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The School Newspaper of Southwest Career and Technical Academy.

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

Southwest Shadow

Venice Jingco

Venice Jingco, A&E Editor

Hello, I’m Venice and this is my third year writing for the newspaper! I spend most of my time in the A&E section and I love drawing cartoons.
All content by Venice Jingco
In the 2024 election, Black Americans voted Republican in record numbers.

In the 2024 election, Black Americans voted Republican in record numbers.

SIX ARTISTS YOU SHOULD BE LISTENING TO: NOVEMBER 2024

SIX ARTISTS YOU SHOULD BE LISTENING TO: NOVEMBER 2024

Venice Jingco, A&E Editor
November 18, 2024
Brighten your day with some new November tunes.
AP classes can provide a number of benefits for many students who are willing to challenge themselves.

[Photo] The Benefits of Advanced Placement Classes: Why Should You Care?

Hunter Rhee, Multimedia Editor
November 14, 2024

AP classes can provide a number of benefits for many students who are willing to challenge themselves.

Following the destruction of the Tropicana Hotel, The Mirage closes to prepare for major reconstruction. The city plans to build a baseball stadium and Hard Rock hotel in their wake. “We honestly already have a lot of stadiums nearby,” Environmental Science teacher Martha Horner said. “You have the T-mobile Arena, you have the Raiders stadium, and you have The Sphere close by as well. So there's already a lot of things right there on The Strip, and I could see a new sports stadium being another traffic issue.”

Las Vegas Strip: Progress in the Wake of Destruction

Venice Jingco, A&E Editor
November 8, 2024
Las Vegas prepares to undergo massive changes in The Strip.
 Education is a privilege that students always grumble about. Instead of focusing solely on the negative aspects, it is better to realize how lucky students are to have an education.

[Photo] Appreciate the Privilege of Education

November 4, 2024

Education is a privilege that students always grumble about. Instead of focusing solely on the negative aspects, it is better to realize how lucky students are to have an education.

Donald Trump confuses Gen Z with his attempts to connect with them on social media.

[Photo] The Ultimate Boomer: Trump’s Uncomfortable Disconnect from Gen Z

November 1, 2024

Donald Trump confuses Gen Z with his attempts to connect with them on social media.

Donald Trump confuses Gen Z with his attempts to connect with them on social media.

[Photo] The Ultimate Boomer: Trump’s Uncomfortable Disconnect from Gen Z

Zelina Panissidi, Social Media Editor
November 1, 2024

Donald Trump has a lack of understanding of what Gen Z finds funny on social media.

A touching narrative of the harmony between technology and nature. Rating: A Photo Credit: DreamWorks Animation

‘The Wild Robot’ Will Tug At Your Heartstrings

Venice Jingco, A&E Editor
October 29, 2024
‘The Wild Robot’ is a children’s classic turned cinematic masterpiece.
In the past few months, Korean makeup brand Tirtir has expanded their shade range for their Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation to include thirty different colors, a large expansion from the three that were previously offered.

[Photo] K-Beauty is Made for Koreans

Kailie Sicolo, News Editor
October 22, 2024

In the past few months, Korean makeup brand Tirtir has expanded their shade range for their Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation to include thirty different colors, a large expansion from the three that were...

SIX ARTISTS YOU SHOULD BE LISTENING TO: OCTOBER 2024

SIX ARTISTS YOU SHOULD BE LISTENING TO: OCTOBER 2024

Venice Jingco, A&E Editor
October 16, 2024
Discover a new artist to follow this October.
Trump lacks the appropriate ideologies to properly educate students.

[Photo] EDITORIAL: Trump Politics Promote Ignorance in the Classroom

Southwest Shadow, Editorial Board
October 14, 2024

Trump lacks the appropriate ideologies to properly educate students.

Trumpinocchio

Trumpinocchio

Venice Jingco, A&E Editor
October 8, 2024
Like the classic tale of Pinocchio trapped by the whale—former President Donald Trump was fact-checked multiple times during his debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. At certain points, Harris effectively targeted Trump with jabs at his rallies, distracting him from answering.
The divide between opportunity and affordability grows wider within today’s academic landscape.

[Photo] You’re Not Behind, You’re Just Poor

September 30, 2024

The divide between opportunity and affordability grows wider within today’s academic landscape.

