May 2015 online

Tribune he Magnet

A state- and nationally recognized student newspaper

Vol. 22, No. 2

http://magnettribune.org

May 29, 2015

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

Going back in time with #VMThrowback

2 get Millennium Scholarships

By Susana Ginez MT staff writer

Pages 3, 4, 5, 11 Piano student gets Scholar recognition

Page 2 Seniors unite for Medallion Ceremony

Pages 6-7

The Magnet Tribune E-mail

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It was a good day for steel drum student Heraclio Bernal Jr. when his college class was cancelled and he received two scholarships — one of them a Gates Millennium Scholarship.

“I feel pretty proud,” Bernal said.

Carla Rangel, a student in visual arts, also received a Gates Millennium Scholarship.

“It’s a major blessing. There are not enough words to express my gratitude,” Rangel said.

Bernal, who also attends J.W. Nixon, and Rangel, who also attends Cigarroa, explained their parents’ reactions after they had received the scholarship.

“They didn’t understand the scholarship. I had to explain it several times because they still thought I needed money,” Bernal said.

“They were simply speechless and beyond proud of me,” Rangel added.

According to the Gates Millennium Scholarship website scholarships are awarded to only 1,000 students per year, out of more than 50,000 applicants.

The scholarship provides students with the opportunity of completing an undergraduate college education in any area they are interested in. The scholarship may also request

MT photo by Jose Orozco Carla Rangel, visual arts student, and Heraclio Bernal, steel drum student, received Gates Millennium Scholarships.

VMT’s first-ever recipient: http://magnettribune.org/?p=2474 funding for graduate degrees in areas like computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health or science.

The website also states eligibility requirements are to have a minimum GPA of 3.3, have an ethnicity of African American/Black, American IndianAlaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American and have a residency status as a U.S citizen or have legal permanent residency.

One also needs a recommender and a nominator.

Rogelio Garcia, counselor at Cigarroa High School nomi-

nated Rangel. VMT counselor Ana L. Salinas and Nixon High School teacher Radito Genova nominated Bernal.

At VTM, Bernal’s fine arts area is steel drums with Carlos Torres. Rangel’s fine arts area is visual arts with Alfonso Santos.

Both students explained how they felt when they found out they received the scholarship.

“It took me five hours to react. It’s a burden I don’t have to put my parents through.

It took a weight off my shoulders,” Bernal said.

See SCHOLARSHIPS, page 2

Beneficial project

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Theater student focuses on finding alternative to synthetic antibiotics using natural materials

By Lauren Melendez MT staff writer

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With a project that could one day benefit the world, Aneysa Rodriguez, a senior Theater Arts student at VMT, got the opportunity to travel to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to compete in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.

Her project was focused on finding an alternative to synthetic antibiotics using natural materials. To conduct the experiment, she recruited Mark Secord, professor of Microbiology at Coastal Bend College in Beeville, Texas.

She first took the project to the LISD Secondary Science Fair, where she won both the Grand Prize and the Naval Science Award, and thus, a trip to Pennsylvania.

To test the efficacy of natural antibiotics versus that of synthetic antibiotics, she used garlic and over-the-counter medications such as Penicillin and Tetracycline to see which was more efficient in killing bacteria.

“I typically work with modern synthetic antibiotics and I was very surprised to see the strong antimicrobial properties displayed by the garlic. It was very effective at inhibiting the growth of the E. Coli strain Anny was working with,” Secord stated in an email to The Magnet Tribune.

“It really makes you wonder how many other plant products would inhibit bacterial

MT photo by Lauren Melendez Aneysa Rodriguez holds a bouquet of flowers in the Theater Department. She had the winning project at the recent LISD science fair. growth… I think it is a good re- took home the grand prize.

“I was so shocked,” she said minder that we should always take a holistic approach when about hearing her name andealing with modern prob- nounced as the winner. “I had this gut feeling, at the beginlems,” Secord continued.

Rodriguez said her project ning that maybe I would win, could one day have a very large but I didn’t really pay it any atimpact on the world, as natu- tention because I didn’t feel my ral antibiotics are inexpensive project was capable of this.”

Winning the science fair and can be easily transported.

This revolutionary idea could made Rodriguez feel as though benefit countries facing pov- there were others who cared erty on a grand scale, she said. about her hard work as much However, Rodriguez didn’t as she did, and she said she accomplish this feat too eas- is eager to show everyone in ily. She said she faced many Pennsylvania what she has to difficulties at the start of her offer.

“I wouldn’t have been anyproject, due to her lack of resources, the necessary mate- where near the grand prize if it rials, and the help required to weren’t for my family, friends, and the people that helped me even perform the experiment.

Despite these trials, she out,” Rodriguez said.

Page designed by Jazmin Campos, Krysta Robles, Gilbert Rodriguez, Jose Orozco

VMT in History Selected highlights of our school, from The Magnet Tribune

By Esmeralda Martinez MT staff writer Volume 1, no. 1 September 17, 1993 New fine arts school named after Superintendent Vidal M. Treviño, a Martin High School graduate and holder of two degrees from Texas A&M University. He had a 40 year career of education-related accomplishments.

“The Columbus People” is how a school district administrator described the newly opened campus. Mr. Treviño was the “driving force” behind the development of the school.

He wanted to promote the fine arts with this school.

Volume 1, no. 2 October 26, 1993 School is officially known as Vidal M. Treviño of Communications and Fine Arts on September 16, 1993, after action taken by the school board The first Hispanic Heritage Festival takes place to give the students “the opportunity to examine their roots.”

The newly opened V.M.T. readies to relocate.

Volume 1, no. 3 March 1994 Scholarships for Communication students are funded at a dinner for retired educator and journalist Elizabeth Sorrell on January 14, 1994.

Journalism student Miguel Gaytan creates a logo for The Magnet Tribune.

Residents around the new magnet school compromise with new traffic and street closure schedules.

Volume 1, no. 4 April 8, 1994 Inauguration of the new campus takes place on April 8, 1994, with Texas Governor Ann Richard cutting the ribbon for the opening.

Art instructor Armando Flores and students work on bronze sculpture that will represent the magnet school, known as the Force of Creation.

Volume 1, no. 5 May 1994 Texas Governor Ann Richards officially inaugurates V.M.T. on April 8, 1994.

The “Force of Creation” is unveiled. The magnet school logo is included on the bronze sculpture.

New literary magazine formed

by Creative Writing students publish its first edition of student work.

Volume 2, no. 1 September 1994 The new school year means new schedule changes for magnet students. Classes are now on the block schedule and are 90 minutes.

Cross curriculum day gets started this year.

Volume 2, no. 2 November 1994 Second annual Hispanic Heritage Festival is expanded to two days.

V.M.T. students star in Laredo Little Theatre’s rendition of “Don’t Drink the Water.”

Students recite poetry at Laredo Center for the Arts for El Dia De Los Muertos.

Volume 2, no. 3 December 1994 Superintendent Vidal M. Trevino announces his retirement at the end of the school year.

Speculation is made on whether United High School students may attend V.M.T. Martin vs Nixon football game is resumed this year.

Volume 2, no. 4 February 1994 First Student of the Month at V.M.T., Michael Benacci, is announced V.M.T. art students win first place at the Scholastic Arts Awards Regional Exhibition sponsored by Texas State University.

Ten music department students received first chairs in Continued on next page

2 VMT in History Continued

Jazz Ensemble in Kingsville.

Volume 2, no. 5 April 1995 UISD students now are accepted at V.M.T. Tejano singing star Selena Quintanilla is killed on March 31, 1995.

Music and Dance departments raise money for permanent scholarship funds.

Volume 2, no. 6 May 1995 Superintendent Vidal M. Treviño was honored at his retirement dinner.

Social Studies students visit Washington D.C. to visit historical sites.

Volume 3, no. 1 September 29, 1995 A summer enrichment program was conducted for the third year by music and dance instructors.

The school district announced the hiring of a new superintendent, Graciela Ramirez, to replace Vidal M. Treviño.

Volume 3, no. 2 November 9, 1995 A new activity period is set up to allow the principal to speak to students, and to allow students to participate in another fine arts area.

TMEA competition in Corpus Christi: eight students move on to Region in choir competition.

Volume 3, no. 3 December 20, 1995 Tapestry magazine earns Bronze Award in Merlyn’s Pen, The National Magazine of Student Writing.

V.M.T. dancers and musicians were part of an episode of a local television program, called “Juan Diego Show,” at the Urbahn Recital Hall.

32 music students are named to the All-Region Orchestra.

Volume 3, no. 4 February 14, 1996 University of Texas said it will provide 10 scholarships yearly to VMT students.

Candelario Centeno wins first place at a regional art competition at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, inning in the jewelry making division. A total of 20 students placed in various competitions.

Music students perform in Tubachristmas at Mall del Norte on December 16, 1996.

Volume 3, no. 5 April 2, 1996 Plaques featuring the history of the school’s buildings are mounted on their walls.

Nixon received 21 bomb threats, causing students to lose much instructional time.

The school enters its firstever youth parade float.

Volume 3, no. 6 May 28, 1996 VMT’s first-ever website on the Internet is created by instructor David Blumberg Smithsonian Institute presents a day-long clinic at the Urbahn Recital Hall.

Journalism and visual arts students win 42 awards at an LCC art show.

Volume 4, no.1 September 27, 1996 Gifted and Talented program now set for Communication and fine arts classes Summer programs offended at V.M.T. in the fine arts Breakfast is now served in the Harding Building before 1st block Volume 4, no. 2 November 15, 1996 Tapestry literary magazine receives a second national bronze award again, from Merlyn’s Pen. The former Jewish temple on Main Avenue which the district purchased is going to be used for school activities.

Volume 4, no. 3 December 20, 1996 Music instructors from West Texas A&M University give master classes.

A faculty member explains the importance of the Jewish observance Hanukkah Students in U.S. Government classes conduct presidential debates.

Volume 4, no. 4 February 14, 1997 Assistant Principal John Cox was named interim principal on January 6, 1997.

Due to harsh weather conContinued on next page

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The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

Senior recognized as National Hispanic Scholar

By Brandon Gamez MT staff writer

Senior piano student Luis Bravo was recognized as a National Hispanic Scholar by the Hispanic Recognition Program, fueled by the College Board.

The National Hispanic Scholarship required entries to have a score above the 97th percentile on the PSAT and students had to have one of the highest PSAT scores in their region, which would be compared to national scores.

“It was actually pretty cool to get the recognition because it came right at the time when I was feeling down on myself because I was looking at all these other applicants at the college I want to go to, and then you get this recognition and it’s like ‘oh that’s kinda cool’. It made me feel kind of up to par so it was a really nice feeling,” Bravo said.

Bravo explained what the Hispanic Recognition is about.

“Hispanic Scholar is part of MT photo by Jose Orozco the Hispanic Recognition Pro- Luis Bravo is seen after the Mediallion Cergram run by the College Board. emony on May 15. He was recognized as a NaWhat it is (is) sophomore year tional Hispanic Scholar by the Hispanic Recand junior year you take the ognition Program this year.

