Mustang Messenger Volume 4, Issue 7

volume four | issue seven | october 2009

• COLLEGE EVENTS • STUDENT FEATURES • ENTERTAINMENT •

View your grades through WebAdvisor*

On The Cover

To access your grades, you must log in successfully to WebAdvisor (WA).

1. Open Internet Explorer. Go to https://my.tstc.edu.

2. Click on the WebAdvisor tab.

3. Click the "Click here to enter WebAdvisor" link.

4. Click the blue "Login" button in the top right corner.

5. Log in to WA. 6. Click on the Grades tab.

Note: Your WebAdvisor ID (WAID) is printed at the bottom of your TSTC invoice. Your default password is the last six (6) digits of your student ID. If you don't know your WAID, select "What's my User ID?" If you are unable to log in with your WAID and default password, please call the TSTC Help Desk at 956.364.5000 to have your password reset.

7. To change the default password, log in to Self Service Password Utility (SSPU) to set up your hint and challenge questions. Go to http://sspu.tstc.edu.

8. Log in to the myTSTC Portal. Go to http://my.tstc.edu. The username and the password are the same as your WAID and password.

Wharrgarbl

by Lorenzo Garcia, DMDT

Review Class Schedules • Register For Classes • View Financial Profile • • Review Academic Profile • And more.

Get involved in

credits

* Grades will not be mailed.

Ever wonder where the content of the Mustang Messenger comes from?

It comes from YOU!

The Mustang Messenger accepts stories, reviews 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 956.364.4116.

Nov. issue deadline: Oct. 16 02

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

Keri Gutierrez Director of Marketing STAFF WRITER Dave Ralph Communications Writer DESIGNERS / WRITERS Laura Amaro Digital Media Design Technology Lorenzo Garcia Digital Media Design Technology CONTRIBUTING WRITERS credited CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS credited

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.

Across: 4. Facebook 5. MySpace 8. Social Networks 9. YouTube 12. Podcasts 14. LED 15. Wallpaper 18. iPod 19. Keyboard 20. Twitter Down: 1. Laptop 2. Monitor 3. RAM 5. Macintosh 6. Friend Request 7. Mouse 10. Browser 11. Cellphone 13. Hard drive 16. Windows 17. Binary

Student Publications!

EDITORS Melani Zuniga Coordinator of Publications

View the Mustang Messenger online at harlingen.tstc.edu/mustang

With your personal profile, you can also:

pg 06

pg 10

pg 08

pg 16

pg 17

YOUR SGA PRESIDENT 5 FROM - Veronica Sanchez

16 MOVIE REVIEWS

- District 9 - 500 Days of Summer

6 COLLEGE FEATURES - 2009 Graduation

pg 19

FEATURES 8 STUDENT - Student Leadership Banquet

18 NEW RELEASES AT LRC

- Renegade: The Making of a President - The Odds: A Mystery

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

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CAMPUS EVENTS Candlelight Vigil

OCTOBER 19-23

Student Leadership Conference

Hispanic Heritage Celebration

Community Resource Fair

Red Ribbon Week

Last Day to Apply for Graduation

Wellness Walk

Safety Tips on Campus and at Home*

Scholarship Workshop

Girls Day Out: Think Pink Party

Drug & Alcohol Intervention*

Mid-Term Grades Due D & F ONLY

National Make A Difference Day: SGA Service Project

Scholarship Workshop

Spring 2010 Registration Begins

Solutions to Conflict*

Oktoberfest

keep in touch.

Spring 2010 Scholarship Deadline

Halloween

*Critical Thinking Workshop

Registered students visit

mymail.tstc.edu and use your WebAdvisor login and password to get started.

powered by

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Mustang Messenger | October 2009

MUSTANG

Weekly Updates for

Students and Employees

Want to promote an event? Send submissions to dave.ralph@harlingen.tstc.edu by 5pm on Wednesdays.

presidents from your

I

Veronica Sanchez - Outgoing SGA President would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for the privilege and honor of representing the student body. Since this will be officially the last Mustang Letter I will be writing as your Student Government president, I would like to tell you it has been amazing to serve the students of TSTC and this experience has taught me so much!

I believe working alongside the officers of Student Government and the club members of TSTC's

H

organizations has given me a greater insight of what makes a strong successful leader and professional. I have had the time of my life while giving back to my college community and if there is one suggestion that I can pass on to you as a student is to get involved! Before I was involved on campus I felt like something was missing. Now I have gained a family and memories that I will never forget. Thank you!

