June 6- San Antonio

Iberians were the first to live in Spain, thus naming the Iberian Peninsula. The Iberians were important because they brought agriculture and were able to work with metals, making weapons, shields and jewelry. Also influencing the peninsula were the Greeks, Phoenicians and the Romans.

The Greeks are credited for developing olive and vine cultures and getting the first coins. They influenced art and had a short lived commercial expansion

The Phoenicians brought Mediterranean culture to the Iberians. They built towns, mined silver, working iron and bronze, and drank wine. The also shared their alphabet so Iberian language could have a written form.

The Romans brought laws, the Latin language and also Christianity over the course of two centuries. They made beautiful structures and built amazing architecture. They built to impress. Take for instance the Roman Aqueduct. It is one the most beautiful, "must see" structures in all of Spain. It is one of those sturctures you can look at and just imagine the Roman's conquest and try to visualize a Roman's strength, mentally and physically.

The Romans saw Hispania as a vital component of power. Hispania was a place where civil wars could be decided and large fortunes can be easily made. There were plenty of metals to be mined here, and there was also agriculture.

The Romans did not have an easy time conquering Spain because there was more than a round of revolt and they fought savagely. Caesar intended to fight for victory, but ended up fighting for his life. The conquest lasted about two centuries. It is safe to say they went back to the drawing board quite a few times!

June 5- San Antonio

In my lifetime, I would like to write stories that show the impossible is possible. I want to write about people from poor family backgrounds becoming successful in their life. I want to report on a three legged dog saving a man from a fire (God forbid anyone gets into that situation). In doing so, I want to let people know it is normal to dream and work hard for what they want to be because it can come true one day.

On the subject of truth, the south side of town has a negative image from the media. This part of town is not so bad. The people living here are disadvantaged with book stores and learning centers. I can’t help but question why it took so long to get Best Buy over here? Were they scared and considered this side of town a big risk? Everyone here feels it.

Simple things like those mentioned don’t keep people down. What makes things special around here are families and parental involvement. In my neighborhood there are boys who play football at a nearby pond. The coaches are fathers or uncles and the mothers teach cheerleading routines to young girls in shaded areas. Parents sit on the bleachers, making run to the stores for Gatorade and snacks. They are ready to help with anything needed. Families come together and sell barbecue plates to buy team uniforms. That is something I would like to write about one day. The south side community grows in positive directions and receives no attention for it.