volume five | issue six | july 2010
HOW TO SUBMIT TO THE
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1
On The Cover
Here, We Ride Rockets by: Lorenzo Garcia, DMDT
send.
3
Credits DESIGNERS / WRITERS Laura Amaro Digital Media Design Technology
read!
send to: p hdc lub @gm ail.c om
Lorenzo Garcia Digital Media Design Technology
questions? 9 5 6 .3 6 4 .4 2 6 0
EDITORS Melani Zuniga Coordinator of Publications
LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD
Ever wonder where the content of the Mustang Magazine comes from?
It comes from YOU!
The Mustang Magazine accepts stories, reviews, poetry and artwork submitted by TSTC students. If you’d like to submit your creative work for the next issue, e-mail it to phdclub@gmail.com. For more information call 956.364.4260.
August issue deadline: July 16
02
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
Keri Gutierrez Director of Marketing STAFF WRITER Dave Ralph Communications Writer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS credited CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS credited
View the Mustang Magazine online at harlingen.tstc.edu/mustang
write.
1902 N. Loop 499 Harlingen, TX 78550 1.800.852.8784 www.harlingen.tstc.edu
TSTC Harlingen is a two-year higher education institution emphasizing courses of study in technical education for which there is a demand within the state of Texas.
Contents 04 Calendar 05 From Your SGA President 06 The Month In Photos 08 College Reference: Advice Ally 10 Student Club Features: PhD Club 12 Valley Features: OK Robot! 14 Health & Fitness
15 For Your Entertainment: Toy Story 3 16 Tech News From A Geek 18 GAMERview: Xbox 360 Slim
06
Doodles by Carlos Vela, DMDT
20 CineSol Poster Contest Winner
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
03
july 2010 02
07, 13, 21 09 09 13 14 16 19 19
Mid-Term Grades Due (15-Week) Financial Aid Pre-Loan Sessions
06
Raquetball & Table Tennis Roster’s Due
15
Last Day to Drop A Class with a “W” (12-Week)
09 19
Wellness Walk
Final Installment Due (15-Week)
07
End of Semester (Mini Session I)
21
First Class Day (Mini Session II)
Final Grades Due (Mini Session I)
23
Final Exams Begin (All Students)
30
End of Semester (12-Week)
23
campus events
Last Day to Drop A Class with a “W” (15-Week) For event details visit www.harlingen.tstc.edu/calendar www.harlingen.tstc.edu/studentclubs
Critical Thinking Sessions Introduction to Critical Thinking
Introduction to Critical Thinking Standards Making Decisions Using Critical Thinking Critical Thinking: Putting It All Together Critical Thinking Workshops Travel Tips & Fuel Economy
Money Management: Making Smart Choices
For more information contact the Center for Excellence in Teaching & Learning at 956.364.4849
UTB Registration Event
• Admissions • Financial Aid • General Advising
LRC Orientation Room July 13 | 6PM – 8PM July 17 | 9AM – 2PM
Achieve it. Stop by to receive information about UTB courses offered at TSTC or about the admissions process!
Registration in progress
Fall classes begin August 30
Summer Mini-Session II Begins July 19
Apply for financial aid at www.fafsa.ed.gov School Code: 009225 Apply online today at www.harlingen.tstc.edu/apply All new students must complete admission requirements and register for New Student Orientation prior to registering for classes.
www.harlingen.tstc.edu
956.364.4117 • 800.852.8784 Equal opportunity shall be afforded within the Texas State Technical College System to all employees and applicants for admission or employment regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age or disability. TSTC will make reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities.
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Mustang Magazine | July 2010
FROM YOUR
sga president John Garcia Hello, Mustangs!
Hope y’all are enjoying the semester and had fun the events during the month of June. Hope everyone got a workout at the Wellness Walk and is keeping up with the commitment to be fit. I’m sure everyone enjoyed “Hot Tub Time Machine” at the Movie in the Gym and the free popcorn. The Big Couch Photo was a blast and I hope everyone got a chance to get another souvenir from TSTC. I can’t believe how many talented people performed at
the Open Mic Night and how many people came and showed their support to their fellow students! With everything in June past us, here is what you can look forward to in July. We have two more SGA meetings left in the Summer Semester. They are scheduled for July 13 and 27 so come and join us and get a free lunch. July 13 is another Wellness Walk at the TSTC Athletic Field, so bring a friend and come out to walk for your health! On July 14, be sure to make it out to the Student Quad where you can create your own Tie Dye T shirts for free! July is jampacked with events that will make your semester a
blast, so come out and make your college experience everything it should be. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns, please stop by the SGA Office or contact us at 956.364.4343. Our door is always open.