After having presidents like Georgeann and Veronica, I know I have to step up my game. I’m excited and honored to represent all the

Veronica Sanchez

Now I would like to welcome you to TSTC and Fall 2009. As we begin this new semester I am filled with excitement to get the fun under way! SGA has jam packed the next few months with so many fun things that it’s sure to make your head spin!

Belinda Palomino - Incoming SGA President ey there, Mustangs!

The fall semester is in full swing and your newly elected officers and I are hard at work.

In other news, keep your eyes peeled for our “Student News: Mustang Information Update” news segment being aired on YouTube.com; it’s the best way to find out what’s going on here at TSTC. So check it out! It will be updated weekly with useful information about upcoming workshops and events.

students. With your involvement, SGA will work its hardest to make this year a memorable one.

September’s “Welcome Week” had a great turnout.

We had a large number of students participate in the week’s activities. This fall semester is crammed with fun events like Oktoberfest so I hope to see you there! SGA would also like to invite anyone looking to help out in their community to join us for our “National Make a Difference Day” service project. For info please call the SGA office.

If you have any questions or comments feel free to contact the SGA office at 956.364.4343. Check us out on MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter! Don’t be afraid to contact us with comments and/or suggestions; that is what we’re here for.

Belinda Palomino

WITH US

connect

ONLINE Visit TSTC SGA on the following networks!

myspace.com/tstcsga

facebook.com/tstcsga

youtube.com/tstcharlingen

twitter.com/tstcharlingen

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

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features college

Graduation 2009 S

tate District 43 Rep. Dr.Tara Rios Ybarra, D-South Padre Island, urged TSTC graduates to courageously pursue their dreams during her commencement address August 22.

attend classes with them and share ideas. My achievement represents a collaboration of students, which is very indicative of how people cooperate in the industry,” he said.

“Follow your plans,” she told the audience at Christian Fellowship Church.

“Do not just dream of your goals; go for it. Remember that learning comes in all shapes and sizes.”

Roberto Montemayor, a Building Construction Technology graduate with an AAS, commuted to Harlingen from Seguin to take classes. The 62-year-old Vietnam War veteran said that he plans to pursue another college diploma in business marketing. He added, “I always wanted a college degree and I finally got it.”

“

Former Student Government Association President Georgeann Calzada reminded her peers about studying late into the nights and early mornings that made graduation possible.

Commencement symbolizes how hard work pays off, she said before she received an Associate of Applied Science degree in Business Office Technology, and inspires future successes.

”

Michelle Galvez waited a year - due to Hurricane Dolly - to attend commencement as a Board of Regents graduate with an AAS from Chemical-Environmental Technology. She works as a lab technician monitoring emissions at an oil processing plant and she will begin chemical engineering classes August 24 to seek a bachelor’s degree. Her brother Joe is a TSTC graduate from the CET program and her sister Melanie will begin CET course work at TSTC on August 31.

Remember that learning comes in all shapes and sizes.

“Reaching commencement feels good,” said Alejandra Rubio, Surgical Technology valedictorian who will work at Rio Grande Regional Hospital, as she waited for the ceremony to begin. “There will be no more daily or weekly reports for every case that we did during clinicals.”

Board of Regents Graduate Reza Ghavami earned an AAS in Computer Science Software Development with a specialty in Game & Simulation Programming. He graduated with a 4.0 grade point average and thanked his fellow graduates and other students for their assistance. “It was an honor to

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Mustang Messenger | October 2009

“Working with Mr. Flores and Mr. Hernandez helped me prepare for what I should expect in a career, but TSTC did something more significant. It changed my life,” Michelle said. “I became a leader in the CET Club and student government. The multi-tasking helped me become a more organized person. There’s no way to describe it all because everything that has happened to me has been good.”

Far left: After commencement, College President Dr. Cesar Maldonado, Board of Regent Nora Castaneda, Board of Regent Graduates Mailinh A. Haslem and Reza Ghavami, and Dr. Parviz Ghavami celebrated on the stage.

Bottom: Dr. Tara Rios Ybarra, state Rep. District 43, of South Padre Island delivered two commencement addresses for TSTC on August 22, 2009.