PSAT; if you score at the top 97th percentile and are one of the Bravo said.

5,000 top students chosen you get recA friend explained to Bravo of what he ognized as a National Hispanic Scholar,” needed to know about the recognition, he

said.

“Actually it was through a lot of prior research, and nobody could really confirm what it actually was. I had heard from a friend who was the valedictorian 2 years ago at J.W. Nixon High School who had the same accomplishments so he told me the requirements and what I had to do,” Bravo said.

According to the College Board’s website, the National Hispanic Recognition Program identifies academically outstanding Hispanic high school students.

Each year, the NHRP honors about 5,000 of the highest-scoring students from over 250,000 Hispanic/Latino juniors who take the PSAT or NMSQT. Bravo explained the importance of the PSAT that many students overlook.

“Prepare for it. I think as a sophomore and junior you don’t understand the PSAT is important, and it would be easy to brush it off and overlook it, but if you take that time it can really pay off later on,” he said.

Bravo urged sophomores and juniors that doing the best in their courses and taking their time on the PSAT can help them have a better opportunity to be chosen.

Looking ahead, Bravo applied to and was accepted to the University of Pennsylvania and expects to graduate in 2019.

“I’m part of the 2019 class, and I am already prepared for it. I want to be a Sociology major so definitely my history courses, my math courses, and my science courses,” will come in handy, he said.

Two earn second year as TMEA All-State musicians

By Carolina Gamez MT staff writer VMT seniors Gabriel Chavez (Nixon H.S.) and Eduardo Arredondo (Martin H.S.) have continued their rank as two of the best young musicians in Texas in February.

What makes their accomplishment even more remarkable? This is both Chavez and Arredondo’s second year as TMEA All-State musicians. They both made All-State their junior year.

This year, Chavez made 4th chair clarinet in the 5A Symphonic band. Arredondo made 5th chair French horn in the 5A Concert band, being 31st in the state.

Chavez and Arredondo were two of over 60,000 students who were in the early process of auditioning stages to become All-Staters.

After successfully earning their chairs at district and area, it was time to audition for state.

The students traveled to San Antonio on Feb. 11-15 for the clinic and concert they would be performing in.

Both students said they have contributed countless hours of their time to learn three vigorous pieces, better known as etudes, in order to become the ultimate best of the best.

“They’re called etudes, and they’re like warmups. They’re very technical warmups. Not everyone is able to play them, and that’s why they’re selected.

They aren’t more difficult than anything I’ve ever had to play, but they are difficult,” Chavez said.

Both students agreed that their fine art

SCHOLARSHIPS,

MT photo by Carolina Gamez Gabriel Chavez, left, Eduardo Arredondo made TMEA All-State for the second time as seniors. classes at VMT have definitely played a major role in their musical success.

“They’re very prestigious, and it’s a one-on-one student ratio. That signifies that my teacher has really assisted me on what to do and what not to do during my audition,” Arredondo said.

Chavez and Arredondo had lots of guidance throughout learning their music pieces from Melissa Hinojosa, woodwind instructor, and Robert Lopez, low brass instructor.

The students had the encouragement to become All-State musicians not only from their teachers and peers, but they had their own incentive as well.

“You need to believe in yourself,” Arredondo said.

from page

“I instantly burst into tears of joy when I saw the package. I immediately called my brothers to let them know,” Rangel added.

Both students said if they had not received the scholarship they would both

Both musicians agreed that they pushed themselves in order to be where they are now because they never stopped trying.

Chavez described what motivated him to become an All-State musician.

“It means a lot to me that you’re considered as such an authority figure, like people will look up to you and I just like knowing that other people can count on me for something else, like when they need help. I like helping other people and I think the fact that I’m an All-Stater said a lot about my character, and that I’m reliable,” Chavez said.

Chavez and Arredondo have fellow band members that are aspiring to follow in their footsteps.

“There is no secret to making All-State.

If you really want to make it, go ahead and work for it. You have to be loyal to your instrument, as well as your education and institution,” Arredondo said, giving advice to fellow musicians.

“I still get nervous just like anybody else, but I know my music so well that my nerves don’t even get in the way,” Chavez added.

Chavez and Arredondo had mutual feelings about what it was like to be known as an All-Stater. Making All-State is the highest honor a band member can receive, and Chavez and Arredondo are experiencing this for the second time.

Arredondo insists that he should not be treated any differently because he is All-State musician.

“I just dedicated my time to my instrument, hence me being successful for my future,” he said.

1

be trying to find a way to come up with money for college.

Bernal and Rangel plan to go to The University of Texas at Austin. Bernal plans to major in Civil Engineering and Rangel plans to major in Visual Art Stud-

ies and Studio Art. VMT’s first-ever Gates scholarship recipient was Lizeth Terrazas in 2014. She was nominated by visual arts instructor Gilbert Rocha.

MT photo The front office of the new campus on Lyon Street is shown here. VMT is about ready for its big move to the new campus, in time for the fall semester.

About ready for the move

The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

School News

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#VMThrowback Memories of our downtown campus http://magnettribune.org/category/vmthrowback

Photo by The Magnet Tribune staff In the first year of the school, since the buildings were not ready, the school moved between the school board room and the Civic Center. Here, students work on art projects in the fall of 1993. http://magnettribune.org/?p=4277 http://magnettribune.org/?p=4614 http://magnettribune.org/?p=4737

Alumni Amanda Lee Cruz-Lombraña Class of 2008

What years were you at VMT? Aug. 2004- May 2008 Fine arts or communication area: Communication Arts #TeamPhotojournalism Who was your fine teacher? Mr. Mark Webber Has your fine arts or communication area helped you as an adult? Please explain. Focusing in Communication Arts has allowed me to enhance my interpersonal communication skills in both a professional and personal environment. Communications has opened several opportunities from internships, to freelance work and employment. And more — the full list of benefits would go on…

Did you pursue your fine art or communication area after high school? Please explain. I received my associate’s degree in Fine Arts focused in communications from Laredo Community College (LCC) in 2011. Received my Bachelors degree in Communication Arts with a minor in Spanish and Marketing University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) in 2013Received my Master of Arts degree in Communications focused in Public Relations and Marketing from the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) in 2014.

What have you gotten out of VMT? The sense of unity and family; overall teamwork and teambuilding; the importance of overall education. VMT has always believed in the talents of each and every student. With such a heavy and positive influence at such a young age, in a not so opportunistic town, reminds you that with the right education, support, and attitude you are capable of accomplishing anything. VMT gave so many of us the confidence and can-do attitude needed to pursue higher education.

Were there any events during the time you were here that you enjoyed? Please describe. My favorite time of the year was our annual photography show; it allowed students to display their best photography (I still have some winning photos hung back in my childhood room). The Photojournalism annual Halloween contest!

Is there anything you’d like to add that we haven’t asked?

Mr. Webber, a professor with vast knowledge and a kind heart, never gave up on his students. His warmth and motivation allowed each of us to pursue our dreams no matter the obstacles and whether that was in communications or not. Mr. Webber and Mr. Arambula were the most dedicated professors and mentors during what may be the most critical time of any young adult. Senior awards were always fun: I received the “Best Hair” and “Most Opinionated” awards in May 2014.

What are your fondest memories of VMT? The immense amount of shows and events that not only highlighted student talent, but also encouraged student morale.

What do you miss most about VMT? The location, knowing you are given a sense of independence and responsibility at such a young age to get yourself to and from your home campus, is such an amazing feeling. A responsibility many non-VMT students are unable to experience. The Dark Room where student danced to “Develop-STOP-Fix” – Mr. Webber can explain more in detail. We used to have the best times listening to music, laughing and (literally) developing awesome work!

Aaron Hinojosa, Class of 2014

What years were you at VMT? 2010-2014 Fine arts or communication area? Music, specifically low brass studies.

Who was your teacher? Mr. John Reimund Has your fine art or communication helped you as an adult?

Please explain. It definitely has. It has made me more appreciative of the arts.

Did you pursue your fine art or communication area after high school? Please explain. Yes, I did. I am currently enrolled at Texas A&M International University studying music education.

I’m a proud Dustdevil, I bleed Maroon and Silver, and I proudly say I’m an alumnus from Martin High School and VMT. What have you gotten out of VMT? I have received an exemplary education and perhaps the best college preparations anyone could ask for. Not a single moment was wasted at VMT. Were there any events during the time you were here that you enjoyed? Please describe. I loved the chances that we got to perform. It was a privilege to perform with ensembles that I wouldn’t have had the chance to do so by simply attending a regular high school. Everything VMT had to offer was amazing; the guest performances, the Hispanic Festival, Ovation Brass, VMT Philharmonic Orchestra, etc. This school is none like the others.

Is there anything you’d like to add that we haven’t asked? It is a greater, personal privilege of mine that the current location of VMT is downtown, literally a couple of blocks away from my home.

I have never felt more honored to know that within my neighborhood, some of Texas’s most talented students are walking around enhancing their education. A word of advice to all current students: If you love what you are doing now at VMT or anywhere else, make it your life goal. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

You are in charge of your own future and your own happiness and only you can bring the happiness into your own life.

What are your fondest memories of VMT? My fondest memories at VMT are all the times I spent it with my friends. I attended VMT in the afternoon, so we would wait outside the buildings before class actually started. It was always hot, and I hated that, but other than that, I liked hanging around outside the Urbahn building, which housed most of the music and dance department. My friends and I would watch pigeons fight for food and talk about all things music.

What do you miss most about VMT? What I miss the most about VMT is that feeling of being surrounded by talented individuals. At the university, a lot of people are talented, but we’re all old. It’s expected from us. At VMT, with everyone being high school students, it felt a lot more impressive. Don’t get me wrong, over at the university, I feel like one of the more advanced musicians, and I thank VMT for that. Once a professor was amazed by a performance of mine and asked me if I went to VMT. When I answered with yes, she said no wonder. It’s a great feeling when you see the impact VMT makes outside of the school grounds.

But back to my point. The talent held at VMT feels extraordinary, a feeling that not even a college can duplicate because of all the other classes everyone must take. VMT has an atmosphere that can only be found at VMT.

Dafni Villarreal, Class of 2011

Years at VMT: August 2007- June 2011 Area: Dance VMT Teacher was: Mary Ellen Leyendecker

Has your fine arts or communications area helped you as an adult? It has. I adjusted very well to college life. VMT exposed me to the different characters and attitudes each and every one of us has, making it easy to get along with all these other people in my college courses, as well as in life. I was prepared to also not have my professors constantly on me about my assignments and whether or not I was to class on time. No bells at VMT is exactly what college is about.

Did you pursue your fine art or communication area after high school? No, I did not; however, I did take a dance class as a part of the fine arts hours I must complete for my major.

What have you gotten out of VMT? Independence and to feel comfortable in my own skin.

