WELCOME! Vo ol. 12, No. 1
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The Magnet
R I B U N
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Sept. 24, 2004
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
School received new faculty
New block: Longer day for students
9-1 11 performance
BY DELIA DIAZ MT STAFF WRITER
pages 2-3 3A District follows new meal guidelines
page 3A Society, section B. Now on the air... Magnet Connection
90.5 FM “We finally have a voice!”
VMT on the Internet http://vmt.elisd.org
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E-mail The Magnet Tribune mt_writers@hotmail.com
This year LISD high schools have a new bell schedule. An extra block has been added for all students in the morning. Students start class at 8:30 a.m., 30 minutes later than last year. The new block is 45-minutes * "Waffle Iron," 6A * Editor's commentary, 7A long and follows first block. * "The Bug," 7A The school day now ends at 4:30. District construction projects and related transportation issues prompted the change in the bell schedule. At VMT the new block is called Study Skills, and offers students the opportunity to study for the TAKS. The decision of having an extra block was made in late June. The people that were involved in this decision were, “committees, high school principals, magnet administrators, central administration and master teachers,” as VMT Principal Blas Martinez explained because of the low TAKS scores. “The attitude of the freshmen and sophomores towards the test pushed us to make this decision of adding an extra block, even though Cigarroa High School already had something similar,” Martinez said of Cigarroa’s lunchtime class. Nixon fine arts teacher Laura Jennings said the new bell schedule is more difficult than the old one. “It’s a tough schedule to work with. It gets very exhausting for us as teachers. But what can I do? I still have to keep on working,” she said. VMT World Geography teacher Vincent Clark also has mixed feelings about the new schedule. “I don’t like starting late and getting out late. I prefer the old schedule, time wise. But I also enjoy the second block,” he said. LISD’s TAKS scores were low, according to state figures. But if students would make an effort on passing the TAKS this See SCHEDULE, page 3A
MT photos by Ivana Martinez The school observed the third anniversary of 9-1 11 on Friday, Sept, 10 at St. Peter’s Plaza. Above, music instructor Robert Lopez plays Taps. Below, students react during to Lopez’ performance of Taps.
The Magnet Tribune on the Internet: http://my.highschooljournalism.org/tx/laredo/vmt
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The Magnet Tribune Sept. 24, 2004
Past experiences have encouraged art instructor to pursue her career BY DANIELA ROMO MT STAFF WRITER New art instructor Jassie Rios was a student here at Vidal M. Trevino when it first opened. Rios attended V.M.T for three years and graduated from J.W. Nixon High School her junior year. She always has had a passion for art since she could remember. When she was in middle school she picked art as her elective. “It’s been there since I could remember,” Rios said. Rios picked art as a career because it was interesting and it required discipline. She graduated from Southwest Texas State University, now know as Texas State, in San Marcos. Rios has a bachelor of fine arts, with a concentration in studio painting, and a minor in art history. She applied here because she wanted to give back to the school she said has given her so much. Rios wants to open students’ eyes and show them how to appreciate art. She feels great about working at a school that taught her so much. “It feels like I am at home. It’s comfortable,” Rios said. Before teaching at the magnet school she
worked at the Laredo Morning Times as a graphic designer, the Gallery of Lombradi in Austin, and faux-finishing walls as an interior painter. She has exhibited some of her work at Southwest School of Art and Craft (San Antonio), Gallery of Lombradi (Austin), Gallery X (San Marcos), Teaching Gallery (LCC), and Laredo Center for the Arts. Rios said her V.M.T instructors were department head Armando Hinojosa and Mickey Rodriguez, now at Alexander High. “They inspired me in many ways. They showed me how to be successful and all the elements of art. They also taught me how to think outside the box,” she said. Rios has seen many changes to V.M.T over the past decade. “Some of our buildings have been taken away, visual art is at a college level instruction, and the teachers have changed,” she added. MT photo by Daniela Romo New art teacher Jassie Rios stands in front of some of her students’ art work in her art classroom on the second floor of the Art/ITV building.
