Contempo CULTURE / BUSINESS / POLITICS / FASHION / TECHNOLOGY / TRAVEL
AUGUST 2009
Valley Pioneer
Edna De Saro The Media Sets the Agenda with Spoon Feeding
Grecia Padilla
High Performance
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Triple Pageant Titleist on Teen Aspirations
Homes: The Goal Net Zero
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A DINNER for 2 at Kato Sushi or A BREAKFAST for 2 at Quisqueya or A LUNCH SPECIAL for 4 at Poncho’s Just be among the first three to send us one untouched jpeg showing at least 6 different Contempo Covers and tell us what you think of Contempo Magazine in the email text area. Send entries to: ralph@contempomag.com Deadline for entries is August 31, 2009. Contempo is a publication of Contempo Magazine Inc. All opinions represented are of the authors & not necessarily the views of the publisher. The publisher makes no representations regarding advertising content. Contempo Magazine is a trademark of Contempo Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. All content published and constructed by Contempo Magazine is the property of Contempo Magazine Inc. Permission for reprint shall be granted only upon written request and authorized release from Contempo Magazine Inc.
President / Ralph Magaña Copy Editor / Raul Cabrera Computer Technology / Michael Bilyeu Business & Latin American Affairs / Tony Magaña Women’s Health / Dr. Carlos Almaguer Fashion / Vanessa Valiente Energy & the Environment / Marianella Franklin Guest Fashion Writer / Sophia Torres Guest Columnist / Jacques Sprenger Personal Finance / Melissa Magaña Ad Sales / Adriana Fernandez 960.2453 Beatrice Casas 569.3134 / Ralph Magaña 467.7880 Distribution / Rosa Lopez Co-founder & Webpage Editor / Tony Magaña 956.467.7880 e-mail: wmagana@rgv.rr.com web site: www.contempomag.com Suite B, PMB#170, 2403 N. 10th. St. McAllen, Tx 78501
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IN THIS ISSUE Meet Pioneer Edna De Saro Timeless Classic Movies: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Valley Fashion Focus: Summer to Fall Carry-overs ATF & NSSF on Straw Weapons Women’s Health Front: Pelvic Pain Is it Good to Protect Jobs During a Slowdown? Does McAllen Medicine Deserve the Notoriety? Expansion of First-time Homeowner Tax Credit Friends of Easter Seals Shoot-out at the 4E Ranch The Media Sets the Agenda with Spoon Feeding Cultivating Excellent Valley Teachers The Administration & Congress Eye Taxing Small Business Grecia Padilla: Triple Pageant Titles Starts with Conviction Senatorial Candidate Bill White Visits McAllen UTPA Offers Advanced Business Certificate High Performance Green Homes: The Net Zero Goal Computer Corner: What’s Hot in Wireless & Remote Control
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Contempo CULTURE / BUSINESS / POLITICS / FASHION / TECHNOLOGY / TRAVEL
Contempo CULTURE / BUSINESS / POLITICS / FASHION / TECHNOLOGY / TRAVEL June
2009
AUGUST 2009
THE DUKE 15 YEARS ON HARRIS TOP TEN LIST LIVING THE AMERICAN DREAM
Meet Pioneer Edna De Saro
MISSY’S SPECTACULAR MADI GRAS FASHION SHOW SKEET SHOOT TO BENEFIT EASTER SEALS
The Media Sets the Agenda with Spoon Feeding
ACCELERATE PC HARD DISK SPEED
Grecia Padilla Triple Pageant Titleist on Teen Obsticals
High Performance
Green Homes: The Net Zero Goal
Administration & Congress
Eye Taxing SmallBusiness
Readers Forum
We invite your comments and suggestions. Do you like our articles? What should we cover? Do you have someone in mind as a Contempo Pioneer? Some recent posts from our readers–
May
Not a good thing specially with the media on vacation. What used to be a watch dog is now a lap dog. Whoever is in office, Republican or Democrat, we need the media to play devil’s advocate.
2009
CULTURE / BUSINESS / POLITICS / FASHION / TECHNOLOGY / TRAVEL
MISS RGV USA PAGEANT 2009 MCALLEN TEA PARTY SPARKS AT ARCHER TEXAS MAKES GIANT SOLAR ENERGY MOVE
BRAZIL’S IGUAZU FALLS
MCALLEN MUSIC FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS HYPERMILING FOR VALLEY COMMUTERS
Contempo March
2009
UPPER VALLEY CULTURE / BUSINESS / POLITICS / FASHION / TECHNOLOGY
In This Issue STYLISH FOOTWEAR for the Latina Employee Free Choice Act Impact on Valley Business BUILDING Relationships in a STIFF MARKET Sharpen Your Selling Skills with PCA Diversified Portofolios in Turbulent Times UTPA Planetarium
Border Security Do We Need the Military? UTPA Folkloric DANCERS ON STAGE Contempo Pioneer
Gabrela Uresti
On Politics Hard Shift Left? DEALING with IDENTITY THIEFT e mails & docs BOOK REVIEW Cover photo-Gabriela Uresti at the Old Hidalgo Pumphouse
Contempo September 2008
The Lifestyle Variety Magazine for the Upper Valley
UV Pioneer Jamie-Lynne Brown on Higher ED ACCESS
Dr. Trey Fulp First S. TEXAS
Best of Show
Boomer Income Strategies
Hibiscus
Fashionable Fall Tops
Valley Life after HR 4088
THE ULTIMATE South Texas Home Series VALLEY TREASURE
Anthony A. of McAllen commenting on Tony Magaña’s blog post “Why Obama’s health care reform will fail Americans” says “This shouldn’t be surprising, apparently the government has gone crazy. They don’t even read bills before enacting in law.”
L.A.’S LORENA HERNANDEZ SURVEYS VALLEY BANDS GUN CONTROL ON THE BORDER
Contempo
ARE YOUR TEENS PROTECTED FROM HVP?
On the Cover: We are honored to have Edna De Saro grace our cover this month. Edna is pictured at a Cantu home in Del Lago Subdivision just before a shoot for Sell It!, the TV program she hosts. We tagged her a “McAllen Multi-tasker” for good reason. Read more about Edna on page 8.
GREAT DEALS ON TRAVEL MEXICO
The Old Hidalgo Pump House
Adult Stem Cell Back Surgery
The Eager Nostalgic HOLDING AN ON-LINE CONNECTION & VIRUS UPDATES FINE DINNING GUIDE
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Contempo February
Contempo Pioneer Brittany Rodriguez Valentine’s Day, Where it all Started Mexico City’s Chapultepec Castle Will Texas Democrats make a Comeback? Tequisqiapan Revisited Contempo Woman of the Year, Alida Hernandez
UTPA Spotlight Marianella Franklin Recovering Deleted Photos Fashion The New Latina Nidia Quintanilla & Christian Pop Diversity in a Turbulent Market Keeping Our Senior Drivers Safe
Great piece on the hispanic vote! Laura M. of McAllen, Texas
A new non-profit organization is being formed here in South Texas called National HELP that was created to boost hispanic voter participation and host debates. Look for this group to flourish when elections draw near again. Interesting story at your site about the draught. Why are we not seeing much on this issue? Is the problem here as bad as it is in Central Texas? from Vicky B. San Antonio, Tx
The article we ran on our website was an AP story that did’nt gather much attention from the regional mainstream press but was covered on the national cable networks. You’d think it would be the other way around. We are going to do some research on the Valley impact of the draught. Tell us what you think about these and other issues presented in Contempo Magazine and at our site, www.contempomag.com Send your comments and suggestions by e-mail to: ralph@contempomag.com. the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
2009
The Lifestyle Variety Magazine for the Upper Valley
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Contempo Pioneer
Edna De Saro
Focus & Spirit Drive McAllen’s Multi-tasker page 8 ContempoMag.com
Edna showing a finished Cantu home on the air for “Sell It!” in Del Lago Subdivision
Edna at the RGV Home Show
Edna De Saro was born in Laredo, Texas,
won several Addy Awards for production and raised in McAllen where she graduated advertising campaigns run on local televifrom Memorial High School. She attended sion. Texas Christian University in Fort Worth As a daughter, friend, career woman, nonwhere she earned a BBA in Marketing. profit volunteer and TV personality, Edna Edna started her career in the banking in- values each day she is given as an oppordustry nine years ago. She never knew how tunity to make a difference in someone’s much she would enjoy her new found pro- life and in the community. “We can all find fession. Today, she is the Vice President & a way to make a difference. Caring for my Marketing Director of Lone Star National father who is ill, being there for a friend, Bank. “I truly love what I do. This is why helping my employer grow, volunteering in I don’t see it as a job but as a career.” Lone a local charity and bringing a smile to my Star National Bank is a locally owned in- Sell It! fans keeps me going.” dependent community bank with over 1.8 billion dollars in total assets and 20 full ser- Edna’s involvement in the community invice banking centers valley wide. “My goal cludes her role as host for the local TV show is to continue helping Lone Star National Sell It! Real Estate & Décor. The show airs Bank grow. By continuing to grow we will every Sunday at 10 a.m. on KRGV Channel be able to provide our customers with better 5. “Having the opportunity to work with the products and services everyday.” Edna has Sell It! team has been great. I feel privileged
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
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Edna for another broadcast promoting a Cantu home in Buganvilia Subdivision, south McAllen
to reach out to our communities every week with tips on home buying opportunities, décor and home improvement.” Edna enjoyes volunteering for local charities such as the Easter Seals, RGV Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association. “Giving back to our communities is very special to me. There are many great organizations that need our volunteerism. I encourage everyone to become invovled.” Edna De Saro is the daughter of Ramiro and Leticia De Saro of McAllen, Texas. “I thank my parents immensely for sharing with me such great values. I still remember the day our conversations at dinner time involved my parents telling me to study hard and prepare myself to someday be an independent and responsible individual.” C page 10 ContempoMag.com
by Ralph Magaña