Were there any events during the time you were here that you enjoyed? OF COURSE!! HISPANIC FESTIVAL =D The food, games, performances, I absolutely miss is so much. It’s something I will never forget and honored I was able to be a part of.

Is there anything you’d like to add that we haven’t asked?

No, but just a message to current students: Enjoy your time at VMT. At times it may seem rough, and you may want to give up, but let me let you in on a secret … it’s all worth it. Waiting for buses, running off to ur fine arts/communications class, dealing

http://magnettribune.org/?p=4863

with your core classes, then go back to your home school to continue doing the same thing and then practice, homework, friends etc. etc. Trust me when I say, those are memories you’ll cherish for as long as you live.

What are you fondest memories of VMT? Man, what can I say, I have soooo many! But the two that stand out the most is our Nutcracker performances, and of course “the hand”! =) What do you miss most about VMT? Dance! I often find myself dancing to music or doing pirouettes on my living room floor! Ms. Leyendecker, she is tough but she means well. A teacher like her you will not find out here in the real world. Learn as much as you can from her; she will truly make you the best dancer you can be!

3 VMT in History Continued

ditions schools were forced to close on January 13 and 14.

Journalism students exhibit photography for the first time at the Laredo Center for the Arts Volume 4, no. 5 April 11, 1997 School district creates guidelines for using the Internet.

A music teacher creates a website, and a history teacher uses the Internet to get material for his lessons.

An English teacher went to Brazil on a Rotary International Foundation exchange trip.

Volume 4, no. 6 May 26, 1997 John Cox, interim principal, was named principal on May 1, 1997.

The first group of seniors, 42 in all, who have attended VMT for four years recall their accomplishments.

Volume 5, no. 1 September 24, 1997 A Magnet Tribune survey shows students dislike uniforms and dress codes.

Barbara Bush, wife of Gov. George W. Bush and first lady of Texas, visits the Treviño Center (cafeteria) and visits with students and faculty.

Volume 5 no. 2 November 7, 1997 Students collect about 500 food items for the Salvation Army.

Spanish classes present Day of the Dead projects.

Student becomes an intern in the school office.

Volume 5, no. 3 December 19, 1997 The district may receive money to improve on Internet service at school Treviño Center opened as a library and offers a satellite dish connection.

Volume 5, no. 4 February 14, 1998 Grant of $84,000 will establish 16 multimedia work stations at the school.

A new Merlin telephone system gives VMT its own phone number.

No more going through the district’s switchboard operator.

New satellite system will provide distance education courses.

Volume 5, no. 5 April 14, 1998 Forty-four VMT students are going to compete in state UIL competitions.

Pro artist Oscar Sotelo presents on how to air brush images.

A former resident of the Leyendecker House (used as the cafeteria) tells of living there during World War II. Volume 5, no. 6 May 27, 1998 Math class proves Galileo’s theorem by volunteer teachers swinging on a swing held by a fire department ladder truck.

Graduating seniors say their teachers have deeply influenced their lives.

Volume 6 no. 1 September 30, 1998 Tropical Storm Charlie floods the Rio Grande in late August, causing major problems.

President Clinton may face possible impeachment.

The district mandates morning students are to walk through metal detectors.

VMT students perform while Highland Park High School students sign through a long distance connection.

Volume 6, no. 2 November 30, 1998 Surveys done in schools could result in students being required to wear uniforms.

Students in English classes present scenes from “Grapes of Wrath.”

Volume 6, no. 3 December 18, 1998 Students, school administrators disagree on whether students should be driving their cars to VMT. Magnet Tribune receives second NSPA award.

Volume 6, no. 4 February 14, 1999 Survey reveals stresses that students encounter.

Superintendent stresses need for more use of technology.

Volume 6, no. 5 April 16, 1999 Bomb threats continue to disContinued on next page

rupt Nixon instructional time.

District says $144 million bond issue important to school improvements.

Twelve German students visit VMT campus.

Volume 6, no. 6 May 26, 1999 Columbine High School massacre too place on April 21.

10 journalism students receive state-wide awards.

Voters approve district’s $144 million bond issue.

Cartoon character fights for breast cancer awareness.

Volume 7, no. 1 September 30, 1999 Schools are forced to make up lost days due to Hurricane Bret.

Distinguished Achievement Program is good for students.

Changes coming to TAAS will require students to take more tests.

Volume 7, no. 2 November 19, 1999 Famous actor Pepe Serna presents theater workshop at school.

Theater students hold first student-directed performances.

Volume 7, no. 3 December 21, 1990 The Magnet Tribune’s “Adios al siglo 20” special edition.

Students predict the future, several with amazing accuracy!

Teachers look back at events that shaped the past 100 years.

Volume 7 no. 4 February 14, 2000 VMT is set to be connected to the internet with a cost of $192,000 School registrar Anita Gonzalez dies after a long illness.

Volume 7, no. 5 April 20, 1000 Math students make 1,000 origami birds.

Time capsule containing items contributed by teachers is to be opened in 2020.

Volume 7, no. 6 May 29, 2000 Principal John Cox announces his retirement.

Theater students take part in Mediation Olympiad.

Volume 8, no. 1 September 8, 2000 School gets new principal, Ernesto Guajardo.

Students revealed their plans for the new school year.

Volume 8, no. 2 October 13, 2000 Communication department head Cyndee Ramirez resigns from LISD. Music instructor Eliza Ramirez wins Miss Laredo body-building contest.

Two Venezuelan musicians perform for VMT students.

Volume 8, no. 3 November 20, 2000 Student who boxes has been recognized by the National Silver Gloves, Junior Olympics and Texas Games.

Three magnet school students named National Hispanic Merit Scholars.

Volume 8, no. 4 December 20, 2000 Steel drum students participate in Percussive Art Society event.

During the Martin-Nixon football game week, Martin was vandalized, and repairs cost $2,481.60. Nixon was also vandalized, costing $807.28 to repair.

Volume 8, no. 5 April 18, 2001 Mural is painted by art students on the second floor of Azios building.

Afternoon students are now finally able to receive lunch.

Broadcasting students create video to be used in a school funding presentation.

Volume 8, no. 6 May 29, 2001 Dancer Isabel Zamarripa is accepted to New York Dance Academy.

“Full of Gum” tree: Students deposit gum on a dead tree trunk located behind the Harding building.

Volume 9, no. 1 September 7, 2001 Students help police catch thief trying to break inside a car.

Distinguished Achievement Project gets underway.

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Photo by The Magnet Tribune staff Now retired dance instructor Cheryl Kirkpatrick instructs her dance students at the Civic Center ballroom in the fall of 1993, while VMT buildings were undergoing remodeling. http://magnettribune.org/?p=4277 http://magnettribune.org/?p=4614 http://magnettribune.org/?p=4737

Photos courtsy of Alyssa Garza Left: Amanda Cruz (now Lombraña), left, and Alyssa Garza pose at the Senior Breakfast in 2008.

Right: Amanda Cruz (now Lombraña), left, and Alyssa Garza at Alyssa’s graduation from Texas State University in 2012. Both former VMT students now have master’s degrees. http://magnettribune.org/?p=4425

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Seniors Jessica Canales, Class of 2015

What is your home school? Cigarroa High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Strings, Mr. Compton How does it feel to be in the last class to graduate from the downtown campus? To me, it doesn’t feel a certain way.

I’ve become attached to it. It’s sad knowing future students won’t be able to enjoy this specific campus as I have, but I know they will enjoy their new campus in their own way.

What is it you have enjoyed the most at VMT? Please explain. Over the 3 years I’ve been here I’ve enjoyed being able to meet the people I’ve met. I have also enjoyed learning to play the cello.

What are your fondest memories of VMT. Please explain. I have had so many lovely memories at VMT that I simply could choose the fondest or name them all but a few are the discussions I shared with my friends in class, meeting new people such as my boyfriend, working together in U.S. History with my closest friend, and end-of-year events.

What was one of your biggest learning experiences?

Why was that? One of my biggest learning experiences has been becoming a more social person, but I feel that’s not saying much since the different may only be slight. To be able to settle nicely in college and start over in the sense of meeting new people, getting along well, having a fun social experience as well as an academic one you have to be able to socialize at least a bit. There’s not better way to become more social than to be surrounded by plenty of outgoing students in a fine arts high school.

Were there any events at VMT that you enjoyed the most? Please explain. I enjoyed the annual Hispanic festival.

Each year I felt it got better.

Victoria Medina, Class of 2015

What is your home school? Nixon High School.

What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Piano studies, Dr. Carroll.

How does it feel to be in the last class to graduate from the downtown campus? It’s such a great honor to be able to say that I’m part of the last class to graduate.

What is it you have enjoyed the most at VMT? Please explain. The atmosphere is absolutely great I feel at home when I come.

What are your fondest memories of VMT? Please explain. When we had the piano and pasta night at VMT would have to be one of the greatest memories I’ve had.

What was one of your biggest learning experiences? Why was that? Learning how to play the piano would be the biggest learning experiences since I’ve never played the piano before.

Veronica Nevarez, Class of 2015

Norma Garza, Class of 2015

What is your home school? Martin High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Theatre, Mr. Carroll How does it feel to be in the last class to graduate from the downtown campus? It is bittersweet. It’s nice to graduate from this wonderful campus, but incoming freshmen/future students won’t be able to share this experience.

What is it you have enjoyed the most at VMT? Please explain. I love the openness of the campus. Also, how the high schools are combines and there’s no rivalry between any of the schools. The teachers and administration trust the students and believe in them.

What are your fondest memories of VMT. Please explain.

I don’t think I’ll ever forget the way it feels to be on a stage.

Before a performance I’m nervous and jittery, but once I step on stage I become another person.

What was one of your biggest learning experiences?

Why was that? The biggest learning experience I’ve had is that I can’t go through life blending into the crowd. I have a voice and I need to use it.

Is there anything you’d like to add that we haven’t asked? Joining VMT was one of the best decisions I’ve made.

I’ve always enjoyed the arts, especially theatre, but now I have a true appreciation for them.

Mario Limon, Class of 2015

What is your home school? Nixon What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Piano, Dr. Carroll How does it feel to be in the last class to graduate from the downtown campus? Hopelessly romantic What is it you have enjoyed the most at VMT? Please explain. The walking outside to get to different classes and the groups of people.

What are your fondest memories of VMT. Please explain.

Making new friends from different classes and performing. The events with all the fine arts.

What was one of your biggest learning experiences?

Why was that? How practicing has to be done often and well.

Is there anything you’d like to add that we haven’t asked? I’m jealous of the students who get to use the new campus.

What have you gotten out of VMT? Performance experience and skills.

Were there any events at VMT that you enjoyed the most? Please explain. Hispanic festival and the “Friday in the Park” events.

What is your home school? Martin High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Mr. Carroll, Theatre arts How does it feel to be in the last class to graduate from the downtown campus? It feels special! However, I’m sad because it’s finally the end.