Ex-Air Force pilot stays active by teaching others World Geography BY MANUEL MARTINEZ MT STAFF WRITER James Larry Turner, a retired Air Force pilot instructor and man of many accomplishments, has recently begun teaching Pre-AP World Geography here this year. Turner was born in Houston, Texas and moved at an early age to Arkansas where he attended high school and later college. After he attended the University Of Arkansas he transferred to TAMIU. “After high school I attended the University of Arkansas where I got my bachelors degree in science and education, then transferred to what is now TAMIU and received my master’s degree,” Aside from going to college, Turner has also spent much of his life in the Air Force not only flying F16 Falcon fighter jets himself, but teaching others how to fly as well. “I spent many years training soldiers to fly and traveling around the world to places like Europe and Asia.” It was during his time as a pilot instructor that he noticed the sense of “accomplishment” that he got from teaching these men to fly that led him to consider teaching. “I just really liked the feeling I got from teaching others” he said.
After 38 years of service to his country, Turner retired from the Air Force and became an airline pilot. “I was an airline pilot for about five years then I retired” After retirement, Turner said he wanted to stay active, and what better way to do that than to be around teenagers all day. After teaching at Lamar, Christen, United, and doubling as a coach and teacher at Martin, he came to V.M.T. Since joining the faculty here, Turner has enjoyed teaching and getting to know his students and fellow teachers. “I like it here; the students here are good kids and smart as well. I find it interesting how three schools come together like this,” Turner explained. Turner has been teaching for 11 years and can be found teaching study skills and PreA.P. World Geography.
MT photo by Lori Zamarripa James L. Turner describes his experiences in the Air Force during an interview under the Art-C Communications gazebo.
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The Magnet Tribune Sept. 24, 2004
District changes menus due to new standards BY CINDY SIFUENTES JORGE NEGRETE MT STAFF WRITERS
AND
Changes in state standards for school meals are the reason for changes in breakfast and lunch, a district official said. Margaret Lopez, director of the district’s Child Nutrition Program, explained the changes in school meals recently to VMT journalism students. The changes include exceeding state requirements for school meals. “Every 60 seconds someone dies of heart disease due to the great amount of fat being consumed,” Lopez said. Nowadays life expectancy for children and young adults is shorter than what it used to be 10 years ago, she said. Fifteen years ago, Diabetes Type Two was not heard of in young adults and children. Now that disease is more common in children and young adults due to the obesity problems people in the state are facing. Lopez said some of the changes students may have already noticed are the baked and low-fat potato chips, more frequent offerings of fruits and vegetables, and 1 percent or skim milk offered. Whole milk was taken away due to the great amount of saturated fat it contains. Students are to be served 855 calories for lunch, she said. She said students who do not like
the meals being served at the cafeteria can bring their own food and drinks, but the food they bring may not be shared among other students. Lopez explained fresh fruits are now served three times a week for lunch and two times for breakfast. “Fruits contain a large amount of water, which fills you up more than other foods,” she said. Lopez added that breakfast is very important for learning and brain function. “People are more mentally active when they eat breakfast. That is why when you have state exams, you get breakfast to raise scores,” Lopez said. Food fundraisers on high school campuses have not been restricted, but vending machines that sell foods of minimal nutritional value, such as soft drinks, are going to be taken away. “Is it worth making money at the expense of someone else’s health?” Lopez asked. Another reason the state created the new regulations is because of the money that has been spent for health care purposes. “More than $100 billion are being used on health care when it could be used for educational purposes,” she explained. The district’s intention, Lopez said, is to help lower the risks of diseases that can arise from obesity in young adults and children in Texas,
New vocal instructor brings experiences to VMT students BY GRACE GARCIA MT STAFF WRITER New vocal instructor Alejandra Rodriguez has taught not only vocals but also speech, Spanish, and cheerleading. In UIL she has taught poetry and debate. Although she wasn’t in any choir class while attending school, she used her musical talents at home. Rodriguez’s mother urged her to play the piano at a young age. “You’re learning to play the piano at five,” she said her mother told her. Rodriguez has been a vocal instructor for 34 years now, starting on her 35th. “I guess because I come from a musical family,” Rodriguez said of why she chose to teach music.
