think Valentine’s Day is none other than a pricey/ordinary day where fools rush in? That’s simple.

Do you honestly think teenagers know the difference between love and fatal attraction?

Sure some teenagers will say “I know it’s love” or “I’ll give my life for him/her,” That’s not “real” love. That my friends are just some lame line stolen from some sappy/cheesy movie/T.V. sitcoms such as Dawson’s Creek or some lifetime movie.

I think mainly the male population can agree with me that girls can be pretty expensive. Some guys try to be sweet and go overboard and

Observations by

Grace Garcia buy her (the girlfriend/crush) a special package. You know, the teddy bear, the candy in a heart-shaped box, the flowers (most likely a dozen roses with baby’s breath in a vase which comes out to be about 60-80 dollars), perhaps some jewelry. The girls are loving every minute just wondering what he is going to get her while she plays dumb and says “ No, don’t get me anything…I wont take it.” Sure you wont girls…keep telling

yourselves that.

Then there are those girls who know what they want, where to purchase it, and how much it costs. They shall hint and stop at nothing till they know they are going to get it on the big day.

Don’t you girls just love to show of the goods your boyfriend gave you? “Oh, look what my sweetie gave me”. Most of those girls are referred to as gold-diggers.

This eight-letter phrase

became such a big mess. “I love you”. Pssh, yeah right.

Nowadays don’t believe it unless there is proof.

Don’t ask me how you find proof, I haven’t found any myself.

If you were actually reading you’ll notice at the beginning of this column I mentioned fatal attraction. Well, to explain myself, by fatal I mean all the pain you go through when things don’t work out. Come on, how many couples do you honestly think are going to make it 5-10 years from now?

I think a broken heart is not worth such a hassle. The time it needs to mend is undetermined.

You know what’s funny? I honestly believe that you readers thought since this being the month of “love” that I’d soften up and have this really romantic column.

The one place I can devote my love to someone. Think again. Oh, okay here goes nothing. Consider this the only nice thing I shall ever display in my column.

I think us girls should all take the time to thank those innocent and sweet guys that put up with us. To them we are complicated to understand. You must admit it; take it from me as well. I’m complicated but man…some of you girls out there make no sense.

A lot has happened in Sonea’s life before reaching ‘The High Lord’ The High Lord by Trudi Canavan is the third book of the Black Magician Trilogy.

I reviewed the first part to this series before (The Magicians Guild) and since then a lot has happened in Sonea’s life. Sonea is the only person from the any of the lower classes to be able to be trained as a magician.

And in the previous book it told of her first year as a student at the Magician’s guild.

And now a year after the second one ended and three since the first book, Sonea is studying as hard as ever and living in fear of her guardian The High Lord.

During the first book it

Bookworm by

Ernesto Cavazos was revealed that the High Lord practiced black magic and after he found out that she knew as well as her guardian Rothen and the Guild Administrator Lorlen.

She was taken as his new apprentice (as a hostage) so they other two would keep quiet. Knowing that no one in the guild could defeat him and since they weren’t sure how powerful he has become they have stayed quiet to

keep the guild and Sonea safe.

So Sonea has lived that way since, but she has found ways around having to see him. And after earning the respect of her peers is having a lot easier time in her classes. But not all is well the High Lord Akkarin gives Sonea a diary of a famous magician architect.

One who is much respected by the Guild and learned

how to manipulate stones because he had learned black magic.

But as time goes on with Sonea, Lorlen is keeping track of serial killings that have been going on in the city. These murders are all happening in a ritualistic fashion and their bodies are drained of all life. Because of this Lorlen believes that it has to be the work of a black magician. As he believes it is Akkarin doing the killing he tries his best to keep an eye and make sure nothing is revealed yet.

Rothen is still worrying about Sonea in the hands of Akkarin, and has been very

watchful of her since she left as his hostage. Cery (Sonea’s childhood friend from the slums) has been working for the last three years searching for the killer that Lorlen has been looking for. But Cery has been more successful than the guard and has found that it isn’t just one killer but many and every time one is killed another would come into town to start off where the last one ended. Cery has been helping someone to kill these murderers but he can’t do much more than identify them himself. That is because they are all black See BOOKWORM, 15A

15A

Enter tainment

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

‘Appleseed’ is a great show, with great characters, worth a look Appleseed The name of this anime is kind of funny but rest assured folks that this show has the qualities of an anime worthy of your eyes.

In the futuristic metropolis of Olympus, a terrorist action is taking place. A special ESWAT team, including Deunan Knute and Briareos Hecatonchires, is sent in to deal with the attack. They succeed, but one of terrorists manages to escape. The OAV tells a story of a terrorist plot to take over Gaia ... the central computer running Olympus. The plot involves a disillusioned ESWAT officer

Anime 101 by

April Magaña and the terrorist who got away and Hitomi, Deunan’s bioroid friend who is used as a pawn to gain access to Gaia.

Sadly this show isn’t quite as good as Ghost in the Shell which I reviewed last month.

Don’t get me wrong Appleseed is an awesome anime that also carries a pretty cool manga.

Anyone that adores futur-

istic police kind of things then this show is a real treat for you. It contains everything you could want from a show like this.

So don’t let the name fool you it’s a great show with great characters that’s worth the look.

Inuyasha 2: The Castle Behind the Looking Glass Finally an Inuyasha movie that has something to do

with Naraku, the main villain out of the whole show!

The first movie didn’t even mention Naraku, it was like he didn’t exist.

This film begins with the killing of Nakaru, InuYasha’s biggest enemy. With Nakaru out of the picture, InuYashu and his friends can return to living their regular lives.

However, little time passes before they are swept back up in another battle. Soon, a new enemy is born in the form of Kaguya, who plans to shroud the world in eternal darkness. Determined to stop her, InuYashu, Kagome, Miroku, Sango, and Shippo

join forces and prepare to fight.

This new and exciting movie will satisfy new and old fans of the show.

Especially fans that have followed the show religiously and are dying to know what is going to happen next!

I for one am dying to know what is going to happen next in this action packed series.

I saw the first movie and was a tad disappointed but the second filled up that void from the first movie. I doubt you’ll be disappointed with the direction this movie went.

‘Meet the Fockers’ will keep you laughing throughout the movie The movie “Meet the Fockers” is a movie that will make you laugh until you can’t breathe anymore.

The movie, which stars Ben Stiller (Greg Focker), Barbara Streisand (Roz Focker), Blythe Diner (Dina Byrnes), Dustin Hoffman (Bernie Focker), Robert De Niro (Jack Byrnes), and Teri Polo (Pam Byrnes) is about Greg taking the Byrnes to meet the Focker family in Florida so they can plan Greg and Pam’s wedding.

Jack and Dina (Pam’s parents) are very conservative

Coming Attractions cat how to go to the bathroom in a regular toilet. The cat ends up flushing Bernie’s dog.

Pam and Greg feel they are going through hell because thy see their parents are just not jiving. Because of this, they start disagreeing over several things and both parties start fighting a lot.

But there are two major twists in the Focker-Byrnes plot. It is so big though, that you will just have to find out yourself. I’ll give you a little hint though! Let’s just say that many attitudes change.

So, do you think that Greg and Pam will get married?

Well, I know the answer but you guys will just have to find that out when you see the outrageous movie “Meet the Fockers.” It will knock your socks off!

I give this movie 5 Fockers out of 5 because it is one hilarious movie.

Some of these actors have made it big in other movies also. Ben Stiller starred in the hit movie, “There’s Something About Mary (1998).” Thanks to this movie, his career started.

Robert De Niro has starred in many great features. He has acted in “Casino (1995),” “Hide and Seek (2005)” and “Good Fellows (1990).”

Now, both Stiller and De Niro can now boast about the hit movie, “Meet the Fockers.” It’s a movie you will be talking about for quite a while.

Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself--T The White Stripes.

I actually like this song all because of the movie, “My

Best Friend’s Wedding,” so whenever I hear it I think of Cameron Diaz trying to sing.

The Postal Service-Against Alls Odds

A lady that walks away, leaving the guy sad and him living with great woe because of his own actions.

and she doesn’t know much but Akkarin is trying to convince her he has good reasons why he practices black magic.

The High Lord is an excel-

lent book to read. Just read the others before this one and everything will make sense, and you will know the connections that each has to each other.

The ending made me a little sad for reasons I can’t mention since none of you have read it but ok. So get the series if you like this kind of genre.

by

Robert Tenorio type of people while Roz and Bernie (Greg’s parents) are the wild and crazy type. So you can imagine how this trip is going to be already.

Jack and Dina are surprised to meet the Fockers and many terrible, but at the same to time funny, things start to happen. For example, Jack teaches his own

ROCK REVIEW, from page 14A is with another guy.

Rejection, in other words’ Look What You’ve Done-Jet This is like a scatter song

on how everything just disappears. Well, how a person lies, and how foolish the other person is believing the liar.

BOOKWORM, from page 14A magicians from Sachaka.

Sonea still uncertain why Akkarin is giving her books to read when they contain references to black magic. Her only thoughts are he is trying

to trick her into believing him. He told her that there is an enemy watching the guild for weaknesses as well as trying to assassinate him. This enemy is still vague to her

ROCK REVIEW, from page 12A

FARIAS, from page 1A

Artist: U2 Album: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb Label: Interscope Records Ratings: 2 out of 5 Website: www.u2.com U2’s beginning of this album is good, but really; “Vertigo,” was the song I think was only good in the entire album. The rest I didn’t like. I found no point of why they should dismantle a big bomb.

It seems to be more about falling in love. One song that there is “All because of you,” I consider it okay but I get pretty much bored out with their record.

route to take to save time.

“We all make and have a metal map of where we are going. We do it unconsciously and it just becomes a routine you take for granted,” Farias said.

Farias was born in Laredo.

He graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy, class of 1972, and went on to graduate from TAMIU with a major in history and a minor in sociology. Farias was a manager of a

corporation, ALCOA, Aluminum Company of America. He was an import and export manager and worked 12 years for the company.

Since this is his first year of teaching, he hasn’t experienced a typical high school, although, he feels that VMT is everything a school campus should be.

“I love it. If there is a model of how a school campus and

atmosphere should be, this is the perfect campus. It has small classrooms, no bells and not so many regulations,” said Farias.

Like most teachers, Farias has set goals for his students this semester.

“My goal is for the students to develop or to have the ability to challenge everything that we take for granted, in a positive way,” Farias said.

Opinions

16A

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Login should insure appropriate use of district computers The Laredo Independent EDITORIAL School District is reimplementing a security measure, The Magnet Tribune in February. congratulates the Users are now required to school district on login in order to use the reimplementing the Internet from school district computers.

Internet login system.

This measure is being added to ensure the proper usage of is sometimes abused.

The Magnet Tribune believes computers in district schools.

Using the Internet during reinstituting the login is great school hours is not a right, but solution to Internet abuse.

Sometimes teachers take the a privilege and a privilege that

blame for inappropriate use of the Internet on computers in their classrooms, but with the login the district can find out who abuses Internet privileges. This will ensure security for everyone.

The new login system should help ensure students stay out of music , personal pages, games and other sites not connected to educational purposes and allow them to concentrate on using the Internet for

educational purposes.

Not everyone is going to like logging in to access the Internet, but it is necessary to ensure taxpayers’ money spent on computers and Internet access is being used in a positive way.

This newspaper congratulates the school district on reinstituting the Internet login system.

Comments? mt_writers@hotmail.com

Students express excitement over rare white Christmas It’s been 31 years but finally this Christmas Eve snow fell all over Laredo. So we asked V.M.T. students, “How did you feel about the unexpected snow on Christmas Eve?” This is what they had to say: “It was awesome I had a lot of fun with my family when we were outside playing with it,” Arcelia L. Gomez, sophomore.

“It was great! Especially because I have a baby sister 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, (also known as Treviño Magnet School and VMT), Laredo Independent School District. This publication’s intent is to provide readers with information relating to the school and its students, provide students a lab for producing a newspaper using professional-level computer software and offers an open forum for student opinion. The MT is published and distributed free seven times during the regular academic year.

Blas Martinez Director and publisher

Mark E. Webber Journalism instructor and adviser, The Magnet Tribune

Vol. 12, No. 4/5; February 25, 2005 Editor of this Issue: Daniela Romo, Adriana Aun Editors: Sara Rodriguez (Oct. editor), Jessica Rodriguez (Nov. editor), Daniela Romo (Dec. editor), Adriana Aun (Feb. editor), Ivana Martinez (April editor), Melissa Vazquez (May editor), Luis Herrera (Web site manager).

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.

Current design was created by sophomore Ed Herrera in 2004.

Production is by VMT journalism and photojournalism students using Microsoft Word, QuarkXPress and Adobe Photoshop on a networked Dell and Macintoshes.

Printed at Alice Newspapers Inc. Copyright ©2005: Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Member: National Arts and The Magnet Tribune Scholastic Press Association

who just like me hadn’t seen snow. Finally Laredo got to have a “White Christmas.”

Something I didn’t like was my brother throwing a snowball at my mouth,” Deyanira Gomez, sophomore.

“The snow was very fun. I happened to be working that night, and after work all of the employees began a snowball fight. After a while my hands went numb and then began to sting from the cold,” Brain Pollard, junior.

“The snow was beautiful.

My family was finally able to see it. Snow Fight!” Leonela Gutierrez, sophomore.

“It was ok. I’ve seen it before. I guess everybody else was amused by it,” Josh Ramirez, sophomore “The snow was wonderful.

I’ve never seen a white Christmas before,” Alan “Tony” Sanchez “It was alright. It didn’t really snow that much but it was O.K.” Anonymous.

“I was so amazed when they told me it snowed here in Laredo, but unfortunately I was in El Paso. It snowed for days (there). So at least I also had a white and beautiful Christmas and New Year’s.

Hope to see some snow in Laredo some time soon,” Karla K. Cepeda, sophomore.

“It was awesome!!! A white Christmas, which I saw for the first time in my life, very surprised,” Juan Herrera, senior.

“For me it was ironic because I was out of town after all those years of waiting for snow. I leave and now it snowed,” Miriam Moreno, sophomore.

“It snowed? Really…Naw!” Jesus Torres, sophomore.

“It was awesome! I was shocked…shocked!”

Nick Lopez, freshman.

“Well if this isn’t the sign of the Apocalypse, I don’t know what is,” Ernie Cavazos, senior.

“Certainly many of us hadn’t seen snow fall ever in our lives in Laredo, but it was amazing in my opinion to see a white Christmas Eve in our home,” Claudia Vasquez, sophomore.

“When I saw the snow I was like wow!” Jorge Felix, sophomore “I thought it was nice while it lasted, all 24 hours of it,” Manuel Martinez, senior.

“I thought it was awesome.

A Penny for your Thoughts by Irma Hernandez My birthday and Christmas are very close to each other and I wish for snow every

year and this year my wish came true,” Laura Gamez, junior.

MT photo by the staff Snow sits on a fence in Laredo on Christmas Day morning.

Waffle Iron by

Veronica Cruz (story); Nick Lopez (art)

Opinions

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

17A

Walking the line to graduation and the real world Back to school … one last time; till college at least. For the fellow seniors, as well as myself, this will be our last year roaming these halls Finally no more putting up with dress codes and rules, that although “serve a purpose”, to us seem completely pointless and dumb. No more going in at 8:30 in the morning and coming out till 4:30 in the afternoon.