What is it you have enjoyed the most at VMT? Please explain. I really enjoy the Hispanic festival because that’s when all the fine arts get together and perform and eat food!

What are your fondest memories of VMT? Please explain. My fondest memories of VMT is theatre. I and my peers did a fantastic play called “Pillow Talk.” It was super funny.

What was one of your biggest learning experiences? Why was that? To be patient. One time in theatre I casted some rowdy people, and one time I blew up! It wasn’t pretty… feelings were hurt ... blah blah blah ... lesson learned.

What do you think of the changes at VMT since you’ve been here? Honestly I haven’t noticed any major changes but the thing is that the school is leaving to a new building. GOSH! I was devastated, but glad because students get new things.

What have you gotten out of VMT? I got the experience in my preferred fine art. The ease of interaction. Also responsibility, respect, and VMT has helped me build my character.

Were there any events at VMT that you enjoyed the most? Please explain. Yes! Theatre performances and the Hispanic festival.

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The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

Interviews, stories, videos, photos -- lots of photos from the early years -- all at #VMThrowack at The Magnet Tribune online!

VMT in History

School News

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4

The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

School News

http://magnettribune.org, Twitter. @Magnet_Tribune, www.facebook.com/MagnetTribune

#VMThrowback Memories of our downtown campus http://magnettribune.org/category/vmthrowback

Courtesy of Nicholas Lopez Seniors of 2008 blow up balloons for a prank in Social Studies instructor Matt Arambula’s classroom — to fill his room with balloons! http://magnettribune.org/?p=4434

Photo courtesy of Rebekah Rodriguez Then-freshmen Jessica Castillo, left, Rebekah Rodriguez, center, and Selena Borjas pose outside of the Harding Building. They graduated in 2013. http://magnettribune.org/?p=4441

Photo courtesy of Rebekah Rodriguez Now-TAMIU student Rebekah Rodriguez poses on Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, less than a year after graduation. “It’s just one of many things that wouldn’t have been possible without VMT,” she said.

Juniors/Sophomores Alejandra Hernandez, Class of 2016

What is your home school? Martin High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Choir, Celia Hernandez How does it feel to be in the first class to graduate from the new campus? Well it’s an honor to be the first ones because we are the start of something new, and new traditions will start.

What are you looking forward to at the new campus?

Please explain. Better places to work and air conditioning in all classes Have there been any events at VMT that you’ve enjoyed the most? Please explain. Yes, the Hispanic fest, it’s an event where we get enjoy other fine arts while having fun.

What is your favorite subject at VMT? Choir.

What has been one of your biggest learning experiences at VMT? Why is that? That you should be yourself even if people think it’s weird and odd because you are just being the best of who you are.

What have you gotten out of VMT? Please explain. New friends, more self-confidence and just getting to be you.

Alberto Rodriguez, Class of 2016

What is your home school? Martin High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Steel Drums, Mr. Torres How does it feel to be in the first class to graduate from the new campus? I don’t like it, I wanted to graduate from the old school instead.

What are you looking forward to at the new campus?

Please explain. Better restrooms and classrooms.

Have there been any events at VMT that you’ve enjoyed the most? Please explain. Steel drums trip to Dallas because it was a real fun experience being with the whole band.

What was your favorite subject at VMT? History Is there anything you’d like to add that we haven’t asked? Don’t change schools, stay in the old building.

What has been one of your biggest learning experiences at VMT? Why is that? Not to fight.

What have you gotten out of VMT? Please explain. Better learning experiences. I learn better and faster; music, for example, at V.M.T.

Armando D. Gallegos, Class of 2017

What is your home school? Nixon High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Theater Arts, Mr. Carroll What are you looking forward to at the new campus?

Please explain. New opportunities, I really want to have more opportunities to participate more in this school. Example: after school and summer programs.

Are there any events that you’ve enjoyed at VMT? Please explain. One of the events I really enjoy is the Hispanic Festival.

What is your favorite subject at VMT? Please explain.

My favorite subject has to be English because I’ve always been good at it.

Krista Martinez, Class of 2017

What is your home school? J.W. Nixon High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? VMT Ballet/Hip-hop/Contemporary Mrs. Leyendecker What are you looking forward to at the new campus?

Please explain. The new dance studios and classrooms because we need space.

Are there any events that you’ve enjoyed at VMT? Please

Jennifer Rangel, Class of 2016

What is your home school? J.W. Nixon High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Tapestry, Mrs. Ramirez How does it feel to be in the first class to graduate from the new campus? It feels like an honor but at the same time it feels bitter sweet.

What are you looking forward to at the new campus?

Please explain. I am looking forward to everything about the new campus, like classes and the new building.

Have there been any events at VMT that you’ve enjoyed the most? Please explain. The Hispanic festival because we get to miss the day and eat and listen to music.

What is your favorite subject at VMT? U.S. History

Ramon Martinez, Class of 2016

What is your home school? Martin High School.

What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your fine arts/communica-tion teacher(s)? Low Brass, Mr. Reimund How does it feel to be in the first class to graduate from the new campus? It’s a nice feeling, this will be an inspiring class for other graduating classes.

What are you looking forward to at the new campus?

Please explain. How smoothly things will run.

Have there been any events at VMT that you’ve enjoyed the most? Please explain. Hispanic festival. I liked the Hispanic festival because it shows the Hispanic or Mexican in all of us. It’s a nice and beautiful thing to see everybody together.

What was your favorite subject at VMT? History or Government What has been one of your biggest learning experiences at VMT? Why is that? How we all learn even though we all come from different backgrounds. We all enjoy each other’s’ company and we all learn.

What have you gotten out of VMT? Please explain. Experiences I’ll never forget.

Kendra Treviño, Class of 2017

What is your home school? Nixon High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Art- Mr. Rocha What are you looking forward to at the new campus?

Please explain. I’m looking forward to the new art room. I am so excited to have my own work station.

Are there any events that you’ve enjoyed at VMT? Please explain. I have greatly enjoyed the Hispanic Festival.

The amount of planning that is put into it is simply breathtaking. The performances are fantastic and it’s so much fun.

What is your favorite subject at VMT? Please explain.

My favorite subject of course would be art because it gives me an opportunity to express myself in various forms of media and have people admire it.

What have you gotten out of VMT? I have become more responsible as well as creative. I have also found a love for school. explain. I enjoyed the Hispanic Festival because it is a chance to interact with everybody at VMT. What is your favorite subject at VMT? Please explain.

World History. It is one of the most interesting subjects.

What have you gotten out of VMT? I have gotten dance education, like good technique and flexibility.

What was one of your biggest learning experiences at VMT? Please explain. Here, nobody judges, and everybody accepts who you are.

#VMThrowback continues on page 11.

5 VMT in History Continued

New English teacher and secretary join VMT staff.

Volume 9, no. 2 October 2001 A new state law requires school to start no sooner than August 21.

Two recognized as National Hispanic Merit Scholars.

Students dissatisfied with district’s new dress code policies.

Volume 9, no. 3 November 26, 2001 A nationwide anthrax scare has killed four people and sickened hundreds more.

Low brass student accepted to Interlochen Arts Academy to study music.

A teacher’s recipe for tamales has been featured in Texas Monthly magazine.

Volume 9, no. 4 December 19, 2001 Football players accused of drinking on a bus returning from a playoff game face punishment.

Theater students take part in a mock car-train crash as part of Texas Operation Lifesaver.

Volume 9 no. 5 February 22, 2002 Tapestry staff asks students to contribute to the magazine.

LCC offers History 1301 and College Algebra at VMT after school hours.

Two students audition for places in the music program at West Texas A&M University.

Volume 9, no. 6 April 30, 2002 Murals are painted by students.

Blind Reign, a student music group that began at VMT, releases its first album.

A music instructor and Communication Department aid look at obtaining NPR station.

Volume 9, no. 7 May 24, 2002 School’s attendance clerk retires from school district.

UT makes presentation to students in the Communication Department.

Supreme Court will decide if testing students who participate in school activities is legal.

Volume 10, no. 1 (No longer available) Volume 10, no. 2 October 8, 2002 LISD board to consider whether students should be randomly tested for drugs.

During the summer an old building nearby which once housed a Methodist church caught fire. Ashes damaged the Treviño Center. Repairs could cost from $20,000 to $25,000.

A former Magnet Tribune staff member now works in LISD’s public information office.

Volume 10, no. 3 November 22, 2002 Student receives recognition as National Hispanic Scholar and National Commended Scholar.

A senior was a top three finalist in a contest naming the city’s new hockey team.

Rain forces Hispanic Heritage Festival into the Urbahn Building.

Volume 10, no. 4 December 20, 2002 Teachers become certified in CPR. Treviño Centre is set to reopen January 6, 2003, as school’s new library.

Volume 10, no. 5 February 20, 2003 Magnet Connection hits downtown radio airwaves.

C-Span bus explains government news coverage.

School secretary graduates from TAMIU. Volume 10, no. 6 April 30, 2003 Theatre students perform an original play by a New Yorker playwright.

Book titled “Peace” acknowledges student Orlando Holguin because author uses Holguin’s newspaper story in his book on the 9/11 attacks.

Head custodian is drummer in a Spanish-language band.

Magnet Tribune poll shows students start drinking at an early age.

Volume 10, no. 7 (Unavailable) Volume 11 no. 1 September 29, 2003 Former English department Continued on next page

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Medallion Ceremony

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Medallion Ceremony http://magnettribune.org, Twitter. @Magnet_Tribune, www.facebook.com/MagnetTribune

Farewell to 2015 seniors

VMT in History building becomes district’s tax office.

Lamar Middle School Principal Blas Martinez becomes new VMT director.

English teacher Dr. Linda Mitchell named assistant principal at Christen Middle School.

District quits serving breakfast and lunch at VMT. Volume 11, no. 2 November 10, 2003 Theater and radio students create PSA for Red Ribbon Week.

Former dance and theatre student Veronica Castilla is leaving for New York City to study at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy.

School gets new English and Choir instructors.

Volume 11, no. 3 December 19, 2003 District resumes serving breakfast and lunch at VMT. District introduces eChalk communication system.

Volume 11 no. 4/5 February 27, 2004 Piano lab receives new pianos.

Special section tells stories of Laredoans who served their country in the Mideast.

Volume 11 no. 6 April 23, 2004 Folklorico and flamenco students win first place in the dance squad division at the WBCA parade.

District’s high schools to remain open campuses.

Volume 11, no. 7 May 28, 2004 Jose Aldaco, Graphic Arts instructor, retires after 26 years in the district.

Teachers organize Women’s Day event.

Music instructor forms mariachi group.

Volume 12 no. 1 September 24, 2004 Former art student Jassie Rios becomes new art instructor.

Extra block added. Students now leave at 4:30. New block is called Study Skills; past VMT schedule only had 4 blocks and students left at 3:40 Breakfast and lunches now serving more healthier food to meet state standards Volume 12 no. 2 November 5, 2004 MIDI classes receive donation of sophisticated synthesizer.