Among some of the colleges she attended include Texas Women University, North Texas, LCC, and Laredo State University. “I like everything, basically romantic music,” said Rodriguez when asked for her favorite genre of music. Her plans for the year include challenging students individually so they can eventually work as groups. Rodriguez shared the reason she teaches: “I think that the advantage of being a teacher are the rewards but they are not always visible. When one student that has graduated and gotten a career comes back to visit me [the teacher] and says: ‘Thank you, if it hadn’t been for you....’ It’s the greatest satisfaction and reward in itself to a teacher.”
MT photo by John Hinojosa Margaret Lopez, director of the district’s Child Nutrition Program, addresses journalism students on the recent changes to the breakfast and lunch menus.
MT photos by staff members Healthier meals now being served to VMT students include, left, a breakfast of a croissant, cereal and low-ffat milk, and a spaghetti lunch with broccoli, salad and fruit cocktail.
SCHEDULE, from page 1A schedule might change, Martinez said. VMT students had different reactions to the new schedule: Eric Chavez, Nixon sophomore: “It was better last year because I had more time in the afternoon.” Kayra Dueñas, Nixon sophomore: “I am too exhausted when I get to my house. And then I have band practice. I don’t even have time to do my
homework.” Vanessa De La Cruz, Nixon, senior: “Well, that was wrong. We’re accustomed to the traditional schedule.” Vicky Cortez, Martin sophomore: “I like it because I have more time in the morning. I don’t have to wake up so early. But at the same time I don’t like that we come out so late.”
Comparing bell schedules Last year 8:00: Teachers in 8:10-9:40: 1st Block 9:45-11:15: 2nd Block Lunch 12:35-2:05: 3rd Block 2:10-3:40: 4th Block 4:00: Teachers out
This year 8:00: Teachers in 8:30-9:55: 1st Block 10:00-10:45: 2nd Block 10:50-12:15: 3rd Block Lunch 1:25-2:55: 4th Block 3:00-4:30: 5th Block 4:45: Teachers out
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The Magnet Tribune Sept. 24, 2004
‘Case Closed’ solves mysteries; ‘Rave Master’ has teen rating Case Closed Welcome to another year of anime reviews and news. It’s been a long summer and that means new anime for you and me. The first show I’m going to review is called Case Closed and it is airing on Cartoon Network on a later night block called Adult Swim. This show has about 300 episodes, which the most in an anime series. But each and every episode has a mystery to solve. We start off with a character named Jimmy Kudou. He is a top student at Titan High School and a bright detective.
Anime 101 by
April Magaña On a certain case he follows a pair of people in black suits, and it just so happens that these people committed a sinister crime and wanted him dead. Instead of Jimmy being dead, he was transformed into a kid. Now he takes up a new identity called Conan Edogawa in order to protect those he cares about from the bad guys who
changed him. Case Closed is a neat little show that works your mind and keeps you hooked until the last episode. The crimes to solve are interesting and actually get you into the show! The cases that come up are highly addictive and make you want to solve them. Every episode is worthy of watching. So get the VCR
ready and enjoy Case Closed. Rave Master When I saw how interesting this show looked, I said to myself, “I have to review this anime!” Rave Master is your basic anime but with a few twists in it. It’s not really a kid’s show since it does carry a teen rating, but anyone over the age of 10 can watch the show. As I watched this show I feel in love with the characters and the plot line. (At times it can be clichéd.) It’s about a boy named Haru Glory who lives with his sister named Cattleya in a
place called Garage Island. They fished out an item called a Plue. The pair encounters a character named Shiba. She entrusts them with something called a Rave Stone, or better known as the Holy Bring. To make a long story short, they have to collect four more Rave Stones in order to defeat the mother of all evil, Sinclair. This anime shouldn’t be missed, yet it’s not on the same ranks of Cowboy Bebop or Escaflowne. Nonetheless, Rave Master will quench you anime thirst if you’re wanting to kill time.
‘The Exorcist, The Beginning’ shows Father Merrin fighting evil “The Exorcist, The Beginning” reflects the traces of Father Merrin and his first encounter with Satan. This event happens in Africa after World War II. The movie, which stars Stellan Skarsgard (Father Merrin), Father Merrin decides to go to a remote region in Kenya from his native country of Holland. While staying in Kenya, he
Coming Attractions by
Robert Tenorio leads a group of people to a excavated area of the Byzantine Church. Beneath the church, an ancient crypt surfaces. Merrin notices that he is in the path of great evil. Many strange things start to
occur. Madness is in the bodies of British soldiers and in local villagers. Then, there is a girl named Sarah (Izabella Scorupco). Satan has possessed her into doing many evil things.