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Timeless Classics Film Review Cat On A Hot Tin Roof
Genre: Drama Source: Broadway Director: Richard Brooks Actor: Paul Newman Actress: Elizabeth Taylor Release Year: 1958 Studio: Warner Home Video Runtime: 108 Mins. Format: Color Rating: Unrated
Based on Tennessee Williams's play, this dra-
ma of familial conflict set in the 1950s deep south among an alcoholic ex-jock Brit (Paul Newman), who refuses to browbeat his father, family patriarch Big Daddy Pollitt, played by Burl Ives, for an inheritance of a large plantation dynasty. Big Daddy clearly prizes Brit over his older son, Cooper (Jack Carson) who is provoked by his greedy wife to exploit that Brit has fathered no children with his beautiful wife, Maggie (Elizabeth Taylor), the reasons for which unfold for the viewing audience as for the players. All characters fulfill highly dramatic roles dealing with love, jealousy, passion and greed. Elizabeth Taylor portrays Maggie in what many feel was her greatest performance. Anyone who has seen this classic will always remember her famous line “Maggie, the Cat is Alive! I’m Alive!” in her desperate attempt to heal old wounds with Brit. All of the major roles projected idiosyncratic traits, flawed by their interaction with Big Daddy and each other in the pursuit of wealth. As for me, Burl Ives was Big Daddy in all ways. who longed for a worthy legacy in Brit and one who finally dabbles into the sensitivities of his loving wife played by Judith Anderson. His performance was eclipsed only by Newman, who captures the audience attention even when silent. This classic, if not yet seen, should be at the top of your movie list and beats current theater releases hands down. C by Ralph Magaña page 12 ContempoMag.com
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A change proposed in the automatic admission of a student in the top ten percent of any Texas high school to public universities by state Sen. Florence Shapiro (R-Plano) is creating controversy
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In almost every state as the economy has declined the number of students who might normally have considered attending a private university has dropped while the number applying to instate public university has dramatically increased. The difference in tuition costs between the two can vary as much as $40,000 or more per year. Top rated public universities across the country are now becoming much selective and increasing their admissions standards in response to the increased quality of the applicant pool. Texas Senate Bill 175 (SB 175) was sponsored by the well known education reform advocate Sen. Florence Shapiro (R-Plano) at the request of the University of Texas which would change a rule about automatic admission to a Texas public university. Currently public colleges and universities in Texas are required to admit applicants who graduate in the top ten percent of the their graduating classes. This rule appertains to both public and private schools of all sizes and from any place in Texas as long as the school is accredited, the student has taken a recommended curriculum, and achieved a minimum college entrance test score.
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SB 175 would change the rule to allow universities to cap the percentage of those admitted by this measure to 50%. The reason for this is that the University of Texas at Austin has become so full of applicants by the top ten percent rule that no other criteria can be considered. Last year they filled up 85% of the freshman class by the top ten rule.
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Many traditional minority advocacy groups such as the NAACP, LULAC, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund say the measure unfairly would limit automatic admissions that were designed to increase diversity at higher education institutions and enhance opportunities for minority and low-income students, particularly at UT-Austin and Texas A&M. It also would penalize students who finished high school before the recommended curriculum was required.
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In many areas of the state there are poorer mostly minority high schools such as in the small Hispanic majority towns of South Texas or the African American communities in the Houston area. Typically even the best students there may not score as well on college entrance exams like the SAT or ACT as more affluent students from better suburban public or private schools. The ten percent rule guaranteed that at least the top students from poor minority high schools would get a chance to attend a tier 1 public university. (Texas has only two tier 1 schools, UT-Austin and Texas A&M, and one private tier 1, Rice University.
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Valley Fashion Focus
SUMMER TREND CARRYOVERS FOR THE FALL by Sofia Torres T
he current economy has left us cutting back on some luxury items, and for some of us this means becoming more aware of how to purchase clothes and accessories that can pull off double duty from summer to fall. The fun and exciting thing about fashion is finding those right pieces that work effortlessly from one season to the next. Take some of the summer staples such as jewel-toned chiffon tops, patterned dresses, plaid patterns, animal print and tough gladiator like sandals; all of these items believe it or not can and will be seen in the fall collections of many designers. Take for example a canary yellow chiffon sleeveless top, paired with a trouser jean in a medium hue and earth-toned sandals; this is a perfect ensemble to look casual yet polished.
page 14 ContempoMag.com
You can take the same canary yellow chiffon sleeveless top and add a classic cut blazer for the fall must have “boyfriend blazer.” This is a blazer that is slightly longer than a classic cut blazer and the lapels are a little larger. It almost gives the appearance of broader shoulders. Add a loosely knotted grey scarf around your neck and presto, you have a fall look that will keep you warm while not breaking the bank! Look closely at the construction of the blazer. Many of them come with removable shoulder pads (yes they ARE back!). In combinations these pieces can provide a great look through the summer and fall.
shades we saw for summer. Neon colors are still acceptable to wear into fall, just not from head to toe. In order to not look like a walking exclamation point, limit the bright color to one or two pieces. If you are not daring enough to wear colored jeans, try adding color to your wardrobe in other ways, such as with a handbag or headband.
As for the popular summer patterned dress to be less summery and more fall friendly, simply add some textured tights and boots. Tall boots, calf high or higher, and tights are an easy and inexpensive substitute to gladiator sandals and bare legs. You can dress up a patterned dress Do not be afraid to use color in the fall, es- by adding a bold and dramatic necklace in pecially the summer popular hues reminiscent gold or silver. These necklaces will be popof the ‘80s. Yes, I am talking about the neon ping up from major retail stores to bargain the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
stores. A word to the wise: when wearing bold jewelry it is smart to keep hair and make-up as well as accessories (i.e. purse & shoes) simple as to not compete with a bold piece. Bold pieces can come in all sorts of patterns. Two of the more popular ones we saw this summer were the animal prints and plaid. Both are going to be revisited in the fall collections of many designers. If you have yet to try either of these patterns because you are shy about wearing such an eye-catching pattern, do not fret. If balanced with neutral-hued pieces, such as softer, barer ones in the summer and structured ones in the fall you won’t look out of place or like you are trying too hard. The most popular way to wear animal print is in a single item, such as a leopard print dress paired with page 15 ContempoMag.com
“Two of the more popular ones we saw this summer were the animal prints and plaid. Both are going to be revisited in the fall collections of many designers.” peep-toe black heals, or a skirt or shirt. As for plaid we have seen it in shirts that can pass off as dresses, for the fall paired up with leggings, boots and a light leather jacket make it seem more accessible and less farm-girl. Besides you can always start with a small accessory such as a belt or clutch. Now let’s talk about shoes for the fall. If you are like me, you are in constant competition with Imelda Marcos (well known due to her massive shoe collection of over 2,500 pairs) to buy the “must have” shoe of the season. For the fall we can expect to see gladiator highheal sandals paired with funky wool socks and patterned tights. Luckily for us, living in the Rio Grande Valley we can pull off wearing sandals without the worry of freezing off our toes, and with the new vibrant patterned tights you can experience a little of the fall weather while still donning your favorite gladiators. As for boots go, anything goes this fall. From booties that come up to graze your ankle to thigh highs that almost double as leggings to the slouchy boots we saw last fall. But there is a twist, motorcycle gear inspired pieces are also popping into the coming fashion season; zippers, studs, and chains are a must on accessories and outerwear. Whatever your personal style remember to always try to spice it up. You never know what you may unleash in your inner “fashionista.” And keep in mind something that Coco Chanel once said, “Fashion has two purposes: comfort and love. Beauty comes when fashion succeeds.” C About the author: Sofia Torres born in Mexico City but currently resides in McAllen, Tx. She is holds a Bachelors Degree in Communications from The University of Texas-Pan American, specializing in journalism. Sofia served as Vice President of her sorority and the Greek Council, as well as treasurer of the sorority and does fashion consulting and modeling.