Now comes the time that we finally gain independence.

Most of us look forward to high school only to get to our senior year, but you can’t really blame us, can you?

Even though senior year is one of the most stressful and important years, students still see it as “party time.” Can we say ‘senioritis’? We all know how it goes: the skipping, the slacking off, going off to parties practically every weekend and our superior attitude towards the underclassmen.

As much as our last

year is a time for fun, it can be quite a nostalgic time as well.

We all know that although we claim to hate school we’ll miss it once we’re gone. Not so much the classes/homework part, but mostly hanging out with our friends.

Knowing that we might not see some of them after high school can be a total bummer. Everyone scattering and going off their own way can get to us.

Of course, remembering all the good times

The Bug by

Adriana Aun we’ve had -- the car rides, the songs, the hang-outs, getting lost on our way to Sonic -- is always good but can also make us sad at times.

It gets even worse when graduation comes nearer.

We know that out will come the tissues and runny noses once we’ve all walked the line.

Till that time comes, make the best of the last semester of school; and when summer gets here gather your crew and go crazy, party hard, and have a wild time because afterwards it’s time to face the real world.

Comments? mt_writers@hotmail.com

Last semester stacks up as one of hardest in high school School is getting to me.

Teachers expect us to write quite a few papers in a short period of time. I don’t know who put the schedule together, but they messed up really bad. The reason I say this because I was given challenging classes second semester instead of first.

It’s cool and everything, but if they really wanted people to graduate they should have given the challenging classes first semester instead because if you don’t pass it, you

Letters to the editor Singapore reader reads online edition To the editor, I’ve been reading The Magnet Tribune online for the past few years and I’m amazed at its progress. You

Editor’s Commentary Daniela Romo, Jan. editor The e Editorr’s Comme entarry reprrese ents the e opin nion ns of the e editorr, and should not be unde erstood to reprrese ent the e vie ews of the e newspape er staff, faculty and admin nistrration n.

won’t graduate. All the pressure is on us to do our work and pass in order to graduate and “walk the walk”.

Then they tell me to complete a written assignment in class. It’s like “come on!” It takes me a have kept up my interest with the increase of varied and interesting topics for the readers. Having the .pdf format helps, also. Your writers are doing a good job.

Well done! Keep it up.

Hasmiah Komzari Singapore fernleave@hotmail.com

Student in Texas sends greetings

long time to write. How in the world am I going to brainstorm about something I didn’t understand in the first place? Like this commentary Mr. Webber told me to start writing since December and it’s January, and I am barely

writing it in the class that I am supposed to be completing another assignment in. Why do they pressure us? I know we’re smart, but it takes some of us longer to write than others.

Yes, we are at a magnet school and yes they do expect more from us, but some of us still can’t write in just an hour and a half.

I also hate it when you get writers block and you just can’t think correctly and the teacher is pres-

suring you to finish.

Writing is good because the assignments make us think and show us how to elaborate more, but I hate writing.

It’s our last semester and we are as lazy as we can be and teachers are making us write. By the time the paper comes out it won’t make sense.

I will always remember this last semester of my senior year as the worst semester in high school!

Comments? mt_writers@hotmail.com

Correction

To the editor, I saw your paper. Good job. Keep up the good work!

Stephanie Shores Victoria, Texas Stephaniemss2002@yaho o.com (Note: Stephanie Shores was a VMT student and a member of The Magnet Tribune staff in the 2003-04 school year.)

In the December Magnet Tribune, in the story “15 teachers receive CPR training, a paragraph explaining types of emergency treatment was in error. It should have read, “On children (ages 1-8 years) and infants (less than one year old) most causes of cardiopulmonary arrest are related to airway problems rather than sudden cardiac arrest.

In these victims rescue support should be attempted before activation of the EMS system.

“On the other hand, phone first is required on adults because they likely had a cardiac arrest (heart attack) and will require emergency care.”

Letters to the editor are welcome, on any topic of interest to high school students. The Magnet Tribune staff reserves the right to edit them for length, clarity of expression and libel. Send to mt_writers@hotmail.com, bring by The Magnet Tribune classroom or by postal mail.

‘96-97, ‘97-98, ‘98-99, ‘99-00: ‘02-03 First Class Award ‘00-01, ‘01-02 Second Class Award

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

ILPC--’97-98, Award of Honor; ‘98-99, ‘99-00, ‘00-01, ‘01-02, ‘02-03 Award of Achievement

How to respond to The Magnet Tribune: By e-m mail: mt_writers@hotmail.com On the Internet: www.my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt Address: Vidal M. Treviño Magnet School, The Magnet Tribune, 1702 Victoria Street, Laredo, Texas 78040 In person: Journalism classroom/darkroom, or Mark Webber’s box in the attendance office.

“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.”

Opinions

18A

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2004

Newspaper’s award is one which belongs to entire school Throughout the years The Magnet Tribune and countless staff members have received awards recognizing their efforts in producing a quality student newspaper.

Earlier this year, last year’s Magnet Tribune staff received a First Class award with two Marks of Distinction from the National Scholastic Press Association. This is the eighth year the paper has been recognized by this organization.

This recognition belongs to the entire school, since every-

EDITORIAL

The Magnet Tribune’s national award belongs to the student body, faculty and staff of V.M.T. one, students, teachers and staff, have a part making the paper a widely read and respected publication.

We have several acknowledgements to make, starting with last year’s staff. They worked to hard to continue the tradition

started in 1993-94 by the first staff in VMT’s first year.

We acknowledge teachers who allow our reporters to interview them during class time about class activities. We also appreciate the teachers for allowing us into their classrooms and other activities to provide news coverage.

We sincerely appreciate the encouragement and support given by Blas Martinez, school director, who has encouraged us to excel.

We thank our peers for reading the newspaper, our non-

student readership and members of our our online audience who through the years have written to us through our Web site from Brazil, Israel, Japan, China, Singapore and the U.S. We, of this year’s staff, continue the tradition of providing school and other news and opinions written by V.M.T. students for our fellow students as well as our teachers and school staff. We thank you for your support.

Comments?

MT_writers@hotmail.com

Students have special feelings for others on Valentine’s Day With Valentine’s Day here we asked students, “What does Valentine’s Day mean to you?” This is what they had to say: “Valentine’s Day to me means, love. On Valentine’s Day I think all you want to do is, be with your boyfriend or girlfriend and show each other how much you care for 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, (also known as Treviño Magnet School and VMT), Laredo Independent School District. This publication’s intent is to provide readers with information relating to the school and its students, provide students a lab for producing a newspaper using professional-level computer software and offers an open forum for student opinion. The MT is published and distributed free seven times during the regular academic year.

Blas Martinez Director and publisher

Mark E. Webber Journalism instructor and adviser, The Magnet Tribune

Vol. 12, No. 4/5; February 25, 2005 Editor of this Issue: Daniela Romo and Adriana Aun Editors: Sara Rodriguez (Oct. editor), Jessica Rodriguez (Nov. editor), Daniela Romo (Dec. editor), Adriana Aun (Feb. editor), Ivana Martinez (April editor), Melissa Vazquez (May editor), Luis Herrera (Web site manager).

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.

Current design was created by sophomore Ed Herrera in 2004.

Production is by VMT journalism and photojournalism students using Microsoft Word, QuarkXPress and Adobe Photoshop on a networked Dell and Macintoshes.

Printed at Alice Newspapers Inc. Copyright ©2005: Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Member: National Arts and The Magnet Tribune Scholastic Press Association

one another” Vero L. Salinas, sophomore.

“To me this is a day of truth, the day you tell your loved one how much you love them and hopefully them to you” Hilda Fernandez, sophomore.

“To me Valentine’s Day is just to show the people around you how much you really care about them” Zulema Perales, sophomore.

