The Magnet Tribune

THE MAGNET TRIBUNE A state- and nationally recognized student newspaper

Vol. 17, No. 1 November 5, 2009 Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications & Fine Arts, 1701 Victoria St., Laredo Texas 78040

40,000

Force of Creation

pennies raised

BY ADRIAN REYNA MT STAFF WRITER

AP Art History offers college credit

page 5 Speakers recall Sept. 11 memories

page 6 School celebrates Mexican Independence

Pennies for Tennies raised $400 to help children with shoes and eyeglasses.

“I extend a gracious “thank you” to all the students, teachers, and staff for their selflessness and willingness to give their time and effort for the benefit of students in need,” Gerardo Flores, Quinta Essentia sponsor and English III instructor, said.

This fundraiser was a project of Quinta Essentia service club.

Teachers who participated were Gerardo Flores, James Buckley, Mark Webber, Director Dr. Martha Villarreal, Cindy Hernandez, Sonya Sanchez, David Blumberg, and Dr. Mary Carroll.

Flores explained how the fund raiser started in Laredo.

“The Women’s City Club has been promoting and sponsoring the fund raiser that coordinates with both L.I.S.D and U.I.S.D,” Flores said.

Flores appreciated the faculty and staff that contributed to last year fund raiser.

“VMT raised $511 dollars last year; this year I hope VMT will reach or surpass that goal,” Flores said before the start of this year’s collection.

Flores first heard about Pennies for Tennies from the home schools and decided Quinta Essentia should join in.

“The home schools were participating in fund raising the year before last and we

MT photo by Adrian Reyna Students and teachers contributed 40,000 pennies -$400 -- to the Pennies for Tennies fundraiser for the Women’s City Club.

Pennies for Tennies Top five in collections Amount collected

$400.00

Gerardo Flores, English classes Teens in the Driver’s Seat James Buckley, English classes Mark Webber, journalism classes Dr. Marta Villarreal, director

$207.19 95.00 33.35 27.83 15.00

Other participants: Cindy Hernandez, social studies classes Sonya Sanchez, broadcasting classes David Blumberg, Art History/technology Dr. Mary Carroll, piano studies classes Source: Gerardo Flores decided to join in and help out the Women’s City Club to help students that don’t have the means to buy shoes and other supplies,” Flores said.

Flores discussed the history of Pennies for Tennies here at school.

“Pennies for Tennies has been here at VMT for two complete years and continues this coming year,” Flores said.

Flores explained that Pennies for Tennies is a local fund raiser.

“It’s a local fund raiser

between both school districts, I don’t really know if it goes beyond our city,” Flores said.

Not only shoes but eye glasses are given to children.

“Students who do not have the means to buy shoes or eyeglasses will benefit from Pennies for Tennies. Of course, if more money is raised, then more students will benefit. It may be called Pennies for Tennies but it’s also used to buy other supplies, not just tennies,” Flores said.

Flores was impressed to how students responded to help with the fund raiser.

“I’m very impressed with the students that helped out and are helping out to raise money for a great cause. This really says a lot about the students’ character we have here at VMT,” Flores said.

New chief eyes improvement

BY JON COX MT STAFF WRITER

page 7 Ana and Sandra talk about Michael

page 9

VMT on the Internet

http://vmt.elisd.org The world’s link to you -----

E-mail The Magnet Tribune at

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RSS feeds available at the Web site.

Dr. A. Marcus Nelson has completed his life-long dream of becoming a superintendent. He was hired as LISD superintendent last summer.

“I’m very comfortable in south Texas since I was born and raised in San Antonio,” he said recently in his office.

The district made a good first impression, Nelson said.

“LISD has a strong, vibrant community, that is focused and committed to making sure that our stu-

“Dream big no matter what. Whatever goal you have, accomplish it, and hard work always pays off,” -Dr. A. Marcus Nelson dents do the best they can do,” Nelson said.

He said his reason for coming down to Laredo was because, “Laredo kids need love too.”

“As a career educator, the job has always been the same, but always on another level. Regardless of where you go it will always be about the students,” Nelson stated.

His reason for helping is very similar to his instructing philosophy.

“I believe in a relationship with students. In other words, the material the teachers teach has to mean something to the students. It has to be personal,” he said.

Nelson’s philosophy is very hands on, by getting to know the teacher and students at the many schools.

He regularly visits the LISD campuses.

Nelson said he has lofty goals for the district.

“I want to work with all LISD campuses to seek and

obtain all required mandates set forth by the Texas Education Agency. I also want the district to be number one in the state, by having the students learn on a level they have never learned before,” Nelson stated.

Nelson’s first impression of Laredo was the heat.

“It’s hot! Laredo is a great community. I‘m grateful for God letting me be here,” he said.

He urges students to look toward the future.

“Dream big no matter what. Whatever goal you have, accomplish it, and hard work always pays off,” Nelson said.

Asst. director also at Early College HS

BY SAVANNAH PEÑA AND REBEKAH RODRIGUEZ MT STAFF WRITERS Roberto Gonzalez is the new assistant director.

“I’m very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to finish my career in such a wonderful place as V.M.T. The students, teachers, and staff are wonderful,” Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez was assigned by former interim superintendent Dr. Ronald McLeod to assist V.M.T. principal Dr. Martha Villarreal and Jose Cerda principal at Early College High School.

Gonzalez explained the challenges of working at two schools.

“First is to ensure all stu-

dents are receiving a quality education. Secondly is to have it in a safe environment,” Gonzalez said.

Prior to coming to V.M.T., Gonzalez worked at F.S. Lara Academy. He offered some insight on the difference on the two schools.

“V.M.T. students are taking advantage of opportunities given to them, while Lara students are still learning to do that,” Gonzalez said.

A graduate of Martin High School who also has numerous college degrees, Gonzalez gave all students some advice.

“Work hard, listen to your teachers, stay away from drugs and all your dreams can come true,” Gonzalez said.

MT photo by Savannah Peña New assistant director Roberto Gonzalez is also the assistant director at Early College High School.

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The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

School involved in ‘La Mancha’

BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ MARIA HUERTA MT STAFF WRITERS

More online at

AND

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

Drop in on a recent theatre class session.

H

aving already acted in more than 300 plays, VMT theatre instructor Vernon Carroll will add one more to his expanding list, with a role in the first play ever held in the new TAMIU Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Theatre, “Man of La Mancha.”

“Man of La Mancha” is a musical based on the story written by Miguel de Cervantes entitled “Don Quixote de La Mancha” written in 1605. It tells the story of a man who goes insane.

“At one point, he believes that large windmills are monsters,” Carroll said.

Carroll plays two roles, the bad guy and the inn-keeper.

He said he has been rehearsing for the play for about eight weeks.

“Nerves are good only if you know how to use them…” he said when asked about his feelings about opening night.

He noted that even though he has acted for more than 40 years, his nerves are still present.

The people who audi-

MT photo by Savannah Peña Theatre Department head Vernon Carroll, and theatre students Abigail Fernandez, center, and Evy De La Cruz were performers in “The Man of La Mancha” at Texas A&M International University. Carroll is also president of the Board of Directors of the Laredo Theater Guild International, which sponsored the production. tioned for the play ranged in ages from 14 to 60 years.

Two VMT theatre students (from Nixon) are part of the cast: Evy De La Cruz and Abigail Fernandez.

“They have several roles in the play within a play,” Carroll said.

De La Cruz plays a gypsy dancer, a slave, a windmill, and is part of the chorus.

“The gypsies have their own scene. They steal Don Quixote’s money,” De La Cruz said.

When asked what it is like to work as a fellow actor

with Carroll, De La Cruz said, “It’s different because here we know him as the teacher and over there we are working like actors and we are like family. Our main and only goal is to make the show a success.”

Fernandez plays a gypsy

VMT students/staff in “Man of La Mancha” Vernon Carroll, Theatre Department head Dr. Mary Grace Carroll, director of Piano Studies Abbey Fernandez Evy De La Cruz Melissa Hinojosa, director of Woodwind studies Robert Lopez, director of High Brass Studies John Reimund, director of Low Brass Studies Billy Thatcher, guitar instructor and director of Mariachi Performance Phillip Balli, VMT alumni Victor Vedia, VMT alumni Denber Demasiado, VMT alumni

dancer and a prisoner.

“This is an important role because it allows the play to continue,” Fernandez said.

“Since it’s a non-speaking play we have to show a lot of gestures so the audience can know what is going on.”

“Man of La Mancha” premiered on Oct. 14 in the TAMIU Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Theatre.

Summer group creates ‘The Wiz’

BY ALEJANDRA MARTINEZ MT STAFF WRITER

O

ver the summer LMTI put on its production of “The Wiz,” a fun take on L. Frank Baum’s classic “The Wizard of Oz.” Directing this musical was VMT Theatre Department head Vernon Carroll.