Far left: Brother Joe, left, and sister Melanie, right, joined Board of Regent Graduate Michelle Galvez, center, at commencement. Joe and Michelle are both graduates of the Chemical-Environmental Technology Program; Melanie is also enrolled as a student in CET. Left: Dental Assistant Chairman Dr. Bob Bennett congratulated Board of Regents Graduate Darla M. Taubert at commencement.

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

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features student

SGA Banquet

Student club organizations received recognition for participation in campus events and community service projects at the third annual banquet sponsored by the Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life. Hundreds of TSTC students gain extracurricular technical experiences, leadership opportunities and teamwork skills through involvement each year.

For example, many groups will volunteer to assist with the nationwide Make A Difference Day on October 24. To register as a volunteer, stop at the Office of Student Life in the Student Center or phone 956.364.4304 for details.

From left to right: Director of Student Life Adele Clinton with Georgeann Calzada, SGA President Veronica Sanchez, Vice President Shannon Williams, Secretary Sandie Vela, Treasurer Hilda Prieto, Parliamentarian Eli Torres, Historian Shannon Padilla, and Joshua Hernandez.

The Student Life Committee, SGA officers and volunteers transformed the Cultural Arts Center meeting room into a glitzy Paris-themed dining room.

Candle votives suspended from the ceiling set the mood. along with piano music provided by Xavier Gonzales.

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Mustang Messenger | October 2009

The

SADHA I Club won the Service Project of

the Year Award for their A Reason To Smile community

service project. Their club president

Nichole Kozniuk

TSTC Rising Star Award and a Most Active Club Member certificate.

won the

Ricardo Serna of the Autobody Collision SkillsUSA Club won the Advisor of the Year Award and their club secretary Sarah Zamarripas won the Student of the Year Award.

The

Student Club of the Year Award was presented to

the the

Dental Explorers Club.

Most Active Club Member certificates were

awarded to one student from each student club.

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

09

Culinary Arts Students Bake-Off Left: Finalists of the baking class summer semester final exam were front row Cuca Torres, second, and Marco Brardi, third. In the back, from left, are Nellie Garcia, fourth; Frank Rangel, fifth; Dario Lucio, honorable mention, and Alfredo Torres, honorable mention.

Right and far right: Judges Elvia Berry and Valley Morning Star Editor Paul Binz scored 23 entries based upon originality, degree of difficulty, presentation and taste. Henry Homer of the Calesa Restaurant in Harlingen also served as a judge.

Far left: A chocolate creation entitled "The Leaves of Autumn" earned first place.

Left: Jeremy Battles of Brownsville claimed first place in the bake-off with a chocolate work of art. He invested a month of planning and working with ingredients to create the masterpiece.

Humanities and Arts Society

El Dia de los Muertos Celebration Altar Exhibit

Reception

See how the living celebrate the cycle of life and death by their offerings to the dearly departed.

Enjoy free refreshments along with a papel picado demonstration and special guest speakers.

Learning Resource Center October 26 - November 2

Learning Resource Center November 2 • 12PM - 1PM

For more information, contact J.J. Platas at cb24X7@aol.com or call 364.4744.

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Mustang Messenger | October 2009

Education and Training Students Conduct Research S

by Irma Larios, ET Instructor

tudents in the Child Growth and Development class at TSTC Harlingen are observing children to measure various aspects of the learning process. The search for subjects was in itself a major task; public schools are out during the summer months. To find children for their projects some students rounded up their own children and relatives, while others traveled to the Boys and Girls Club in San Benito. Students were determined to learn about how children develop cognitively using memory, visual perception and how they learn from effects of peer observation.

Some of the students involved in the studies were Brittany Luna, Delia Villegas, Lea Rodriguez, and Cynthia Romo.

Delia called out each series. The results of this activity showed the maturity of each learner and their capabilities according to their age.

to Lea, after she commented on the picture of a cat by saying “Oh, I like animals.” Two other children quickly started drawing cats.

Lea Rodriguez visited the Boys and Girls Club of San Benito for her study of watching children learn through observing other children being rewarded for some behavior. An art activity was used in the study. The three groups of four children ranging from 5 to 7 years old were asked to draw a picture of what they saw outside. The first group of five year olds consisted of three boys and one girl. During the drawing session, Lea commented on a flower being drawn by one of the children. “Immediately, the other children looked over to see what they looked like. Soon after they were all drawing flowers.”