This causes much pain for her family because her family is very religious and very devoted to God. Father Merrin must find away to get rid of the evil that has possessed her. He starts using many holy prayers and many different rites. Sarah goes through much pain and hardships during this terrible ordeal because good is fighting evil, and she is right in the middle of this
terrible fight. Father Merrin also feels very bad for her because he does not wish for any evil to happen to an innocent person. So, what do you think happens to Sarah? Does she stay possessed or does Father Merrin cure her. Well, you will just have to watch the terrifying and horrific movie, “The Exorcist, The Beginning.” It is a movie you do not want to miss.
Sophomore theatre student is glad to be back Welcome back to another school year at VMT. Hopefully everyone is well rested and ready to work after their summer vacation. I know I am, I did nothing all summer. Anyways, I know that a lot of people have been inquiring as to being interviewed so, if you would like to be in the paper come by the newspaper room and ask for me. Or simply just ask me inbetween classes. We welcome Samantha Flores, sophomore theatre student, to the first interview of the school year. Q. What were your first impressions of the first day of school? A. I was excited. I had been indoors and bored all summer and I couldn’t wait to see all my friends. I guess you can say that was what I was looking forward to the most this coming school year. Q. Did you go through “schedule hell”? A. Yes, as a matter of fact I did and it was super frustrating. I had to go and change my schedule because I didn’t have a second block. Another thing that really annoyed me was the fact that every time that it was my
commotion. Q. Have you taken any by other electives other than theatre? A. No, I’ve turn, they would send me to the only been part of theatre in my two back of the line because I didn’t have years here. a number. Q. Do you believe that the new bell Q. Do your counselors pay atten- schedule/extra block is a hassle? tion to you at your home school? Why or why not? A. No, not really. They don’t pay A. Actually, as surprising as this attention to us as much as they may seem, no, I don’t believe that the should. Probably because they’re 50 minute block is a nuisance. I always too busy talking to each believe that it’s fine the way it is. It other, drinking coffee, and taking makes time go by faster. breaks. They seem to be too busy for Q. Do you think it’s fair that we no us. longer get lunch (at VMT) in the Q. What do you think are the dif- afternoon? Why or why not? ferences that set VMT and your A. No, I believe it to be totally home schools apart? unfair. I mean, even though this new A. We don’t necessarily have as block is good in a way, it takes away many rules and they’re not as strict from our lunch time. It isn’t fair here as they are at our home cam- because we don’t have the time to puses. For example, the boys don’t eat at out home schools. have to tuck in their shirts. Then Q. What are your goals/ambitions another, the people are actually for this school year? smart here. There’s nobody to be A. Perhaps just to submit a few bugging the teacher and creating things to the Tapestry (creative writ-
The System John Hinojosa
MT photo by John Hinojosa
SAMANTHA FLORES
ing magazine) such as plays or scripts, stories, and maybe a picture or two. Also, just to pass to my junior year.