Theatre Arts students collaborate with LCC on adaptation of “Fame, The Musical” Student’s public service announcement for Crime Stoppers received international recognition.

Volume 12 no. 3 December 17, 2004 Elsa Reyna, English teacher, leaves VMT staff after 9 years to become the district’s secondary reading coordinator.

20 students earn places on the Texas Association of Music Education regional orchestra.

15 teachers receive CPR training.

Volume 12 no. 4/5 February 25, 2005 Gerardo Flores replaces Elsa Reyna as new English teacher Art department paints murals on former railroad pillars at the Zacate Creek linear park.

Piano students raise money for Asian tsunami victims.

LISD reimplements password to the district’s Internet system.

Volume 12 no. 6 April 23, 2005 School’s eChalk website wins “Best Web Page-High Schools” and “Best Improved Web Site” awards from E-Chalk.

Some children of teachers and staff come to school together.

Richard Urbis, music professor from University of Texas at Brownsville, met with music students.

Volume 12, no. 7 May 24, 2005 Art students receive Heritage Award for murals at Zacate Creek.

Math students fly tetra kites they made themselves.

Broadcast aide Patsy O’Shea retires, and Social Studies instructor Vincent Clark leaves LISD. VMT could receive about $3 million from a $60 million bond issue for a new campus.

The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

Diana Lopez, left, received the Academic Teacher of the Year Award, and Celia Hernandez received the Fine Arts/Communications Teacher of the Year Award.

Visual Arts seniors show off their medallions.

Music instructor Melissa Hinojosa awards a medallion to her student Janely Castro during the Medallion Ceremony.

S

tudents in the graduating class of 2015 gathered at the Civic Center Auditorium on May 15 to receive the customary medallions for completing 3 or 4 years of study in their fine arts or communication area at VMT. Here’s a look at some of the highlights of the ceremony.

Piano Studies instructor Dr. Mary Grace Carroll and some of her seniors enjoy a moment before the start of the Medallion Ceremony.

Seniors pose for a silly picture after the Medallion Ceremony.

Seniors intently listen to a speaker during the Medallion Ceremony.

Above: Amanda Castañeda walks to the podium to present her senior speech. Right: Afterwards with school Counselor Ana L. Salinas.

MT photos and page design by Esmeralda Martinez and Belen Silva Seniors take a “groupie” after the Medallion Ceremony ends.

Marissa Guerrero gives the invocation.

7 VMT in History Continued

Volume 13, no.1 September 30, 2005 New school director Jose Cerda returns to VMT. He was formerly an assistant principal at Cigarroa High.

VMT students raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims.

School district prepares to house possible evacuees from Hurricane Katrina.

Volume 13, no. 2 December 5, 2006 Art student Eric Chavez wins his first professional boxing match, in Nuevo Laredo.

School’s lost and found gets some use by students, teacher.

Volume 13, no. 3 February 14, 2006 First Winter ball is held Feb. 4.

School gets its first-ever student teacher.

Faculty, students show differences on survey The Magnet Tribune conducted, created by The Latino Coalition.

Volume 13, no. 4 April 21, 2006 New superintendent, from Brownsville, is interviewed by Magnet Tribune staff members.

School receives $2,500 Best Buy te@ch award.

School donates items to former student, now a U.S. Marine in the Mideast.

Volume 13, no. 5 May 25, 2006 First-ever senior breakfast is held at the Treviño Center (cafeteria building.)

Teachers, staff about to end their weight-loss competition.

CD yearbook is published.

Volume 14, no. 1 October 6, 2006 Students recall events of 9/11 on its fifth anniversary.

New school nurse has much experience in the field.

Column explores strange experiences in the building ITV and visual arts shares.

Volume 14, no. 2 November 27, 2006 Meeting explains Advanced Placement courses to parents.

District opens Early College high school.

Two dance students won their division at the International Latino Arts Festival in El Paso.

Volume 14, no. 3 December 22, 2006 Treviño Center is now used to serve breakfast and lunch.

Students holds school drive for Bethany House Cigarroa High School plans a bronze bull sculpture for its 25th anniversary, expected to cost more than $20,000.

Volume 14, no. 4 February 23, 2007 Students hold memorial service for former superintendent and the school’s founder Vidal M. Treviño, who died in December 2006, at 77.

School closes for two days due to weather. Days are to be made up in April and May. Survey shows how students feel towards MySpace social media site.

Volume 14 no. 5 May 11, 2007 Dance students Becky Longoria and Jerry Mata perform at Disneyland Radio/television students receive $2,500 Best Buy grant.

The Magnet Tribune receives a $500 award from Sames Driven for Success.

Volume 14, no. 6 May 25, 2007 SoundTown band receives $500 Sames Driven for Success award.

KLRN public television accepts broadcast students’ video production.

Volume 15, no. 1 October 5, 2007 Student teacher Billy Thatcher joins VMT for the fall semester.

Jamin Teran is new English/ Audio-Visual Production instructor.

Quinta Essentia club allows students to participate in community service.

Volume 15, no. 2 November 30, 2007 Quinta Essentia club raises $511 for Pennies for Tennis.

English class celebrates Banned Book Week.

Defibrillator is available for medical emergencies.

Volume 15 no. 3 January 29, 2008 Sean Gaynor, world geogra Continued on next page

8

Reviews

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The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

The true story of a navy SEAL sniper

The movie entitled “American Sniper” has to be one of the greatest war movies ever produced. This film is based on the true story of Chris Kyle, who was a Navy SEAL sniper.

It is also based on a book written by Chris Kyle of his life and story while overseas in the Middle East.

It’s a very entertaining yet heart-warming story that shows how Chris Kyle’s pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield and turns him into a legend.

When he comes back home to his wife and kids after four tours of duty, Chris finds that it is the war he can’t leave behind and that is the most saddening situation.

Chris Kyle is played by Bradley Copper in the film

Cinematic

By William Rodriguez and he is depicting the life of him when he was Navy SEAL and the journey that he experienced throughout his life as he went on to become the most lethal sniper in U.S. history with 150 kills to his name. The main idea of the film is that “One bullet can tell the whole story.”

The film starts off with Chris Kyle (Bradley Cooper) perched on a rooftop talking on a cell phone as he is protecting his soldier friends who are about to enter a small town. He as the sniper must be on the

lookout for anything strange or unusual. He then notices that something is wrong as he sees a man hesitantly talking on the phone and most likely telling someone that the U.S. troops are coming into the town. After that occurrence, the man exits Chris Kyle’s scope view and is no longer seen anymore.

Following that, a boy appears on the street with a woman, who gives him a rocket to use and in that moment Chris Kyle as the sniper he doesn’t know if he should or shouldn’t shoot at the boy. Ultimately he

MT photo by Warner Bros. Pictures/TNS Kyle Gallner, left, as “Goat” Winston and Bradley Cooper as Chris Kyle star in “American Sniper.” ends up taking the decision he must take and he has to deal with that for the rest of his life.

The film also shows when Chris Kyle goes through a rigorous training process, which includes being blasted with a powerful hose while exercising, laying down on the beach and

letting the cold surf wash over him as well as being verbally abused by the officers who run training, mocking him for being too old to be a Navy SEAL at the age of 30. He also goes through sniper training, bringing in his hunting background.

See CINEMATIC, page 10

It’s one of these edge-of-your-seat reads

R

osie Dunne and Alex Stewart have been best friends since they were children. They were, “inseparable, constantly being separated.” This heartwarming story about Alex and Rosie, in “Love, Rosie,” is enough to keep you at the edge of your seat.

The story takes place in Dublin, Ireland. It begins with an invitation to Rosie’s 7th birthday party.

Years later, Rosie and Alex go to a pub in which Rosie gets very drunk and kisses Alex.

The next morning after having her stomach pumped due so much alcohol in her body, she doesn’t remember a thing from last night. Alex starts to form feelings for Rosie, but

The Book Look

By Belen Silva suddenly gets the news about his parents moving to Boston.

Their senior year, Alex regrettably moves, leaving Rosie to fend for herself during the boring school year.

On the night of prom, Rosie goes with “Brian the Whine” instead of her original plans of going with Alex. After having an “eventful” night, a few weeks later, Rosie realizes she is pregnant.

Where does this leave Alex?

But as most love stories go,

love always prevails in the end.

The story follows Rosie’s wedding and the birth of her beautiful daughter as well as Alex’s wedding and the birth of his son.

Things seem impossible for Alex and Rosie to be together, but the best things in life are worth waiting for.

What’s very unique about this book is that it is told through a series of letters, emails and text messages between Rosie and Alex through-

out their lives. Secret notes passed during class or emails sent from their office computers, all these changes in their surroundings, yet Rosie and Alex manage to stay friends.

This book had me tearing through every page. I remember being so frustrated because Rosie and Alex kept missing each other — complication after complication.

You will probably experience the same exasperation I did. I apologize in advance, but the ending is worth the wait, like Rosie and Alex’s love.

“Where Rainbows End,” by Cecelia Ahern, is truly a book that will leave you in tears.

Crying from joy and laughter, frustration and anger, but nev-

ertheless, with tears.

Clash of Clans could be the game for you Clash of Clans begins by introducing the player to his own village where he play the role as chief where he given the responsibility of overseeing the village and protect it from goblins.

As the new chief of the village, the player is given a grand tour by a village woman and is taught everything there is to know about running a successful village.

As the player start off, the woman introduces the player to the importance of building defensive buildings which helps protect the village at all times. Other important buildings that are critical to the village are the resource collectors and storages.

Gold is one of the main resources the player will come across in the game; it’s used to buy and upgrade buildings and is also used to pay a small fee in order to play online.

K

Gamebreaker

By Chris Cantu

All though the gold may seem like the most important resource in the game, it really is the second most important.

The most important resource that is critical to your village’s success is the elixir because without it the player

wouldn’t be able to train any army units, upgrade specific buildings, or level up army units.

There are some things that make this game original and addicting, such as the opportunity to place army units wherever you want around an enemy base.

When the game was first released, there wasn’t any other game that had this option. Ever since then, games have been coming out with this feature.

The game includes a fun campaign mode where you can

battle against enemy goblin others. bases for resources.

The trophies also help place Although the single player you on other leaderboards is fun, the main source of the such as the league you curgame’s popularity is online. rently are in.

Online allows you to chalLeagues are like individual lenge other players worldwide scoreboards which only hold a by attacking their bases and certain amount of people. Each vice versa. league has a certain amount of On any other game this type trophies the player needs to of online mode would only be have. Once the player possess fun for a short amount of time, more trophies that they are but the creators of the game allowed to have, they are aunamed Supercell found a way tomatically placed in a differto keep the online mode a bit ent league with other players more interesting. They came around the world. up with a trophy system where There are only a certain not only can you challenge amount of leagues you can be others and steal their resourc- in which are named bronze, es, but also steal trophies. silver, gold, crystal, master The trophies are an impor- and champion. tant factor to the game beA small downside is when cause depending on how many attacking the enemy, the playyou have, is what determines er doesn’t have much control where you are placed on the over his army units after he worldwide leaderboards which places them on the ground. can be very important to those Most feel the game would be who love the challenge to beat See GAMEBREAKER, page 10

I ‘Dedicate’ this review to you

alin and Myles is a duo that makes you want to jump on a table and dance. They have an Extended Play out called Dedication.