John Garcia
Brought to you by your
Student Government Association
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
05
Welcome Week Summer 2010
The summer semester kicked off with SGA’s Welcome Week with a Summer Beach Party theme. The three-day celebration was filled with fun water games and dance performances.
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Mustang Magazine | July 2010
Open Mic Night
SGA treated students to fresh Starbucks coffee, hot chocolate and cookies at their Open Mic Night on June 23. Students showcased a wide variety of talents ranging from poetry to rapping, to karaoke and acoustic singer-songwriting.
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
07
Advice
MUSTANG
Weekly Updates for
Speciael s Featur
Headlines
STAY
Students and Employees
S Wortudent ksho ps
Dear Ally,
Ally
I’m 20 years old, single, and originally not from Harlingen but relocated for school. How can I meet new people? - Ready to Mingle
Ready to Mingle,
Events UPDATED
Club Info
Notices
For long-term calendar information and more details, please go to www.harlingen.tstc.edu/calendar or the Student Government Association Web site at http://students.harlingen.tstc.edu.
MUSTANG
Brought to you by the TSTC Marketing Department and the Student Government Association (SGA)
To include announcements, notices, and other information about the week's upcoming events in this weekly e-newsletter, please contact Dave Ralph, at 956.364.4113 or dave.ralph@harlingen.tstc.edu. All submissions must be received by 5PM on Wednesdays to be included in the following week’s edition. This publication is available in an alternative format by contacting TSTC Support Services at 956.364.4520.
My first piece of advice is to focus on school and don’t lose sight of your purpose here. However, it’s always good to get involved for it will introduce you to a whole world of people. Join some intramural sports to mingle and meet some of your fellow peers! Or you can get involved in a student club or the Student Government Association on campus. The more you get involved, the more people you will meet and it looks great on your resume as well. If those don’t really fit your schedule, you can always volunteer at places around Harlingen. You can meet new people and get a little exercising in at the animal shelter or by volunteering for a cleanup with Harlingen Proud. There is always something going on; don’t be afraid to socialize!
E-mail advice.ally36@gmail.com and include your topic on the subject line. Name need not be included. Remember, Advice Ally only provides a different perspective on a topic; she is not a licensed therapist.
www.tstc.edu
SUPPORT SERVICES OFFICE
Did you
know?
Support Services has a Web page with helpful links and information for students in Non-traditional fields!
08
Students can find links to websites where they can network with their peers and learn more about gender equity. Check it out today!
http://harlingen.tstc.edu/supportservices/Links.aspx
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
MATH 1314 AND UPPER LEVEL MATH Alma Barrera - MATH 2318.2001 (SI Tutor) M/W/F 2:00PM to 3:00PM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Syed - Linear Algebra 2318.2001 W221 M/W/F 9:00AM to 11:00AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in MATH 2318.2001 ONLY W211 Lab T/Th 9:00AM to 10:00AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in MATH W211 Lab Bianca Mares - MATH 1314.2001 (SI Tutor) M/W/F 8:00AM to 9:05AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Contois - College Algebra 1314.2001 W219 M/W/F 9:00AM to 10:30AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Math 1314.2001 ONLY W211 Lab M 4:00PM to 5:30PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Math 1314 ONLY W211 Lab F 1:00PM to 2:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Math 1314 ONLY W211 Lab Edgar Melendez - MATH 1314.2009 (SI Tutor) M/W/F 6:45AM to 7:30AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pezeshki - College Algebra 1314.2009 W125 T/TH 8:30AM to 12:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Math 1314.2009 ONLY W211 Lab Rene Pena - MATH 1314 (SI Tutor) T/TH 9:35AM to 11:00AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Syed - Math 1314.2002 W219 T/TH 1:30PM to 5:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Math 1314 ONLY W211 Lab Rene Pe単a - MATH 1314.2005 (SI Tutor) M/W/F 11:45AM to 12:50APM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hosseinpour - College Algebra 1314.2005 W221 