“We did ‘The Wiz’ because it’s an upbeat story.

Everyone knows The Wizard of Oz,” Carroll said.

The cast was made up of actors, singers, and dancers ranging in age from 8 to 50 years old, making for a broad cast. “[It was] six weeks of hard, but fun rehearsals,” Carroll said on the preparation for the play.

Included in the six weeks of rehearsals was some major planning, with everything from costumes and choreography to special effects.

The other part of the planning was the music.

The person in charge of that task was Dr. Mary Grace Carroll, director of Piano Studies.

“It’s always fun. The challenge is to come up with our

MT photo by Roland Chamblee Theatre student Lisa Martinez, left, and instructor Vernon Carroll are shown during a sixth-period class, in October, in the theatre building. own sound,” Dr. Carroll said of “The Wiz’s” musical element.

She was able to sum up her experience working on “The Wiz” in one word: “Fantastic!”

When it came to favorites, Dr. Carroll had a few.

“Anything that Glinda [played by Lilly Austin] sang and ‘The Wiz’. It had a Latin thing going on.”

Amanda Sarabia, a sophomore from Nixon High School who studies Theatre

at VMT, appeared in the play as one of the Tornado Dancers and Poppies.

“The best part of this play was getting the opportunity to sing and dance in this spectacular play,” Sarabia said.

So, after the six weeks were up, the play was ready to open. On July 16, the cast and crew unveiled “The Wiz” to Laredo audiences.

The feeling on opening night was pure excitement.

“Opening night was totally upbeat,” Carroll said. “We knew magic was gonna happen. It was electric.”

The feeling was mutual.

“Opening night, for me, was both exciting and nerve-wracking…but totally worth it,” said Lisa Martinez, a sophomore from Martin High School and VMT who came out in the play as a crow and citizen of Emerald City.

The play, in general, went off without a hitch.

VMT students/staff involved in “The Wiz” Vernon Carroll, Theatre Department head Dr. Mary Grace Carroll, director of Piano Studies Ophelia Perea Patrick Carroll Linda Newland Alfredo Rivera Natalie Padron Jesus Garcia Victor Figuerroa Manuel Rojas John Morales Enrique Alvarez Jr. Lizzette Castilla Gabby Palacios Becky de Luna Rebekah Balli Jesus Jimenez Brandon Romero Adolfo Vasquez Josue Solalinde Baldemar Garza Bernie Navarro, VMT alumni Dember Demasiado, VMT alumni “[There were] no problems.

[It was] the most fun directing,” Carroll said.

“The Wiz” was performed for three nights at the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Fine Arts Center Theatre at Laredo Community College.

Tapestry plans for a new look

BY ALEJANDRA RODRIGUEZ MT STAFF WRITER Tapestry is making a new path for itself — but the public has to wait and see what it is.

This year the literary magazine will be taking a different direction.

We will “make it more professional looking. We want better art, different kinds of art. The formatting will be different but better,” Krystle Salinas, public relations officer, said.

She explained the goal of the magazine staff.

“To get the American Scholastic Press Association Special Merit Award (ASPA), and basically please the student body,” she said.

The staff expects to publish the magazine in mid April.

It is a challenge though because the staff has a new advisor, Jamin Teran, who also teaches freshmen English.

“I feel like a VMT student all over again,” Teran said who was once a student here.

Teran said there are a lot of challenges in putting the magazine together.

“This is print with a taste of literature. It’s a learning experience for me,” she said.

Teran said she has plans for Tapestry.

“We want to get better known in the community, to create our own Web site, and

MT photo by Alejandra Rodriguez Krystle Salinas and Santos Reyna, senior Tapestry staff members, work on an assignment in their classroom. to make the magazine bigger, stronger,” she said.

She said people will see an all new magazine.

“This year will be like the rebirth of Tapestry,” she

said.

Editor is Santos Reyna, and treasurer is Cesar Oldham.

Teran said she is looking forward to support from the

students and faculty to help make a successful magazine.

Salinas added, “We want more interaction with students and more support from the teachers.”

The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

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Teacher looks forward to art

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Watch a video interview with Gilberto Rocha.

BY EVANGELINA MARTINEZ MT STAFF WRITER Gilberto Rocha is the school’s new art teacher. He shows much enthusiasm toward teaching students new things.

Rocha brings eight years of experience to his position.

Rocha explained what he likes most about VMT. “The students’ attitude toward learning and having a really open mind is what I like,” he said.

He said art was not his first choice as a career.

“I actually wanted to be an astronaut, but then I guess you have to have a certain height, intelligence, and all these kinds of things,” he said.

Even though he didn’t become an astronaut he

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MT photo by Evangelina Martinez New visual arts instructor Gilberto Rocha adds the finishing touches to a portrait of his aunt. said art allows him to go places using his imagination without actually having to go anywhere.

There many genres of art

he likes, he said.

“A little of everything, I would say portrait is my favorite. I like studying people’s faces and features,

even though everyone really has the same structure. We all have the same features.

Just a few minor changes, moving of the eyes, ears,

even the eyes. Just little things,” he said.

Rocha said he likes his classes.

“They are good students, very easy to get along with,” he said.

He discussed his expectations for his students.

“I want them to be able to accomplish their goals, even if they are not related to art, to be open-minded about art and be able to speak the visual language more effectively and be able to tell the difference between their art and others around them,” he said.

He said the students have impacted how he teaches art.

“They are so easy to get along with. They are very positive about their art; it makes explaining easier and planning ahead easier,” Rocha said.

Rocha is enthusiastic about the future.

“I hope to help VMT continue to have a well respected and great program here in our community and throughout Texas,” he said.

Math instructor wants students to succeed

BY CLAUDIA ALBA MT STAFF WRITER An award winning teacher is now teaching here.

Rosalinda Arreazola offers Algebra II and Pre-Calculus in room TM-05.

Arreazola said throughout her 37 years of teaching she has taught at Martin High School, Cigarroa High School, and Laredo Community College.

“I expect my students to become stronger in the math subject, and become what they want to in life,” Arreazola explained when asked what she expected

More online at http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt

Watch Rosalinda Arreazola teach during first period.

from her students.

She has seen education change over her almost-40 years “Testing such as TAKS, and technology has added to instruction,” she said.

Arreazola said she has enjoyed teaching at VMT. “Oh I love VMT. It is the best job I have ever had,” she said She said her students have also taught her.

“To be patient,” she said,

MT photo by Keila Granados Rosalinda Arreazola explains an Algebra II concept during a recent first block math class. laughing. “I have learned that they are all different

and they all learn in different ways.”

Arreazola received the School Bell Award in 2007.

Broadcast teacher has worked in government

BY CHRISTOPHER AVALOS MT STAFF WRITER

MT photo by Monica Lopez Broadcasting instructor Sonya Sanchez shows the operation of a video camera to Jose Alberto Flores, left, Aurelio Lara and Juan Ramos on Houston Street, in front of broadcasting classroom.

V.M.T has a new teacher to welcome. She is the new broadcasting Instructor Sonya Lorena Sanchez.

Sanchez has worked in the field of broadcasting for at least 20 years.

According to her resume she has “more than 20 years of experience in communications field from T.V. reporter and anchor to being a spokesperson for the city of Laredo, three State Attorneys General in Texas and New York, three Secretaries of the United States in

Washington D.C., the President of the United States and the White House.”

Sanchez thinks the best part of working at V.M.T. is helping her classes.

“I hope to inspire students and make them realize the potential they have,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez and her classes all have some stories on KGNS, the channel where Kid’s Connection is shown on Saturdays. “[One of my students] saw his story on the Kid’s Connection and got excited,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez also wants her students to be able to use the things they learn in

her classroom in real-life situations.

“The better we teach them how to be more organized, and communicate the better they know how to handle situations in college and life.”

One of the things Sanchez plans for the class is to go to help at a go green event. They will be filming several P.S.A.s (public service announcements) to promote the event and also to promote V.M.T. Overall Sanchez feels lucky to be here.

“I’ve always been so blessed; always at the right place at the right time,” she said.

Coming up on THE MAGNET TRIBUNE online...

Photos and video of the 17th Hispanic Heritage Festival Art instructor Jorge Vasquez is guest at university book introduction Music students advancing in competition Halloween Costume Contest ...and much more!

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The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

VALERIE BRISEÑO

Editor studies in New Jersey

BY LISA VALDEZ MT STAFF WRITER Magnet Tribune Editor Valerie Briseño had many unforgettable moments yet learned a lot at Princeton University last summer.

Briseño was chosen to attend Princeton for the Princeton Summer Journalism Program.

“I felt honored. I was in shock the whole way over there, and even two days into the program,” she said.

She was at the Princeton for 10 days.

“Those 10 days felt like years! Each day seemed like it had 36 hours in it,” Briseño said.