Eight years after his defeat, Bill Cipher is back for round two.  Rating: A+ 
Photo Credit: Disney Books

It’s Time to Get Weird with ‘The Book of Bill’

Venice Jingco, A&E Editor
September 24, 2024
Turn the page, sell your soul, and venture deep into Bill’s mindscape.
In a world of varying cultures and lifestyles, America shines as a melting pot of ideas and viewpoints, but divides begin when viewpoints differ so much that individuals can’t see the other side’s argument. According to a 2024 Ipsos survey, “81% of Americans say America is more divided than united.”  “I think when you consider urban areas where you’re a lot closer to people and surrounded by so many people, everyone is constantly changing their values,” senior Chris Nikolic said. “But if you’re living in a very confined area, you don’t really see that many people so you’re staying in the same bubble rather than like [Las Vegas] where a lot of people come and visit, so you always experience new lifestyles. ”

[Photo] Urban vs Rural: Breaching the Gap

Ava Torres, Feature's Editor
September 18, 2024

In a world of varying cultures and lifestyles, America shines as a melting pot of ideas and viewpoints, but divides begin when viewpoints differ so much that individuals can’t see the other side’s...

Posing during a band photo shoot, Roxana Huve is ready for the next chapter in her musical journey. “I choose songs that have a nice baseline,” Huve said. “Honestly, when I choose a song, I don't think about the drummer because a drummer can always complicate a drum line, but it's harder to complicate a baseline. The guitar player can add whatever embellishments he wants as a metal guitar player. So I tell him to slow down on the shredding. Other than that, he can play whatever he wants.”

Multi-Talented Musician: Meet Roxana Huve

Venice Jingco and Zelina Panissidi
August 19, 2024
Junior Roxana Huve shares her experience with building a musical career.
Strict age policies put forth by large companies make gaining work experience difficult for those under 18.

[Photo] Businesses Should Be More Willing To Accommodate Teen Workers

Ava Torres, Staff Writer
April 19, 2024

Strict age policies put forth by large companies make gaining work experience difficult for those under 18.

Looks That Could Kill

Looks That Could Kill

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
April 9, 2024
Resurfacing on TikTok under the guise of beauty hacks, Looksmaxxing claims improve complexion and figure through brutal methods of beautifying. These range from using chewing gum to define the jawline, to forcefully reconstructing the facial structure with a hammer.
The Super Bowl is one of the biggest sporting events in America and took place in Las Vegas for the first time in the newly built Allegiant Stadium. It became the most-watched Super Bowl in history with approximately 123 million people tuned in across multiple platforms. “With F1 and all of that, I actually think that that was probably the worst time to have the Super Bowl just considering that if you’ve seen what F1 has done,” senior and Allegiant Stadium Worker Kylee Parker said. “It has destroyed the Strip and construction is so bad, and considering that the stadium is pretty Strip adjacent, it definitely was bad timing.”

[Photo] Las Vegas Wasn’t Prepared for the Super Bowl

Ava Torres, Staff Writer
March 19, 2024

The Super Bowl is one of the biggest sporting events in America and took place in Las Vegas for the first time in the newly built Allegiant Stadium. It became the most-watched Super Bowl in history with...

Joining the march, freshman Jaidyn Eddington sets to interact with the cheering crowd alongside her float. After the exhausting preparation of puppet-handling and choreography, the Halloween parade was ready. “I guess it's just a big pile of dopamine,” Eddington said. “Like you're constantly happy, you're loving the work environment, you're loving seeing the smiles on everyone's faces as you go down the streets; everyone's positive, everyone tries their hardest to make everyone smile, and it's just a good experience.” Photo credit: Leslie Robertson

Determined Parade Marcher: Meet Jaidyn Eddington

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
March 5, 2024
Jaidyn Eddington shares her pursuit in parade performances.
Saudi Arabia has recently spent billions of dollars investing in a wide variety of sports.

[Photo] Do Saudi Arabia’s Sports Investments Have Substance?

Ethan Bull, Opinion Editor
March 21, 2024

Saudi Arabia has recently spent billions of dollars investing in a wide variety of sports.

Increasing issues with carbon emissions have students worried about the future of the Earth. An article written by the NCEI predicts that there’s a 22 percent chance that 2024 will be the hottest year, and there is a 99 percent chance that it will rank in the top five of the hottest years. “Where I live there’s a whole area where people just dump their trash, and who knows, in 10 to 30 years it might get so bad that we’ll just see trash everywhere,” sophomore Eliza Pangilinan said. “Even that small piece of trash went through a factory, and those factories produce a lot of gas [emissions].”

[Photo] Carbon Footprints: Actions Have Consequences

Zelina Panissidi, Staff Writer
March 20, 2024

Increasing issues with carbon emissions have students worried about the future of the Earth. An article written by the NCEI predicts that there’s a 22 percent chance that 2024 will be the hottest year,...