Their music is a mixture of R&B and Hip-Hop, making it sound more of Hip-Hop kind of style.

How they first began Kalin and Myles met at a local theater in 2011. They kept in touch through the social media site Facebook and began making music together.

A single called “More Than Friends” was dropped throughout the Internet and it became viral – the response was truly overwhelming. Soon after that, they began to rise with gigs and became opening acts for Austin Mahone and Meg & Liz. Their EP Dedication, on the Republic Records label, has four songs.

The first track is called “Trampoline,” the second is

Hear, Say

By Krysta Robles called, “I Don’t Really Care,” the third is called, “Dedication,” and fourth is called “You’re The Only One I Need.”

Track by track Each one of these songs have a different kind of style, but are performed by the same people. The first track, Trampoline, is about today’s dancing. You have Miley Cyrus twerking on stage and

I’m sure this is what this song is about. “… Make it go trampoline,” and “Bounce…

Like a tramp o l i n e , ” could be understood as twerking movements.

This song is one of those you want to have at a party, blaring it so loud that it is heard throughout the neighborhood.

The second track, I Don’t Really Care, is about judg-

ment. This society is now full of judgment, and this song is basically the singers saying that they don’t care what others say about them and their music.

“Head in the clouds, keep it up. I won’t look down,” makes a powerful statement.

This lyric is basically ignoring the haters and not hearing what they say; they’re in cloud nine with the love with their fans.

“I don’t care what they say about me,” Kalin and Myles say. This lyric is saying what Kalin and Myles want to express. This song is something else, but in a let’s-party-allthe-time something else. The third track, Dedication, is about a girl. This is a song that their style music (Hip-Pop), but it is still sweet. It’s a nice song and the lyrics are amazing when you listen to them closely. “You should let me

be your boyfriend. I just want to love you,” is the first lyric, and it is straight forward, but nonetheless amazing. “I think I’m in love, so can I make a special dedication.” The last track (also the fourth), You’re The Only One I Need, is about a girl and how she is the only one he needs. “Hey, you’re the only I need,” is basically saying what they want the point to be which is basically needing you and your love. And it is also a title reference.

This song is also one you would love to hear when you’re ever feeling down and want something to listen to so it can make you feel happy. It has an upbeat kind of style and it is also soulfully uplifting.

Their EP is something wonderful and joyful to listen to, and I recommend it to a lot of you. It may not be for all of you, but it’s something you should try.

Opinions

The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

Comments? Write us at mt_writers@hotmail.com

http://magnettribune.org, Twitter. @Magnet_Tribune, www.facebook.com/MagnetTribune

9

Reach out if you’re feeling depressed

T

he teenage years can be tough, and it’s perfectly normal to feel sad or irritable every now and then. But if these feelings don’t go away or become so intense that you can’t handle them, you may be suffering from depression.

Depression can lead to very serious damages upon themselves or among others. Depression is feelings of severe despondency and dejection. In other words, it’s when a person feels very sad, hopeless, and unimportant and often is unable to live in a normal way.

When you’re depressed, it can feel like no one understands. But depression is far more common in teens than you may think. Depression drains your energy, hope, and drive, making it difficult to do what you need to feel better.

You are not alone, and your depression is not a hopeless case. You have to have faith in yourself and have in mind that you are not going to do harm to yourself nor others.

Recovering from depression requires action, but taking action when you’re depressed is hard. As a matter of fact, just

H

The Bug

By Martha Inguanzo It’s hard to put into words how depression feels, and people experience it in their own way. If you don’t know if you are suffering from depression there are some common problems and symptoms that teens with depression experience. thinking about doing the most minimum things to feel better, seem exhausting.

It's hard to put into words how depression feels, and people experience it in their own way. If you don’t know if you are suffering from depression there are some common problems and symptoms that teens with depression experience, such as constantly feeling irritable, sad, or angry.

Why keep trying?

Nothing seems fun anymore, and you just don't see the point of trying. You feel bad about yourself—worthless, guilty, or just "wrong"

in some way. You sleep too much or not enough. You have frequent, unexplained headaches or other physical problems. Anything and everything makes you cry. You’ve gained or lost weight without consciously trying to. You just can’t concentrate. Your grades may be plummeting because of it. You feel helpless and hopeless. Or you’re thinking about death or suicide.

If you happened to have any or all of these problems, TALK TO SOMEONE RIGHT AWAY! Overcome these problems by doing several things even though they might seem impossible. Take things slow.

Start by knowing that there is always another solution, even if you can’t see it right there and then when you are having these problems. Always have in mind that any teen across the world who have ever attempted suicide (and survived) say that they did it because at the time they mistakenly felt there was no other solution to their problem. They couldn’t see another way out, but if you really think about it, they didn’t really want to die. Remember that no matter how horrible you feel, these emotions will pass eventually.

Being judged Many people might start judging you and telling you that you are a bad person just because you might have tried harming someone. Well that’s a lie. It doesn’t make you a bad person. Depression can make you think and feel things that are out of character things that you usually don’t do. No one should judge you or condemn you for these feelings.

They should be surprised because you are brave enough to talk about them.

If you can’t handle your

feelings, try to convince yourself to wait at least 24 hours before you take any action.

During this 24-hour period it gives you time to really think through all the decisions you are thinking about taking. If you can’t seem to calm down, call someone--anyone-- at all, just as long you are not calling another person that is at the same condition that you happen to be in. If this has happened to you before and you know that you are not going to be able to calm yourself down, make sure that you are not alone. Stay in public places, hang out with your family or friends, do anything to keep from being by yourself and in danger.

If you call someone and you see that they can’t help you, another exception that you are going to have to take is to talk to your parents about what is going on with you. It may seem impossible to do something like that especially if they are always getting angry about your behavior but the truth it that parents hate seeing their child hurting. Letting your See THE BUG, page 10

F-F 7 takes series to a new level

ave you seen The Fast and the Furious movies? The seventh was released recently and it’s been the number one movie in theatres. This movie is mostly about fast cars and it teaches a life lesson: to never turn your back on family.

The Fast and the Furious movies are mostly about the world of drag racing that an FBI agent of Los Angeles, Brian O’Conner (Paul Walker), starts loving after he’s been sent as an undercover agent to destroy. He teams up with Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) to bring down a drug trafficker. Toretto begins to trust O’Conner and he accepts him into his family after he finds out that O’Conner is in love with his sister Mia (Jordana Brewster).

In Fast Five, Toretto and his street race crew plan a heist to buy their freedom and are in the sights of a powerful Brazilian drug master and a dangerous federal agent, Hobbs

Observations

By Delilah Gonzalez I see these movies as a life lesson for the reason that all are friends and they treat each other as family. They never turn their backs on one another. If one is in trouble everyone is, too.

(Dwayne Johnson). In Fast Six Hobbs finds Toretto and tells him he needs the help of his team. Agent Hobbs has been chasing drug dealers and at the same time Dom faces his presumed deceased girlfriend, Letty.

I see these movies as a life lesson for the reason that all are friends and they treat each other as family. They never turn their backs on one another. If one is in trouble everyone is, too.

Stunts get better This movie caught my attention for the reason that the

stunts in every movie get better and better. And no matter what conflicts they have to face, they will face them together.

I’ve always loved the humor of Roman Pierce (Tyrese Gibson) and Tej (Ludacris). They always have something funny to say.

I do have several favorite scenes in every movie. My first favorite scene is from the first The Fast and the Furious.

When O’Conner first started racing and went up against Toretto he lost the race but he had a smile when he stepped out of the car and said, “Dude

I almost had you.” I think that in this scene Brian is so adorable.

Another scene that I like is that the ending of every Fast and Furious movie. Dom and his family (crew) always end the day with one of them saying grace at a cookout.

This prayer by Roman was said at the end of Fast Six: “Father, thank you for the gathering of friends. Father we give thanks for all the choices we made because that’s what makes us who we are, let us forever cherish the loved ones we’ve lost along the way, thank you for the little angel the newest addition to our family, thank you for bringing Letty home, and most of all thank you for fast cars.”

Quotes reflect life I love the fact that in every movie you will also hear quotes and sayings that are so true, like this one: “It don’t matter if you win by an inch or a mile, winning’s winning,” Toretto

said.

This new movie Fast and Furious 7 has touched millions of peoples’ hearts. Universal Studios made an amazing movie even though the best drag racer Paul Walker, who died in a tragic car accident in November 30, 2013, wasn’t here to finish the movie he started, but producers still managed to come out with a brilliant idea to keep Walker in the whole movie. And it seems to work well.

Fast Seven takes the series to another level. It has more action. There are really great actors such as Ronda Rousey, Dwayne Johnson, and Jason Statham, who plays the role of Deckard Shaw and wants revenge against Dominic Toretto and his family for the death of his brother.

Furious Seven: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack has released singles. Among them are “Ride Out” from Kid Ink, Y.G, Wale, and Tyga and Rich See OBSERVATIONS, page 10

Waffle Iron

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

The Magnet Tribune is distributed free of charge.

By Michelle Fraire

Dr. Martha Villarreal School director Mark Webber Journalism instructor and adviser The Magnet Tribune Vol. 22, No. 2, May 29, 2015 Nameplate on page one was produced by Brandon Gamez, sophomore, for use beginning in the 2014-15 school year.

Production is by VMT journalism/online media/CTE students using Adobe InDesign and Adobe Photoshop on HP computers.

Printed by Greater Dallas Press Copyright ©2015 Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts and The Magnet Tribune.

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

First Class Award: 1996-97, 98-99, 99-00, 02-03 03-04, 04-05, 05-06, 06-07, 07-08, 08-09, 09-10, 10-11, 11-12, 13-14 (online)

Second Class Award: 2000-01, 01-02, 10-11 (website), 11-12 (paper and website), 12-13 (paper), 13-14 (paper)

ILPC

Award of Distinguished Merit: 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010 (Star nomination), 2010 (online) Award of Achievement: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2008, 2011, 2011 (online), 2012 (online), 2013, 2014 Award of Honor: 1998, 2004, 2005

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

10 VMT in History Continued

phy teacher, becomes technology trainer.

School organizations collect gifts for Casa de Misericordia, and $600 for five families for Adopt-A-Family.

Student donates 16.5 inches of hair to Locks of Love Volume 15 no. 4 February 25, 2008 Cindy Hernandez, Cigarroa High School graduate, replaces Sean Gaynor as World Geography teacher.

Cigarroa and Nixon move to UIL Class 4A, while Martin stays in 5A. Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton campaigns in Laredo.