Lea concluded in her report, “I enjoyed this project because it taught me not only about what children respond to, but also that children want to be listened to and valued for what they can accomplish.”

“

Brittany Luna took on the task of finding out how skillful children perform at some visual discrimination tasks. A four- year-old girl, and two boys, who are five and six years old, respectively, were given the same four tasks in discriminating shapes, objects and color. First, they were all questioned about the meaning of the word “same.” All answered correctly and were able to distinguish shapes but when the element of color was added to the task the older child was successful along with the girl, while the 5-year-old boy showed some confusion.

”

...children want to be listened to and valued for what they can accomplish...

Delia Villegas tested for auditory memory. The five tasks involved listening to a sequence of numbers and repeating them in the same order. Her subjects were 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 year olds. The five tasks were increasingly difficult and she found that some children were clearly frustrated when the task required more effort to accomplish. Also noticeable was the method which each child used to remember the numbers. Some would repeat quietly, while others looked intensely at the caller.The threeyear-old would just call out numbers at random after

Another student, Cynthia Romo. also conducted the observation on auditory memory. The seven year old from her group was successful in remembering all the five series of numbers given. The outcomes varied with the younger children of 3-6. Some would do well with the first two series and only recall the last two digits of the remaining series. Cynthia recalled the three-year-old. “When I started the warm up and I would tell him to repeat the numbers that I said, for example, I said ‘one’ and he would shout out ‘three’ or another number I asked him to repeat. And from the beginning to the end of the activity all he did was shout out random numbers; none of them were the ones I asked him to say.”

In another group of six-year-olds, Lea noticed that one child took the lead and the others followed in drawing similar elements in their drawings. Lea states in her report, “Not only was I learning about what they would respond to, but in the short amount of time that it took them to draw their pictures I was learning about each of their personalities.”This group “….had hearts hanging in mid-air and houses that had a roof of many colors ….” Most of the children in the groups would finish their task at the same time after one child announced that he was finished.

The last group decided to draw animals even though there weren’t any in sight. This occurred, according

The short observation studies, though inconclusive, gave the students firsthand experience at viewing children’s learning behavior in their development.

Each student conducted their research using selfdeveloped instruments to gather their data. Though some of the projects did not require materials, others used drawn shapes, colored cubes and art materials. Using this approach to learning about child development was quite a learning experience for both observer and those being observed. Students showed excitement and enthusiasm when reporting their findings about their own nieces and nephews while others made friends at the recreational center in San Benito.

Also In The News..

The Teacher Assistant Club helped raise funds for Teach The Children, an annual event to gather and distribute school supplies to children. Club officers recently met with Newschannel 5 to present their donation.

From left to right: Delia Zarate, Melissa Vega and a Newschannel 5 representative.

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

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Struggling as a new student?

Don’t be left out!

W

by Joshua Hernandez, Pre-Tech Advisor

ith new technologies coming out, new degree paths are being carved and change is coming – especially here at TSTC. Our campus is going through a new transition that will provide you with so much opportunity, it’s almost daunting. The new Academic Achievement Center (AAC) and General Studies in Technology Program (GST) located in the Biomedical/Dental Lab Building “D,” was created to assist you with your college experience and guide you through your journey!

Our center offers help for: Transferring EA Students (Associate to Bachelor Degree) Allied Health Students (Pre-Dental Hygiene and Pre-Surgical Technology) GED Recipients who desire to enter a technical field of study Transferring EA Students The GST Transfer program is designed to ensure quality transfers for students who have received their associate degree from TSTC Harlingen and are interested in pursuing a bachelor degree. Our

advisors work closely with degree advisors from various universities throughout the Rio Grande Valley, as well as Texas, to advise you on qualifying transfer courses offered at TSTC Harlingen. Set aside your course transfer worries, and concentrate on class. Let our advising team help you plan your future!

career exploration and mentoring! As an added bonus, we will also help you fill out your financial aid application and apply for scholarships!

Allied Health Students The Pre-Tech program caters to students interested in the Dental Hygiene and Surgical Technology career fields. This program introduces them to realworld experiences in their respective career field by attending observations and tours of work environments in the local area.