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The Magnet Tribune Sept. 24, 2004
Papa Roach album relates to military people; MTV music awards Artist: Papa Roach Album/single: Getting Away With Murder Label: Geffen Records Rating: 4 Homicides out of 5 Web site: www.paparoach.com The guys from the streets of an unknown town with the name of the greatest insect have done it again, with songs with different views. The song I got a chance to hear is “Getting Away With Murder,” which is also the title of their new album. The song is about rational feelings and guilt, yet expressing hate within the song. I have to say it’s different, compared to the other music they have performed. The
Rock review by
Veronica Cruz main song presents what the whole album is going to be about. That is to say, this album is what band members have done during their long break, which is what people like us do in real life. This song relates to military people who are fighting right now far away, for government issues. The new album is very interesting to me, and makes me ponder its messages. --Artist: Ashlee Simpson Album: Autobiography
Label: Geffren Records Rating: 3 pieces out of 5 Web site: www.ashleesimpsonmusic.com What I have heard in some of her music is she nags too much. The song I think is good is “Pieces of Me.” No nagging there. It’s her explanation of how she can be at times, or what she does is being human like everyone else in this world. The rest is okay but not that great, in my view. --The MTV 2004 VMA’s
(Video Music Awards) list. This year’s VMA’s seemed odd. For it being at Miami, it was an acceptable show but I expected more from MTV. The performance I liked was the 3-band show: Jet -- “Are You Gonna Be My Girl,” Hoobastank -- “The Reason,” and Yellowcard -“Ocean Avenue.” All short but still satisfactory for the limited time they had to perform. It really showed they had little time to do their thing. It all seemed fast motion to me. Some awards won were * Jet, for Best Rock Video * Yellowcard, for MTV2 Award. * Best Female Video, Beyonce “Naughty Girl.” * Best Group and Pop Video
– No Doubt, “It’s My Life.” I’m so glad they won two awards. All those 17 years they’ve been together does pay off. * Best New Artist In a VideoMaroon 5, “This Love.” * Breakthrough Video- Franz Ferdinand, “Take Me Out,” that song is the bomb. * Viewer’s Choice- Linkin Park, “Breaking the Habit.” I really believe MTV did a good job but everyone during the show rushed instead of relaxing for a while. Also I’m a little upset because I surely think that the Yeah Yeah Yeahs should have had a chance to win an award this year. Well, maybe next year there might be some award for them.
‘The Three Musketeers’ tells story of the young hero D’Artagnan Alexandre Dumas’ story of The Three Musketeers mixes bits of 17th century French history with events that are works of Dumas’ mind. D’Artagnan, the young hero of the story, is heading to Paris to try to become a musketeer under Captain Trèville, the leader and most respected of the musketeers. On his way to Paris riding on an embarrassing pony his father gave him, D’Artagnan remembers his father’s last words to him before he left home, stops at an inn, but when no one comes to service him he hears a gentleman insulting him through an open window. D’Artagnan is not one to take an insult lightly, tries to rebuke the man and then challenges him to a duel, but this unknown gentleman lets his three others fight D’Artagnan. During the fight
Bookworm by
Ernesto Cavazos D’Artagnan’s sword gets broken, and then he gets hit in the head hard enough to bring him down with blood on his forehead and near fainting. The host, worried about the growing crowd, orders D’Artagnan to be brought into the inn and to be placed in a room. The gentleman curious about his encounter asked the host some questions concerning D’Artagnan, only to be told he had a letter addressed to Captain Trèville. The gentleman, surprised, takes the letter and after telling a woman he calls Milady to head back to England and send word
when the Duke of Buckingham leaves London, while he leaves for Paris. D’Artagnan awakes just in time to see Milady and the gentleman leave only to have to faint again and to have to stay at the inn for a couple of days. But when time came to pay his bill D’Artagnan realizes his letter to Captain Trèville is gone and finds out the gentleman stole it. Now D’Artagnan, in a rage, heads to Paris to meet Captain Trèville without the letter, hating the gentleman even more. Upon his arrival D’Artagnan sells his pony so he can repair his sword and have enough money to pay
for a room. D’Artagnan now ready heads to meet with Trèville so he can try to become a musketeer. But while waiting to get an audience D’Artagnan hears the musketeers openly criticizing the cardinal and making jokes about him. When D’Artagnan finally gets an audience with Trèville, Trèville calls Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. Two of the three musketeers came immediately. After passing them for the fourth time Trèville starts scolding his two musketeers for being arrested by some of the cardinal’s guard (which the musketeers have an on going rivalry with). But upon hearing the truth from his musketeers Trèville softens and when Athos came still greatly wounded from when he fought with the cardinal’s guards Trèville is