Volume 15, no. 5 April 5, 2008 Senior Class, Conjunto Magneto, and Conjunto Extremo raise $600 for March of Dimes.

School plants tree in honor of Earth Day and Arbor Day. Teachers will start the school year earlier under the 2008-09 school calendar.

Volume 15, no. 6 May 20, 2008 Academic department awards five newly created scholarships to seniors.

District to begin dress code in the fall.

Eleven original staff members still going strong after 15 years.

Volume 16, no. 1 October 17, 2008 Dress code, new bell schedule now in place.

Rock the Vote event features “John McCain” and “Barack Obama” in a debate.

School receives new English and math instructors, and nurse.

Volume 16, no. 2 December 18, 2008 Dr. Martha Villarreal, new school director, likes how the year is going.

Raoul Moreno, Maria Rivera, and Shaula Rocha are honored as National Hispanic Scholar.

School gets new secretary/ bookkeeper.

Volume 16, no. 3 February 27, 2009 Students from Tzu Chi College of Technology in Taiwan perform at the Recital Hall Students watch and react to the inauguration of Barack Obama as president.

Columnist likes Apple’s new iPhone 3G. Volume 16, no. 4 May 21, 2009 The city has five cases of H1N1 (swine flu) virus, the health department reports.

Music instructor performs at a tuba-euphonium world conference.

VMT celebrates Earth Day by planting five trees at St. Peter’s Plaza.

Volume 17, no. 1 November 5, 2009 Dr. A. Marcus Nelson realizes dream of becoming a superintendent of a school district.

School gets new art and math instructors.

School raises $400 for Tennies for Pennies.

Magnet Tribune staff member attends Princeton University summer journalism program.

Volume 17, no. 2 January 5, 2010 Dual enrollment is now a part of VMT. Students are taking English, history and math.

A native of Cuba makes a presentation to Social Studies classes.

Journalism students hear about attorney Brian Cuban’s battle with Facebook over hate speech.

Volume 17, no. 3 March 5, 2012 STAAR will replace TAKS in the fall, with high school students expected to pass 12 exams.

Math teacher forms chess club.

Teachers get training on suicide prevention.

Videos and simulator helps teach about the dangers of drinking and driving.

Volume 17, no. 4 May 19, 2012 District now requires two lockdown drills of each school per year.

Former piano student now at UT-Austin gave students a special performance.

Retiring are art instructors Continued on next page

School News

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Observations,

page

Homie Quan. Also, Wiz Khalifa featuring Iggy Azalea’s “Go Hard or Go Home.”

It also includes Prince Royce newest single “My Angel” and a second single from Wiz Khalifa, “See You Again” featuring Charlie Puth. I think these songs are great to listen to when you’re in the mood. Well, it works for me. I have these soundtracks on my phone and I listen to them all the time.

This soundtrack, “See You Again,” is a song that pays tributes to the late Paul Walker.

“It’s been a long day without you my friend. And I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again. We’ve come a long way from where we began. Oh, I’ll

The Bug,

page

page

www.furious7.com Shown are the main characters in Fast and Furious 7.

to make it the ending of Furious 7. This song makes you cry, and the ending really gets to you. It actually makes me remember Paul Walker every time I hear this song.

If you haven’t seen Furious 7 I do recommend you to watch it. Overall, I have seen each and every one of the Fast and Furious movies and I consider myself a huge fan.

Because of me watching these movies I remember of some words or quotes that Paul would say: May Paul Walker rest in peace, and he will always be missed.

“I live by ‘Go big or go home,’ that’s with everything. It’s like either commit and go for it or don’t do it all.” – Paul Walker

tell you all about it when I see you again, When I see you again.”

Ever since it was released it

has been Paul’s anthem. This song was put together with parts of the very first Fast and Furious movie as flashbacks

even though they don’t show it.

Some people might think that talking about your sadness means that you want people to have sympathy for you. That’s not true. They don’t need to have any of that; they just need to be good listeners.

deal with anything or anyone. Getting out of bed every morning can seem impossible, but being isolated only makes things worse. Make it a drug to stay social, even if it’s the least thing in your mind. As you start being how you used to be, you notice that you might start to feel better as time goes by.

Having fun, doing things that you actually like doing with your friends is perfect. Stay away from those people that you call “friends” that think drugs, alcohol, etc. can make you feel better when they know that that’s not the case but still do it anyway because they think that it is making them better when in reality it is just making them worse and worse as they keep doing it. It is also a really good deal to limit the time that you spend on media because then you might get addicted to it and yet still be the same.

•Keep your body healthy.

Wake up every morning and go for a run. Exercising releases a rush of endorphins, which makes you feel instantly happier. It doesn’t have to be running. Any activity helps! As for food on the other hand, eating

unhealthy can make you feel sluggish and tired which even worsens your situation. Your body has to have vitamins and minerals at all times. Make sure you are eating healthy even when you are not depressed.

•Avoid alcohol and drugs.

Many people by that time have probably mentioned that by doing that kind of stuff can make you feel better. In reality, it isn’t. By doing those things can make you an addict and will for sure affect you in the long run. Don’t listen to anyone that tells you that drugs can make you feel better, you will get worse.

•Lastly, ask for help if you are stressed. Talk to a teacher or school counselor if exams or classes seem overwhelming. If you’re dealing with relationship, friendship, or family problems, talk to an adult you trust. No matter what they are there to help you, not to bring you down.

Getting rid of depression is not easy, it takes time. Just know that at the end, it will all be worth it. Just how you get better, your family will too.

something that could help America in its fight against terrorism, and so therefore he joined the SEAL’s in order to become a sniper.

After marrying, Kyle and the other members of the team get called for their first tour of Iraq. Kyle’s struggle isn’t with his missions, but more about his relationship with the reality of the war, and once returned home, how he manages to handle it with his urban life as well as his wife and kids.

Chris Kyle begins to go through the post-traumatic stress disorder that happens to many soldiers once they come back from the war. He begins to get flashbacks from what he experienced in the war and the terrifying events he remembers.

Ultimately “American Sniper” is an overall extraordinary movie to go see with friends and family, and it’“American Sniper” will have a mark in cinematography.

Helpful tips Here are some tips that you might want to take if you want to feel better.

•Start by knowing that the depression you have is not your fault, you didn’t cause it.

However, know that you have some control in order for you to feel better. Keeping in touch with your friends and family, making right choices as well can have a hugely impact on your mood. Also have in mind that during that period of time you might need counseling or medication in order to be fine while you are sorting out your feelings. Before you start drinking anything, make sure that you first look at the side effects because some of that medication might even make you feel worse.

•Try not to isolate yourself.

When you are having your problems, you don’t want to

8

In the meantime, Kyle meets a woman named Taya (Sienna Miller) at a bar one night. She tells him that she would never marry a SEAL, as her sister did but was cheated on and lied to constantly. She also challenges him at drinking shots, showing off how tough she is, but she ends up vomiting outside the bar.

Kyle is kind to her, holding her hair and soothing it by taking care of her. He calls her repeatedly until she agrees to date him, and their relationship progresses. She asks him at one point if she ever thinks about who will be at the end of his gun, and he tells her that he just wants to protect his country.

On their weeding day, he and his fellow SEALs receive word that they will be deployed

Gamebreaker,

9

9

parents know about your depression might motivate them to get you the help you need. If you see that your parents are having problems of their own and you don’t want to cause them any more problems, find another adult you trust (such as a relative, teacher, counselor, coach). The person you choose can either help you approach your parents, or direct you toward the support you need. No matter what it is, talk to someone, especially if you happen to have suicidal thoughts. Asking for help from people is not a bad thing. It is the bravest thing you can do, and the beginning step on your way to feeling better.

It can seem crazy to open up to someone when you are feeling depressed, hopeless, ashamed, or worthless.

Just remember that everyone struggles with these exact feelings at one time or another.

These problems don’t mean that you’re weak or no good.

Accepting your behavior and opening up to someone you trust with all your heart will make you feel less alone. No matter how horrible you feel, people love and care about you

Cinematic,

The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

to Iraq, which they celebrate.

It’s a very entertaining yet heart-warming story that shows how Chris Kyle’s pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield and turns him into a legend.”

This movie is one that will have you on the edge of your seat. Clint Eastwood is the director of the movie making it yet another amazing film directed by him. The move itself is very interesting because it is based on a true story of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, and this thrilling war movie will leave you speechless.

Chris Kyle was nothing more than a Texas man who wanted to become a cowboy, but in his 30s found out that his life needed something different, something where he could express his real talent,

from page

much improved if it had this option.

Overall, the game is one of the most popular strategy games since its release. De-

8

velopers encourage the game to be downloaded from the app store. It is offered for any smart phone and is completely free to download.

http://magnettribune.org/?p=5331

School News

The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015

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#VMThrowback

VMT in History Continued

Memories of our downtown campus http://magnettribune.org/category/vmthrowback

Photo courtesy of Selena Garcia (Martinez) Selena Garcia (now Martinez) and fellow seniors pose outside during the Senior Breakfast in May 2007. http://magnettribune.org/?p=5246

Photo courtesy of Cynthia J. Gomez Cynthia J. Gomez, second from left, and a group of friends pose outside of the Harding Building. She graduated in 2006. http://magnettribune.org/?p=5246

Abbigail Villanueva, Class of 2018

What have you gotten out of VMT? I have been more responsible and gotten a sense of being independent.

Is there anything you’d like to add that we haven’t asked?

VMT has made me a more confident person, a person that isn’t afraid to be herself.

What was one of your biggest learning experiences at VMT? Please explain. One of my biggest learning experiences is that if you want to do something, you can accomplish it by working hard.

What are your fondest memories of VMT? Please explain.

My fondest memories are being with my friends and being able to express myself through my work.

Marlene Sanchez, Class of 2018

loved it.

What is your favorite subject at VMT? Please explain. My favorite subject was Geography, mainly because every day was so fun and it was never boring.

What have you gotten out of VMT? As cheesy as it sounds, an experience.

What was one of your biggest learning experiences at VMT? Please explain. Performing. I was so scared at first, but now I love it so much.

What are your fondest memories of VMT? Please explain.

Meeting nice people who I can call my friends. They’re so amazing.

What is your home school? Cigarroa High School What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Sculpture, Mr. Santos What are you looking forward to at the new campus? Please explain. I am looking forward to the new atmosphere and the extra space in classrooms.

Are there any events that you’ve enjoyed at VMT? Please explain. I enjoyed the Hispanic Festival because it was fun and there were so many things to do.

What is your favorite subject at VMT? Please explain. My favorite subject is art because I love it.

What is your home school? J. W. Nixon What is your fine arts/communication area and who is your teacher? Dance: Folklorico with Ms. McKinnis What are you looking forward to at the new campus? Please explain. I’m looking forward to a whole new experience in a completely different school because I’m having the opportunity of learning in some place new.