page 16 ContempoMag.com
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Campaign Joins AFT & NSSF to Reduce Straw Purchase of Guns Destined for Mexico by Tony Magaña
T
here have been claims that gun dealers in South Texas are contributing significantly to the flow of guns into the hands of the Mexican drug cartels through illegal gun sales called straw purchases. The gun industry and federal officials are announcing a new program to deter illegal sales. The “Don't Lie for the Other Guy” Campaign began as a joint project between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) which is the trade association for the shooting, hunting and firearms industry in 2000. The goal of the program is to reduce illegal firearm purchases called straw purchases where the intended final recipient of the weapon, who would not pass a required federal background check or wishing to hide his name from the sale, solicits a proxy buyer who can pass the background check to buy the weapon. The NSSF quotes statistics from the national database at the Bureau of Statistics that show overall less than 8.5% of criminals get their guns through the straw purchase tactic. Another point the NSSF makes is that the time of the crime is often more than then ten years later than the time of the initial purchase of firearms which validates that criminals buying weapons through straw purchase is not a common event.
prevent illegal straw purchases. Our goal in reaching out to the public is to warn them that they would be committing a serious crime by attempting to purchase a firearm for someone who cannot legally possess one. We applaud and appreciate the support of the ATF for joining with members of our industry in this cooperative effort." Kits are being distributed to firearms retailers in the Rio Grande Valley which contain a training video, instructional brochures for staff, and posters to be placed at the point of purchase which warn that violations could result in a 10 year jail sentence. In a press release Special Agent in Charge Dewey Webb of the ATF Houston Field Division said, "The straw purchase of firearms is the first step in illegal firearms trafficking and the first step towards a prison cell. If you illegally purchase a firearm as part of a straw purchase scheme, you are just as responsible as the person who uses that firearm in a crime. ATF will strictly enforce the federal firearms laws to stop and prevent guns from getting into the hands of criminals." The NSSF believes that licensed firearms dealers should not be held accountable for straw purchases made where the “buyer” was able to pass the FBI background check by lying to the dealer. They point out that unless the straw man tips off the dealer there is no manner in which the dealer can know the purchaser is lying. However, the industry says it can make sure “that firearms dealers are as prepared as possible to recognize and stop any would-be straw purchaser” to make the low numbers of sales even lower. C
The ATF and NSSF today announced that this program is going to be giving a strong message in an area of South Texas, called the Rio Grande Valley which borders Mexico. The goal of the program is to educate the public about the stiff penalties for participating in straw purchases and also to better prepare licensed federal firearms dealers to detect and Tony Magaña grew up in McAllen Texas, attended deter such purchases. Radio and television Texas A&M University, served as an officer in Army Reserve, and holds a doctorate from Harvard Unipublic service ads will be airing soon. NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane said, "This program has been welcomed by firearms retailers as a valuable educational tool to better enable them to spot would-be straw purchasers and page 18 ContempoMag.com
versity. The co-founder of Contempo Magazine has participated in Valley business for over 20 years. He is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and also writes for the American Daily Review. Follow him on twitter http://twitter.com/contempomagazin
NHELP Gathers at Osuka for First Member Drive
HELP BOARD MEMBERS: (L to R) - Ricardo Portillo, Lynda L. Garcia, J.C. Cervantes (president), Adan Garcia (back), Cynthia Campos, Jose Garza (back), Mike Martinez (vice-president), Elizabeth C. Martinez, Pedro G. Ayala
National Hispanic Entrepreneurs for Leadership in Politics (H.E.L.P) held it's first membership event at Osuka on July 23rd. With over 100 prospective members in attendance HELP kicked off the birth of the organization with a phenomenal start. HELP is a newly founded non-partisan, membership based non-profit organization dedicated to advocating political awareness, informed voter participation, and civic engagement. HELP will only promote a non-partisan platform and encourages networking opportunities from within the membership through various mixers, luncheons, galas and other hosted social and politically informative events. As elections approach, HELP will also begin hosting political debates and forums on local, state, and national civic issues. "We had a great turnout for this first meeting. We aim to achieve a rapid growth in membership and we found this event to be very encouraging to that end. Many here expressed a need for our purpose and an interest in joining us," says J.C. Cervantes, NATIONAL H.E.L.P Board President. C Contact J.C., at 956-638-4074 for membership information. the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
Contempo Girls ATTENDED
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Women’s Health Front
PELVIC PAIN
IN WOMEN By Dr. Carlos Almaguer Pelvic pain is probably the most common reason for women to visit their ob/gyn doctor. It affects millions of women of all ages. Pelvic pain can be debilitating and costly. It is frequently responsible for women missing out on life, work, school, and sports. It is not always easy to determine the many causes of pelvic pain. Experienced astute clinicians know what to look for in both the medical history as well as the physical examination. The correct diagnostic tests and relevant imaging studies can be very helpful in making an accurate diagnosis, and therefore, treating the problem effectively. Some conditions can cause irreparable damage if not treated in a timely manner. Women who are experiencing pelvic pain for any reason should always seek the help of a specialist in women’s health care.
is found in a place other than the womb. It is a medical emergency as it can burst and result in internal hemorrhage and death. Ectopic pregnancies can produce mild to severe pain usually on the side that they are located.
·Tumors: A tumor is any abnormal growth. Tumors can be benign or cancerous. These include uterine fibroids, polyps, ovarian cysts, as well as cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancer, just to name a few. Fortunately, most pelvic tumors are not cancerous. The pelvis is the part of the body above the pu- They are in effect, benign. bic area and below the bellybutton. A woman’s reproductive organs are found here. These include ·Ovulation: Most women ovulate about fourteen the womb, or uterus, the ovaries, and fallopian days after the start of their period. During ovulatubes. Also residing in this compartment are the tion, an ovarian cyst containing an egg will burst urinary bladder, intestines, and various ligaments, thus releasing the egg. This process can be painnerves, and muscles. Any of these organs can hurt ful. The pain can occur on either side depending at any given time. It is not unusual for there to on which ovary is ovulating. be more than one organ producing pain. For example, a vaginal infection can lead to a bladder ·Endometriosis and adenomyosis: These two and/or uterine infection. In this case, mild to in- are actually related. Some women, for yet unextense pain can result. It can be difficult to urinate, plained reasons, will menstruate internally as well stretch, walk or have sex. The following are some as externally. That means that minute amounts of reasons for women to have pelvic pain. menstrual flow can be found in their internal organs (endometriosis) and/or within their uterine ·Infections are by far the most common. Bacteria muscle (adenomyosis). Either of these conditions can get into the vagina from having sex, wiping can lead to painful periods and long-term pelfrom back to front, shaving, and occasionally vic discomfort. Endometriosis can start as early wearing thongs. Bad germs including common as adolescence. It is most common in type A intestinal bacteria and sexually transmitted infec- personality, highly stressed women in their mid tions can work their way into the bladder, cervix, to late 20’s. Endometriosis can produce pelvic and uterus. Some infections can cause infertility if scarring and infertility. left untreated. ·Intestinal disorders are very common and often ·Pregnancy: Both normal and abnormal pregnan- overlooked in women with pelvic pain. Stress, cies can cause cramps, tugging, sharp pains, and poor diet lacking fiber, limited water consumption back pain. For example, as a baby in the womb can all lead to constipation, bloating, stomach grows, the uterus must stretch. A pulling sensa- cramps, and back pain. Less common are irritable tion is common. A miscarriage can cause cramps bowel syndrome, parasitic infections, colitis, etc. and bleeding. An ectopic pregnancy is one that page 20 ContempoMag.com
·Emotional scars, trauma, and stress can also produce pelvic pain. Victims of rape, abuse, incest, and sexual molestation may at some point feel their pain in a physical sense even though they may appear to be physically healthy. Similarly, some women who are in bad relationships suffer from a low self-esteem or struggle with depression may seek help by expressing symptoms of a physical nature. It should be emphasized that the pain these women feel is real and not “all in their head”. Pain fibers in the nervous system are weakened by stress, therefore mild discomfort may seem intense. For the clinician, getting to the root of the problem requires skill, attention to detail, as well as a genuine desire to help. Each organ in our body produces characteristic symptoms when in trouble. A good clinician should be able to follow the symptoms like a trail to an accurate diagnosis. Careful attention to the patient’s history and asking the right questions are key. A thorough physical exam will further narrow the possibilities. Finally, the correct tests will either confirm or exclude the diagnosis, and proper treatment will then follow. Pelvic pain can be a challenge. Nonetheless, there is much that a women’s health specialist can do to help. If you suffer from pelvic pain, I encourage you to seek treatment and start living. C Dr. Almaguer is board certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology; Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists; Residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston; Graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center Medical School Houston; Graduate of the University of Houston.
Carlos Almaguer, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Board Certified in OB/GYN
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Is It Good to Protect Jobs During an Economic Slowdown?