That is why the Academic Achievement Center and advisors offer extra services to accompany their experience and knowledge. You will find that those little “extras” will help you get to your goal(s) one semester at a time. All you will have to do is ‘follow the yellow brick road’ (that we will show you, of course) while chanting:

GED Recipients Our GED program is designed to assist GED recipients with attending TSTC Harlingen. Our advisors know how different, and at timeschallenging, it is to attend college for the first time.

That’s why we are dedicated to assisting first-time students in every way we can. We will guide you with advice and resources ranging from tutoring to

“Advisement, Computers and Workshops…

Oh my!”

Stop by and join the atmosphere. Each one of our advisors have been/or are currently in your shoes.

Whether you are a GED recipient looking to further your education or a TSTC Associate graduate wanting to transfer for a Bachelor degree the Academic Achievement Center is for you.

Visit us in person at the Biomedical/Dental Lab Building “D” room 138, or visit us virtually by navigating to: www.h arlin gen.tstc.edu/oss/Academic_Ac hievement_Center.aspx

Did you

Answer: A lot more.

Robert Foshie Pre-Tech A dviso r 956.364.4181

J o s h u a He r n a n d e z Pre-Tech A dviso r 956.364.4142

SUPPORT SERVICES OFFICE

know?

Support Services recently created a Web page with helpful links for students in non-traditional fields. Students can find links to Web sites where they can network with their peers and learn more about gender equity. Check it out today! htt p:// harling en .tstc.edu/supp ortserv ices/ Links.aspx

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Georgean n Calzada Pre-Tech A dviso r 956.364.4180

What more could you want?

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

For Your Information:

The American Foundation for the Blind celebrates the 200th anniversary of Louis Braille's birthday this year. We also celebrate the Braille code, named after its young inventor, and the expanded possibilities for literacy, independence, and self-expression Louis Braille opened up to blind people everywhere.

For more information please visit

htt p:// www.afb. org/ Section.a sp ?Sect ionID=86

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

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The Ro ad That Le ads to King Je sus A Spiritual Adaptation of The Wizard of Oz

by Duke Escamilla, DMDT Continued...

Lion: What did you do that for? I didn’t bite him.

Dorothy: No, but you tried to. It’s bad enough picking on a straw man, but when you go around picking on poor little dog.

Lion: Well, you didn’t have to go and hit me, did you? Is my nose bleedin’?

Dorothy: Well, of course not. My goodness, what a fuss you’re making! Why, you’re nothing but a great big coward!

Lion: You’re right, I am a coward! I haven’t any courage at all. I even scare myself. Look at the circles under my eyes. I haven’t slept in weeks.

Tin Man: Why don’t you try counting sheep?

Lion: That doesn’t do any good – I’m afraid of ‘em.

Scarecrow: Oh, that’s too bad. Don’t you think King Jesus could help him, too?

Lion: King Jesus? I heard he’s a heck-of-a-guy. Maybe he’ll be able to help me.

Dorothy: I don’t see why not. Why don’t you come along with us? We’re on our way to see King Jesus now. To get him a heart.

Tin Man: And him a brain.

Dorothy: I’m sure he could give you some courage.

Lion: Well, wouldn’t you feel degraded to be seen in the company of a cowardly lion? I would.

Dorothy: No, of course not!

Lion: Gee, that – that’s awfully nice of you. My life has been simply unbearable.

Dorothy: Oh, well, it’s all right now. King Jesus can fix anything.

The gang lock arms together and sing: “We’re off to see King Jesus.”

Lights down.

SCENE 5: Characters harassed by Devil. Change scenery. Dorothy, Lion, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Devil in place. Angel must be ready to join the scene. Lights up. After the song, they continue to walk and are suddenly stopped by the Devil. He begins taunting them and putting them down.

Devil: You’re never going to see King Jesus. He doesn’t care about you He’s too busy for an idiot like you, Scarecrow.

(Scarecrow looks down at ground, saddened.)

And you, Dorothy; he’ll never forgive you for turning away. (Dorothy is saddened.)

What about you, Tin Man? You hate everyone and everything; I doubt King Jesus will love you. (Tin Man drops his axe, helpless.)

And you, Lion. (Lion hides behind Tin Man.) You’re so afraid, I bet you won’t be able to ask King Jesus to help you and you’ll never be saved.

Lion: (comes forward and falls on his knees): We’re doomed! There is no hope for us!

Devil: Ha! Ha! I told you so!

(Suddenly an angel of the Lord appears.)

Angel: Stop! It is not true!