“It was amazing! An unforgettable opportunity that helped me and showed me a lot of things I didn’t know,” Briseño said about the summer program.

Briseño got to New Jersey on Continental Airlines.

“I left from here to Houston and then from Houston to Newark, New Jersey, and then took a train to the Princeton stop and took the “Dinkey” (Princeton train) to the Princeton campus,” Briseño explained.

Briseño learned how to write both news stories and op-eds (opinion pieces).

“I learned how to express my thoughts, but the program made me learn a lot about myself,” said Briseño.

At the Princeton summer program, Briseño and the other 22 students had one major project. It was the newspaper which is called The Princeton Summer Journal. The students also did an intense investigative story in the city.

“Everything was a new experience! I had never been on a plane or a train,” said Briseño about her experience.

“Everyone at the program would make fun of me because I was like a little girl at Disneyland.” said Briseño.

She said she was amazed by the buildings and the train.

Briseño received a certificate of achievement. She also brought back copies of the newspaper she helped produce there.

When asked if she would like to attend Princeton University she said, “I’m actually going to apply for Princeton; it’s very far away from home but I fell in love with the campus.”

Briseño would like to major in Early Childhood Education and minor in Journalism.

“At the beginning of the program, I was so scared that I wasn’t going to fit in, but I did.

Just say that even though you don’t think you can do something or you won’t make it, do it anyways because you never know what could happen.

Take chances,” Briseño added.

Making danger come alive...

Photo courtesy of Maria Salas Sonia Nazario discusses her book, “Enrique’s Journey,” during a presentation at the Civic Center auditorium on Sept. 24.

Author relives train ride grants really got through,” Maria Salas, a junior at VMT, said about this issue.

BY JANETTE AVILA MT STAFF WRITER

A

n author, who has written a prize-winning story on a youth’s journey to the U.S., spoke to students from VMT and other schools during a session at the Civic Center auditorium on Sept.

24.

Sonia Nazario, author of “Enrique’s Journey,” told listeners of the hardships Enrique and immigrants faced.

“They faced great cruelty and kindness. I saw it myself,” Nazario said, talking about what she experienced in her journey to recreate the scenario of Enrique’s journey.

Breaking up families

Many dangers

Courtesy of Maria Salas Author Sonia Nazario awaits a group of students for a photograph after her presentation at the Civic Center on Sept. 24.

Nazario talked about some of the dangers that they faced, including getting beaten up by thugs, robbed by bandits, being deported and ripped off by corrupt police, raped, getting into extremely cold or hot weather, being without food for long periods of time, getting hit by branches, and falling off “El Tren de la Muerte” or “The Train of Death.” This is what immigrants call the train

because of the dangers.

“This huge branch hit me right in the face. It almost threw me off the train,” she clarified about people getting thrown off the train by the branches.

She also explained that later, when the branch hit her in the face, she found out there was someone that maybe fell off the train by getting hit by the branch.

“She taught us, rather showed us, what immi-

At her presentation, Nazario explained immigration is a common issue. She talked to immigrant mothers that left their home leaving their children behind, the disintegration of families. She also said there were more women than men coming to the U.S. She said children who were left behind came to the U.S. She said there are 48,000 alone coming to the U.S. and 100,000 each year coming to work, running away from home, and coming to reunite with their mothers.

Enjoying the presentation Students discussed their opinions about the presentation.

“The presentation was a great experience for me. I had never gotten to go hear an author speak about such a topic as immigration, so that was a treat,” Cesar Oldham, a senior, said.

Nazario came to explain the story of Enrique and his long journey to reunite with

Head of the Class

MT photos: left, Mark Webber; right, Jon Cox Communication Department Seniors Nidia Gomez and Jon Cox received Head of the Class for September during a ceremony at LBJ High School.

Right, Samantha Hawkins and Albert Torres, not pictured, were Head of the Class recipients for October.

his mother. She said she went to Nuevo Laredo to speak with Enrique and know more about his story or journey, and later, Nazario said, she was amazed of how similar some of the kid’s stories and their journey were.

‘An eye-opener’ Another student had her own take on the presentation.

“I thought it was interesting, and an eye-opener for all those ignorant ‘wetbacks,’” Krystle Salinas, a senior, said about the book.

Nazario has won dozens of awards. She grew up in Kansas and in Argentina, and has written from Latin America and about Latinos.

She is writing a second book, and this book, Enrique’s Journey, is being made into a movie.

This presentation was organized by The One City, One Book, a city-wide book club sponsored by the Laredo Public Library.

“First, be passionate about it because it’s not easy, and second, write about what you care about,” Nazario said in advising all young adults about becoming writers.

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Newspaper staff receives 13th award

BY SHARRON BIRD MT STAFF WRITER The Magnet Tribune received a national first class award from the National Scholastic Press Association. This is the 13th year in a row the paper is recognized by the NSPA. “What it means is it shows students who are performing at a really high level over a period of time,” said Mark Webber, journalism instructor.

The paper won two Marks of Distinction, one for coverage and content, and another for leadership. The score for leadership was 475 out of 500 and the score for coverage and content was 900 out of 1000. The paper earned a score of 3,210 points in total.

“This year we came the closest (to getting the All American Award),” Webber said.

The All American Award is

the highest rating out of four, followed by first class, second class, and third class.

Marks of Distinction are coverage and content; writing and editing; photography, art, and graphics; layout and design; and leadership.

“In writing and editing we were just a few points away.

Also, we were just a few points short in photography, art, and graphics,” Webber said.

“This year’s goal is to really get involved with converging media. We will be adding blogging and creating audio and video,” he said.

The judge, Anne Whitt, wrote in her summary, “My favorite part of the paper is those individual stories about individual students,” she stated.

A senior editor discussed what the award meant to him.

“We’re getting better by fol-

Composite image Magnet Tribune staff members who were on last year’s staff are, from far left, Sharron Bird, Alejandra Martinez, Jennifer Garcia, Karinna Lopez, Sarah Reyes, Juan Olivares, Samantha Hawkins, Jon Cox, Liza Valdez, Nidia Gomez, Valerie Briseño, Ana Loera, Sandra Minjares, and Keila Granados. Front row, from left, David Contreras, Evangelina Martinez and Krystal Battistata. Middle row, Roland Chamblee, Melissa Cadena, Amy Perez, and Chris Avalos. Not pictured, Tanys Salas, Frank Treviño, Nereyda Serrano, and Claudia Alba. lowing the way media is going.” said Jon Cox, editor of the November issue.

He discussed his goal for this year.

“The newspaper is here for the students, school, and community,” Cox said.

Claudia Alba, staff writer and columnist, explained

how she felt about winning the award.

“I’m proud because our hard work paid off,” she said.

Alba explained how the Web site will help the paper, “I think people will get more into the paper with the Web site. It will be good for

readers to see what we are doing before the newspaper comes out,” she said.

A freshman also discussed her feelings about the award.

“I’m proud that I belong to something that is nationally recognized,” said Ashley Galvan, staff writer.

Art history course offers college credit

BY GABRIELA LEAL JESSICA CASTILLO MT STAFF WRITER

AND

Students can now get college credit from taking an art course.

AP Art History and technology instructor David Blumberg explained why the class is important.

“It gives students appreciation for art and where it came from.’’ Blumberg said.

He discussed what students should learn in the class.

“I want students to learn where art came from and understand what it is,” Blumberg said.

Blumberg said his classes also have students in other areas besides art.

“I have students that are not in art and are taking this class,” Blumberg said.

Blumberg explained what AP Art History covers.

“What this class covers is

painting, drawings, culture, architecture, and ranges from Greek master to our modern artists,” Blumberg said.

Blumberg added the AP course will prepare students for the AP tests.. Those who pass will receive college credit.

He teaches AP Art History first period, and Art History, for freshmen, second period.

Selena Borjas, a freshman creative writing student, said she enjoys taking art history.

“I really like the class. It’s really interesting,” she said.

Another freshman, Melissa Vasquez, agreed.

“I like taking art history,” Vasquez said. “The class is interesting.”

Kimberly Rodriguez, also a freshman, added what she likes about the class.

“I like the hands-on activities more than when we are reading the book,” she said.

MT photo by Gabriela Leal AP Art History instructor David Blumberg works with Jessica Moreno during a recent second period. Behind them is Melissa Vasquez.

SoundTown raises money for scholarships

BY JESSICA CONTRERAS AND FRANCISCO CARREON MT STAFF WRITER SoundTown held its third annual Ballroom Gala-Dance on June 5, postponed a month due to the H1NI flu.

The Gala-Dance raised money to help members with college expenses.

“The purpose of the dance was to raise money for scholarships for graduating seniors of SoundTown. Twelve seniors received scholarships of $180 each,” Robert Lopez, SoundTown director, said.

Victor Figueroa, a trumpet player who will graduate in May, found helping the former seniors a special one.