“Valentine’s Day to me means it’s a day of showing how much you admire the people you love especially your friends and family.”

Melissa Martinez, sophomore.

“Valentine's Day to me is a day when you could spend with not only a boyfriend but a special friend. You could use this day to get close to a secret crush or to cherish it with your family. It should just be a fun loving day” Anonymous, senior.

“Valentine’s Day means a day which I get to show my family and friends how much they truly mean to me.

A day when lovers can either declare marriage or take you out to dinner” Deyanira Gomez, sophomore.

Valentine’s Day is the day when couples get together and give each other a present or take each other out on a date. Couples can get together and become girlfriends or boyfriends. It is not only a day for boyfriends but a day in which friends

can give each other presents too” Arcelia L. Gonzalez, sophomore.

“Valentine’s Day is another special holiday in which people get closer together. It’s the day of the year when you can really do something special for the one you love.”

Leonela Gutierrez, sophomore.

“I think it is a very special day to show people you love them and how much you care about them,” Phillip Wilkins, sophomore.

“Valentine’s Day to me is a day to cherish and enjoy

A Penny for your Thoughts by Irma Hernandez “Well it’s not only a day for couples. I think it’s a day to spend with a person or any people who you love and care for especially your friends and your family. If you have someone to spend it with then enjoy it because it is the excuse for more XOXO.” Miriam Moreno, sophomore.

with your loved ones. whether it be your boyfriend or just a friend. The point of this day is to show your appreciation but especially your love. It’s an expression from within yourself. Happy Valentine’s Day to all V.M.T. magnet students, faculty, and staff.” Karla K. Cepeda, sophomore.

Waffle Iron by

Veronica Cruz (story); Nick Lopez (art)

Blind(folded) date

Opinions

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

19A

Seniors deal with stress on the path to graduation Four years seem like quite a long time, but you’d be surprised how fast they fly by.

Not too long ago I was just starting my freshman year in high school and now senior year is finally here. Hard to believe, but the moment that I’d been waiting for since I first set foot in elementary school has finally arrived.

Yes, I know that the first thing we think of when the words “senior year” are mentioned is “finally, out of school at last!” and although this is completely true, senior year isn’t always bliss, as some of us come to believe.

Though our last year in high school brings all the glory and joy of knowing that we will no

longer be forced to go to school, it can also be the single most stressing time of our scholastic careers.

Why? Quite simple. First, there are credits. We have to be sure that we have all the required credits; otherwise, we won’t graduate…and we’d be throwing away 12 years of our lives.

Then there are S.A.Ts. The oh-so-very-dreaded S.A.Ts. Registering on time, filling out applications and turning them in before deadlines can be a real pain in the neck.

However, that’s not the worst part; actually taking the test is what kills most of us.

Not only that, but after you’ve racked your brain out for a couple of hours- depend-

ing on how smart you are, of course- then comes the long wait for the scores. And once that envelope comes in the mail you can only pray and hope that you have a decent enough score, if not then it’s back to taking the test again till you’re happy with whatever score you obtain.

Next come college applications -- for those attending college. Again, it’s a hassle trying to turn them in on time, gathering all necessary documentation and info, etc. etc.

Then of course there are finals. Ah yes, the best part of the year. The fact that finals exist is bad enough, but having to actually take them and pass them is hell.

The Bug by

Adriana Aun And if you’ve been goofing off all year, then good luck because this is the time (as with any final exam) that we prove how well we’ve learned the material.

Seems almost like a nightmare, huh? But yes, senior year does come with some good things attached.

For those not planning on going to college, senior year is the absolute guarantee that you will no longer attend school; doesn’t get much sweeter than that, right?

There are also things like

prom and all the memories you’ve collected throughout the 4 years; not to mention the awesome fact that you have three entire grades beneath you and knowing that –- as many say -- seniors rule the campus.

A very stressing, but at the same time, very memorable time of our lives; we should all make the best of our senior year. After all, it is our last year in high school.

Comments? mt_writers@hotmail.com

Security guard shows interest in water fountain’s safety “Security guards are here to protect and ensure the safety of students.”

How many times have we heard this before? I’ll tell you this much: if I had a dime for every time I heard it, I’d probably be a millionaire by now…or at least have a couple of hundred bucks.

This is nothing new. Ever since “security” guards have been instilled in our school campuses there have been endless amount of complaints by students.

Yes, I know that most of the kids nag about the dress code, having to take off their caps, tucking in their shirts, etc, etc. We’ve all been witnesses to how stingy these people can be, but if you thought that them making you tuck in your shirt after school hours was bad enough, then you can only imagine how I felt when the following “incident” occurred.

It was after school; the kids were out, people were going home, others attend-

Editor’s Commentary Adriana Aun, Feb. editor The Editor’s Commentary represents the opinions of the editor, and should not be understood to represent the views of the newspaper staff, faculty and administration.

ing club meetings, and some just hanging out.

It had been an extremely long day for me because I had a killer migraine for quite a few hours already. You can just imagine how I felt: I was frustrated, the pain was excruciating, I was irritable beyond belief, I had piles of homework to take care of, and the list went on and on.

To help ease the discomfort my headache was causing I decided to take some Tylenol. Keep in mind, it is only Tylenol; I’m sure that everyone at one point in their lives has taken a pain reliever before.

Those of you who attend Nixon know that you can’t find a water-fountain anywhere near the annex except

in the actual building.

So my guy and I make our way to the annex, we go inside and start walking down the hall. The water fountain, by the way, was exactly at the other end of the hall that we were in.

Walking the opposite way were a “security” guard, a teacher, and an on-campus officer (“children first”…yeah right!).

We were less than 5, maybe 6 feet away from the water fountain when the guard asks, “Where are you two going?” So I told him, “to get water.” Then he says something like, “no, [annex] is closed, go back.” What the… Then I said again, “but the water fountain is right there, I’m just gonna get

some water.”

By this time, the lousy excuse for a security guard wasn’t even listening to me anymore; he was rambling on to my boyfriend about taking off his cap.

A useless effort to try and get a drink of water because the security guard just kept on motioning to the door and telling us to leave.

And what about the other two “authority figures” walking next to him? They didn’t do squat! Come on people, the fountain was only a few steps away, what was I going to do, shove it in my pocket and run away with it??

How incredibly stupid is it to deny students a drink of water just because the annex was “closed”?

Besides, the fountain was right there within their eyesight. What if my life had depended on that drink; what would you do then, Nixon authorities??

It’s one thing to have supervision in school, that’s understandable. But to forbid a stu-

“

(The) security guard wasn’t even listening to me anymore; he was rambling on to my boyfriend about taking off his cap.

Adriana Aun,

February editor

”

dent to have a lousy drink of water is way out of line.

I know wearing a uniform makes you think you’re important and superior to everyone else, but you have no right to act as if you own the school.

Comments? mt_writers@hotmail.com

Letters to the editor are welcome, on any topic of interest to high school students. The Magnet Tribune staff reserves the right to edit them for length, clarity of expression and libel. Send to mt_writers@hotmail.com, bring by The Magnet Tribune classroom or by postal mail.

‘96-97, ‘97-98, ‘98-99, ‘99-00: ‘02-03 First Class Award ‘00-01, ‘01-02 Second Class Award

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

ILPC--’97-98, Award of Honor; ‘98-99, ‘99-00, ‘00-01, ‘01-02, ‘02-03 Award of Achievement

How to respond to The Magnet Tribune: By e-m mail: mt_writers@hotmail.com On the Internet: www.my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt Address: Vidal M. Treviño Magnet School, The Magnet Tribune, 1702 Victoria Street, Laredo, Texas 78040 In person: Journalism classroom/darkroom, or Mark Webber’s box in the attendance office.