M/W/F 10:00AM to 11:30AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in College Algebra 1314.2009 ONLY W211 Lab M/W/F 1:00PM to 2:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Math W211 Lab DEVELOPMENTAL MATH Patricia Torres - DMTH 0200.2004 (SI Tutor) T/TH 9:50AM to 11:30AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bazan - DMTH 0100.2006 W218 M/W/F 10:00AM to 12:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in DMTH 0100.2006 ONLY W220 T/TH 11:30AM to 12:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in DMTH 0100 Rachel Steffenhagen - DMTH 0200.2023 (SI Tutor) M/W/F 5:30PM to 7:10PM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Agharbi - DMTH 0200.2032 W109 M/W/F 9:00AM to 10:30AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in DMTH 0200.2032 ONLY W210 W 2:30PM to 5:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in DMTH W210 Juan Carlos Silva - DMTH 200 (SI Tutor) M/W/F 1:00PM to 2:00PM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Nauman - DMTH 0200.2004 W109 M/W 2:00PM to 3:30PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in DMTH 0200.2004 ONLY W210 F 2:00PM to 5:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in DMTH W210 ENGLISH 1301 and DEVELOPMENTAL WRITING AND READING Delma Jimenez - ENGL 1301.2003 (SI Tutor) M/W/F 9:15AM to 10:20AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Smith - English 1301.2003 W207 T/TH 10:00AM to 12:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Writing Courses W124 T/TH/F 1:00PM to 5:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Writing Courses W124 Kaysey Aguilar - ENGL 1302.2005 (SI Tutor) M/W 1:30PM to 3:10PM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .White - ENGL 1302.2005 W206 M 9:00AM to 1:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Writing Courses W124 W 10:00AM to 2:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Writing Courses W124 T/TH 3:10PM to 4:10PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist in Writing Courses W124 HISTORY 1301 James Caldwell - HIST 1301.2001 (SI Tutor) M/W/F 10:30AM to 11:35AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shands - HIST 1301.2001 W35B T/TH 9:00AM to 10:15AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with HIST 1301 ONLY Library M/W/F 1:00PM to 2:30PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with HIST 1301 Library BIOL 2301, 2302, & 2321 Patricia McKinney - BIOL 2321.2002 (SI tutor) T/TH 1:30PM to 3:10PM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Formacio - BIOL (A&P) 2321.2002 U203 T/TH 9:30AM to 11:30AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with BIOL 2321 U202 T/TH 3:10PM to 3:40PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with BIOL 2321 U202 Omar Sanchez - BIOL 2302.2003 (Regular tutor) M/W 1:00PM to 2:40PM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Leonard - BIOL 2302.2003 A&P I&II U203 T/TH 10:00AM to 11:00AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with BIOL U202 & U204 T/TH 2:40PM to 4:40PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with BIOL U202 & U204
Summer/ 2010 Tutoring Schedule COMPUTER SCIENCE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT Gaston Amezcua - ITSE 2331.2C01 (SI tutor) T/TH 1:30PM to 3:30PM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lozano - ITSE 2331.2C01 G-133 T/TH 3:00PM to 6:30PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with ITSE SPANISH-1311 Silvia Salinas - SPAN 1311.2001 (Regular tutor) T/TH 8:00AM to 9:40AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hernandez - 1312.2001 W208 T/TH 9:45AM to 1:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with All Levels of Spanish W124 EDUCATION & TRAINING PROGRAM Adriana Gonzalez - EDTC 1307.2002 (Regular tutor) M/W 8:00AM to 9:00AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Larios EDTC 1307.2002 C123 M/W 9:00AM to 10:20AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with EDTC 1307 C124 Adriana Gonzalez - CDEC 1359.2001 (Regular tutor) T/TH 9:00AM to 10:00AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Robledo CDEC 1359.2001 C134 T/TH 10:00AM to 11:20AM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with CDEC 1359 C124 COMPUTER NETWORKING SECURITY TECHNOLOGY Pedro Colunga III - ITNW 2354.2002 (Regular tutor) T/TH 8:00AM to 10:30AM Observe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Colunga ITNW 2354.2002 S146 W 1:00PM to 4:00PM Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Assist with ITNW S146
now hiring
tutors!