“Being a musician, it’s like an athlete. I felt the energy of an athlete. I wanted to please my audience,” Figueroa said.

He liked how the audience responded, by getting up to dance.

“It’s good to help the seniors. It was good helping them. It revolves,” Figueroa said.

Abigail Rios, sophomore saxophone player and vocalist, said she liked performing.

“It was my first year. I was excited and nervous at the same time,” she said.

She got over her nervousness and

MT photo by Francesca Hernandez Jesus Murillo, junior, a member of SoundTown, practices in the Recital Hall during a rec ent eighth period. He helped raise money for scholarships during the groups annual Ballroom Gala-Dance on June 5. enjoyed the dance.

“I felt that I did a good job, and I was pleased with the outcome,” Rios said.

Jesus Murillo, junior trumpet player, said he had a lot of fun helping the seniors.

“I think the audience was pretty

enthusiastic about our performance,” Murillo said. “They seemed really pleased. Even the old people were hyper and acting crazy.”

6

SCHOOL NEWS

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The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

Memories of Sept. 11 Students honor First Responders

BY NIDIA GOMEZ MT STAFF WRITER “Out of a tragic day, out of a tragic event, the spirit of what this nation represents soared,” said school director Dr. Martha Villarreal at the 9-11 ceremony on Sept. 11.

Students and faculty honored those in the terrorist attacks of 9-11.

“And it proved to the world that this nation is secure, that this nation is incomparable to any other, that this nation is about people believing in justice, believing in their country, believing in the people...the people which make up this nation,” she said.

The ceremony began with an introduction by Cigarroa senior, National Guard member and master of ceremonies, Baali Sanchez.

Guests for the morning program near the flagpole were Laredo police officers,

firefighters, federal agents and politicians.

U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar recalled 9-11 as a “snapshot.”

“I think we can go back and see that snapshot in our lives and recall what happened. We saw eight years ago what happened this morning. Our nation woke up to acts of terrorism and tragedy. Americans innocently lost their lives.

America watched in fear and uncertainty.” Cuellar said.

After remarks by Congressman Cuellar and Sheriff Martin Cuellar, music students performed a medley of patriotic songs, and the Ovation Brass closed the ceremony with “Amazing Grace.”

A drum roll and taps were performed by music instructors Robert Lopez, and Carlos Torres to end the ceremony.

U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar speaks about the terrorist attacks of 9-11 and his memories to VMT faculty and students in front of the flag pole.

Baali Sanchez, a member of the Army National Guard and a VMT piano student, was master of ceremonies at the 9-11 ceremony.

Above: Webb County Sheriff Department Color guard wait for the ceremony to begin. Right: The Ovation Brass performs during the ceremony.

MT photos by Frank X. Treviño

Broadcast instructor witnessed attacks

BY MONICA LOPEZ MT STAFF WRITER While students and teachers at VMT were watching the events of 9-11 unfold, a new faculty member was living them.

Broadcasting instructor Sonya Sanchez explained what she was doing in Washington.

“I got to work on the East Coast eight years, three in New York, five in D.C. at the Department of Commerce located a couple of blocks from the White House,”

Sanchez said.

Sanchez was at work when she found out about t h e SANCHEZ attacks.

The first plane had already hit when she walked in her office.

“I just remember being immediately upset because I knew a lot of people had already died,” said Sanchez.

When asked about what authorities made them do,

Sanchez said there was no good plan of action in her department.

“Everyone walked, talked, interacted with each other to find out what was going on,” Sanchez said while they waited inside the building.

Sanchez said she felt very surreal as all this was taking place.

“When you find yourself in a situation like that, act calmly and rationally as best you can,” Sanchez said.

For the next few weeks

after the attacks, Sanchez said security was tight.

“Military at every building.

Helicopters. First time being searched a lot more carefully. It was very strict after 911. A lot harder to move in and out of buildings.”

Eight years after the attacks, Sanchez explained what stands out most in her life.

“I think having been so close to it that the feeling never leaves you. Appreciate life. Be grateful for everything you have. It was a life changing experience.”

Sanchez explained how her life has changed since the attacks.

“I was brought to the realization we weren’t protected as much as we thought. We all had to protect each other, become the eyes and ears of law enforcement.”

“We can never be too comfortable, be vigilant, responsible, related to whatever.

As citizens, help law enforcement. Unfortunately, people don’t listen. As long as make our attempt, were doing our job,” Sanchez added.

The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

SCHOOL NEWS

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7

Celebrating Independence 16 de Sept. features music, dancing

BY JAVIER T. SOLIZ CINDY GARZA MT STAFF WRITERS

Tanya Benavides and Mario Flores perform at the outdoor stage next to the Urbahn building.

• Above: School Director Dr. Martha Villarreal speaks to students about having pride in their heritage.

• Above right: Alexis Reyes, front, and, from left, LCC student Priscilla Nuñez, Jose Nuñez, and Daisy Espinoza present a Mariachi song.

• Middle right: Music instructor Billy Thatcher accompanies students Ricardo Garcia and Gilbert Perez in playing a traditional melody.

• Lower right: Dorian Delgado and Tomas Ortiz display their abilities with the saxophone and trumpet.

• Below: Jesse Collazo plays the guitar.

MT photos by Ashley Galvan and Claudia Alba

AND

The color and excitement of the diez y seis de septiembre celebration energized afternoon students on a hot Sept. 16 on the outdoor stage.

World history teacher and committee member Gregorio Garza thought the celebration was a success.

“It was excellent, taking into the situation that we had little time to prepare,” Garza said.

The school has been celebrating this for the past two years because it is a mandate from the district.

“We need to make sure that the students are exposed to this culture, and this is our roots, our heritage,” Garza said.

Organizing this performance was a bit difficult; he said it was hard because it happened so early in the year.

“We start school August 24 and in less than a month we have to get things going,” Garza said.

Students participating in the diez y seis celebration had about a week to prepare their performances, but some had less time.

“Some students only had two days, and we decided to add things at the last minute, like the national anthem,” Garza said.

Armando Hinojosa, Visual Arts Department chair, said he loved the display of talent. He enjoyed the song Robert Lopez, music instructor.

“They all did a great job,” Hinojosa said.

Jackie Negerete, 10th grader, thought the celebration was good.

“It’s important to celebrate Mexico’s independence,” Negerete said.

Pedro Martinez, another 10th grader, said the performances were great, but thought one thing that needed changing.

“The performances were very good, but would have been better if there was more shade. Other than that, top notch,” Martinez said.

Alexandra Morales, 10th grader, liked the music and dancing at the ceremony.

“My favorite song was La Negra,” Morales said.

Morning students also had a similar celebration, also at the same location.

Other people and families celebrate diez y seis a little differently, Garza said; Common tradition is to re-enact “El Grito,” scream “Viva Mexico,” and dress in traditional attire.

“A lot of families get together. It’s like a second Christmas,” Garza said.

More online at http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt

See video of the afternoon event online.

8

COLUMNS

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The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

Spektor’s lyrics offer deep meaning Hear, say H ello faithful readers!

Well, I’m one of the writers for this little music column, and I’m going to try and be as diverse as possible with it to keep it interesting.

I’m going to leave my email at the bottom of this article so you, lovely reader, can send me suggestions (no SPAM please). Let’s get this thing started!

The Circus – The Venetia Fair After some EPs, The Venetia Fair finally released its first full-length album The Circus on July 12.

For starters, The Circus is something t r u l y unique. At first listen, The Venetia Fair may sound like your run-of-the-mill hardcore screamo band, but if you give it a chance, you’ll find that it’s so much more.

Their vocalist, Benny Santoro, delivers a pretty impressive vocal range.

From screaming to passionate and lyrical singing, this album has it all. That being said, this album is not about lovey-dovey relationships or holding hands. The Circus is all about the messy and sometimes violent aftermath of a rocky relationship.

The sounds on the album definitely clash, from insane piano pieces to cascading

By Ale Martinez, Sharron Bird

guitars and catchy riffs here and there. It’s a fast-paced, head-bangin’ and ultimately great album.

Far – Regina Spektor Regina Spektor released her fifth full-length album this summer titled Far. The album is quirky and somehow elegant. The fun opening song, “The Calculation,” is upbeat with light piano and lyrics like “So we made our own computer out of macaroni pieces.” However, Spektor’s songs have a unique quality; sweet, but somehow meaningful. No matter how deep or serious a song gets, it never loses its charm. The best example of this is probably in “One More Time with Feeling,” a song that plays out in a hospital recovery room.

Musical storytelling is also present throughout the album, from the story of a missing wallet to a metaphoric one about two birds.

The icing on top of this charming, optimistic cake is without a doubt Spektor’s

piano playing and voice. She takes both instruments and uses them to get her song and her story across.

Read the full column online.