“It is the e policy of the e Larredo Inde epe ende ent School Distrrict not to discrrimin nate e on the e basis of race e, colorr, nation nal orrig gin n, gende er, limite ed English proficie ency, or han ndicappin ng con ndition n in its programs.””

Spor ts

20A

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Laredo Bucks player eyes team championship Who is the 32-year-old from Tillsonburg, Ontario, playing for our hockey team?

I’m talking about Jeff Bes, right forward and a captain for the Laredo Bucks.

Thanks to the help of Joe Dominey, director of Broadcasting and Media Relations for the Bucks, I received an appointment to speak with Bes about his career and his plans for the future.

Bes was chosen to represent the Bucks in the 20032004 All-Star game in New Mexico where he performed well.

“It’s a great honor to represent your team, the city you are playing for and to be chosen as the best,” Bes said. “Winning is an achievement and being ranked among the best is great, but being an all-star and a NHL player is a personal achievement” Bes, a 13 year pro, has brought something unexpected for this hockey franchise — a championship!

Sports Zone by

Ed Herrera “All-Star was an acknowledgement but when I got to this team it was about the championship in which Coach Ruskowski set me to,” Bes said.

This year the Bucks are struggling but they have hopes.

“Obviously the problem is scoring goals, but if we keep working hard everyday and bringing a winning attitude to practice we will bring this same attitude to the games,” he said.

After 13 years in the minor leagues does Bess still want to play in the major league NHL (National Hockey League)?

“Of course I would love to play in the NHL. That’s most Canadian boys’ dream, but I know I’m getting old. I’m being realistic.”

Bes replied. “The only thing

I hope right now is that the NHL resumes because they are on strike.

“My plans are to win each and every game and to get into the playoffs, and later on, who knows?” Bes added.

Dominey said Bes is the jokester on the team, and likes to pick on teammates.

Bes secretly confirmed that he does pick on his fellow Buck players and on Dominey.

“Yes, I like to joke around but the best part is that they don’t know it’s me. And I like to pick on Joe Dominey,” Bes said.

“One thing I ask myself, ‘do (fellow players) love their job?’ I love my job,” Bes said. “What is there better to do than to wake up and work on what you like to do best, and that is playing my

Photo courtesy of David Herrera Sports Zone columnist Ed Herrera, left, poses with Joe Dominey, director of Broadcasting and Media Relations for the Laredo Bucks, and Bucks player Jeff Bes during a recent visit to the Laredo Entertainment Center.

sport. The best thing is that

you get paid.”

New England Patriots take win in party atmosphere The Super Bowl is over and the Pats win again.

Jacksonville, Florida: time, money, glamour, fancy hospitality and the attractions of this city were major parts in making this huge football party happen; for a month the sport media were focused and all you could hear people talking about was “Super Bowl.”

Many of us see the Super Bowl as a holiday, familyoriented. Beer, ice-cold refreshments, hot dogs, carne asada and lots of sophisticated and old school food were a part of this “holiday.”

Well, most of us waited for Feb. 6; The New England Patriots won its third Super Bowl title and is the best team in the NFL. Coach Bill Belichick had a successful season this year, and sure is one of the best coaches in the past three or four years.

This Super Bowl was great because in the beginning both teams were play-

Sports Zone by

Ed Herrera ing great but no touchdowns were scored till second quarter and they battled every second, minute and quarter.

With Patriots defensive coordinator, Romeo Crennel’s defense the Eagles couldn’t fly to its fullest, Tedy Bruschi the linebacker and a Pro Bowl player for the Patriots and his teammates did a great job of stopping the strong arm of Donovan M c N a b b and birdlike Brian We s t b r o o k RB, Terrell Owens WR, and Todd Pinkston

WR. On the other side Tom Brady and his Pats like Corey Dillon, RB, and MVP winner Deion Branch, WR, did a great job and scored three touchdowns’.

This Super Bowl was also won by three points again and Adam Vinatieri the Kicker for the Patriots did it once more, for the third

time in his performance in NBA Finals, World Series, the Super Bowl. and more. Be assured I’ll The Pats already did their be watching! job and I think next Awards for all occasions year’s season the teams m i g h t change, and LISD-approved vendor the Super Bowl finalists will be different.

So, this huge game is over and there are many others to come:

Hamilton Trophies

Awards and gifts for students-faculty-staff-administrators *Honor Roll *

Perfect Attendance

*UIL Academics *Clubs

*All Sports *Organizations

*Apple awards

*TEKS Awards

Plaques-Trophies Ribbons-Certificates-Medals-Gifts Free engraving done on premises

Hamilton Trophies 1320 Garden Street, Laredo, 78040 phone & fax 956-724-9990, 722-9463

Valentine’s Section Students remember last year’s Valentine’s Day VMT students were asked, “How did you spend Valentine’s Day last year?”

I spent it with a couple of friends; we went to the movies then to a friend’s house. I didn’t have a boyfriend but it was all good. Claudia I spent the day crying because I got my first pimple. Eve I spent the day with my girlfriend, which we are not even together now. Jerry I spent the day with my best friends and my exboyfriend. B.M. I celebrated with my friends and we had a party.

David Colunga I was with my ex-boyfriend Jose. He gave me roses and we went to the movies. Amanda Garcia I went to the carnival with my ex-boyfriend and he won me a big teddy bear. Brenda Herrera I spent time with my ex-boyfriend and my best friend at my house. Later that day I found out they had kissed. Sandra Reyes I would say it was okay, I was with my exboyfriend and he went to my house. Diana Dominguez I was working at a Buck’s game with the band. It was cool because the guy I liked was also there. J Vani M. Single but happy because I was talking and still talking with the girl I like. Orlando Ivan Soto I was at home with my family, then my boyfriend at the time came to surprise me with a Sad Sam puppy and rose. Later we went to eat and finished off at the carnival. Cassandra Ruby Gamez What I did for Valentine’s Day was spend the day with my friends. A.V. I spent the day with my girlfriend. Nick It was great. My boyfriend asked me out. Kim M. I was chilling with my friends at a skip day. If you were single, you wore black, and if you weren’t single, you wore white. V.O. I didn’t really do too much. I don’t think I actually remember what I did. All I know is that we didn’t have school that day. A.P. It wasn’t such a “special” day so I really don’t remember. Grace Garcia I watched horror movies. Ivana Martinez Hanging out with friends (wishing I had a valentine…j/k!). E.C. I hung out with my friends at a park and had a little party and had fun. Jesus Zavala I went to the carnival with my friends. Janette Treviño I spend my Valentine’s Day with my friends. I had a great time! We had a party and we ate pizza and cupcakes. Annie Miller I spent the whole day with my boyfriend. Zulema Perales.

I was with my girlfriend the whole day. J.R I spend the day with my best friend. Sel G I think I was hanging with some of my close friends. Brian Pollard My boyfriend took me out to dinner at Danny’s.

Heather Reilly My boyfriend took me out to eat at Johnny

The Magnet Tribune -- February 14, 2005

Carino’s and we went to the carnival. It was super nice.

Melissa Reyes I spent last V-day with my boyfriend Chris. We had a carne asada with some friends. It was more romantic than it sounds.

Monica Luna Since me and my friends were all single on Valentine’s Day we all decided to spend it together.

Sammie Alone. P.S. my number is 1-800-Call Me. Alien I went to Johnny Carino’s with my significant other.

MT photo by Jorge J o s h u a Dancause My whole family went out to the movies then went out to eat.