Summer/Fall 2010 Semester
Looking for tutors in: Developmental & Upper Level Math Developmental & English 1301 & 1302 Business/Office Technology Contact: Office of Student Success Supplemental Instruction/Tutoring Program Building D Room 121 | 956.364.4170 or 364.4163
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
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STUDENT CLUB
features
Humanities and Arts Society The Humanities and Arts Society Club’s mission is the promotion, creation, and exposition of diverse cultural arts across our campus and the community. The H.A.S Club wants you to share your talent! All levels of creativity and majors are wecomed in this student organization. Join us if you want to socialize and meet new friends! Student leadership positions are available.
For more information call: Jennifer Rodriguez at 956.364.4744 Rene Garza at 956.364.4783 10
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
want to have
your club featured?
Contact us to set up an interview! e-mail: phdclub@gmail.com phone: 956.364.4260
Check out these clubs and their meeting times! *
want to join a
For more information visit: www.harlingen.tstc.edu/studentlife
student club?
ACT Club Agriculture Club Associated General Contractors
Want to see your club’s meeting times here? Send us your information to phdclub@gmail.com.
Role Player Gamers Society Wednesdays | 12PM | Student Center Cafeteria
Computer Systems Management Technology Club Wednesdays |12:30PM | G-110 csmt-club.webs.com
SADHA I SADHA II
Aviation Club
Dental Explorers Every third Tuesday | 9AM | U-127
AUB
Education and Training Club
Students Promoting Anime and Manga
Billiards Club Wednesdays | 12PM | Game Room
Emergency Medical Services Club
Surgical Technology Club
Environmental Club
Silver Spurs
Biomedical Club
The Fanatics
Telecommunication Engineering Technology
Business Professionals of America
Free Stuff Club
Catholic Campus Ministry Sign Language: Tuesdays | 12:35PM | J-117 Prayer Meeting: Wednesdays | 12:30PM | J-105
Health Information Technology Club
The Vibe Communication Club Tuesdays | 4PM | LRC Study Room
Chemical Environmental Club
Medical Assistant Club I
Computer Networking and Security Technology Club Thursdays | 12PM | S-143 Lunch provided; donations accepted.
Medical Assistant Club II
Astronomy Club
The Sportsmen
Humanities and Arts Society
Vocational Nursing Club
Photojournalism and Design Club Thursdays | 12:15PM | S-129
Club Fundraisers and Events Education and Training Club
Science Engineering Math Majors Club
July 19-23 | The BBQ Palace | San Benito
EDTC members will be selling plates from the BBQ Palace in San Benito during the month of July. Plates can be picked up during the week of July 19. Contact: Gaston Gomez 956.364.4890
want to advertise
your club event here?
Send us your club’s information! e-mail: phdclub@gmail.com phone: 956.364.4260
Wondering which courses will transfer?
facebook.com/TSTCgst S T U D E N T S U C C E SS OFF I CE | WWW. TSTCGST.CO M Mustang Magazine | July 2010
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VALLEY
features valley
talent!
Ok Robot! Pop Punk / Indie Rock www.myspace.com/okrobotband
07/23 Friday | 5:00PM The V | San Benito $5 ADMISSION FEE
Featuring: The Plea Of Ariel, The Early Release, Filthy Rabbit, Five Foot Five, and many more!
Events
Family / Educational
Family Movie Night 7/17 Saturday | 7:00PM Jackson and "A" Street | Harlingen Social Media Camp 8/14 Saturday | 9:00AM - 4:00PM Cine El Rey | Mcallen
Music / Entertainment
Sean Kingston & Iyaz With DJ 405 7/4 Sunday | 8:00PM Mooncussers | South Padre Island
Ted Nugent 7/5 Monday | 7:00PM Donna Corn Maze
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Katt Williams Still Blingin’ Tour 7/16 Friday | 6:00PM, 9:00PM, & 11:30PM Harlingen Municipal Auditorium
The Ataris with Gasoline Heart and more 8/31 Tuesday | 3:30PM Smokin Aces | Mission
Kevin Fowler 7/23 Friday | 10:30PM Las Palmas Event Center | Mission
Gabriel Iglesias 9/30 Thursday | 8:00PM McAllen Convention Center
Forever The Sickest Kids 7/15 Thursday | 6:00PM Las Palmas Event Center | McAllen
Alejandro Sanz 7/29 Thursday | 7:30PM State Farm Arena | Hidalgo
Brad Paisley with Darius Rucker 8/5 Thursday | 7:00PM State Farm Arena | Hidalgo
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
New Found Glory 9/9 Thursday | 7:30PM Las Palmas Event Center | Mission
health & fitness Savor y Fresh Apricot Bites Take advantage of the summer fruit season and enjoy this quick and tasty recipe! 4 oz cream cheese, softened 12 fresh apricots, halved ½ cup pistachios, finely chopped
Facts About Apricots
1. Stir cream cheese until smooth; pipe or spoon into apricot halves. 2. Sprinkle tops with pistachios. 3. Serve as an appetizer, snack, or dessert.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
81 calories 2 g protein 6 g carbohydrates
27 mg sodium 6 g fat 10 mg cholesterol
intramural
• Good source of potassium, while also contributing iron, calcium, phosphorus, and fiber so it’s good for digestion and treating anemia and constipation.