---Hey guys! I’m Sharron, a new writer for this music column. I’d like to start with welcoming you back to school and telling you what this all about. Every issue we review about 2 to 5 albums and give facts, and our opinion on the songs. Then we choose our “top five” songs.

However, the songs we choose for our “top five” aren’t always from the albums we reviewed.

Sometimes, instead of a new CD, we might inform you about a new artist and tell you about their music. At the bottom of the column you will find my e-mail address so that you can email me any questions, comments, or suggestions! I promise I will try to be openminded!

Crash Love - AFI I’m sure most of you have heard, or heard of, AFI. They have been around for quite a while and changed their sound several times, but they still haven’t stopped making excellent music. If

you think you disagree, you r e a l l y s h o u l d hear all 12 tracks of crash love first I’d say that crash love is definitely better than their release of Decemberunderground.

Jumping from slow songs like “Okay, I feel better now” to fast and loud ones like “Medicate” and catchy ones like “Too shy to scream,” Crash love is an album that will surprise you. It is way better than fans expected it to be.

My favorite song off this record is “Veronica Sawyer Smokes.” It’s a bit happy for AFI, but maybe that’s not such a bad thing. I also think that this song is one that will be remembered. It’s one of those songs that you will hear 10 years from now and a memory will come along with it.

On the other hand, my least favorite song from this album is “I am Trying Very Hard to Be Here.” I just really don’t like that song, but one out of 12 isn’t bad.

Daisy - Brand New Brand New comes up with something “brand new” every time.

Daisy is Brand New’s fourth studio album and debuted on the US billboard charts as #6. Their highest debut ever! There is no better word to describe this album

“The top five” •Ale’s top five 1.

Panic Switch, Silversun Pickups 2. I’ve Got All (Most), Modest Mouse 3. Brick By Boring Brick, Paramore 4. People Like You Are Why People Like Me Exist, Say Anything 5. Dance Anthem Of The 80s, Regina Spektor •Sharron’s top five 1. Great Romances of the 20th Century, Taking Back Sunday 2. I’ve Got Friends, Manchester Orchestra 3. About Falling, Say Anything 4. Life Is A Garden, Greeley Estates 5. Jude Law and a Semester Abroad, Brand New

More online at http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt

Read the complete columns online.

than amazing! If you are a fan of Brand New, you know what I’m talking a b o u t .

Brand New keeps on surprising us with each song, and album. Of course, they can’t make an album over and over again, so each one is different in...

Read the full column online

‘Meatballs’ leaves a sour aftertaste Cinematic W ell, hello there readers! Welcome back to a fresh-new-carsmelling school year. This year do expect some changes, maybe, possibly, to Cinematic. We’re going global! LOL Well, actually, we’re going to start posting stuff on the World Wide Web. Video reviews!

This summer there were a few good, interesting movies, but they weren’t so hot; with the exception of Harry Potter. Then again, many didn’t really enjoy it like the past movies.

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs Want to have your cake and eat it too? Well, I don’t know if you’ll be able to eat it, but do be aware for certain food cravings during your viewing of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, (rated PG). Also, please be aware that the food is not real and pancakes don’t actually fall from the sky. Chicken Little would probably be panicking right about now.

With Up and Wall-e (both Pixar movies) basically setting the animation movie standards up pretty high Cloudy had to meet those standards, and it did in its first 2 weeks.

Inspired by a children’s

Toy Story will be released into theaters in 3D! I hope you’re as excited as I am because I’ve been waiting for this since I first found out almost a year ago. I also hope that you HAVE seen both Toy Story and Toy Story 2. If you haven’t, I’m quiet disappointed.

What does that mean?

You have to go watch it! Toy Story is one of Pixar’s most beloved animation films.

Pixar is basically getting you ready for the release of Toy Story 3 to be released in the summer of 2010.

By Samantha Hawkins

MCT Campus photo "Sam Sparks" voiced by Anna Faris and "Flint Lockwood" voiced by Bill Hader are shown in "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs." book written by Ron and funny to kids, but are more Judi Barrett, the movie took of a “wink, wink, nudge, the big screen in both 2D nudge” for teens and adults. and 3D. LOL? Maybe, but a bit One big downfall about the annoying. movie was that, of course, Cloudy follows inventor it’s a kids movie. But, if you Flint Lockwood (voice of Bill read the book when you Hader) and the brainy were younger I recommend weather girl Sam Sparks you to see this movie. (voice of Anna Faris) as they It has a pretty kicky script try to find out why the rain and good animation. Not to in their town has been taken forget, Cloudy brings the over by food. voices of Bill Hader, Anna Though the movie isn’t fillFaris, and Mr. T. Yes, MR.T!, ing, it was really intentionalWhich gives Cloudy that ly written for 9-year-olds spontaneous punch. who find anything quite There are a couple of jokes entertaining and get dishere and there that may be tracted by the laughing

MCT Campus photo Max Records stars in "Where the Wild Things Are." mom on the other side of the theater.

It is possible that the only reason this movie made it big was because of Mr. T. But, like in all kid-flicks there’s a couple of clichés.

An unnecessary romantic plot, messages about junk food, and a dead mother…go figure.

Two major things to look out for in this movie: food cravings, and maybe, a foul aftertaste.

Movie Spotlight Toy Story & Toy Story 2 in 3D!

Where the Wild Things Are Like Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, Where the Wild Things Are is based on the book written by Maurice Sendak.

I know for a fact that you’ve all read this book.

From the looks of the trailers this movie will hopefully amaze. The soundtrack as well sounds pretty good.

Watch out for some video discussions on movies on the paper’s Web site. I would like to hear some feedback from you all. If you have any comments or suggestions feel free to email me at: samanthalee422@live.com.

Follow me on Twitter: sammyburrito.

You need a good sense of humor for ‘Charlie’

D

o you just love watching the funniest things or really cool things on YouTube?

Do you want to share with the world your favorite video or one that you’ve made? Well now you can!

With the school’s newspaper! Send me an e-mail or any other way of contact.

My e-mail address is G_1_Z_M_0@hotmail.com.

Please send recommendations.

The list just started so I asked a couple of friends about some videos they’ve

YouTube Hitlist

By Roland Chamblee seen and I thought of some off the top of my head, but starting with the next issue I’ll be looking at the ones you’ve picked. The list is ranked on my opinion.

1. Charlie the Unicorn-(If you love cartoons and have a good sense of humor you definitely have to watch this video! It’s about a uni-

corn named Charlie. His friends convince him to go on a journey to Candy Mountain I really enjoyed it. The authors did great, and it’s just plainly awesome!)

2. Simon’s cat- cat man do (I thought it was a really cute cartoon, especially if you’re a cat lover but that

doesn’t mean you have to be. That cat was hungry and tried to get his owners attention. Very cute, very funny, enough said) 3. Dad’s Home!!! (It was a very random cartoon! But the humor makes up for the animation. I loved it, and the background music went great with it too!)

4. Ninja cat (It really doesn’t matter if you’re not a cat lover to enjoy this very cool video. It shows how sneaky cats can be!)

5. I couldn’t think of one.

So send in those videos you

love to see so everyone can enjoy them too!

OK, when sending me recommendations please don’t send me anything about music videos or anything you see on T.V., AND nothing about video games.

It’s neither music, video game nor a T.V. column…

It’s YouTube. Oh, and also please send me videos that would be “teacher” or “parent” approved,” something that your parents or your teachers would be ok with you watching; nobody getting seriously hurt.

The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

COLUMNS

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9

The Gauntlet offers exciting gaming

H

ello everyone! Boy is it great to be back writing for you fellow gamers. Unfortunately, this is my last year writing for Game Break, so I promise to make this better than my previous reviews/discussions.

Oh, wait, it will be better!

Why? Because now I will be uploading videos, blogs, and podcasts on the net! So not only will you be reading my column, but also get handson reviews right on your computer! So I am very, very excited about that.

Before anything, I’d like to give a SUPER HUGE thanks to Roland Chamblee, VMT journalism sophomore student, and Ivan Valdez, VMT senior piano student, for helping me with my video reviews and pictures. Kudos to you guys!

Moving on...

Okay, I’m going to start with something I’m sure you will love.

Have you heard of a little place called the Gauntlet Game Lounge?

One third of you probably don’t know, but the Gauntlet is a gamers dream come true-- It’s a video game lounge packed with more than 20 game stations in a small, dimly lit environment (which is recommended for all you die-hard gamers). It’s jammed packed with XBOX

Game Break

By Juan Olivares More online at http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt

Watch a demo of ‘Left 4 Dead’ for XBox 360.

360s, PlayStation 3s, a Wii in a private area, and gaming PCs all displayed on only the best flat HD TVs. The Gauntlet has only the best of the best games available, from Halo 3 ODST, to Super Smash Bros. Brawl, to Left 4 Dead, and everything in between in all 3 consoles.