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Therefore, albeit somewhat high, a doubledigit rate of unemployment in the United States should not be a reason for policymakers to propose legislation in a vacuum just for the sake of reducing the magnitude of this important economic indicator. Such proposals as the “Buy American” clause usually feed on the negative perception that domestic jobs are not only limited in quantity but also at risk. Instead, policymakers should focus on formulating policies that protect not jobs but the conditions necessary to create jobs. An environment that promotes increased and stronger trade relations among nations is an economic policy that could help the US recover from the recession and send the world the right signal towards global prosperity. C
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One of the measures taken by the United States to recover from the recession is the enactment of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The $787 billion stimulus program contains a “Buy American” clause which requires that all public projects funded by the stimulus plan must use only products manufactured in the United States. In writing to the New York Times, Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) says the “Buy American” provision provides a choice that does not violate WTO agreements or any international trade laws. He argues the United States should pass laws that protect and encourage the creation of domes-
Economists Jeffrey Schott and Gary Clyde Hufbauer of the Peterson Institute for International Economics estimate the “Buy American” provision could save some 9,000 American jobs, which is only about 1.4% of the number of jobs supported by foreign government procurement of US exports. Thus, in net, a significantly larger number of American jobs perceived as good and necessary by foreign governments would be at stake if they were to take similar protectionist measures. Professor Anne Krueger from Johns Hopkins University puts it clearly when she says the “Buy American” provision would do little to generate or protect jobs in the United States from foreign threats since few imports are used in construction projects anyway. However, the signal it sends would invite other countries to take similar protectionist measures–a move that would sink the global economy and pose enormous challenges for national security (issues that will be addressed on the next piece).
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First of all, it is important that we look at the unemployment picture in perspective. Take, for instance, the most recent report of the unemployment rate in the OECD countries. The current figures estimate the unemployment rate to be at 8.3% in the whole OECD area, which is comprised of 30 countries. The Euro area parallels the United States with a current unemployment rate of 9.5%, while Canada and Japan follow the trend with 8.6% and 5.2%, respectively. In short, we find that other developed economies are facing a similar challenge in this sector as well. Hence, it would be a mistake to believe unemployment is hitting the United States alone and to seek to formulate policies geared merely at preventing further job losses.
tic jobs instead of helping firms outsource or offshore them. Such rhetoric sounds rather appealing to political short-term thinkers, but the implications for the long-term are quite damaging to the health of the domestic economy.
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s if the current macroeconomic situation was not bleak enough already, a recent report by the Federal Reserve says it expects the unemployment rate in the United States to surpass ten percent this year and to stay above comfortable levels for years. Such high level of unemployment is certain to alarm several politicians who are already pressured to find quick solutions to the present recession. This scenario also opens the door for policymakers to propose legislation intended to “protect” jobs. However, albeit some policies may sound as good mechanisms to strengthen the domestic economy, we must pay close attention to their implications at the global scale.
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Does McAllen Medicine Deserve the Notoriety Or Should Medicare Focus Be On The Government? by Tony MagaĂąa
D
oes McAllen, Texas deserve notoriety as the most expensive place for Medicare recipients or is it just a convenient focal point of diversion for politicians who want to avoid the real issues? The city of McAllen, Texas was recently in the world spotlight because of an article that appeared in the New Yorker Magazine by Atul Gawande discussing the fast rising costs of health care in the area. Dr. Gawande visited doctors and hospitals in the area after a review published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed McAllen area hospitals to be among the highest Medicare spenders. Both Dr. Gawande and Dr. Eliot Fischer, the author of the NEJM article, came to the conclusion that overuse of facilities and technology by doctors is wasting money and possibly puts patients at risk for complications from unnecessary procedures. Traditionally, medical practice was seen as art supported by science. Practitioners were trained to treat diseases by apprenticeship and experience. There has been a movement in medicine away from individual thinking and more to adopting best practices. Doctors within each field of medicine would come to a consensus on guidelines how best to treat conditions rather than relying upon their own particular experience.
much easier to track.
This approach to medicine means that most of the time the patient is going to receive the right care but does not really allow for individualization. Doctors who treat patients in a manner that varies from these norms run the risk that they will be criticized. The benefit of such a program is that it potentially brings The tone of Dr. Gawande article is critical of economy and a standard of care nationwide. physicians in the Rio Grande Valley area for But there is also a cost. owning portions of hospitals or diagnostic facilities, although their data indicated that There is no doubt that at current spending these situations alone would not account for levels the Medicare program, which funds the overall steep expenditures. It is possible over 50% of all health care in America, will that doctors who own portions of hospitals go broke by 2017. Unfortunately, health care or diagnostic facilities can “overuse� them as expenditures do not increase directly, the eco- alleged by Dr. Gawande. On the other, hand nomic output of the nation yet remain a cost. there may be other factors that play a role in As science moves forward we will find more the high cost of health care for Medicare paways to help people live longer lives, that is tients in the McAllen area. certain. However, technology and preventative care do not save money as advertised by Drs. Gawande and Fischer have the luxury to some politicians. Our main defense against practice medicine in sophisticated urban areas future higher health care costs must be and of high income and education, in regions of can only be a more productive economy with the country where the majority of the populahigher employment levels and truly higher tion has never experienced difficulty with acwages earned by highly educated employees. cess to care.
Cookbook medicine that follows strict guidelines may save money but is not without problems. Some researchers like Dr. Robert A. Berenson and Jack Hadley of the Urban Institute have shown sometimes places which have high costs for health care may be justified in For health care planning the use of guidelines doing so even if some basic outcomes meabecomes very necessary. Estimating the cost surements suggest otherwise. of health care for a population requires first a reasonable estimate of the occurrence of ill- Not allowing for variation in treatments runs ness and then a reasonable estimate of the cost the risk that health care will become stagnant. of treating those maladies. If every doctor is Also if the research done is only looking at treating the same condition that same way, costs of hospitalization or even complications then costs, benefits, and complications are it may miss important issues such as patient page 24 ContempoMag.com
satisfaction and the desire to return to productive work. Some patients may be better served by straying from the norm because of intangible factors. Their research takes none of these factors into substantial account nor do they measure the public good achieved by the huge degree of charity work.
The Valley population contains one of the most uneducated and poverty stricken regions in the United States which is 90% Hispanic. Medical researchers have documented that many times this ethnic group will seek treatment for conditions such as chest pain indicating heart disease much later than most Americans. Physicians who deal with patients and their families in this population must also deal with a history of mistrust of institutional medicine which just a few decades ago severely restricted access to this population. C Family members often accompany non-Eng-
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min/day lish speaking elderly patients on medical visits. Telling them that abuelita (grandmother) may have a heart problem which may require future surgery or angioplasty but first can be treated with just medicine, can easily be perceived as “rationing” care for the poor. Many of these patients are on both Medicaid and Medicare so they never experience any personal out of pocket costs. The good news is that this does not obstruct their access to care, but could also open a floodgate for abuse. The New York Times reported only last month that President Obama, himself, has specifically looked at the situation in McAllen, Texas, as a problem area of overspending. The likely outcome is that there is going to be some cutbacks in payments for hospitals, medical specialists, and equipment, but perhaps an increase in payments to primary care and preventative services nationwide. Everyone agrees that the status quo cannot be continued. But putting McAllen’s doctors in the situation of having to explain to family members why abuelita cannot have the best technology, like they have in Houston, just to “save money” will not work. The politicians should take the responsibility of explaining to the public the realities of health care spending and why there may have to be limits. Because in the long run, society will not get as angry at the doctors for doing too much for abuelita as they could against the politicians who they perceive wanted to do too little. Tony Magaña grew up in McAllen Texas, attended Texas A&M University, served as an officer in Army Reserve, and holds a doctorate from Harvard University. The co-founder of Contempo Magazine has participated in Valley business for over 20 years. He is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and also writes for the American Daily Review.
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FINANCIAL INSIGHT Lawmakers Consider Expanding First-time Homeowner Tax Credit to $15,000 by Valerie V. Cardenas
As
June 2010. Other proposals include: increasing the tax credit from $8,000 to $15,000 or offering a $3,000 credit to those homeowners who refinance. Whether or not congress is successful in passing any of these proposals, now still remains a great time for first-time homebuyers to delve into the home buying process. Take advantage of interest rates and home prices remaining at competitive levels as well as the up to $8,000 tax credit for you first-time homebuyers. The most important message for homebuyers is to become educated in today’s home buying market, ask questions to the realtors and bankers. Make Although interest rates remain competitive- sure you understand everything about your ly low, they have inched their way up these loan’s terms and conditions. C last couple of weeks. Discussions have also About the author popped up among lawmakers about trying to Valerie V. Cardenas is a Senior Vice President of MortLending for International Bank of Commerce (IBC) increase the tax credit for first-time home- gage where she manages the mortgage lending operation for buyers. Lawmakers have been calling for the South Texas region of the bank. She is a graduate an expansion of the tax credit as a means to of St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, where she continue sparking home sales. With the tax received her Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Marketing. She is involved with the Affordable Homes credit set to expire this fall, many are rally- of South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley Builders Asing to keep the $8,000 credit in place until sociation. the media continues to highlight the mortgage industry, so do lawmakers as they strive to expand the tax credit for first-time homebuyers. I have recently participated in numerous home buyer fairs and the two most commonly asked questions are: (1) What is today’s interest rate and (2) Tell me more about the approved 2009 tax credit. Both could easily be answered months ago, due to the fact that interest rates are at historic lows and the tax credit can reach a whopping $8,000. Here recently, the situation has taken a turn.