(The Devil appears scared and begins to tremble. The angel continues.)

Angel: There is no truth to what he speaks, for when he lies he speaks his native language for he is a liar and the father of lies.

Now away with you, Devil! I am watching over them and you have no reason to trouble them.

Devil (looking at Dorothy): I’ll get you my pretty! And your little dog, too!

(With that, the Devil turns around, defeated. The angel turns to them.)

Angel: Do not fear him. You have come this far and God has been with you through it all. I will lead you the rest of the way.

Lights down.

To be continued...

Stay tuned for the last scene of The Road that Leads to King Jesus in the November edition of the Mustang Messenger!

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Mustang Messenger | October 2009

Student Writing S H O W C A S E

Unanswered

Breathless Impressions

A Reliquary of Thoughts

Melissa Sustaita, EA

Benjamin Robertson, EA

Scarlet O'Rourke, EA

I went to see you, but you weren't there.

If I could capture Every little thought Musing Voice in my head Oh what a memoir that'd be The world would be wiser For the reading Or quite possibly They'd become more confused I have so much to share At times I feel as if I'd explode If I couldn't tell a soul So ramblings fill my page On and on I go As one thought takes form Six more fill my mind They come and go I can never capture them all But if I could Oh what a memoir that'd be

Why do I feel this way?

I feel like no one’s around but you and me.

When I see you I just melt like an ice cube on a hot summer’s day.

I have tried not to show my feelings but I just can’t help myself.

I wrote you a letter telling you how I feel but I guess you just don’t feel the same way.

I would like to know how you feel so I can move on with my life and not care about you like I do.

I tried to leave you, and couldn't bear.

I can't keep doing this, but I can't stop...

Like looking for the missing piece when it's not there I couldn't resist and you'd never share.

I know you’re far away, but I don't care.

I'll travel the distance, even if it’s anywhere.

I can't keep doing this, but I can't stop...

I've forgot the touch of my lover; that dream has faded long ago.

Going back to sleep into the deep below.

I'm losing contact with reality, everything is fake.

I'm not sure anymore if I'll ever wake.

I can't keep doing this, but I can't stop...

Everything is passing, time has far gone.

I think I'll stay here and wait for dawn.

Except it's now too late...

And I'll never find my soulmate.

Savior Benji Huerta, CSMT A thunderstorm rages above, the smell of sulphur all around as the lightning flashes across the eyes of the lost. The anguish in those eyes is more than enough to fill a couple of lifetimes, carried by a false sense of hope that everything will be OK. She sits in the middle of a destroyed foundation she once called home with her head bowed to the elemental forces that break her down and play images of despair, blocking any chance of thoughts to save her. She lets the rain fall upon her from the open rooftops like the tears that stream from open windows down her cheeks. Clothes, ripped and torn from the wind that smashes grit against her frail body, raw skin painful to the touch, reddened by the anger that fuels her sadness.

A cry splits the night, a cry to the seven circles of hell and beyond for this unending torture to stop once and for all, to give her the peace of mind that she so desperately needs to keep living. The sky begins to turn reddish as the sadness ends its turn and madness replaces all rationality. Rage consumes her like a wildfire burning through dead grass, killed off by its fiery destruction and she reaches out with that rage, infecting the land around with fury and turmoil.

Flames imprint their stories as they spread out across the horizon leaving nothing but smoldering ruin. Her will blazes with the ferocity of a million supernovae reaching to unimaginable levels of energy with just one intellect to direct its course. In her screams she does not hear the gentle footsteps behind her, the only one that survived the wrath. A hand reaches out inch by inch, seared by cruel feelings, touching her shoulder and a bright light shines from the connection, engulfing all and extends everywhere healing what it shines on.

A brilliant flash later and she stands in the middle of a destroyed foundation she once called home, and is calm, happy even. She turns around to see who saved her from an awful ending and finds a body on the ground, burnt beyond recognition. Walking over to the corpse, she places a hand on the charred flesh and suddenly she finds herself staring at the most beautiful angel she has ever seen, making her eyes water from the sheer magnificence of him. A voice calls out, “All is now well.” And she watches as the angel turns his face toward the sky and with the rising sun, dissipates into the air.

A ball of light is all that remains and floats into her outstretched hand to fizzle out and leave something for her to remember. Her hand closes around a small piece of rice and a small white bean to remind her of what she cannot forget, the past that must be reborn, the past that will rekindle the passions of a gifted writer saved by memories.