Transform your day with acai bowls, coffee, and other treats. Grade: B+

Treat your taste buds at Better Days Coffee & Acai

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
February 29, 2024
Discover a treasure trove of unique tastes, and dive into Better Day’s many sweet and savory options.
National test results about civics and history declined for the first time ever in 2022, and the government has just now started spending more on civics programs in response.

[Photo] EDITORIAL: CIVIC EDUCATION MUST BE REFORMED

Southwest Shadow, Editorial Board
February 20, 2024

National test results about civics and history declined for the first time ever in 2022, and the government has just now started spending more on civics programs in response.

Real World Graphics

Real World Graphics

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
January 29, 2024
Death, blood, and guts are normalized in digital entertainment.
Many Americans no longer view our politicians as experienced statesmen, leaders and policymakers. Now, presidential candidates have become mockable caricatures.

[Photo] Bring Back the Lincoln-Douglas Debates

Ethan Bull, Opinion Editor
January 19, 2024

Many Americans no longer view our politicians as experienced statesmen, leaders and policymakers. Now, presidential candidates have become mockable caricatures.

Rushing to the mannequin, sophomore Bryan Pratt beats his opponent to spot the muscle. Pratt placed his hand on the rectus abdominis muscle in the stomach. “I’m not good at remembering stuff off the top of my head,” Pratt said. “But with this, especially when someone wants to become a nurse, they have to know how to work hands-on. If we know how to do this to a patient, we’ll be good.”

An Hour In … Principles of Health Science

Zelina Panissidi and Venice Jingco
January 16, 2024
Nursing students display their skills and prepare for a test.
Standing beside their prized plushies, sophomore Marcrow Farinas has grown their collection bit by bit. “I got my plushies online,” sophomore Marcrow Farinas said. “Sometimes from my parents or birthdays too. My favorite is the Springbonnie plush. I bring it everywhere with me and I clean it at least once a day.”

FNAF Fanatic: Meet Marcrow Farinas

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
January 8, 2024
Sophomore Marcrow Farinas expresses their obsession of eight years; FNAF.
Strengthen the bonds between friends, family, and fate.
Rating: APhoto Credit: Notion

Find hope for the future in ‘Goodbye Volcano High’

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
December 4, 2023
As the countdown to their extinction begins, Fang is torn between the success of their band and the pursuit of friendship.
LifeHacks: Art Block Edition

LifeHacks: Art Block Edition

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
November 13, 2023
Other than wrist pains, art block is the second-most feared enemy of artists. Instead of waiting, here's three hacks that will get you drawing in no time.
Red Riding Hood joins Cinderella’s tale to unveil a murderer at the ball.
Rating: B- Photo Credit: IMDB

‘Once Upon a Crime’ is a Typical Twist on a Classic Tale

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
October 18, 2023
‘Once Upon a Crime’ starts as a television comedy, but unfurls into an intricate murder plot.
Fix your sleep schedule with Snorlax’s snoozy studies.
Rating: C+ Photo Credit: IGDB

Improve your Bedtime with ‘Pokémon Sleep’

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
September 26, 2023
Pokémon’s next spin-off game aims for healthier sleep.
LifeHacks: Claw Machine Edition

LifeHacks: Claw Machine Edition

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
May 3, 2023
Claw machines are a common part of the arcade experience. Learn how to beat the machine with these three hacks.
Happyfastdelicious’ drive-thrus are almost always empty, and with good reason. Fast service and quality product makes for a fantastic experience.Grade: A

Personalize your drink with any combination of flavors at ‘happyfastdelicious’

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
April 24, 2023
Quick ordering and fast pick-up with the mobile app.
Master the Karakuri, an ancient tool wielded to conquer foes ten times your size.
Rating: B- Photo Credit: IGDB

Vanquish the Kemono using ancient technology in ‘Wild Hearts’

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
April 19, 2023
In the awaited monster-hunting game, “Wild Hearts,” the player moves through feudal Japan, tasked with defeating monsters while wielding an ancient technology.
Working diligently, sophomore Dyanna Sanchez works in preparation for the End of Course Exams. Teachers were notified about the exam in February. “My major concern is that CCSD made the decision about EOCs well into the school year,” Algebra 1 teacher Kirsten Landau said.  “They have given us very little time to adjust our plans and prepare for this assessment.“

[Photo] ‘End of Course Exams’ Return for the Upcoming School Year

Jianna Aganon and Yaritzza Montenegro
April 18, 2023

Working diligently, sophomore Dyanna Sanchez works in preparation for the End of Course Exams. Teachers were notified about the exam in February. “My major concern is that CCSD made the decision about...