It is $6 per hour, a bit pricey, but definitely well worth it, especially when you bring friends.

This place offers online gaming as well, so even if you do go alone, you can always play live with others around the world.

T h e Gauntlet has been around for about 2 y e a r s

already and yet not too many people know of its existence at school, so here I am spreading the word.

Those who do are lucky. It is located at 5517 McPherson Rd, suite #2, in front of Hillside Recreation Center, right next to Sonic Drive-in.

Once you walk inside, you w i l l immediatel y fall

The Gauntlet has only the best of the best games available, from Halo 3 ODST, to Super Smash Bros.

Brawl, to Left 4 Dead, and everything in between in all 3 consoles. in love with the place.

Gamers love to gather around for its’ monthly tournaments and lock ins, and I’m a sucker for lock ins :D! Lock ins are usually on Saturdays and the cost is $30, and start from 11 p.m. until 8 p.m. equaling to 9 hours of nonstop gaming (recommended for you hard-

MT photo by Juan Olivares Ivan Valdez, senior piano student, plays Super Smash Bros. at the Gauntlet.

core gamers) and pizza from Pizza Hut along with drinks are included.

The Gauntlet offers party packages, too. For $200, you get 15 game stations, Rock Band game and stage and an eating area.

Make sure to look out for specials! In September was “2x1” special, for example.

Stop by the Gauntlet today for weekly flyers.

The Gauntlet is owned by Luis Dominguez.

With that said, it is safe to give this place a whooping

!

Yes, that’s right, 6 stars, because 5 just isn’t enough.

If you would like to send me ideas on what to review/discuss about, or even be a part of my column, please don’t hesitate to send me an e-mail at eternus.j@myspace.com or follow me at www.twitter.com/eternusj and let me know! Thanks and I apologize for such a short story. You know… work and stuff :P For more info about Gauntlet, check out MySpace at www.myspace.com/ elgauntlet.

Michael Jackson: A true legend!

Ana: Hey how was your summer?

Sandra: Shocking and sad Michael Jackson passed away.

Ana: Oh yeah that was sad.

Especially when his daughter cried during her speech in the public memorial.

Sandra: Oh yes that was very sad. I actually cried. But he is finally resting months after his death…

Ana: I know that’s good. I hate that people didn’t even like him when he was alive but when he died everybody is suddenly a “fan” Sandra: OMG I know, like when we mention Michael Jackson they think “Thriller”… or “Billie Jean”…

“Smooth Criminal” you know just the common songs…

Don’t get me wrong they are brilliant songs.

Ana: Yeah and he has a lot more great songs that people haven’t even heard or they just recently heard because of all the memorials they did or because of the specials they gave on the radio.

Sandra: Yeah like some of my favorite songs are

Let’s Talk

By Ana Loera and Sandra Minjares More online at http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt

Take the test: “Michael Jackson quiz”

“Human Nature,” “Speechless,” “You are my life” and a lot more amazing songs!!

Ana: Oh those are good songs but I love “Remember the time,” “Dirty Diana,” “Off The Wall” and I don’t think I have enough space to write all the other songs!

Sandra: (= LOL yeah I know… like have you heard the song he did in spanish !!...

It’s called “Todo Mi Amor Eres Tu.” Ana: Yeah it’s very good considering he didn’t speak Spanish… I understood every single word he said…

Sandra: Yeah!! And the way he danced and his singing skills!! It’s fabulous!! The thing I enjoy the most is his

song-writing abilities!! It’s truly a gift to write so many wonderful lyrics…

Ana: Like in “Heal the World” or “Black or White” it shows how great he was and how much he cared about the world and his fans!!

Sandra: Yeah I think he was a very caring and loving person that had a very lonely life at times… even though he had so many fans!!

Ana: Yeah and it showed he had a lot of fans when at his memorial people were fighting for the tickets or when people would gather around in his memory.

Sandra: Yeah, do you remember in the public memorial when Jennifer Hudson was singing “Will You Be There” and in the background you could hear his voice saying something really sweet… My favorite little piece of the song is when he says

“…Through My Joy And My Sorrow In The Promise Of Another Tomorrow I’ll Never Let You Part For You’re Always In My Heart.”

Ana: Oh that’s very sweet… and sad because when he was going through some tough times a lot of people turned on him… he didn’t have support from everybody.

Sandra: Yeah and it’s a little weird because people always made up stuff about him… and said he did crazy unusual things. Maybe he did… but yet again… his life was crazy!

Ana: Yeah. Can you imagine being in the public eye since you were 9. He practically didn’t have a childhood… that must have been really hard on him.

Sandra: Yeah, that’s why he was like so obsessed with Peter Pan… and as we all know he had his famous Neverland Ranch!

Ana: That’s a ranch I would love to go visit… LOL I don’t know if you ever saw the documentary called “Living with Michael Jackson”…

It showed how fun Neverland

could be… He looked really happy when riding the rides… just like a little kid would.

Sandra: Yeah, I saw that documentary… I don’t know if you recall when he started to dance in his studio. It showed that he still had that power and that great talent to dance.

Ana: Exactly!! I really wanted to see if he could have made a comeback with the “This Is It” tour.

Sandra: I know… we may never know anymore… but we got an idea of how it would've been like. with the “This Is It” movie.

Ana: Yeah, in my opinion the movie was really good.

You know how much money it made worldwide? $101 million in just five days of its release!!!

Sandra: Wow, that’s crazy!

Well I also like the movie a lot!

We should go watch it again.

It’s going to be on theaters longer than we expected. Bye! Ana: Bye!

‘Morganville’ isn’t the town it seems to be

H

ello all my readers!!!!!!! My name is Chris and this is my special column. This issue’s book that I’ve been dying to review is a part of Rachel Caine’s new book series called Morganville Vampires.

Her first volume to this exciting new series is called “The Glass House.” This book is amazing, romantic, and of course such a thrill to read. I seriously couldn’t even put the book down. It was so intense.

As the back of the book says {Welcome to Morganville, Texas. Don’t stay out after dark.} Claire Danvers, a 16- yearold girl who is very intelligent, got accepted to M.I.T. (Massachusetts Institute of Technology). Her parents didn’t like the idea of her going so far away so they sent her somewhere close to

Words

By Chris Avalos them. That’s how she ends up in Morganville.

She thought it was going to be a good opportunity for her but it had to be ruined by the most popular girls there, Monica Morrell and her little friends called the “Monickettes.”

As you can tell by now, Monica hates Claire so she tortures her and beats her up. So she finds an ad on the bulletin board at the school’s nurse’s office. It states there is an extra room in Morganville at a house owned by Michael Glass.

Claire goes to the house and meets one of the room-

m a t e s named Eve Rosser. She then meets the other two roomm a t e s , Michael CAINE and Shane.

After living in the house she finds out horrible things about Morganville.

Morganville was founded by a Vampire named Amelia.

She is the most powerful vampire in Morganville and needs Claire’s help to find a book that might bring Morganville down if put in the wrong hands.

So it’s up to Claire and her

new friends to find the book bring it to Amelia and save Morganville.

Rachael Caine’s series is amazing; she just knows how to get to you through her books. Her characters all have something that you can relate to.

I hope none of my readers have something to relate to with Monica and Claire, but I do hope that people relate to Claire with her and her friends.

You see, Rachael Caine’s books have everything young adult readers need: happiness, friends, and most of all LOVE. If you would like to see or read more about Rachael Caine and her books visit her Web site http://www.rachelcaine.com/Home.htm.

I want you all to know that I may have reviewed a vampire book for this issue but I promise you that’s not all I will be writing about.

I will be mentioning all kinds of books and I want you guys to mention some books to me too, so if any of you have any suggestions please contact me at funnyguy_0147@hotmail.com.

10

OPINIONS

Comments? Write us at mt_writers@hotmail.com

The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

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District combats contagious H1N1 flu

T

he school district is doing what’s right to protect students, faculty and staff from H1N1 (swine) flu.

Janitors sanitize desks and other furniture daily to help keep students and staff from getting sick.

According to district figures 864 students were sent home during the first six week of school with flu-like symptoms. More recent figures were not available.

According to the district’s Health

er plus a cough or sore throat.

The district, through its teachers, urges students to cough into their elbows, throw away used tissues, and wash or sanitize hands regularly. Don’t share personal items.

Examples are food, drinks, or unwashed utensils.

Those who feel sick should see the school nurse or simply stay home.

Students were also given letters addressed to take home, which explained how to keep families

EDITORIAL The Magnet Tribune acknowledges the efforts of the school district to protect students and staff from H1N1 flu.

Services, flu-like symptoms are a temperature of 100 degrees or high-

healthy.

The H1N1 flu first came known in April, and has stayed active throughout the summer and now into the fall.