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

15

entertainment for your

District 9

D

Rated PG 1 hr 22 min Fantasy / Sci-Fi

istrict 9 gives a different take on the “aliens have landed” premise. A hovering spacecraft is motionless over a South African city, instead of the more popular major American city that so many films default to. The humans choose to make contact first and make their way into the hulls of the ship to find a scared and malnourished race of alien life forms. Over the next two decades the aliens are established in segregated housing, in the likeness of a landfill, and have grown to be known as troublemakers.

The time has come for the Government to take the next step.

The small community of prawns, a slang name given to the aliens, have become an eye sore to most citizens and the city’s officials. A fragile character named Wikus from MNU, the organization in charge of alien affairs, has been given the

lead on the project to relocate the aliens. Wikus, in his routine evictions, accidentally stumbles upon something that will redraw the line between human and alien.

The film has a lot of undertones as well. Without being too preachy, the film dwelled into topics such as “The War in Iraq,” racism, segregation and bigotry. A gritty feel covers the film and more heavily in the alien concentration camps. The effects are limited but very well earned as the film progresses.

District 9 was a highly technical fulfilling film. Most movies that involve aliens and spaceships can’t wait to stun the audience and have them drool on the edge of their seat, not District 9. This film created the actual substance and reason behind every effect. Not only that, but once the time did come for an alien weapon or a robot suit it did not take the unfortunate Michael Bay turn for the worse.

500 Days of Summer

T

his is a film about every aspect of love. This includes the good times and the bad, the beginnings and the not so subtle endings.

It is a crushing tale of postmodern love and how the idea of love differs from person to person and the reality of when a, sadly, one-sided relationship comes to a halt.

The story is carried as a fable with an ominous narration telling the tale and visual jumps through these 500 adventurous days.

On one hand we have Tom Hanson who believes in love, but not that it happens everyday, and on the other we have Summer Finn, who believes in seizing the moment and wishes not to belong to anyone, especially with an undefined bond like love. Whether by fate or coincidence the two meet; Rated R 1 hr 40 min Dark Comedy

by Lorenzo Garcia, DMDT

by Lorenzo Garcia, DMDT

Tom sees something that he has long waited for, while Summer sees an opportunity for friendship and fun.

The film follows this pattern of a two-sided story with plenty of mixed signals in between. A broad stroke of indie romance paints the face of this film with feelings that will carry you to great heights and deep caverns.Through its ups and downs the film still keeps its validity intact. You can see how minute details and small quirks come from real life scenarios whether directly from the writers or a familiar party.

The film is well pieced, but to a higher point, the film has a human impact. 500 Days of Summer is so much more than a romantic comedy; it speaks many true tales about a number of people who can relate either from their presents or from their pasts.

Upcoming Film Features

October 9 Couples Retreat

October 16 Law Abiding Citizen The Stepfather Where the Wild Things Are

October 23 Astro Boy Cirque Du Freak: the Vampire's Assistant Amelia

October 28 Michael Jackson’s This Is It

November Releases

November 6 A Christmas Carol The Box The Fourth Kind Men Who Stare at Goats November 13 2012 Pirate Radio Women in Trouble

November 20 The Blind Side Planet 51 The Twilight Saga: New Moon November 25 Nine Ninja Assassin Old Dogs The Road

www.film-releases.com

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Mustang Messenger | October 2009

C rossword Pu zzle Tech Terms

Check out what the Photojournalism and Design Club is currently listening to!

The following are clues and definitions of current technology and Internet terminology.

Lifehouse “First Time” Who We Are

Alternative / Pop / Rock www.myspace.com/lifehouse

Sarah Brightman “Deliver Me” Eden

Classical Crossover / Pop www.myspace.com/sarahbrightman

ANSWERS ON PAGE 02

Fall Out Boy “I Don’t Care” Folie à Deux

Across 4. Write on your friend’s wall here 5. Social network where Tom is your first friend 8. Online community of people 9. Popular video sharing Web site 12. Online radio episodes 14. Light emitting diode 15. Monitor background 18. Apple music player 19. Learn your home row on this qwerty device 20. Micro-blogging

Down 1. Mobile computer 2. Computer image display 3. Computer memory 5. The Steve Jobs’ operating system 6. Can I be your friend?