Veronica Martinez Enjoyed solitary quality time by myself…basically just thinking. Christina Gonzalez I went to the movies with my significant other Daniela. H. Arnold Zimmerman Stayed at home listening to some death metal bands. Veronica Pinoco My boyfriend walked me home in the cold, wet weather and on the way surprised me with a bouquet of flowers and a card…how romantic…Not! It was more like dull and boring. Claire Murillo I spent Valentine’s Day at a friend’s house; we had several guys and girls over for a little get together. Cristelle A. I spent my day calling Adriana Aun. John Hinojosa I went to Johnny Carino’s. Lucia I spent it in Dallas with my cousins. Alex I went to the Bucks game with my family. Dell T. I did nothing really special. It was weird that my ex gave me the most adorable horse plush doll but it was spent alone … yeah. Tali I spent the day with my boyfriend. He asked me to go out that day. Arcelia I spent it with my family in San Antonio! Lyssa A. I went to my friend’s birthday party on Valentine’s day. Yvette Garza I had a party at my grandmother’s house. I had a great time at the party! We ate cake, frito pie, and nachos. Leslie Vidales I took my best friend to a dinner, a movie then we went to a party at my friend’s house. Jorge Rivera My boyfriend and I looked at the stars. Zandra Flores

I did nothing, just got treats from my friends. Betty C. I spend it in the carnival with my mom and friends. E.G. Sad because I had broken up with my boyfriend one day before. K.P. Cool because I went to the carnival with my girlfriend. We had a great time and I was afraid of the rides. J/K. It was cool we had the time of our lives.

Anonymous.

I spent Valentine’s Day at home; my boyfriend worked and all I could do was just call him like every 15 minutes just to say “I love you”! But he made it up later that week by taking me out to eat and watching a movie, and of course Negrete/Veronica Lara enjoying each other’s company. C.G. I spent it with my girlfriend. I took her to eat, then to the movies, and I took her back home.

Juan P. Gallegos Jr. I was at work and my boyfriend sent me roses and a big teddy bear. Lauren Palacios I spent it with my friends at the bowling alley.

Emily I spent it with my boyfriend at his house. Marissa Martinez It was at my friend’s birthday, so we went to the movies with some friends and hung out; it was pretty cool. L.M. Spent it in Monterrey with my out-of-town boyfriend. L.R. Valentine’s Day last year was awesome. My friends organized a party and we stayed up all night partying. Jessica Castellanos I spent my Valentine’s Day last year in front of the TV, watching movies like Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles, etc., etc. Christine Luna I was with my friends and had a lot of fun. My friends and I made a party at my cousin’s house. It finished at 1:30 a.m. Karen Lopez I spent it with my family and some friends at my cousin’s house. I had an awesome time. Maricela Rivera.

I spent it with my friends, of course. At that time I didn’t have a special person, but I still ended up having fun. Tina Hernandez I spent it pretty good, I got a teddy bear and flowers from my boyfriend Adriana S. Last Valentines Day my love took me to the movies. Then we went home and watchled some more movies together. Then when he was going home he gave me a good night kiss. T.K. Hinojosa See FIRST, 3B

Joaquin Zapico and Alex Jasso

1B

2B

Valentine’s Section

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Find out if someone is crushing on you VMT students were asked, “Who do you have a I have a major crush on Fabi, she’s so beautiful. secret crush on?”

On Ricardo because we have lots of Chucky, because he’s small and things in common. cute.

John Hinojosa because he’s James Cooper. Why? Just into everything I am. look at him, who wouldn’t Gracie Garcia cause like him? she’s so cool. She totalSean M. because of ly rocks! his personality.

My secret crush is Eliud cause he’s none other than cute and so funny!

Brian Pollard David C. because because he is he is so freaking hot! smart, cute, he Claudia M. she has a great sense has a great personof humor even ality and she’s though he can be super pretty! real sarcastic about Vero Cruz because most things. she rocks my world.

I have a secret Ricky G. because he’s crush on Carlos so awesome!

Rodriguez. He is so Stephen Ford. Because I extremely hot, he’s funny think he is a really nice guy and he’s very good on guitar. I and I don’t know, there’s just completely adore his hair. He has something about a wonderful smile him and I love his MT photo by Jorge Negrete/Veronica Lara and he always smile because of his smells so good.

Melissa Treviño and Justin Balli cute dimples.

Jason R., so not Tony Ojeda; from school. I met because he is nice and cute and he has a nice smile. him about a year ago and he is just easy to talk to George (He already knows!) He is a really nice and and be myself with. I love him to death. funny guy. I really like being with him because he My secret crush is Jessica Treviño because she makes me feel complete. means the world to me.

Cindy Martinez. Her cheeks are so beautiful I have a major crush on Alan Chavez.

Alex T. Because he’s my boyfriend and I would Priscilla Leyva because she’s the most beautiful never cheat on him. person I’ve ever met, inside as well as out. Love you Willie Gallegos. Because he is so cute and nice and Punk! he will always put a smile on your face.

I have a secret crush on Rene Perez from Nixon.

Vicente E. because he’s really funny, and makes He is awesome, cute, sweet and funny. He makes me laugh, he sometimes is very affectionate.” me smile. Might I mention he is a great guy.

I like “burro” a.k.a Martin Gonzalez because he My crush (which isn’t much of a secret) is Xavier has the most beautiful smile, the sexy hair, and Castillo because he gives me those butterflies, he great personality that make each day brighter in my makes me feel special and I love that about him. life.

Miss you Xavi.

Rolando Santos. I don’t know, it’s hard not to like I have the biggest crush on Tony M. because he’s him. just the sweetest, nicest guy and best of all he loves Heh, shh! It’s not a secret. It’s the editor for the me for me.

Feb. issue. Shh!! Don’t tell.

I have a secret crush on Chris. He is from C.H.S. I Adriana Aun, she is so hot. think he is the cutest guy in the world. He is smart, My secret crush is Sara Rodriguez. She means a funny, and friendly. lot to me and I’d do anything for her.

I have a secret crush on Oscar from C.H.S. Yes, my evil puppet master, Adriana A. ‘Cause she Yes, I have a crush on Adriana Aun because she is my lady and master. is so sweet.

Jeff Contreras is my crush because he is the sizI have a crush on Christina M. because she is zle! funny.

Jessica S. Because she is the prettiest girl I have Daniel Villarreal because he seems nice. ever seen.

Daniel Villarreal because of his smile, as well as Maybe! Don’t really know anymore but I think Javi, I don’t know why.

Kesia is awesome.

I have a secret crush on Steven Ford because he Well its not really a secret but I like Joe and those is nice and sweet .He has a great personality, and he of you who know me are probably going to say makes me laugh and smile all the time and besides “STILL!”, but yea I do. he’s cute.

I have a secret crush on baby thug Angel. He’s My secret crush Federico Castillo because he is super cute, smart, and awesome, but he doesn’t really cool and he makes me laugh! know I’m alive. But now I guess he will.

My secret crush that I had since last year is Luis I had a crush on Juan L. since the first time I saw Moreno ‘cuz I think he’s really cute. him.

Jesus Castellanos ‘cause I don’t know … I just

can’t describe the feeling I get when I see him.

I had a crush on a guy named David. I like him because he is attractive and a really cool person.

I like Osvaldo Carrillo because he is really nice and cool person to be around with.

Not much of a secret now, but I have a crush on Alicia Saldaña. I think she is very beautiful and has a good sense of humor.

A guy by the name of Jonathan Siegal. I like him because he is attractive, mysterious, and has a good personality.

An incredibly beautiful girl at Nixon by the name of Olivia San Miguel.

My secret crush is on a guy I know, Chuy. He is very sweet, super nice, and funny. I really like his personality.

I have a little crush on Claudia A. She’s in newspaper. I really think she’s super pretty, besides she’s got such a great personality.

My secret crush is Carlos Salazar.

Jesus Garcia, he’s really cute.

I have a little crush Mike Ochoa because he’s such an awesome and sweet guy who actually listens to what I have to say.

Well it’s not much of a secret though, but it’s Carlos Rodriguez It’s a girl in the morning. Her name is Mirsa.