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Fello Guerra and Judge Guerra pick off targets in the quick round.
Perfectly timed with bird season just around the
corner, the Friends of Easter Seals hosted a skeet shoot tournament fund-raiser on July 11th at the 4E Ranch north of Edinburg. The event was a team sponsored competition where five members shoot in sequence at clay targets that pop up from as many as 12 different locations throughout the course. This sport of growing popularity is a modified form of trap shooting that requires more agility and quick response. There is even a target station called the rabbit that shoots a clay target along the ground, over a launch ramp and through ground clutter that is difficult to target. Several away shots carry the clays well beyond 80 meters and another fires a clay virtually straight up. The impressive shooting structure is raised about 12 feet above ground level to support shots below, at and above the horizon. Below the shooting deck are shaded spectator viewing areas. Ten different shooting positions offer the competition over 120 shooting variations. Event sponsors included Wilkinson Ray Iron and Metal, Fox Packaging, RV Contractors, Valley
Friends of Easter Seals Raise Funds at 4E Ranch Shoot-Out North of Edinburg
Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q prepared a “buf-feast” for the shooters that hit the spot with a little help from the Easter Seals volunteers. Rudy’s is always up for a good cause event with topgun B-B-Q.
Team Fox Packaging took first place in the team shooting segment of the event. Keith’s boys participated in the Annie Oakley Shoot-out later on.
The Valley Discount Metals shooting team placed 2nd in the closely matched, handicaped clay target modified trap shoot, pictured here with Rosie Wilkinson.
Team IBC took 3rd place in the team and competed in the Annie Oakley event.
Tony Aguirre breaks his share of clays with his 12 ga. over & under.
French Ellison of the 4E Ranch and Ray Wilkinson kept the targets coming.
Canopies shade observers on the lighted top deck equipped for night shoots.
Observers watched the action from the lower deck and enjoyed the Rudy’s B-B-Q.
Discount Metals, International Bank of Commerce uncommon pleasures of outdoor recreation, nature and Lee’s Pharmacy. Rudy’s Bar-B-Q provided a and wildlife. It is situated in a heavy brush wooded area not a quarter of a mile west of Hwy 281 on FM BBQ lunch for all the contestants and guests. 490, about 10 minutes north of Edinburg. The 4E Ranch is a new concept in Valley lodging that incorporates a remote, private wildlife setting Everyone had a great time and got plenty of pracinfused with home comforts. It is available for par- tice in for wingshooting this fall. I didn’t do too bad ties and overnight stays for those who enjoy the either after 30 years of not taking aim on a clay with the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
33 out of 50. The style of shooting really keeps you on instinct and provides a format change extremely different from that of standard trap. I’m ready to retake up this fascinating sport. It was a blast for everyone who attended, and I’m certain this will become a major event each year. C by Ralph Magaña
page 29 ContempoMag.com
The Media / Setting the Agenda Enough with the Media SpoonFeeding
by Tony Magaña Obama’s meteoric rise to populist fervor by proclaiming all conservatism as sinful may be coming to an end just as it did for another in a famous Sinclair Lewis novel. On July 7th, as President Obama had just completed his sixth month in office, his steadily falling popularity finally plummeted below 50% in the important swing state of Ohio, according to a Quinnipiac University poll. The results are due it seems to growing dissatisfaction with how the President is handling the economy. Numerous polls have over the past few months shown that the American public is most concerned about the condition of the economy over health care, the environment, and other issues despite a constant liberal media barrage to brainwash them to the contrary. Recently Vice-President Joe Biden and the President had no choice but to admit that on the issue that matters most they got it wrong. Now after having spent or committed to spend almost $3 trillion in the stimulus package mixed in with new government spending and perhaps another $2 trillion more to go for the energy tax implementation and government health care, Americans finds their mood has gone from hope to pessimism.
Mass Media Ignores the Polls this Go Around cans keep growing every month. Although the steepness of the loss may be less than at the onset they are still staggering numbers. Wall Street has regained about 50% of the value lost, but overall the major economic sectors which should be the engine of job creation are only sputtering. Obama has spent much of the time on country junkets trying to build coalitions by giving concessions to foreign nations on American sovereignty, promises of increasing foreign aid, and making America more of a global follower than leader. In return, we received clear assurance that we can continue to mostly fight the war in Afghanistan alone, unilaterally disarm our outdated nuclear weapons defense systems to numbers even more inferior than the 3000+ superiority held by Russia, and a thank you for having Congress take up impossible climate change tax program, but no thank you it’s not for us from other countries.
Vanity Fair magazine recently ran a story by Michael Wolff about how the Obama White House is controlling the press and the message that gets to the American people. They describe how Obama friendly media are used for different purposes such as “scoops” for the New York Times, partisan issues for the Huffington Post, and of Obama promised the Democratic initiative of course the pictures of Michelle and the kids for massive spending would bring in 1.5 million the celebrity publications. new jobs but instead the ranks of jobless Ameripage 30 ContempoMag.com
For all his talk about being a transparent President who will listen to the people, the reality is that this President is the exact opposite. His town halls are staged events with special reporters invited to ask questions and stooged members of the public set up to be famous for five minutes asking a sentimental question. This has created an exclusive dialoge between the liberal media and the administration, being heavily engaged in a closed conversation with each other that totally ignores what is happening to the average American. Night after night, MSNBC, CBS, and CNN reports spend literally hours talking about what is wrong with Sarah Palin and absolutely ignore that no one is getting a job. For members of MSNBC which is owned by General Electric (a company that is not only setting records for lobbying fees to politicians including Obama, but also retaining income from government contracts) it could be said that they honestly appear to have no idea about what is bothering the average family. They seem to believe that Americans cannot function until they know every detail of events that happened five or seven years past in a previous administration. Unlike Chris Matthews or Keith Olbermann who make millions a year ( some of it derived by GE’s bailout) Americans without work cannot sit around being pundits all day. but instead have to try to survive. One does not have to be a Harvard economist to understand that the most significant effect of the Obama administration to date has been the almost complete destruction of entrepreneurial spirit. The economy is so skewed that the only thing that matters now is where the government will spend money. Obama cannot blame the media he controls or the capitalist system he has squashed. No one in any community is saying things will get better, all they are saying is how much worse will it get? One hopes for our country’s sake that Obama and the childish media will not wait, like the ill fated character in the novel, Elmer Gantry, to repent until the burning of the Tabernacle (America) to put away childish things and speak as men. C About the Author: Tony Magaña grew up in McAllen Texas, attended Texas A&M University, served as an officer in Army Reserve, and holds a doctorate from Harvard University. The co-founder of Contempo Magazine has participated in Valley business for over 20 years. He is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and also writes for the American Daily Review. Follow him on twitter http://twitter. com/contempomagazin
Life insurance premiums are near historic lows. Term life insurance premiums have dropped to levels not seen in years. Do you have enough coverage to support your loved ones? Now is a good time to provide more protection for your family. Call today for a free, no-obligation life insurance review. This review is not, in any way, intended as an invitation to replace your existing policy coverage. Such an exchange is often not suitable due to such factors as surrender charges on your existing contract, the surrender charge period on the new contract, transaction costs associated with the exchange, the values of the new contract versus the old contract, and the various fees and expenses associated with the new product. Therefore, replacing an existing policy should only be considered after a careful evaluation of these factors as well as a thorough review of your existing coverage. Insurance products are offered through nonbank insurance agency affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company and are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies.
Melissa Magana & Laura Magana Financial Advisors 4900 North 10th Street, Building D1 McAllen, TX 78504 956-345-3530 melissa.magana@wfadvisors.com . laura.magana@wfadvisors.com Investment and Insurance Products: X NOT FDIC Insured X NO Bank Guarantee X MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2009 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. 0609-0683 [76811-v1] 06/09
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Now is the right time to become a Bronc. You can start by filling out a UTPA application online at www.applytexas.org right now. Need more information? We’ll be glad to help answer all of your questions. Go to newstudent.utpa.edu or call us at 956/381-2999 or 1-866-441-UTPA (8872). Give us a call if you’d like to set up a personal tour.