• Their low fat, calorie and sodium content make them good for snacking!
Caution
Fresh apricots contain a small amount of oxalates, so individuals with a history of kidney stones should not consume too much of this fruit.
1 g dietary fiber 670 IU vitamin A 116 mg potassium
sports
• Apricots are excellent sources of the anti-oxidants vitamin A (beta-carotene) and C. Anti-oxidants help fight and prevent diseases.
Sulfur-containing compounds used in commercially grown dried apricots may cause adverse reactions in people who suffer from asthma.
summer2010
SPORT/EVENT
DIVISION
SPECIFICATIONS
DEADLINE
CAPTAIN’S MEETING
PLAY BEGINS
table tennis
open
doubles
7/09/10
7/12
TBA
dodgeball
open
6 on 6 tournament
Captains’ meetings will be held in the gym. A team captain/representative must attend the Captains’ Meeting.
Contact the Wellness & Sports Center staff at 364.4344 for more details.
WELLNESS WALK “Commit to be Fit” and walk around the track at the TSTC Athletic Field. july 13 5:30PM
7/09/10
7/13
6PM 6PM
WELLNESS & SPORTS CENTER HOURS Mon-Thur: 8AM - 9PM Friday: 10AM - 2PM Sunday: 3PM - 7PM
TBA
zumba
tuesday: 5:30 p.m. thursday: 5:30 p.m.
Intramural Department Personnel: Armando “Brany” Dominguez, Supervisor Room 101 Phone: 956.364.4341 E-mail: brany.dominguez@harlingen.tstc.edu Jose Garza, Assistant Supervisor Room 104 Phone: 956.364.4340 E-mail: jose.garza@harlingen.tstc.edu
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
13
FOR YOUR
entertainment The PhD Club Presents
Rikki’s Doodles
Check out what the Photojournalism and Design Club is currently listening to! Tunng “Bullets” Good Arrows
Folk / Electronica myspace.com/thisistunng
2NE1 “Fire” 2NE1 EP
Dance / Pop / Hip-hop www.yg-2ne1.com Massive Attack “Teardrop” Mezzanine
Trip Hop / Electronica / Downtempo myspace.com/massiveattack Ximena Sariñana “La Tina (Metronomy Remix” Mediocre (Edicion Especial) Pop / Alternative myspace.com/ximenamusic
New Film Releases
July 2
The Last Airbender
July 7
The Kids Are All Right
July 9
Despicable Me Predators
July 14
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
July 16 Inception
July 23
Dinner for Schmucks
Ramona and Beezus Salt
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Mustang Magazine | July 2010
July 30 Beastly
Charlie St. Cloud
Cats & Dogs: the Revenge of Kitty Galore
by Lorenzo Garcia, DMDT
The Toy Story franchise has taken the simplest of life lessons and pleasures, brought them into focus and used them to tug at our hearts.