Are there any events that you’ve enjoyed at VMT? Please explain. I enjoyed the Hispanic Festival because that was the very first time I performed in front of so many people and I absolutely

Teachers/staff: Video interviews, text stories

Elsa Barron Former teacher, now Assistant Principal http://magnettribune.org/?p=4767

David Blumberg Original faculty member

http://magnettribune.org/?p=4723

Jamin Teran Former student, now Audio/Video broadcast instructor http://magnettribune.org/?p=4705

Matt Arambula Original faculty member

http://magnettribune.org/?p=5358

A. Carlos Imperial Original staff member

http://magnettribune.org/?p= 4575

Mark Webber Original faculty member

http://magnettribune.org/?p=4815

David Arevalo Former student, now dance instructor

http://magnettribune.org/?p=5320

Ashley Ramirez Former student, now English instructor

http://magnettribune.org/?p=4729

Armando Flores Original faculty member Discusses creating the hand

http://magnettribune.org/?p=5331

Retired in June 2014 or early 2015

Juan Rodriguez Original staff member

Alicia Gonzalez Original staff member

11 Armando Hinojosa and Jorge Vasquez, music instructor Gene Granado, and dance instructor Cheryl Kirkpatrick.

Volume 18, no. 1 November 19, 2010 Math instructor becomes middle school assistant principal.

Former students join faculty as English, dance instructors.

School also gets new instructors in art, math, science, music and choir.

School director discusses rumors of the school closing or being moved to the Nixon High campus.

Volume 18, no. 2 March 5, 2012 Art Department collects toys for Christmas.

Students attend State Legislative Session.

Brandon Romero is named Hispanic Scholar.

Dummies made out of Saran Wrap invade the courtyard.

Volume 19, no.1 March 19, 2012 Hispanic Heritage Festival is dedicated to well-known music educator and musician Eddie Galvan, Dr. Carroll’s father.

Hand sanitizers are put in school cafeterias throughout the district.

The controversial ICU program begins at the start of the second semester.

Survey shows more are accepting VMT’s move to a proposed new campus.

Volume 19, no. 2 May 28, 2012 School board approves plans for new campus.

Retired art teacher is interviewed about his Tejano Monument in Austin.

Volume 20, no. 1 December 20, 2012 Former English teacher returns as assistant principal.

District provides laptops to students under 1:1 learning initiative.

Campus Crime Stoppers collects teddy bears to donate to the sheriff’s office.

Volume 20, no. 2 June 3, 2013 Groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of the new VMT campus.

Teachers discuss Civic Center purchase.

Volume 21, no. 1 January 24, 2014 Hispanic Heritage Festival moves to the Civic Center grounds.

School gets new World Geography teacher.

Music students use “Google Hangouts” to learn performance techniques from U.S. Army band members.

Volume 21 no. 2 May 30, 2014 Lizeth Terrazas earns Gates Millenium Scholarship Retiring is Social Studies instructor Gregorio Garza and Head Custodian Juan Rodriguez Student in piano wins regional Rotary Club speech contest.

Volume 22 no. 1 January 5, 2015 Tapestry magazine staff holds Open Mic Night.

School receives two new Social Studies instructors.

School board recognizes two journalism and two art students for their achievements in competitions.

Volume 22, no. 2 May 27, 2015 Hercalio Bernal Jr. and Carla Rangel earn Gates Millenium Scholarships.

Aneysa Rodriguez’s winning LISD science fair project earned her a trip to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Luis Bravo is recognized a National Hispanic Scholar.

The Magnet Tribune publishes a special issue looking back at VMT’s first 22 years at its downtown campus before moving to a brand new campus on Lyon Street in East Laredo.

Gregorio Garza Original faculty member

http://magnettribune.org/?p=4468 http://magnettribune.org/?p=2582 http://magnettribune.org/?p=2578 Previous retirees and their video interviews: Cheryl Kirkpatrick, Dance Department dean: http://tinyurl.com/okzkldq Armando Hinojosa, Visual Arts dean: http://tinyurl.com/pbflh6f Jorge Vazquez, Visual Arts instructor: http://tinyurl.com/owjvjgy Gene Granado, Music instructor: http://tinyurl.com/kzym97y MT photos by: Elsa Barron: Mark Webber Matt Arambula: Lorie Zamarripa

(2008) David Arevalo: Jazmin Campos David Blumberg: Jessica Canales

A. Carlos Imperial: Norma Garza Ashley Ramirez: left, courtesy;

right, Linda Ramirez

Jamin Teran: Jazmin Campos Mark Webber: Christopher Cantu Armando Flores: 1994 staff photo

Julissa Hernandez Texas A&M International Carlos Daniel Ibarra United States Marine Corps Kiana Lee Izaguirre Texas A&M International Mario Alberto Limon Texas A&M International Victoria Ann Medina St. Mary’s University Lidia Diane Palacios Texas A&M – Kingsville Leslie Yvette Suarez Laredo Community College Jose Luis Villa Texas A&M International B. Compton – Orchestral Strings Jose Enrique Almazan Texas A&M – College Station Jessica Renée Canales Texas A&M International Rocio Belen Garza University of Texas – San Antonio Anna Belinda Lara University of Texas – Austin Josue Rafael Ortiz Texas A&M International Cesar Edgardo Peña United States Marine Corps Diana Riley Texas A&M University – Kingsville Julithza Jazmin Rodríguez Texas A&M International Cesar Vela Laredo Community College R. Cortez – Jazz Guitar Cesar de Jesus Camarillo Texas A&M International Adrian Abelardo Guevara Laredo Community College José Luis Muñoz, Jr. University of North Texas Jose V. Tovar Laredo Community College C. Hernández – Choral Studies Amanda Lee Aguirre Texas A&M International

Jose G. Cantu Laredo Community College Armando Castillo Laredo Community College Adriana Castro University of Texas – San Antonio Zoë Anne Collazo University of Texas – Austin Diego Armando Cruz Univ. of Texas – San Antonio Kimberly Elizabeth Garcia Texas A&M International Jazmine Delilah Granados Texas A&M International Elizabeth Juarez University of Texas – Austin Luis Daniel Parra Texas A&M International Kristelle Rivera Texas A&M International Vanessa Viridiana Valero Texas A&M International M. Hinojosa – Woodwind Studies Alexandra Acevedo St. Mary’s University Jennifer Angelica Alvarez Laredo Community College Juanita Arizbeth Baiza Texas A&M International Janely Castro Southwestern Adventist University Gabriel Antonio Chavez University of Texas – Austin Alfredo Garza III Texas A&M International Karen Stephanie Perez Texas A&M International R. López – High Brass Studies / Sound Town Eduardo Arredondo Sam Houston State University Bray Ruben Avila Laredo Community College Edgar Javier Compean United States Marine Corps Daniel Edelmiro Garza Laredo Community College Stephen E. Rivera University of Texas – Austin

J. Reimund – Low Brass Studies Arnulfo E. Flores Texas A&M International Jonathan Garcia Laredo Community College Jose Ramiro Orozco Texas A&M International Jesus Rodriguez, Jr. Texas A&M International Abisai Tapia Laredo Community College Louis S. Zavala Texas State University B. Thatcher – Classical Guitar Jazmin Campos Laredo Community College Francisco Chavez Laredo Community College Celso Abel Hernandez Texas A&M International Alejandro Joel Moreno Laredo Community College C. Torres – Percussion Studies Gerardo Javier Ayala Laredo Community College Alejandro Benavides Texas A&M International Eden Jesus Benavides Laredo Community College Heraclio Bernal University of Texas – Austin Claudia Clarissa Delgado Laredo Community College Roberto V. Diaz Laredo Community College Catalina Melissa Herrera Sam Houston State Univ.

Jose C. Vasquez United States Army Theatre Arts V. Carroll – Acting & Technical Theatre Megan B. Escamilla Laredo Community College Norma Graciela Garza Texas A&M International

2015

Source: Medallion Ceremony program

Aaron Christopher Negrete Texas A&M International Veronica S. Nevarez Laredo Community College Mario Alberto Peña Laredo Community College Aneysa E. Rodriguez University of Texas – Austin Visual Arts G. Rocha – Drawing & Painting Cecilia Acosta Laredo Community College Kimberly Garcia Laredo Community College Sergio Dominick Muñiz Texas A&M International Shaney Anne Zamora Texas A&M International A. Santos – Drawing & Sculpting Amanda L. Castañeda Laredo Community College Karina A. Davalos Laredo Community College Cecilia Isabel Gallegos Texas A&M International Omar J. Garcia University of Texas – San Antonio Amanda Estela Garza Laredo Community College Clarissa M. Guerrero Texas A&M International Marissa M. Guerrero Texas A&M International Maria F. Hernandez Laredo Community College Carla Yvonne Rangel University of Texas – Austin Albert Rodriguez, Jr. Texas A&M International

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Veronica A. Rodriguez Laredo Community College Yolanda Clarissa Torres Laredo Community College M. E. Leyendecker – Classical Ballet Valerie Mireya Gardea Texas A&M International Carolina Joann Herrera Laredo Community College A. McKinnis – Flamenco & Folklorico Maria C. Castillo Texas A&M International Joanah Michel Cavazos Texas A&M International Sergio Arturo Hernandez, Jr. Texas A&M Int’l Monica Marie Martinez Texas A&M International Angel Aaron Ovalle Laredo Community College Luis Armando Palomino Army National Guard Roxanna Lorraine Raz Laredo Community College Isis E. Rivera University of Houston – Victoria Sherline Nicole Salazar Texas A&M International Angelica Sanchez Laredo Community College Kassandra Vargas Texas A&M International Music Dr. M. G. Carroll – Piano Studies Monica Annely Acuña Laredo Community College Luis A. Bravo University of Pennsylvania Eliza Denise Elizondo Texas A&M International Larissa Espinosa Arquieta Texas A&M International Abigail Garcia Art Institute of San Antonio Andres Enrique Gonzalez Texas A&M International

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Senior Class

Communications A. Ramirez – Creative Writing Andrew Jose Elizondo Texas State University Cristina Oviedo Texas A&M International J. Terán – Radio & Television Giselle Amaro Laredo Community College Eliseo Ceja Texas A&M International Angelica Flores Texas A&M International Kassandra V. Garcia Laredo Community College Gerardo Xavier Lerma Texas A&M International M. Webber – Journalism / On-Line Media Arlen Barba Laredo Community College Christopher Jacob Cantu Texas A&M International William Rodriguez Texas A&M International Dance D. Arévalo – Classical Ballet / Modern Dance Elizabeth Aguilar Texas A&M International Denisse Alvarez Laredo Community College Kassandra Colchado Texas A&M International Ines Hernandez Texas A&M International Daniela Denise Lira Laredo Community College Kiara Dayana Lopez Laredo Community College Lizeth Alondra Martinez Texas A&M International Joanna Rangel Laredo Community College Michelle Rodriguez Laredo Community College

12 The Magnet Tribune May 29, 2015