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City, Valley and State Cultivating Excellent Valley Teachers by Jacques Sprenger
W
e must find a way to make the teaching profession more appealing to bright young candidates in the RGV. Since President Obama has expressed a strong commitment toward education, it may be time to take advantage of his willingness to fund new strategies and overhaul our public schools. Granted, money alone has never been sufficient to obtain quality instruction, but when we see highly qualified teachers quit after 2 or 3 years in the classroom, something is wrong. The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) has witnessed a steady influx of Teach For America young men and women who bring new energy to our public schools. They, however, do not see their visit as a permanent move, but rather as a commitment that must be fulfilled and that looks good on their resumes. Since they are extremely well trained, their contributions are outstanding; by the same token, their departure after 2 years affects the necessary planning that every area needs and causes the loss of their teaching experience. There are no instant excellent teachers; only experience and hard work can create the kind of mentor our schools require. But not only TFA teachers quit after a short time; many young and promising instructors have their eyes set on obtaining entrance to prestigious universities and academic programs. For them, teaching is a momentary vocation that may well open unsuspected doors to a brighter future. It is true that teaching positions in very poor areas such the RGV or inner cities in large metropolitan areas may present a challenge that not all teachers are able to overcome. A common problem for them is the bilingual atmosphere if they are not fluent in Spanish. Many of our students are Hispanic and speak – for the most part – Spanish at home and in the hallways. They also use it in the classroom when talking to each other, a fact that I have witnessed on numerous occasions. This may hinder their progress in English, although being bilingual is of course a great advantage in the business world, as long as they master both languages, a rare occurrence unfortunately. Ways to Motivate Young Teachers There are ways to hold on to excellent young page 34 ContempoMag.com
teachers. Money would be required, of course, but more than willing to provide “muscle” and enthuI can’t think of a better investment than educa- siasm. tion: •Allow outstanding teachers to earn special sig•The same way TFA teachers are committed to nificant bonuses. We keep complaining that teachremain 2 years in exchange for help with college ers earn very little compared to the private sector tuition, we could easily persuade new candidates and yet financial managers earn huge rewards (not to commit to 5 years with proper incentives. always deserved as we well know). Surely we can a way to measure their accomplishments in addi•Texas used to have a program that paid for col- tion to TAKS results and provide them with more lege with a 5-year teaching commitment in poor than a small token of financial appreciation. urban and rural areas. It was discontinued due to lack of funds. Let’s use federal funds to renew the •Once the economy recovers, it is time for the priprogram. vate sector to contribute heavily to the success of public schools. They can offer summer jobs (as •Let’s design a Master’s degree tailored to the many do already), and they can also provide subneeds of teachers that requires little classroom at- stantial monetary rewards to teachers who make tendance (online program) and, again, offer free a difference. After all, they also benefit by hiring tuition in exchange for a longer teaching commit- skilled students. ment. We must find a way to make the teaching profes•Taking students on academic trips costs a lot of sion more appealing to bright young candidates in money and paperwork. Yet, I can think of no bet- the RGV. They must see it as a vocation that will ter way to teach certain areas than by giving the offer them financial security and an enormous dose children a hands-on approach. From famous Civil of satisfaction. I want to be sure that the nurse that War battle sites to modern science institutes, noth- takes care of my needs in the nursing home has ing beats “I was there” and “I saw it.” been well trained in our public schools. C •We have a great gulf next door in the RGV and yet we have failed to develop significant marine biology programs. From ecology to fishing conservation to producing energy from waves to obtaining drinking water from saltwater, there is an abundance of well-paid professions which we could offer our students. Let’s fund these valuable programs. Imagine what we could do with the money spent on a super bomber.
About the Author
Jacques Springer was born in Geneva, Switzerland and emigrated to the U.S. when he was 20 years old. He joined the Army and served during the Berlin Blockade. He studied psychology (B.S.) and began his teaching career, first as a college professor teaching psychology and •Offer all teachers paid trips to improve their English. Jacques then earned a Master’s in Education and now knowledge and skills during the summer. Why is a teacher for challenged stuis it that only college professors can find funding dents in Brownsville, Texas. Has for their digs or experiments? Let public school been a freelance writer for over teachers be included in scientific expeditions with 25 years and works as a copymaybe a few high school students. They would be writer. e-mail: rivera.jcs@gmail.com
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Valley Business
Administration & Congress Eye Taxing Small Business To Deal With Nation’s Financial Woes May Jepardize Valley Job Creation “Unless Congress acts affirmatively to extend the Bush tax cuts, the combined effect of the new surtax and increased tax rates will be to place many small business owners into actual tax rates of over 50 percent.” by Tony Magaña
The Obama administration and the leadership in Congress sees taxing small business owners as the solution to the nation’s financial woes but in doing so, will they not only be breaking a promise but also create more job loses?
On March 16, 2009, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and President Obama addressed the nation about small business. The Secretary called small business “the anchor of the economy which will lead us to recovery.” At the time the administration promised to give middle America a tax cut and direct the government in such a manner as to maximize the potential for small business growth. Across the nation as a whole at least 50 percent of employees for private concerns work for a small business with less than 500 workers. The U.S. Department of Commerce estimates that as much as 80 percent of all new jobs created in America over the last ten years originated in these firms. The State of Texas has over 2.1 million small businesses and counting. Almost 99 percent of the state’s employers are small business owners who provide jobs for half of the Texas workforce. The greater McAllen area in the Rio Grande Valley has been a leader in economic progress over the past few years. Unlike most of the United States, the city has been able to maintain a positive percentage of economic growth page 36 ContempoMag.com
To help pay for the massive government spending and new government health care reforms, the Democrats have proposed placing a surtax on the income tax of joint filers who make over $350K and single filers at $280K. The surtax progressively increases beginning at 1 percent and extending to 5.4 percent for an adjusted gross income over $1 million. In an unprecedented move, the Congress would also surrender the power to set tax rates to the President’s Office of Management and Budget including a provision to double the surcharge if they deem it necessary.
A new government mandate demanding additional taxes in support of A national health care plan be paid by employers not just for their and job development but has not totally es- employees but to help fund others will require caped the national economic tide. employers with a base income of $250K to come up with an additional 8 percent of the The proportional average age of the popula- salary of each employee for the government’s tion under age 25 at 45 percent is higher than benefit. just about any other place in the nation and unfortunately, there remain high numbers of Unless Congress acts affirmatively to extend Hispanics who make up 90% of the population the Bush tax cuts, the combined effect of the that never finish high school. Despite this situa- new surtax and increased tax rates will be to tion a strong cultural work ethic and a tradition place many small business owners into actual of pro-business civic government have com- tax rates of over 50 percent. Rea Hederman bined to create an economic juggernaut. The of the Heritage Foundation has analyzed the community had hoped to invest the rewards of data with the conclusion that the new tax plan economic success into better educational pro- would inflict arduous consequences to small grams but now the future may be less bright. business. Like the rest of Texas, the business profile of the region shows the greatest number of jobs are in the retail industry. The health care industry and service industries have remained somewhat strong while manufacturing has decreased. Although trade with Mexico remains strong, there have been significant decreases in transnational commerce, thus creating pressure on the Valley to intensify economic diversification. What the administration said about small business being key remains true for McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley. Recently several initiatives being put forward by the president and influential Democratic members in Congress are threatening the vitality of small business and, consequently, the economic recovery of not just McAllen but of the nation.
Just the discussion of escalating the tax burden for small business has discouraged investment in expansions, new equipment, and most importantly the generation of new jobs. The costs will be born eventually by small business employees in the form of lower wages, less jobs, and fewer hours of work. There will be very few exemptions for about one-fifth of all small businesses with less than nine employees and a payroll of less than $250K. It is not hard to imagine that the robust economic miracle of the McAllen area could be stopped dead in its tracks by the Democratic plan. With unemployment hovering near the 10 percent level and rumors of coming antiNAFTA measures, the prospect of a rapidly escalating job loss in the Rio Grande Valley could move from conjecture to reality. C
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t age 16 Grecia Rachel Padilla, with the help of her devoted parents Jose and Sagrario Padilla of Edinburg, Texas, decided to make lifestyle and nutritional changes to overcome a problem of overweight. After reaching 180 lbs. and dealing with the social issues of child obesity, she found the faith and courage to do something significant about it, and found a goal to reach for. She had youthful aspirations of becoming a model so she learned about nutrition, lost weight and joined Missy’s Modeling Studio to develop poise and confidence. Her parents involvement was critical as she moved from short term to long term results. “My parents have challenged me to become the individual that I am today. My mom challenges me to be prepared, and to not settle for mediocre. During pageants she takes time off work to help as my personal stylist. She attended cosmetology school and now does my hair for pageants. My mom is not only my mom, she is my best friend, hairstylist, consultant, and motivator.” My dad is the sunshine, caring, provider. He always make me the most wonderful food and makes me smile when I most need it. He is so cute because of his jokes and funny faces and makes me realize that family is what it’s all about.”