The Magnet Tribune urges readers to follow simple safety precautions to protect themselves and others from catching H1N1 flu. We acknowledge the district’s efforts to protect students and staff from this ailment.

For the staff, Cynthia Garza, Maria Huerta, and Rodolfo Ramirez.

Mormons are not who you think they are

I

’m curious. What do you guys think about Mormons? You’ve probably heard a lot of “weird,” “crazy” or “strange” things.

Am I right? Or have you just heard that Mormons believe differently than traditional Christianity?

This issue of The Bug is going to be written by me “Amy.” I’m going to be talking to you guys about some pretty intense/interesting subjects that have been on my mind lately. I also want to make it clear, sorry if I offend you in any way, but as you may know this is an opinion column and I will state my opinions and beliefs in the subject I’m talking about.

So let’s get started! Yes or yes? Alright, I want to talk about myths that you may have heard.

First one, do Mormons really have more than one wife?

The Bug

By Amy Perez NO! They are not polygamists. The practice has been banned from the Church since 1890. Any member found practicing polygamy is excommunicated from the Church. Only about 6% of Mormons around 1880 practiced polygamy, but it wasn’t widespread, and hasn’t been practiced in over 100 years.

Like many Christians, they believe that marriage is a sacred covenant between one man and one woman. So no, no, and no! They don’t have more than one wife. Is it clear enough for you already?

Just to state a fact, Mormon is actually a nickname, not a title. They get

called Mormons because they read “The Book of Mormon,” which is another testament of Jesus Christ. Just wanted to throw that in here for you.

Some people also think Mormons are not Christians.

Alright, what? Are you seriously saying they don’t believe in Christ? Their church is called the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mormons recognize Jesus Christ, His life, and His works, and they believe in His teachings. They try to do the works of Jesus, and go by His examples.

They differ with other Christian denominations on some doctrinal issues, reject-

ing the Catholic concept of the Holy Trinity, for example, but they are most definitely a Christian denomination.

Members of the Latter Day Saints Movement are considered “Restorationist Christians,” restoring Christianity to its original state and rejecting the “Great Apostasy” of alterations to the Christian faith.

Also, the idea that women are somehow viewed as lesser among adherents to the Mormon Church is also wrong. In fact, men and women are treated equally, and the faith places a heavy emphasis on living as a family and working as partners.

Marriage is a critical part of the Mormon faith, and some Mormon couples participate in Temple Sealing, a marriage ceremony which is meant to be eternal, meaning that it persists beyond death.

One of the more bizarre myths about Mormons is that they baptize the dead. In fact, Mormons hold ceremonies with people known as Temple Proxies who stand in for people who were not able to be baptized into the Church when they were alive. Temple Proxies usually stand in for deceased ancestors, grandparents, uncles, aunts, and other relatives. They may also stand as Proxies for Temple Sealing’s for ancestors who were unable to undergo this ceremony in their lifetimes.

So, nope, they do not baptize the dead. People get baptized for them. Understand? Great!

Alright those were just the myths I wanted to talk about and make clear off. I hope you understood and got everything I was talking about. Hit me with some feedback if you want to talk about something I’d be more than glad to.

College class is stressful, but challenging

A

s a junior, I’m taking on English, Physics, Spanish 2, Pre calculus, and considering I’m a dual enrollment student, I take History 1302 at Laredo Community College. My biggest issue is with my Math, so obviously I’m hopeless in that class and also in physics.

Another subject I am terrible is Spanish; it’s sad really, Hispanic and I can’t understand most of my heritage’s language.

Nowadays, Hispanics my age struggle with this issue anyways so it doesn’t bug me as much.

I choose to be in History 1302 but never expected it to be so different from high school. In a regular history The Magnet Tribune The Magnet Tribune is a publication produced by students in the Journalism, Newspaper Production and Photojournalism classes of the Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts, Laredo Independent School District. This publication provides readers with information relating to the school and its students, provide students a lab for producing a newspaper using professional-level computer software and offers an open forum for student opinion.

The MT is distributed free.

Observations

By Jennifer Garcia class you technically have to "read" the chapters, define terms, and sometimes questions. College history is all about a lecture and having to take notes from the professor. You may think it’s easy but they always continue to talk and talk, and if you miss something good luck because it might be in the next exam. I do enjoy that class but sometimes it stresses me out too much with having so much homework.

First homework we usually have is the typical terms and identifications. We have about 20 terms and 10 identifications per chapter. Most

words are not found in the book so you have to get it from the dictionary or the, Net. We also get a reading assignment around two or three pages long front and back and we either have to answer some questions like any other reading class or write a paper comparing the person to another person.

The reading at times may be boring, but informative.

We honestly have to read the chapters because if we don’t, we won’t really understand what or who she is talking about when she is up there lecturing. I’ve actually gotten lost for forgetting to

read a chapter.

Instead of the typical one chapter we get two to three chapters at once. Reading the chapter also helps us work out a package they give us to fill out. It’s the terms and some multiple choice questions. These packages are given back to our VMT teacher, not our professor.

Now, for exams we have no makeup exams; what you get on the exam is your grade. If you are absent on the day of the exam it’s an automatic zero, so you have to go even if you have a fever.

If absent more then 20 percent of the time then the professor is forced to drop you from the class.

The exams are separated into four parts, multiple choice questions, learning the identifications of people by memory, essay questions,

and a question that has to do with your reading assignment.

It gets stressful but it’s a good thing we only go there two days out of the week (Tuesdays and Thursdays). If we went every day like any normal college student, I know some of us wouldn’t be able to take the stress from so much work.

We have to keep up with college and regular school work which for most of us looks like we have a lot of junk in our backpacks.

Still, we do have an amazing teacher that helps us out with our college work. Mr. Arambula helps us out with our work, understands the readings and gets us prepared for exams. So big thanks to him for helping us understand how college is really like and teaching us the way of college life.

The little things in life Story, art by Sarah Reyes

*Mumble, I...said...get... mumble.* Kat, wake No. up!

*Snore.*

Up!

*Hiss.*

Dr. Martha Villarreal School director Mark E. Webber Journalism instructor and adviser, The Magnet Tribune Vol. 17, No. 1, Nov. 5, 2009 Editor of this issue: Valerie Briseño Page one shows the bronze statue south of the Harding Building, “The Force of Creation,” created by former art instructor Armando Flores in 1993-94.

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

Printed at Laredo Morning Times Copyright: ©2009 Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts and The Magnet Tribune

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

But mom...

Oh, be quiet!

*Bleh.*

AW, MAN!

The light!

It burns!

I dont care, you STILL need to get ready for school!

. . .

*Gasp!*

. . .

The end.

First Class Award: ‘96-97, ‘97-98, ‘98-99, ‘99-00, ‘02-03, ‘03-04. ‘04-05, 05-0, 06-07, 07-08, 08-09 Second Class Award: ‘00-01, ‘01-02

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

‘98-99

ILPC

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

Contact The Magnet Tribune: By e-mail: mt_writers@hotmail.com — On the Internet: www.my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt Address: Vidal M. Treviño Magnet School, The Magnet Tribune, 802 Main Avenue, Laredo, Texas 78040 In person: TM-23, (Journalism classroom), or Mark Webber’s box in the school office.

11

OPINIONS

The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt, http://twitter.com/Magnet_Tribune

Editor looks back, looks ahead at life I’m a senior now! I can’t believe it’s gone this fast!

The main year has finally come and its so sad knowing that this will be my last issue as an editor.

And as the year has kicked off I have already started the most important thing about senior year: College Applications!

As possibly the most stressful person on the face of the earth, I am as stressed as I have ever been.

Some of the biggest things have happened to me in the past year.

Editor’s Commentary

By Valerie Briseño editor of this issue The Editor’s Commentary represents the opinions of the editor, and should not be understood to represent the views of the newspaper staff, faculty and administration.

From make-ups to break-ups, from downfalls to accomplishments, from problems to solutions, I know that they happen as part of life and I can honestly say I’m perfectly fine with everything that’s

happened because it’ll only make me learn more and more each day that passes.

One of my accomplishments was getting accepted to the Princeton University Summer Journalism Program

(SJP). I got the opportunity of going all the way to New Jersey for 9 days and New York for 1 day, all expenses paid. Before this program, I can honestly say I had no faith in myself. I really didn’t think I could accomplish anything big. Shoot, I can honestly say I had my doubts about college.

When I found out I got accepted I couldn’t believe it, I was shocked but it finally sunk in. SJP made me have confidence in myself. The counselors, directors, and other participants all

made me feel so good.

This program made me realize a lot about myself.

And as senior year is rolling, and even though stress is playing a big part of my life, I can still say that this year has been so much fun so far.

From here I leave somewhat of my “last mark” on the newspaper as an editor. Haha.

Wrapping things up, I’ll leave it as “Do everything your heart desires, even if you believe you can’t accomplish it, still go for it because you’ll never know what could happen.”