I have a secret crush on Cindy Sifuentes because she is beautiful and funny. I love her hair and the way she dresses.

I had a secret crush on Sergio Hernandez.

Mike Rodriguez, he’s so…hot!

James Reyna from (Nixon) because he is a really nice guy and is so kind to me J I like Frank Vera because he is a very sweet and adorable guy who I got along with very well and hopefully there can be something in the future.

I like Mike Rodriguez because he has a great personality.

I like Blas Peña because he dresses ghetto, is bald, and has a lot of piercings.

I like Roel because he’s bald and nice.

Johnathan Juarez.

I like Asael Almendariz because he’s cute, funny and nice at times.

Sergio Quiroz because he’s hot.

Rey Cabrera.

Sergio Barron, he’s hot.

I got a crush on my baby my Raysito, my honeybun, Big Ray Ray. Martin Silvia because I like his smile.

My secret crush is Kevin Dunn. I like him because he seems to have a personality and it’s not fake.

Actually I have a crush on this guy named Victor.

The thing is that I don’t know much about him. I guess what attracts me to him is his unique sense of style (his clothing and dreadlocks). He’s super tall and has gorgeous blueish-green eyes. I’m not sure, but I think he’s a senior and this is coming from a freshman, so I think I’m way out of his league. It’s cool though, I just rather admire him from afar.

I have a secret crush on Aaron Lozano. He is such a sweet guy. He’s extremely funny, he’s smart, nice, he’s a real gentleman (one of the last few). Plus he is a total cutie, he has the most gorgeous voice ever, has the best hair and is a badass bassist.

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Internet: http://my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt e-mail: mt_writers@hotmail.com

3B

Students reveal their first true love VMT students were asked, “Who was your first true love and why?”

My first true love was Randy. Claudia Dro, because he was my first. Kim My first true love was my sweety, I’m not going to say who! (Mandy). Jerry My love is Eric G. I’m still waiting so he can talk to me again. B.M. My first true love was Sean because he was sweet. Jess My first true love was Dalia Olivares, because she was my first kiss. Eliud De La Cruz My first true love was my best friend, Albert. He was awesome!!! Vani Martinez.

J.R. was my first true love. He was a cool guy to hang out with and he understood me pretty well.

Amanda Garcia.

Kike Jimenez was my first true love; he was a great guy. Brenda Herrera Jorge Rubio was my first true love because he was great to be with. Sandra Reyes Alex Treviño. He is my boyfriend right now and he has been my first true love. Diana Dominguez My first true love was Angel because he introduced me to a more sensible idea of love, making me enjoy life a lot better. Cassandra Gamez Alejandra Jasso cause she actually thought I was hot. Joaquin Zapico My first true love hasn’t gotten to me yet. I think that all the boyfriends before the true one were preparations for the big one. Jessica Castellanos Xavier Castillo. He brought out the best in me.

Anonymous It was the girl on “Full House” ‘cause I would see her everyday. anonymous Eh, it was Marcos Osoria. Why? …Good question, because he understood me then and he was my best friend. Grace Garcia Rosa Ramirez. She was just the best friend I have ever had. R.P. Jeff Contreras knows how to treat a woman.

C.R. Jesus D. because he like the things I like and he is a good guy. A.V. Ashley because she was cool and was nice to me. Nick Eric S. Lozano because I lasted close to a year with him and I really liked him. S.J. My best guy friend back in freshman year. He always knew how to bring me up when I was sad.

He was always there and always knew what to say. French Franco, he was the perfect guy for me, and I still love him. J.C My first true love was Adrian Martinez because I loved him very much and he was perfect. Cindy S. Kristina Garza. She may have chewed me up and spit me back out, but I loved her. “Billy” My first love was Mario Castillo because he made me laugh a lot and he was always there for me. Heather Reilly My first true love was Julian because he makes me laugh and jokes around. Herlinda Christopher because he was eerie and talented.

Christina Garza Daniela H because she’s the most beautiful girl

Juan P. Gallegos in the whole world. Arnold Zimmerman My ex-boyfriend Carlos because he My first true love is Hector because changed me into a great person he’s a sweet guy and that’s why and opened my eyes to so many I love him. Claribel T things. M.V. My first true My true love was my love…would have to be best friend Gaby from my ex, Priscilla Perez.

Martin. Josh Ramirez J.H.I J o a q u i n My first true love …why?…just was Lauren because! Alex Jasso Lopez. She was My first true love very pretty and would have to be cool to hang out Erik Denney in the with. Robert seventh grade. I I think I’m still guess because he in love…. Tali was my first long My first true relationship and we love was my exhad a lot in common. boyfriend, Vince.

L.P. He really cared Asael because even about me and he was after we weren’t together, I just there for me all the always thought of him aftertime. Alyssa wards. G.S. Gerardo Gonzalez because Cissy was my first true love. She he was nice and sweet. K.P. was the most beauMy first true love for me was MT photo by Jorge Negrete/Veronica Lara tiful girl I had ever this girl here at Adriana Arriaga and Michael Rodriguez seen. I did not believe she would magnet, Alhely. respond to my Since the first time I saw her, I’ve liked her. She is smart, beau- attention but she did and became my girlfriend (steady) throughout my high school years. G.F. tiful and she’s her own person. T.C. Javier Barron because he’s nice, funny, smart My first true love was Omar Sepulveda because he was sweet to me at first I always had a great and everything I wanted and he still is. Marissa time with him. I know that I will never forget about Martinez My first true love was Julian Smith because he him. Sofia Mendoza My first true love was a very special person I was with me through everything. He understood met. He was very nice, sweet, kind, cute, funny, me and we were inseparable until, I moved here to fun and better than all your boyfriends. He would Laredo. It just got complicated. We only wanted write notes to me, buy me gifts, he was everything the best for each other. So we let go. Anonymous.

My first true love was Javier because we had I ever wanted. T.K. Hinojosa Severo was my true love and he will always many things in common. Karen Lopez So far it’s Irvin because we talk to each other be. We started going out since third grade. I think he is the sweetest guy I ever met in my everyday. We’re always together and we have a lot life. I hope one day we can be together because of things in common. Maricela Rivera My first true love was my best friend from sixth we were going around for 5 years. Maricruz de grade He was not like the other guys and ‘till this la Rosa Alex Gaytan, my recent boyfriend. He’s the love day I know he is still something to me. T.H. I would say my first boyfriend Lupe G. He was of my life because I know we are meant to be with each other. Every time we are together we are like an awesome guy and was really nice to me. T.R. little kids. We are always joking around, we laugh FIRST, from page 1B at anything we do or say. I love you Squirley!!!

Last Valentine’s I went to dinner with my love Claudia Gaytan A girl in middle school was always on my mind that I love so much. Then we went for ice cream and I felt that without her my life was empty. and we went to the movies. Afterwards we were on Every time I looked into her eyes I felt like if noth- my roof watching the stars together. Maricruz De La Rosa ing else mattered but her.

Valentine’s Day last year I went to the carnival My first true love was Manuel Ramirez (from Nixon) I don’t know why but I really liked him a with one of my friends but by the end of the night lot. Too bad it never worked out. :( But as long as I had a boyfriend! Jacque Rivera With my love at home telling each other how he’s happy everything is okay.

My first true love would have to be Christina much we love each other and give each other a Gonzales even though it lasted only one month. gift. Jocelyn Garcia I had the most boring one. I spent Valentine’s Jorge Rivera Eric Zacote, we lasted five months. Zandra watching old love movies. I almost jumped off the roof of my house. Vicente Esquivel Flores With my good friends trying to forget that we My first true love was my ex-girlfriend Becky because of how she treated me and what she said. didn’t have Valentines. Cassandra Vara

4B

Valentine’s Section

The Magnet Tribune February 25, 2005

Students tell different ways of asking someone out VMT students were asked, “How would you/did you ask your boy/girlfriend out?”