last summer. Then, on her birthday in February 2009 she participated in the Miss South Texas America and later this year won the Miss Rio Grande America. “The two America titles will give me the chance to compete in the coveted, Miss America, but for the most part, pageants have allowed me to continue my involvement in the community and pageant titles require a lot of community service.” “As a young teenager in high school I loved to volunteer.” Grecia works with organizations like; comfort home, Estrellas Home, Driscoll children Hospital, RGV Food Bank, Relay for Life, Valleyqueens.com, donation of clothing and to the colonias around the RGV, Make a Wish, Queens for a Day, Donation of toys to children’s day care, packages to our troops over seas, Autism Research, American Cancer society, Veterans Home, Mission Police Department festival, Senator Veronica Gonzalez Fundraiser, and other organization and events. “In particular, I love promoting the importance of an education and like telling my story to today’s teens.” Aside from all this Grecia is a senior at the University of Texas Pan American, where she will be graduating with a bachelors in Marketing in December of 2009 and is employed with TJ MAXX in a management position. She is also a modeling instructor for Missy’s Modeling and models for Contempo. During the pageant season, Grecia works as a pageant Grecia with the help of her parents, accom- contestant trainer. plished a lot more that she ever imagined. She got her weight under control and enrolled at “Another person that is really big part of my Missy’s. “Missy’s Modeling Studio... that is life is my boyfriend Juan Carlos Saenz. He where I learned that personality, intelligence has been a great supporter for five wonderand poise were much more worthy goals than ful years. He is patient, understanding, and of just looking pretty. Missy has been a wonder- course loving. Carlos always knows when to ful role model and has been like my second make me smile and he is my best friend and mom. Now as her assistant/teacher I have understands that I have a lot of things that I been given responsibilities and modeling op- would like to accomplish. He is very close to portunities that I enjoy a lot. I have modeled my parents and my brothers, which means the for Betsey Johnson, Macy’s, Tommy Hilfiger, world to me. Our dreams are to get married Agaci, Charlote Russe, Cache,, Davids Bridal, after I graduate in December from college and Princess, Fashion bug, Wal- Mart, Mercedes get my career established.” Outlet, Ocassions, Glitz and Glamour, Po sin Avy, Marcianos, Bebe, Kenya Rose, Joyce Grecia has come a long way under tough cirInternational, South Pole, Latina Magazine, cumstances to reach her goals. She is a outContempo Magazine, Teen Magazine, Valley standing role model for young teens of the Wedding Pages, Dina Farias, and many other Valley. She is totally energetic about her firm companies. dedication to the comunity, her family and to In the last couple of years Grecia has participated in approximately 15 pageants, winning 3 pageant titles and placing as first and second runner up in a majority of the events. She won her first title, Miss South Texas Galaxy then traveled to Houston to compete in the Miss Texas Galaxy where she placed as the 2nd runner up and competed in the Miss Texas USA
her own ambitions in life. But for the most part, it is her positive attitude that will keep this girl moving ahead in all walks of life. Gongrats to her loving parents who support her–job well done! C
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During those days Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, "Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled." And Mary said: "My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is from age to age to those who fear him. Luke 1: 39-50
Prayer Father in heaven, all creation rightly gives you praise, for all life and all holiness come from you. In the plan of your wisdom she who bore the Christ in her womb was raised body and soul in glory to be with him in heaven. May we follow her example in reflecting your holiness and join in her hymn of endless love and praise. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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IN THE HUNT / U.S. Senate Candidate
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Mayor of Houston, Bill White Visits McAllen Chamber
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ecognized for leading efforts by the City of Houston to provide relief for the evacuees after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, Houston Mayor and Texas senatorial candidate, democrat Bill White visited the McAllen Chamber of Commerce as he mounts a serious campaign against John Sharp for Kay Bailey Hutchison’s seat in the U. S. Senate. White was re-elected as Houston’s mayor with over 90% of the vote and served as the U. S. Deputy Secretary of Energy under the Clinton Administration. His experience outside of politics include businesses in energy, real estate in construction. With an interest in energy efficiency, Mayor White initiated a program to develop homes in the Houston area that are almost “net zero” in energy usage–that is they can produce just about all the energy they need. His visit to McAllen was marked with a short but surprising birthday cake presented by Dora Brown of IBC. C the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
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UTPA offers Certificate in Advanced Business Administration for Valley Business Professionals Are you interested in advancing your career
opportunities in the business world? A Certificate in Advanced Business Administration now offered at The University of Texas-Pan American may be just what you need to pave your way to a higher income and a more fulfilling career. The certificate program, offered by UTPA’s College of Business Administration starting fall 2009, is composed of six master-level business courses and designed to be completed in one year. It is directed toward the current business professionals who want to gain more knowledge in business and move up the corporate ladder but whose bachelor’s degree is in a non-business major; those who want to pursue a Master in Business Administration (MBA) but have a lower grade point average (GPA) than required to enter the MBA program or as non-business majors need to complete business administration foundation courses to enter the MBA program; and the longtime professional who wants to explore graduate-level business coursework without being matriculated in the MBA program. “These courses will sharpen the students’ business, analytical and communication skills and expose them to advanced, leading-edge business practices which should enhance their opportunities for career advancement and possibly a higher income,” says Dr. Angelica Cortes, MBA program director. The courses will be held at the new UTPA McAllen Teaching Site located at 1800 South Main Street, which is along the Eastbound Frontage Expressway 83 in the Main Plaza Shopping Center adjacent to La Plaza Mall. “By offering the certificate at our new McAllen site, we hope to provide greater convenience to those wanting to pursue higher education while juggling work and family responsibilities,” Cortes says.
of $50. The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is not required. The application deadline for the fall 2009 semester is Aug. 1. The application deadline for the spring 2010 semester is Dec. 1. Students can access the online application at the Office of Graduate Studies web site at www.utpa. edu/gradschool (go to instructions to apply). For additional information, you can contact Sergio Palacios, graduate recruiter, at gradschool@utpa. edu or by phone at 956/381-3661 or Dr. Angelica Cortes, MBA program director, at cortesa@utpa. edu or by calling 956/381-3313.
Corncobs may play major role in ethanol Testing in a secluded field near the Mexican border is aimed at meeting an expected huge need for ethanol made partly with corncobs not corn.
In tiny Santa Rosa, Texas, a few miles northwest of Harlingen, the nation's largest producer of ethanol, usually with corn, is seeking a new phase in creating a usable substitute for gasoline. And, in this case, a substitute for corn, as well. The machine being tested collects corncobs, naked of kernels and typically left in the field after a harvest for eventual conversion in ethanol, The Houston Chronicle says. The company behind it, a South Dakota firm called Poet, aims to be among the first in the country to produce ethanol on a large scale from non-food sources.
The U.S. Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires greater use of ethanol and other The requirements for enrollment include com- biofuels, growing to 36 billion gallons in 2022. pletion of a bachelor’s degree; official college That's about 25 percent of the 140 billion gallons transcripts from the institution attended; a 2.75 of gasoline U.S. drivers consume annually. or higher GPA for clear admission and no less than a 2.5 GPA for conditional admission; a cur- More than half of the federal biofuel mandate, rent résumé and written statement of purpose known as the Renewable Fuel Standard, calls for indicating the applicant’s reasons to purpose the fuels made from non-food crops and agricultural certificate; and a nonrefundable application fee waste. C the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
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Energy and the Environment
High Performance
GREEN HOMES Reaching “Net Zero” Energy Consumption: What You Can Achieve at Home
by Marianella Franklin, AIA What is a LEED certification process? As defined by USGBC, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) is an internationally recognized green building certification system, providing third-party verification that a building or community was designed and built using strategies aimed at improving performance across all the metrics that matter most: energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts. LEED for Homes promotes the design and construction of high-performance green homes. LEED for Neighborhood Development integrates the principles of smart growth, urbanism and green building into the first national program for neighborhood design. What can a homeowner do today to offset the rising cost of energy? There are many energy efficient materials, equipment and systems that can be added or replaced to make our homes more energy efficient. Before doing so it is critical we first prepare our homes and ourselves to be more energy conscious. I have found the following list to be extremely helpful and a great start in preparing ones home and oneself for a successful outcome.
HOME ENTERTAINMENT
crock pot, or popcorn popper uses less energy than a stove. • Defrost foods before baking or cooking to save as much as 50% of total cooking time. • Preheat the oven only when necessary and try not to open the oven door while food is cooking- each time the door is opened, the oven loses 20% of its heat. Unless your baking breads or pastries you may not need to preheat the oven at all.Turn oven off 15 minutes before stop time. Oven will retain heat and continue cooking. • The oven temperature can be lowered by as much as 25 degrees by using glass or ceramic pans to bake. • Both refrigerators and freezers operate at peak efficiency when they are full. A secondary refrigerator or freezer can cost an additional $5-$15 each month. • Keep your refrigerator thermostat between 36 and 38 degrees F and the freezer between 0-5 degrees F. • Can you run an envelope through the refrigerator door frame when it is closed? If so, cool air is leaking. Doorlining gaskets should be replaced if they become hard or lose their shape. • Keep external refrigerator and freezer coils free from lint. A clean refrigeration system doesn’t have to work as hard. • Open refrigerator and freezer doors as few times as you can. An average family opens the refrigerator door about 22 times a day. • Use the energy saver setting on your dishwasher and air dry whenever possible. The heat-dry cycle alone uses 700 watts of electricity. • When purchasing a new refrigerator, freezer, or dishwasher consider the Energy Star appliances that save more on electricity costs by using less power.
of laundry washed in cold water saves enough energy to power a television for up to 34 hours. •Wash and dry full loads of laundry and avoid over drying clothes in the dryer. Hanging laundry outside or on a rack can save energy.