Toy Story not only holds up as an animated film, but also rivals the blockbusters with a grand and well-written story. Although it is a shame to see off these beloved characters it was a nice ride and I would say the writers were gentle in leading the audience through its final chapter. The film opens with a wink to the audience of how far Pixar has come with its visual effects. A recreation of the once childhood games that Andy would play, but in a grandiose scale, is offered up and brings us back to the moment when we were introduced to this world in the first film. The technical feats are subtle, but obvious in the attention to detail and enhancements to each character. The interesting thing that I have always found with Toy Story films is the use of simple mechanics to convey such a relatable lesson and experience. From afar it would be silly to think that we would become so attached to the struggles of some plastic toys and their burning desire to be part of playtime, but somehow Pixar has made these characters a part of people’s lives. When we meet our characters,
once again, it is the week that Andy is to leave for college and his room needs to be cleaned out. Everything must either be thrown out or stored in the attic, everything including our Toy Story friends, who are all too aware of the situation, hidden in Andy’s toy chest. From the beginning the lesson is sticking together in these hard times and even some fallen friends are mentioned in absence. Through some misunderstanding the toys are thrown into an adventure at a local daycare center that they once welcomed, but they soon find themselves in a corrupted system and things aren’t as they seem. I will admit that I was a little surprised at how Toy Story 3 went a little further with some of the drama scenes. A love interest pops up that was unexpected and even the extreme of death is brought into the mix. Pixar has certainly delved into these plights before, but I was caught off guard to see one in a Toy Story setting. Overall the third and final installment of this heroic and heartfelt journey has left me with a lump in my throat and even tears. This film is a must see and a great theater experience and a great tale to dive into for any age. Though there is much more to say about this film it simply cannot be said, but must be experienced.
Ask the experts. facebook.com/TSTCgst S T U D E N T S U C C E SS OF FI CE | WW W. TSTCG ST. COM Mustang Magazine | July 2010
15
Apple @ WWDC On the morning of June 7, 2010 the World Wide Developers Conference began in sunny San Francisco. The weeklong conference saw more than 5,200 attendees from 57 countries. New Featured Apps: Netflix streaming Farmville Guitar Hero iMovie for iPhone
iPhone OS4 = iOS4
Multitasking Folders Mail – unified inbox & threading Enhanced Camera & Photo apps
iPhone4 Features:
Front facing camera 24% thinner Integrated antenna in steel chassis Retina 326ppi display New Apple A4 chip 802.11n WiFi Added Gyroscope HD Video Recording (720p.30fps)
Apple also announced FaceTime, a feature that allows for video calls across iPhone4 models. Steve Jobs explained the feature will only be available within a WiFi hotspot for 2010. Apple needs a little more time to work with the carriers.
TECH NEWS FROM A GEEK
Mark Zuckerberg: The Face of Facebook
Facebook founder and CEO, Mark Zuckerberg is in the spotlight once again for certain privacy issues that users are squawking about.
Since 2003 The Wall Street Journal has hosted an annual conference called All Things Digital, which features an annual lineup of breaking news, innovation and influential figures in the technology realm. This 8th annual session, dubbed D8, finished off with Zuckerberg on the hot seat as creators and executive producers Walt Mossberg and Kara Swisher surfaced the elephant in the room. The audience aimed its eyes and ears onto the stage where Zuckerberg dared to show his face, even amongst all the hype surrounding his vision that would leap the Facebook user into a more user centralized Web experience. Although his vision did not sound so profound from the stage, for you see, Zuckerberg was literally sweating bullets. Every question launched at Zuckerberg regarding the recent privacy issues were slowly processed and answered with a fumbling response that reminisced on the beginnings of Facebook, instead of delivering a relevant response. As the interview kept going, one could see that Mark Zuckerberg wasn’t necessarily sabotaging the session to avoid any confrontation, 16
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
By: twitter.com/zMorris
but he was intensely nervous and pressed by the entire experience. Though he may have vision and a steady hand on what he plans to do with his company, it would seem that he is not exactly the optimum PR face for this company. Much of the problem between Facebook and its users seems to be communication. It only seems we get an announcement or public spokesman when something goes horribly wrong on account of a given feature. Zuckerberg did recall to the time when the Newsfeed feature came out and the issue of opt in versus opt out. He made the prediction that it will be strange that services aren’t built and personalized for each user. And the way to construct this personalization is through the very information that the user offers. I can sympathize with Mark Zuckerberg’s struggle to usher in new ideas. So many factors play against him though, as he deals with users’ personal data. The very thing that can and will fuel the information crowd surf titan must be gained through trust and communication. The world, I think, he sees is one of personalization, but is the world ready to attain it from one sole source like Facebook?