moved by Athos courage and loyalty. But soon after Athos faints due to a loss of blood and a surgeon is called for him. After the surgeon relates to the others that the wound isn’t serious and the blood loss made him faint, Trèville returns to finally have his audience with D’Artagnan. Trèville takes an immediate liking to D’Artagnan but D’Artagnan cannot join until he serves two years under another regiment, several campaigns, or certain brilliant actions. Knowing what he must do to obtain a musketeer’s uniform makes D’Artagnan want the uniform even more. He told Trèville the events that lead him to lose his letter addressed to Trèville. Trèville fearing D’Artagnan was a spy from the cardinal See BOOKWORM, page 8A
‘Atelophobia,’ fear of imperfection, shows through makeup I know the thought is going about your head trying to figure what atelophobia is, so here it goes. Atelophobia is the fear of imperfection. Have you ever just sat there in class and looked over your shoulder only to find a group of girls so focused on their makeup? Yes, it’s rather rude of them especially when the teacher is standing in the middle of the class trying to
Observations by
Grace Garcia explain him/herself for the second time, trying to help students understand the lesson. Yet some of us even take that second chance for granted. These are the same girls who hide from the rain at times because they are
afraid of damaging the artwork displayed on their face. Don’t get me wrong, most of these ladies look beautiful, but has it ever occurred to any of us, or to any of them, that natural beauty is
the key to true beauty? Is it possible that these ladies we speak of have set in their mind that makeup makes them beautiful, more lady-like, or perfect? Sometimes makeup hides beauty -- I’m talking about the girls that just drown in a pool of makeup with colors splashed everywhere. Some girls tend to wear two colors of blush, five colors of eye shadow, eyeliner, and glitter everywhere to
top it all off. I say, let’s minimize the time spent looking into a mirror during class and wait until the end or please excuse yourself to show your respect, not only to the teacher, but also to those students who try to make the effort into learning. If you’re ever in doubt thinking you’re not beautiful just remind yourself, “I am beautiful.”
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The Magnet Tribune Sept. 24, 2004
Three new teachers can offer students diversity of experiences The best way to start the school year is with new teachers here at V.M.T. The three new teachers are the most we have received at one time, since the school’s second year in 1993. The Magnet Tribune welcomes Jassie Rios, art; James Turner, AP World Geography; and Alejandra Rodriguez, vocals. Jassie Rios, a former art student, would like to give back to the school that gave her so much, by opening student’s eyes and showing
EDITORIAL
The Magnet Tribune welcomes three new teachers to our school. them how to appreciate art. Her passion for art is what influenced her to become an art instructor. Rios received her bachelor’s degree in fine arts with a minor in art history, from Southwest Texas State University, (now Texas State in San Marcos). James Turner, a retired Air
Force pilot instructor, has come to V.M.T. after teaching for 11 years, at several Laredo schools. Turner was in the Air Force for 38 years and worked as an airline pilot for 5 years, before retiring. He received his bachelor’s degree in science and education from the University of Arkansas, and then attended TAMIU for his master’s degree. Alejandra Rodriguez, former choir teacher at Cigarroa H.S., would like to challenge students (at
V.M.T.) individually so they can learn to work as a group. Rodriguez has received instruction from Texas Women University, North Texas, LCC, and Laredo State University (now TAMIU). Rodriguez has been teaching for 34 years. The Magnet Tribune once again welcomes our three new teachers. We are glad to have you here and hope to have you at V.M.T. for many years to come. Comments: mt_writers@hotmail.com
Students disagree with district’s new, longer bell schedule We asked V.M.T. students, “What do you think about the new hours and schedule that L.I.S.D has come up with?” This is what they had to say: “I think they should have started at 8 a.m. so we would be out by 4 p.m. That way we could go home at an early time and we would have more time to do our 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 of charge 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. 1; September 24, 2004 Editors of this Issue: Editors’ group Editorial Board: Adriana Aun, Ivana Martinez, Jessica Rodriguez, Sara Rodriguez, Daniela Romo, Melissa Vazquez; 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. Member: National Printed at Alice Scholastic Press Newspapers Inc. Association Copyright ©2004: Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts and The Magnet Tribune