COMPUTERS
• Turn off computers, printers, copiers, and other office equipment when they are not being used. Use a power strip for these appliances. If a computer is left on all night, it may waste more power than the lights used all day. After shutting down the system, make sure the power is turned off. In “sleep” mode, the computer still uses 30% of the total power it uses when operating. • Utilize power settings in your computers operating system. Refer to your manual to locate these settings that will turn off unused equipment. Unplug power supply to laptop computer and cell phone chargers.
ATTIC
• Proper attic ventilation is necessary for both the heating and cooling efficiency of your home. Consider installing an attic fan to lower the attic temperature. •Visually inspect the duct system in your attic to see if air is escaping. Repair air leaks with mastic sealant. • Warm air leaking into your home during the summer and out during the winter wastes energy. Caulk seal and weather strip all seams, cracks and openings to the outside. • Reduce drafts around windows by sealing the interior side withVisqueen (heavy plastic). • Proper insulation can increase the comfort of your home while reducing heating and cooling needs by up to 30%. Measure the insulation levels in your attic, ceilings, exterior walls, floors and crawl spaces. The higher R-value from increasing insulation results in more resistance to heat loss. • When new windows or doors are needed, install storm doors and multipane windows with lower U-value and be sure to look for Energy Star label.
• Turn the TV,VCR and video games off when no one is using them. A medium size color TV uses 200 watts of electricity when its left on. BATHROOM • Use a power strip to turn off appliances completely. Eliminating this “standby” electricity loss from home ap- • Repair leaky faucets. A faucet dripping just two drops per second can waste over 350 gallons of water per month. pliances could save up to 25% of electricity bills. Repairing a hot water leak could save enough energy to power your television for up to two hours a day for more KITCHEN APPLIANCES • Use a microwave or barbecue grill instead of the stove. than six years. Microwaves use 40% less electricity than a stove because • Take short showers instead of tub baths. A typical bath they cook faster at a lower wattage.The monthly cost to use uses about 30 gallons of hot water compared to 18 gallons a stove each day is about $6.00 compared to $3.00 for used for a five minute shower. • Install low flow shower heads that will save on energy electricity used by a microwave daily for 30 minutes. and water use for each shower. • To retain heat, use lids to cover food while cooking and • Use your hair dryer on the cool setting. A hair dryer cook on medium or low heat settings. Also use pans that set on cool uses 600 watts versus 1,200 watts on the hot LIGHTING match the size of the element. • Turn off lights when not in use. Household lights can • Small cooking appliances are more economical than setting. large appliances. A toaster, electric skillet, waffle iron, • Use warm or cold water settings on the clothes washer. account for 15% or about $100 of a homes energy use. Limit hot water use to heavily soiled clothes. Each load page 44 ContempoMag.com
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• Use compact fluorescent light bulbs rather than incandescent bulbs. A compact fluorescent bulb uses one fourth the energy that a regular incandescent bulb uses but gives off about the same amount of light and lasts ten times longer. In fact, you can save $23 if you choose to use one compact fluorescent light bulb instead of 10 standard light bulbs. • Choose lower wattage bulbs for areas where less lighting is needed. A 100 watt bulb uses more energy than a 60watt or 45-watt bulb. • Setting your thermostat lower in the winter and higher in the summer will save you 3 percent per degree on heating and cooling costs. (This does not apply to heat pump systems that require a steady temperature or special thermostat.) • During cold weather, open window drapes and blinds on sunny days. During hot weather, close them to keep out the sun’s rays.
• Touch the outside of your water heater tank. If it’s hot or warm, it needs a wrap or blanket for insulation. A water heater blanket is inexpensive, easy to install, and quickly saves energy dollars. If water heater recently purchased, it may be insulated inside and will not require an additional blanket.
OUTDOORS
• Turn off any outdoor lights that are not needed for security purposes. Decorative yard lights may use up to 70 kilowatt hours per month which equates to about $7.00. • For greater efficiency install timers, motion sensors or photovoltaic (solar) cells to operate outdoor lights. • Plant deciduous trees or install awnings, screens or lattice grills on the south and west sides to shade your home on hot days and evergreen trees on the North and west sides to protect from cold winds or chilly days. (Be sure to plant trees away from power lines) • Eliminate outdoor circulation pumps for ponds and waAIR CONDITIONING terfalls. A typical water circulation pump can cost $0.48 • When you are asleep or away from home, set your ther- per day, or about $14.40 per month. A one horsepower mostat to 55 degrees in the winter and 82 degrees in the pump running 24 hours a day all month could cost $38. summer. Consider purchasing a programmable thermostat. • Rather than turning on the central air conditioner (at If I could choose one way of reducing my a cost of about $2.50 a day), use a fan to circulate air and electricity bill the most economically, open windows, especially when the outdoor temperature is what should I do? cooler than inside. The easiest and most economical area in which to • When you turn on the air conditioner, don’t turn the conserve energy for most homeowners is insulathermostat to the coldest setting.The air in your home will tion and weather-stripping. Insulate the Attic: Ininot cool off any faster. tial Cost $350 - $500, savings on the cooling Bill • Service and tune up heating, ventilating and air condi- $66 - $201. Insulate Walls Initial Cost $550-$1,450 tioning (HVAC) equipment annually. Have your HVAC sys- Savings on Cooling Bill $30 - $240. Insulate all tem serviced and adjusted by a professional maintenance Hot Water Pipes Initial Cost $60 - $100 Savings on technician. Cooling Bill $20 - $50. Insulate Air Ducts Initial • Clean or replace AC filters monthly – or sooner if you Cost $75 - $100 savings on Cooling Bill $20 - $70 cannot see light through the filter. Clean, transparent fil- Caulk & Weathrstrip Initial Cost $75 - $125–Savters make it easier for the HVAC system to work, keeping its ings on Cooling Bill $54 - $201. C performance level high. For more information about green home benefits and to access other resources visit USGBC’s newly launched green homes Web • Set your water heater thermostat at 120 degrees. (Be- site - The Green Home Guide: www.thegreenhomeguide.org.
WATER HEATER
fore you adjust your water heater setting turn the breaker off.) A typical water heater can cost up to $8 per person per month to operate.
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BURNING YOUR OWN CD LABELS Ever thought about labeling all your CD’s, or DVD’s? If you have a Lightscribe Drive, you can make great looking discs by burning your labels right into the disc. Make sure you are using a Lightscribe blank disc for burning labels with the Lightscribe software, you can even burn photos right on top of the disc. If you don’t, be sure to use a medium or larger point Sharpie for writing directly on top of the disc or one of the CD Labeling kits that prints a sticker that you attach to the top of the disc. The top of the disc is the important part to protect. If you scratch up the bottom of the disc, you can use the Disk Doctor to polish out the scratches. If you scratch the top of the disc, you just lost your stuff. VISTA SERVICE PACK 2 / EXPLORER For those of you with Windows Vista, Service Pack 2 is now available for download, and Internet Explorer 8 is available for both Vista and XP. The Service Pack 2 update is an important one and the Internet Explorer 8 is very good as well, but not required. You should be using Internet Explorer 7 by now.
need anything over $400.00. They come with the Paperport scanning software that is the best for keeping scanning and editing documents and photos extremely user friendly. The wireless option is great for a household with a wireless router, for sharing one multi-function printer with the whole family, all in one location. REMOTE CONTROL COMPUTING I have found a new software program for remote control of your computer. It is TeamViewer software. It is FREE for private non-commercial use. Simply install this program on your office computer, write down the ID numbers and either set a permanent password, or use the temporary generated password, and then install the same program on your laptop or home PC. Then type in the ID numbers with spaces and the password on your remote computer and your in. It is that simple. You can transfer files, run programs and even print on the remote computer. You do not need a VPN, or even a static IP address to use this software. This is a great way to work from home, or while traveling. You can also use this program to help parents or grandparents without having to travel to solve small problems or even teach them applications. However, this is not an excuse not to go and visit your family. C
USER FRIENDLY WIRELESS SCANNING For those of you with a network necessity for faxing, scanning, and printing, Brother has several great choices. Depending on your budget, Computer Doctor you can get multi trays, wireless, even 15X18 Michael Bilyeu printing and scanning! They start at just under Computer_doctor@myctsonline.com $100K and most offices and homes will not
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425 S. International Blvd., Weslaco, Texas 78596 / (956) 447-4100 the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 47 ContempoMag.com
Si No Has Venido A Poncho’s No Has Venido Al Valle! page 48 ContempoMag.com
Disponible para todo evento social Areas Abiertas - Privados - Palapas Capacidad Hasta 1000 Personas para reservaciones llama
956.782.9991 / 607.8612 808 N. Cage, Pharr Tx
Expressway 83 E. Polk Ave. N. Cage
Desayuno Lunch Cena Dom.-Juev. 7AM - 11PM Vie.-Sab. 7AM - 2AM
Dejate Venir a Poncho’s Y Prueba Nuestros Ricos Platillos Bien Estilo Casero.
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