7. Computer pointing device 10. Gateway to the Information Superhighway 11. Mobile communicator 13. Type of file storage 16. The Bill Gates’ operating system 17. Computing language

What do YOU want to see in

?

Send your ideas to phdclub@gmail.com

Rock / Pop / Punk www.myspace.com/falloutboy

Andrew Bird “Anonanimal” Noble Beast

Indie / Folk / Rock www.andrewbird.net Oceansize “Music for a Nurse” Everyone Into Position

Rock / Experimental www.myspace.com/oceansizeuk

E.S. Posthumus “Antissa” Unearthed

Orchestral / Electronic www.esposthumus.com Los Campesinos!

“You! Me! Dancing!”

Sticking Fingers Into Sockets Indie / Pop / Rock www.loscampesinos.com Your Heart Breaks “New Ocean Waves” New Ocean Waves

Indie / Pop / Rock www.myspace.com/yourheartbreaks

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

17

New Releases at the LRC

WHAT IS THE LRC?

The TSTC Dr. J. Gilbert Leal Learning Resource Center (LRC) provides a variety of services aimed to help students and faculty meet educational goals. The LRC houses the library, Media & Publications Center and board conference room.

Whether for work or leisure, there are • computers • 4 printers • a scanner • 10,000+ journals • 58,000+ electronic books • DVDs • 10 study rooms • orientation room • display cases

Gertruda’s Oath

by Ram Oren

To see what software is offered at the LRC, please visit its Web site at www.harlingen.tstc.edu/library.

Display cases are available to showcase TSTC activities, services, programs and to commemorate special observances. To reserve a display case, call 364.4609.

The Learning Resource Center staff encourages cultural and information literacy by organizing events such as database orientations, puppet shows, art exhibits, poetry readings, workshops and seminars.

Fitness

Flag Football Softball Soccer Kickball

Cardio Room Weight Room Walking Trail Aerobic Classes Muscle Toning Classes

WELLNESS WALK

“Commit to be Fit” and walk around the track at the TSTC Athletic Field. october 13 november 17

18

5:15PM 12PM

Mustang Messenger | October 2009

The Homicide Department is upside down and a young boy dies of a suspicious overdose. Meanwhile, four young kids have been abandoned and are living on their own.

Connecting these people and their stories is Nick Banks, just out of prison and working off a debt.

sportsschedule fall2009

S PORT/EVENT

DIVISION

SPECIFICATIONS

DEADLINE

MEETING

tennis tourney

open

singles

10/15/09

10/19/09 7PM

billiards

Outdoor Sports

This book is the previously untold story of how a political newcomer with no money and an alien name grew into the world’s most powerful leader and a unique portrait of the person behind the Secret Service code name Renegade.

intramural basketball

Basketball Volleyball Soccer Dodgeball Raquetball Kickball

by Richard Wolffe

The Odds: A Mystery

by Kathleen George

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.

TSTC Wellness & Sports Center

Indoor Sports

The Making of A President

Trapped in the horrors of World War II, a woman and a child embark on a journey of survival. Written with the invaluable assistance of Michael, now seventytwo, Gertruda’s Oath recreates Michael and Gertruda’s amazing journey.

To reserve the Orientation Room, please call the circulation desk at 364.4609.

Intramural Sports

Renegade:

open

free throw contest

open open

5 on 5

tourney n /a

10/15/09 11/6/09 12/2/09

10/19/09 6PM n /a

Registration 5-7PM

Captains’ meetings will be held in the gym.

A team captain/representative must attend the captains’ meeting.

Contact the Wellness & Sports Center staff at 364.4340 or 364.4341 for more details.

WELLNESS & SPORTS CENTER HOURS monday - thursday 8AM - 9PM friday - saturday 10AM - 2 PM

aerobics

monday - friday: 12 noon wednesdays: 5:15PM

valley bowl november 7, 2009 UT Brownsville

E Mustang Messenger | October 2009

19

Student Art Gallery ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

Rust-Stained World

BY TSTC

STUDENTS

Wordy 1

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

DIGITAL ART

2

3

4

Rorschach SPRAY PAINT STENCIL ON CARDBOARD

1

Scarlet O’Rourke, EA

2

Sebrina Schultz, DMDT

Oberon DIGITAL ART

3

Jose Luis Iracheta, DMDT

4

Samantha Bigelow, EA