homework and to relax,” Emily Perez, sophomore. “I think we should go in at 8 a.m. because it is just easier we have been doing it ever since elementary school and it is just traditional. I don’t even understand why they changed it in the first place, but what ever the reason was, I say it was wrong,” Phillip Wilkins, sophomore. “I think that is a bad decision because all of us were really used to going in and out at the regular times. Now that they changed it has a bit more pressure on us and has us stressed out. Mostly because now we have less time to do our homework plus we have a lot of extra curricular activities to keep up with,” Anonymous, junior. “Who ever came up with that idea was really wrong because it is really not fair for the students especially because we don’t have time anymore to do other things we want we really have to focus on doing our homework now,”Anonymous, Freshman. “For people who are in band, it doesn’t really benefit them to enter at 8:30 because they ask us to go in at 8 anyway. After that,we have practice after school from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. which does not give us time to do things at home like homework, clean etc. The 55-minute class is also a waste of time because nobody takes it seriously.” Carolina Villarreal, sophomore. “First of all, they want us to come in at 8:30 a.m. so people
who were late last year aren’t late this year. That doesn’t work; people still get late and also people who go to V.M.T. get out at 4:30 p.m. Why? Because by the time the buses get full, it is already 4:40 p.m. and when we get to our parent schools it is 5 p.m. When I get home I don’t have enough time to do homework because I got chores and things after school. So, in other words, it’s not helping,” Deyanira Gomez, sophomore. “I think it’s really bad. It messed up everything for all the schools. The reason I get
A Penny for your Thoughts by Irma Hernandez mad about the schedule is because we don’t have time to do homework and other activities,” Joshua Ramirez, sophomore. “I suggest they change the schedule back to how it was because now it’s putting too much pressure on the students. Also mostly nobody eats because of the reduced
time,” Karla K. Cepeda, sophomore. “I think it’s not working because I get home late and don’t have time to do my homework. Plus, I have practice after school. By the time I finish everything it’s to late at night and I get sleepy during school,” Gracie Posadas, sophomore.
Waffle Iron by
Veronica Cruz (story); Nick Lopez (art)
And who knows the answer? I’m too tired to remember.
7A
The Magnet Tribune Sept. 24, 2004
New bell schedule brings hassle to some students New school year, new hassles. That’s right -- the new school year has just begun, and we have a long way ahead of us. Even before the school year starts, we are psychologically prepared for what awaits; much paperwork to be filled out, the dreaded long lines and hours worth of wait to pick up our schedules only to get them completely “messed up” in return. We’ve all been there, right? And then it’s another couple of hours to wait and try to fix and make
changes to our schedules, for those who need them, but even then many aren’t able to remedy this problem before school begins. A quick example, two friends of mine had to wait until the first day of school to try and get things done; they spent their first day of school getting schedule changes. Doesn’t that seem like a waste of valuable time? What’s even worse is that it only gets scarier when school actually begins. Maybe some of you noticed that this year there was especially a lot more trou-
ble with the entire “schedule mess”. At Nixon, even the Annex cafeteria remained closed for about three days or so after school began; it was off limits for lunch purposes. Students also had to be walking out of class because they had to go and “change their schedule”. Others didn’t even have a fourth and fifth block. Which brings me to my next point: the “extra block” we now have to deal with. I think it’s safe to say that most of us feel that having a fifth block is a real pain; however, let’s not forget
The Bug by
Adriana Aun that it was brought about for a reason and not just out of the blue to irritate us. But even then, we can’t help feel affected by such a change. Now, school ends until 4:30 p.m., as I’m sure you’ve noticed, and students with extra-curricular activities arrive at their homes even later than before, which only leaves a certain limited amount
of time for homework and barely enough time to enjoy ourselves. But let’s not be pessimistic here; even though it might not have been the best start for some of us, we have to keep a positive attitude and outlook for the new year and try to make the best of it; after all, it is the last year here for some of us.
Changing bell schedule presents a variety of challenges BY ADRIANA AUN, IVANA MARTINEZ, JESSICA RODRIGUEZ, SARA RODRIGUEZ, DANIELA ROMO AND MELISSA VAZQUEZ With the beginning of a new school year, it was a shock for some of us to find an extra class added to our schedules. When we noticed this change the thought that popped into our heads was, “extra time in school?” Due to the schedule change, resulting from the district’s construction program and related transportation issues, many of us have not yet become accustomed to the idea of staying in school until 4:30. One of the great advantages to this new 5 block day is that this extra class can help some of us to prepare for TAKS and for seniors to finish any classes they may need for graduation. One of the several disadvantages is that for those of us who are
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Editor’s Commentary by the editors 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.