Learning Resource Center The Dr. J. Gilbert Leal
The Dr. J. Gilbert Leal Learning Resource Center provides resources needed to support the college’s technical and academic educational mission, to supplement classroom instruction, and to meet the broad reading and informational needs of a multi-cultural student body. Books, Journals DVDs,Videos Magazines, Newspapers Study Rooms Electronic Databases TV/VCR Room Electronic Book Catalog
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Review These
New LRC Releases!
A Nation Rising by Kenneth C. Davis
The dramatic period from 1800 through 1850 in the United States was a time in which the “dream of our founders” spread in ways that few men of that Revolutionary Generation could possibly have imagined. And it was an era that led to the great, tragic conflagration that followed—the American Civil War.
Essex County by Jeff Lemire
Award-winning cartoonist Jeff Lemire pays tribute to his roots in this award-winning trilogy of graphic novels set in an imaginary version of his hometown, the eccentric farming community of Essex County, Ontario, Canada. Lemire crafts an intimate study of one community through the years, and a tender meditation on family, memory, grief, secrets, and reconciliation.
Frankenstein: Lost Souls by Dean Koontz
Dean Koontz puts a singular twist on a classic tale of ambition and science gone wrong to forge a new legend uniquely suited to our times. It is a story of revenge, redemption, and the thin line that separates human from inhuman. Using stem cells, “organic” silicon circuitry, and nanotechnology, Victor Leben will engender a race of superhumans, the perfect melding of flesh and machine.
All you need at the LRC to borrow a book is a valid TSTC student ID. For more information, visit www.harlingen.tstc.edu/library.
Go there. facebook.com/TSTCgst S T U D E N T S U C C E SS OF FI CE | WW W. TSTCG ST. COM Mustang Magazine | July 2010
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GAMERVIEW
by Eddie Manriquez, EA
The New Xbox 360 Slim
It’s been five years since Sony launched the original Xbox 360. Then on June 15, 2010 it released a new and updated model.
Some 360’s appear to still have the RROD (Red Ring Of Death) issue caused by overheating the motherboard due to excessive long playing hours. This irritated a lot of people since the average gamer play time is from 8 to 9 hours which requires the Xbox 360 to stay fully functional during the entire game. Later in the year Microsoft engineers decided to try and fix the models by inserting different chipsets to lower the RROD issue. The plan succeeded but there was a 50/50 chance that most Xboxes had to survive the issue until their plan for dealing with the overheating worked. But have no fear! The new 360 is here! The rumors have been around since 2009 that a new Xbox 360 was going to make a debut hit this year at E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) but the 360 was predicted as a slim version of the older model. It was not until the Microsoft press conference on Monday June 14, 2010 when a glimpse of the new console was shown that an announcement was made stating that PRODUCT SPECS
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Xbox 360 250GB Hard Drive Built in 802.11n Wi-F Kinect ready Xbox 360 Wireless Controller Mustang Magazine | July 2010
the new console would be released on Tuesday June 15, 2010 for the price of $299.99! Although you may think the catch is its price, think again. This new Xbox 360 Slim, or as Sony likes to call it, “Stealth Box,” is quite a neat console to get going for gaming this summer! The Stealth Box caught a lot of attention with its black finish along with its amazing 250GB removable hard drive to save games, movies, and music making it the largest capacity Microsoft has today for the 360. Along with built in Wi-Fi 802.11n, the Steal Box also boasts an ability to connect faster to XBox LIVE without having to use that Ethernet cord ever again! And of course the famous project NATAL, now called “Kinect,” is built into the system along with HMDI port and five USB drives in case you need to stream music, movies, or profiles off the 360. That’s right folks: starting price is $299.99 for this amazing equipment Microsoft released this year after its downfall due to the red ring of death!
This summer don’t be bored! Get your Xbox 360 Slim today and get ready to pop in some Call of Duty, Halo, and Gears of War for some intense multiplayer! Stop by your local retailer store and get your console today!
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Xbox 360 Headset Xbox 360 Composite A/V cable Xbox LIVE One year limited warranty
Mustang Magazine | July 2010
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CineSol Film Festival announces the winner for their 3rd Annual CineSol Poster Contest! The winner is Elisama Navarro of Harlingen. She is a recent graduate of Harlingen High School South and plans on attending Texas State Technical College for her basics. Navarro won $250 and her poster will be the face of the 17th Annual CineSol Film Festival. Her winning design will be on posters, program books, t-shirts and more. The 17th Annual Film Festival’s opening weekend will be at TSTC September 10-12.