Ladytron captivates using emotional and dense compositions in their newest album.  Rating: B 
Art Credit: Cooking Vinyl Limited

Escape into electronic waves with ‘Time’s Arrow’

Venice Jingco, Staff writer
February 21, 2023
Following a five year hiatus, Ladytron returns with their new album.
"Melatonin" is a unique rhythm game featuring Lo-fi songs and dreamy visuals.
 Rating: A
Art Credit: Half Asleep

Become one with your dreams in ‘Melatonin’

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
February 7, 2023
Follow the narrative of self-improvement by mastering rhythmic dreams.
VIB: This Weekend In Vegas 12/9/22

VIB: This Weekend In Vegas 12/9/22

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
December 9, 2022
Find something fun to do this weekend.
Where They Are Now: Kevin Camelo

Where They Are Now: Kevin Camelo

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
December 9, 2022
Learn about Class of 2017 Kevin Camelo's life after graduation.
Pulling from real world inspirations, sophomore Elenarose Telona thinks up new concepts for a society. Telona and her teammates decided to reference their own ethnicities, which made their civilization more personal to them. “Right now we're brainstorming ideas,” Telona said. “One of us is Peruvian, one Incas, and I'm Filipino, so we named it Phillinca. Then another thing was to find a middle ground where we could place our civilization, so we made it an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. So we're thinking of things that already exist and adding them into our civilization.”

An Hour In … World History

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
December 9, 2022
Imagining themselves 3000 years in the past, students think up new civilizations.
Where are they now: Marynelle Garcia

Where are they now: Marynelle Garcia

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
December 5, 2022
Former fashion student Marynelle Garcia, and her life after graduating.
VIB: This Weekend In Vegas 12/2/22

VIB: This Weekend In Vegas 12/2/22

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
December 2, 2022
Find something fun to do this weekend.
Where Are They Now: Duke Vano

Where Are They Now: Duke Vano

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
December 2, 2022
Take a look into Class of 2019 Duke Vano's life after graduation.
Brainstorming new mechanics for the game “Witches and Ditches,” sophomore Ayden Ionescu suggests adding a trial system. Before testing, players cast spells at random, hoping to uncover the witch. “Testing is beneficial for most games,” Ionescu said. “You can point out all the flaws for a video game. For example, bugs may be a problem for the gameplay and its balance.”

An Hour In … Digital Game Development

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
December 2, 2022
Finishing their board games, students in Animation II begin playtesting.
Chef Qi Guan pursues her dream of opening a dessert bar, serving a variety of cold delectables and savory foods.

Experience French Delicacies blended with Traditional Asian Accents at ‘Xtra Sweet’

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
November 28, 2022
Relax and share desserts with your friends at Xtra Sweet.
VIB: This Weekend In Vegas 11/25/22

VIB: This Weekend In Vegas 11/25/22

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
November 22, 2022
Find something fun to do this weekend.
Beginning the new unit in 3D animation, students are tasked with animating a flour sack— the same exercise as Animation I, but in 3D rather than 2D.  However, some students like sophomore Rayan Awad dislike the change in dimensions. “2D animation is so much easier to do, I think it looks better, I'm just more comfortable with it,” Awad said. “With 3D, you don't have to redraw everything and you just have a rig and it's really easy to deal with. But 2d animation, it feels like you put more effort into it feels more rewarding.”

An Hour In … Animation II

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
November 18, 2022
Animation II students are introduced to 3D animation through an expressive flour sack exercise.
VIB: This Weekend In Vegas 11/18/22

VIB: This Weekend In Vegas 11/18/22

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
November 18, 2022
Find something fun to do this weekend.
“Cult of the Lamb” is a unique combination of roguelike and town-building. This game challenges managing a colony while battling through dungeons.Rating: APhoto Credit: Massive Monster

Convert your Followers in ‘Cult of the Lamb’

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
November 1, 2022
With new infinite powers, the lamb becomes the hunter.
Slime Rancher 2 is an adorable game with uncharted islands and new slimes to discover.Rating: A-Photo Credit: Monomi Park

Voyage to Rainbow Island in ‘Slime Rancher 2’

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
October 24, 2022
The long-awaited sequel of the hit game “Slime Rancher,” is an incredible experience for video game veterans and newbies alike.
Sharing with the group, sophomore HOSA member Kylie Chelise Dacquel shares her future career goals during a HOSA meeting. Other students were invited to speak about their ambitions. “We hope our members will interact with each other more,” president Yusra Shafique said. “We are trying to create lasting friendships through our meetings and the volunteer events they attend.”

CLUB PREVIEW: A LOOK INTO THE WEEK OF SEP. 26

Venice Jingco, Staff Writer
September 27, 2022
See what's ahead for these clubs.