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involved in sports, clubs, UIL, have an after school job, or are a part of any other after-school activity the new change has made it very difficult to keep up with homework or to have personal time due to our arriving at our homes at a later time. In one of our assistant editor’s situation, he is no longer able to volunteer with the athletic trainers, like he did last year, due to school ending at 4:30 and having to attend college afterwards. Another disadvantage is that it is very difficult for those of us who attend
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magnet in the afternoon. By the time we arrive at our parent schools it is close to 5 p.m. and most club meetings are usually over. The schedule change also affects those of us who are accustomed to eating at 11:30 because now lunch begins an hour later. It is obvious that this new schedule is causing some problems and is making many of us discontent. We all have different
ROMO
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opinions about the new schedule change. To some of us it is a drastic unnecessary change and to others a great advantage, but we have no choice but to grow accustomed to it. Although these changes might not be satisfying to most of us, some believe that it will soon become routine, once we have gone through it every day. Comments: mt_writers@hotmail.com
The extra class can help some of us to prep are for TAKS and for seniors to finish any classes they need for graduation. --(A) disadvant age is that for those of us who are involved in sport s, clubs, UIL or any other af ter-school activity the new change has made it very dif ficult to keep up with homework... The Editors
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Letters to the editor are welcome, on any topic of interest to 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.
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8A Race car driver ‘Schumi’ becomes invincible The Magnet Tribune Sept. 24, 2004
Michael Schumacher, 35, known as “Schumi” to his fans, is a German citizen who has been successful, a person who has followed his dreams and has turned them into reality, a person who has been the idol to many drivers and people. Michael Schumacher is the best race car driver and the most highly paid driver in Formula 1 and in the world, and also one of the wealthiest athletes of the world with a salary of $30 million a year. As a kid Schumacher started to race in the streets with a go-kart his dad
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Ed Herrera bought him. Later on he really got interested in racing and started to compete against kids his age. He won the title and moved to a higher category but his dad couldn’t afford the sponsorship. People helped him and sponsored him and since he has dedicated his life in the world of racing. Just a few weeks ago in Monza, Italy Schumacher made history
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in the world of racing when he won his fifth championship with Ferrari and his seventh overall, making him the best driver in the world, setting a record which no one has done before in the history of Formula 1. Not drivers like Juan Manuel Fangio, Aryton Senna, Nikki Lauda, and others drivers that have been successful in this sport. Since 1991 he has been
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ums and till now no one has taken the crown off. After his seventh championship, rumors stated he there was a possible retirement. He denied that, saying he is to young and has more to give and that by the time passes he is getting more experience. People ask themselves is Schumi satisfied with this or is he going for the eight championship? We don’t know, but maybe we could watch him race on the 26 of this month over at satellite in SPEED channel where the Grand Prix would be held at Shanghai, China: while the season is not over yet.
BOOKWORM, from page 5A .becomes suspicious of D’Artagnan when D’Artagnan sees through the window the gentleman who stole his letter and sets off immediately after him, leaving Trèville. On his way down the stairs D’Artagnan bumps into Athos’ wounded shoulder-causing Athos to challenge D’Artagnan to a duel at noon only to run into Porthos, finding that Porthos’ new baldric is splendid on the outside but very ordinary on the inside. Again in his haste D’Artagnan lets his mouth go and got another challenge from Porthos at the same place but at one. Finally reaching the street D’Artagnan didn’t see the gentleman anywhere. Upon realizing that he just made two duels with musketeers D’Artagnan decides to try to return a handkerchief to Aramis only to upset him
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competing, struggling and fighting for that championship till 1994 and 1995 when he stunned the Grand Prix world by winning two consecutive Formula 1 championship beating great drivers with great teams, racers you would never imagine he would beat. After these championships a great team and auto manufacturing firm, Ferrari, hired him in 1996 and where he still remains, but as he was hired Schumacher became a ghost by stopping the wins and the championships. In 2000 he suddenly exploded with 82 wins, 62 pole position, and 136 podi-
by doing it in front of two guardsmen. D’Artagnan tries to apologize but only finds himself in a third duel at two. This story of following D’Artagnan only becomes more interesting as time goes on. The duels with the musketeers are
only the prelude to much more intrigue and many plots set by the cardinal that the young hero of the story must discover. This book is a definite for anybody who loves to read. It is long though but if you really like to read it will go by really fast.