Are they true friends, or acquaintances?

F

riendship! Do you know the real meaning of this amazing word?

Friendship is a bond that can grow incredibly by trust, companionship, support, time, and the most important, love.

But does everybody deserve to be called a true friend?

Many times we confuse a friend with an acquaintance.

An acquaintance is someone who you may say hi to every once in a while, and a friend is definitely more than that.

We humans tend to consider anyone a true friend, but we don’t realize that a true friend is more than just someone who you can chat with.

OH-EM-GEE

By Melissa Cadena and Nereyda Serrano Sometimes we do things that go against our principals for someone who is just using us as an object and taking advantage of our needs of finding a “true friend.” Other times we get criticized, made fun of, and judged in by them and we think its okay to for us because we think that if we stand out for each other we will end up alone. These people are not considered friends in any kind of way.

The question is why they are treating us like that if they are supposedly our friends. Well this action might be caused by several reasons; they might feel jealousy of what we have or have achieved. They think that by putting us down or making us fail they are succeeding. It might also be that they have never had a true friend, and that they haven’t learned to respect and be loyal to someone who is giv-

ing them the chance to be trusted and respected.

Although we don’t always have to think that friendship doesn’t exist. Of course friendship exists and it’s wonderful. Don’t expect your friend to be perfect, sometimes your friend will disappoint you in some ways or keep things from us every now and then but a true friend doesn’t do that.

We choose our friends because they might share our same thoughts, dreams, likes and dislikes because friends understand us and don’t judge us. A true friend can be considered anyone not only someone we meet in school or our job. It can be your mom/dad, sister/brother,

boyfriend/girlfriend, and sometimes your dog/cat…

Friends don’t have to go partying with us, or talk to us on the phone till it runs out of battery. All they have to do is listen to us when we need to get something out of our chest. It’s when they give us a hug without them knowing that we need it. It’s when they get after us for doing something that might affect us in any possible way.

In simple words a friendship is one of the most precious gifts that life can give us, and we need to appreciate it enjoy it to a full. It’s the family we choose and accept with joy.

‘Glee’s troublemakers show their talents

T

he Cleveland Show premiered on Sept. 27 on the Fox network.

On the show Cleveland, (Mike Henry), will move in with his new family: his new wife Donna (Sanaa Lathan), her teenage daughter Roberta (Reagan GomezPreston), his son Cleveland Jr. (Kevin Michael Richardson), and Donna’s five-year-old son Rallo, also played by Mike Henry.

In this spin-off of Family Guy Cleveland leaves Quahog to have his own adventures in California, but decides to stop in his home town (Stoolbend, Virginia). He then finds out that Donna, his high school crush, is single and he decides to help her with her children.

The Cleveland Show was funny because there was no dull moment. The jokes were random and unexpected which made the show even better.

Eye Candy

By Tanya Salas and Frank Treviño 3 out of 4

2 out of 4

Glee is a show about a group of misfit students that have great singing talent.

Rachel Berry (Lea Michele) is one of the talented singers and is bullied by the cheerleaders and football players.

Artie Abrams (Kevin McHale) a paraplegic electric guitar player; Kurt Hummel (Chris Colfer) a flamboyant soprano also bullied by the football players.

These are only a few of the “Gleeks” from the glee club.

Glee was a pretty ok show, but it gets wishy-washy and pretty boring for a long time after one good joke.

America’s Next Top Model premiered September 23, on the CW. ANTM stars Tyra Banks as both host and judge of wannabe models that all wish to be the next top model. This cycle is very different from the rest.

Instead of the usual tall models, they’re now shorter!

The new cycle doesn’t fail, with great fashion, beautiful photos, and lots of entertaining drama.

3 out of 4

The Office premiered on September 17 on NBC and stars Michael Scott (Steve Carell) who’s the always sarcastic and silly boss of “Dunder Mifflin Paper Company.”

Along with Michael is his trusty, paranoid Dwight (Rain Wilson). Two other big characters in the series are the lovebirds Pam (Jenna Fischer) and Jim (John Krasinski).

In the season finale, we find out Jim and Pam are expecting, and are two very happy people. In the new season premier Scott finds out everybody except him knows the gossip around the office, so Michael decides to make up his own which later turns out to be true.

This season seems to be another hilarious new one; you can easily fall in love with all these characters

and always want to see more.

4 out of 4 Modern Family premiered on Wednesday, September 23 starring Jay (Ed O’Neill) and his second wife Gloria (Sofia Vergara) with her son Manny (Rico Rodriguez).

Jay’s homosexual son Mitchell (Jesse Tyler Ferguson) and his life partner Cameron (Eric Stonestreet) adopt Lily, a Vietnamese baby girl.

Meanwhile, Claire (Julie Bowen), Jay’s daughter, and her “cool” husband Phil (Ty Burrell) are struggling with their three children Haley, Alex, and Luke. Modern Family is an easily relatable comedy.

Modern Family is a great television show where the comedy is always constant.

3½ out of 4

Beauty is just myths Clothes can be versatile In a world full of ifs and maybes, how can you find the truth from a myth? Well there are millions and billions of beauty myths that no one can find the true answer to. After days and days of researching, Keila and I have got the answers to all the beauty myths out there.

1. Chocolate and greasy food can cause acne?

False. No one food has been proven to cause breakouts. If you find a correlation, quit eating that particular food. Acne also runs into genetics, so maybe your mother or father may have given you the great or bad skin.

2. You don’t need to use sunscreen on a cloudy day.

False. The sun’s UV rays penetrate clouds and can still cause

Fashion Hallway

By Tanya Salas and Keila Granados damage to your skin.

3. Split ends can be repaired.

False. The only way to get rid of spilt ends is to cut them off and prevent them in the future with good hair care.

4. Drinking a lot of water leads to beautiful skin.

False. While drinking a lot of water is necessary for our bodies, too much will only result in bloating and a lot of trips to the bathroom.

5. Shaving will make your hair thicker.

False. Hair is genetically determined, regardless of whether you See TANYA, KEILA, page 12

Hey fashionistas!

I’m Karinna Lopez, one of the writers at The Magnet Tribune. I am a new writer for the fashion column.

There’s one thing about me and it’s that I live for fashion.

You know how a girl gets excited when they see the boy of their dreams? Well I’m like that when I see shoes or clothes. I need them.

A new school year means new clothes. The only thing that’s missing is how to put them together.

I know fashion may look hard, but the truth about it is that everyone has their own style.

This year everything goes. From short booties to knee high boots.

From punk to girly, all that matters is how you decide to express it.

The school dress code is new for everyone; it’s only the second year and people still have a hard time dressing for school. I just thought

Fashion Hallway

By Karinna Lopez “How fun, this is going to be interesting.”

Even I have trouble thinking of how I could wear something to look different. I like to think that it’s a challenge for me and I know that everyone is not like that.

My best friend, sister and I love buying new clothes and we look forward coming to school and dressing differently every day.

Thanks to my sister, Kennia, I now live for everything fashion. I love going places where I can find a unique item and wear it to school.

This year you will be seeing a lot of gray and black. I love black; it See KARINNA, page 12

12

HEALTH

http://my.hsj.org/tx/laredo/vmt, http://twitter.com/Magnet_Tribune

The Magnet Tribune November 5, 2009

A public service by The Magnet Tribune, your student newspaper.

TANYA, KEILA, p 11 shave or not. However, shaving can make hairs appear “stubbier” and perhaps thicker.

6. Smoking causes gray hair.

True. Smokers are 4 times more likely to have gray hair than nonsmokers. Even worse, smoking has been linked to accelerated hair loss.

7. Is the inner wrist the best place to test for the right shade of make-up?

More online at

KARINNA, from p 11

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

makes me feel different even though we are not allowed to wear black or gray blouses or polos, we can wear pants, boots, belts and jackets. So that shouldn’t stop you.

Buy some chain-covered booties and layer it with a cool sweater and a scarf around your neck. Trust me; it will make a differ-

Read Tanya and Keyla’s entire column online!

False. Your inner wrist is the lightest part of your body and can throw off the accuracy of selecting a foundation’s shade.

Instead, test on your jaw line and consider chest color.

8. Wearing tight braids, ponytails, or buns causes baldness. ...(The full column is online.)

ence to your everyday look.

Sequins are coming back. I love that. Think of everything that’s possible with sequins. Just don’t go overboard. Buy a sweater with color and sequins and pair it with a white shirt and black skinny jeans and boots. If you’re not comfortable wearing boots, you can always wear cute flats or your old

pair of Converse or Vans.

Make it you.

It’s hard to find really fun clothes here in Laredo.

That’s why thank God we can order everything online. :D If you have any questions just send me an email at karinna.lopez@hotmail.com I am here to answer all your fashion questions.

Don’t be shy to ask.