“Hey baby, if I could change the alphabet I would put U and I together.

Then he asked me out. Jessica G. Hey! You want to go around with me? B.M. I did not ask her out, I was but the rumor spread and she just said yes.

Eric Zamora Back in eighth grade, I asked my friend Christina to ask a girl I liked to be my girlfriend. Her name was Gaby Ramon. Heathcliff Amado Lopez Well, I’d go into a different conversation and maybe before I do I ask, then some questions, and after those I’ll ask them out. Orlando Ivan Soto I’ll go somewhere comfortable, look deep into her eyes and tell her how I feel about her. John Treviño I sang to her. Joaquin Zapico On a special day like Valentine’s Day. Her favorite flowers, some candy, a stuffed animal. Then that certain question, but that won’t happen! Grace G. I got a lawyer to make a contract up, she signed…(j/k). This “experience” has to be one of my best ways of

asking my ex-girlfriend out. After school I went to her house, rang her doorbell, she walks out of her house, at this point I was incredibly nervous, I grab one of her hands, then I asked her to close her eyes if she trusted me. I lean in, gave her a soft kiss on the lips, and popped the question …

“Billy” I would get a rose, give it to her, and ask her out. E.C. Straight up from and be blunt about it, that way it would take him by surprise. French By a letter. Juan Carballo Through the phone because he was afraid to get rejected in person. Z.P. Outside of my aunt’s house at 8:15 p.m. Cindy S. I guess I would take the girl out somewhere special and then just before the date is about to end I’d ask her. Willie Gallegos Secretly in his ear, with music on.

Heather Reilly Well, it was one afternoon when he was walking me home after school. As we were about two blocks away from my house, he got real quiet all of a sudden and then he said “do you wanna be my girlfriend?” The sweet thing about it was that he was really

really shy when he asked; I guess he was afraid I would say no again. Adri A. I held her hand, looked into her beautiful eyes and as the moment ceased I asked, “Would you be my girlfriend?” Arnold Zimmerman I, like, asked her at the movies and she said yes. I was really excited. J.H. Just by asking them regular, “You want to go around with me?” If they don’t ask and I really like him I better not pass up the chance. K.P. I would ask her in a special moment. One we would both remember and look back and say “awww… how romantic.” Anonymous We had class together and we would always talk on the phone and hang out. We started off as really good friends. I liked him ever since the first time I saw him and I really thought he didn’t like me. But he would always tell me “I really like you a lot” all the time, then on December 22, 2003 he asked me out on the most romantic night of my life and I said YES without thinking twice! C.G. I would take him to watch a romantic movie and then go to the arcade with him and ask him. Yvette Garza First of all, I would invite him to a

movie and take him to a fancy restaurant. Then I would kiss him good night and ask him out. Leslie Widales I would take her out to a movie and go for dinner, or we would go dancing.

Jorge Rivera Invite her to the movies and take her to the park and ask her while we are staring up at the beautiful night sky.

Rey Ramos I would say something like, “Hey I’m _____ and I was wondering if you wanted to go out with me. You know since the first time I saw you I really liked you and I was wondering if we could get together.” Juan P. Gallegos In person, after a long, romantic day together. Oscar Cantu I would try to make them feel comfortable and I would be casual about it. S.A. Well I never have asked any of my boyfriends out, but I guess I would ask in person while were on a date.

L.P. I’m not really into the girl asking the guy, but if I did I would find out what interested him. Then I’d ask him out and if it goes well, then I guess we are a couple. Christine Luna.

Most memorable Valentine’s Days are remembered VMT students were asked, “What was your most memorable Valentine’s Day?” When my ex-girlfriend cheated on me that day! Jerry When my ex told me that he loved me. B.M. I’m guessing when we were like in elementary because just thinking about it, it was cute when we were kids giving Valentine cards out and having crushes. Mandi Garcia When I was in kinder a kid had a crush on me. He gave me a lollipop and it said “I love you.” Brenda Herrera My first Valentine’s Day with Jose, he surprised me with a big Winnie the Pooh on my desk. Anonymous.

All my Valentine’s parties when I was in elementary school. Rene Perez When my ex-boyfriend gave me a stuffed monkey that said ,“I love you!”

I guess ‘cause I had never really gotten anything on Valentine’s. Sandra Reyes.

It was freshman year, my boyfriend at the time “Camacho,” promised me that he would bring me something during school, but he couldn’t. Later on that night, he went to my grandmother’s house and said he had gotten me something. When he got out of of the car he had a little pink bear, fake rose and really big balloon, then after the gifts he asked me to be his

girlfriend. At the end I said, “What took you so long?” Cindy Lizette Dominguez It was my eighth grade Valentine’s Day because it was the only Valentine’s when I had a girlfriend, and that day we had a parade. I was drum major and she was carrying the banner. Heathcliff Amado Lopez My most memorable Valentine’s Day was a time when the weather was really bad. I thought I was going to spend time alone at home with nothing special to do. All of a sudden I received a visit from an oldtime friend. He came and with him he brought me a box of chocolates with rose made of silk that I still keep. We spent time together talking and despite that we aren’t dating, he is a good friend. Valentine’s Day wasn’t so bad. =) Cassandra Ruby Gamez When I was 9 years old and I got my first kiss from my best friend! Don’t talk to her anymore. –V.O. The only time I spent Valentine’s Day with someone I loved was with Marcos at the carnival. He worked there and I stayed with him all day. In the end, I told him I loved him and then left for home. Grace When I gave a girl her first valentine gift. Robert T. When I didn’t have a boyfriend and my sister’s boyfriend (all three of us) were at Wal-Mart and we passed by

the Valentine’s section and he made fun of me! Janette Treviño When my loved one and me kissed for the first time. Juan Carballo When I went on that day to a concert. S.G I’d have to say my ninth grade year because I got a dozen roses and a big teddy bear saying, “I love you.”

Heather Reilly Last year of course! Because I spent it with my boyfriend Roger, whom I love tons!! Even though he spoiled me with gifts, it was the time spent with him that I cherished the most. Crystal R. I spent the day with my friends and we were screaming out the car window at every girl we saw. John Hinojosa When I went to Florida. Alex When someone sent me an anonymous card to my classroom in seventh grade. Yvette Garcia When a guy friend sent me a cute little bear with a heart. Leslie Widales When I got a kiss from the girl I liked. Jorge Rivera At the beach at night with my boyfriend. Zandra Flores That I got a big teddy bear my friend gave to me in middle school. That was nice. Betty C. When I went to the carnival with my girlfriend last year and we had a good time. One I will never forget.

Anonymous

My most memorable Valentine’s Day would have to be last year, since it fell on a Saturday and I had to work, my boyfriend sent me 50 white and red roses with a huge care bear. L.P. It was in fifth grade. My mom sent me a dozen roses and she put that it was from a secret admirer. Alytza A. In second grade a guy gave me a teddy bear with chocolates. T.A. Fourth grade because I was asked by two fifth graders to be their valentine. G.S. Probably last year because it was the first year I actually had a valentine, and I also spent it with my best friend so it was fun. E.R. My most memorable Valentine’s Day was when I was going out with Julian Smith. We went out to the movies and went to play basketball after. He and I got to do what we both wanted that day. Anonymous.

Last year because I spend it with my friends and my “secret crush.” (Who knows maybe this year will be better)?

T.H. When an anonymous person sent me a heart-shaped card that had a love poem on it. At the end of the card it said “I love you” by secret admirer.

Annie Miller My most memorable Valentine’s Day was when my boyfriend gave me a big teddy bear and took me out to eat in a fancy restaurant. Elizabeth Garcia.