When the word comes to mind there's probably only one thing you think about -- its geometrical definition. Why someone would randomly think about polygons in the first place is another matter entirely; just roll with it. Besides, they're probably pretty awesome. Anyway, unless you're a nerd like me, it's highly unlikely you've heard about the newly launched video game website, "Polygon", which stemmed from tech site "The Verge". But that's OK! Although I love my gaming consoles, this is not about that. Instead, I'd like to focus on Polygon's overall design, which, according to senior product manager Justin Glow, went through a series of iterations.

Now Polygon doesn't look like your standard gaming websites, which are routinely filled to the brim with links and pictures and videos and more links. Instead, the first thing you'll notice, good or bad, is the large amount of white space. Ok I take that back. The first things you'll notice are the huge pictures in the masthead, but after that, you'll notice the white space. There are also more subtle idiosyncrasies like the integrated search bar, faded story text and minimalist discussion forum. This break away from the design structure many gaming websites utilize got me to thinking about USC's own online offering.

Damn son.

Maybe I'm comparing apples to oranges though. Polygon did just see its official public release on Wednesday, while USC has been around for a little over 200 years. But even so, shouldn't that be more reason to seek innovative design -- to show the breadth of skill and experience the university has to offer? Perhaps you're saying that a particular school has a crazy stylish website and that’s awesome, but everything stems from the university's main page. Wouldn't it be cool if it embodied a more ambitious design philosophy?

Some of you are probably asking yourselves, “Is this guy really comparing a video game website to an established educational institute's website?” Well, yes and no, and I can see your point to an extent.  There should be function over fashion right? I just find it hard to believe that an acclaimed university wouldn't be able to create a fully functioning website that, to be frank, looks better. We've got talented people roaming around these computer labs. Let them have at it!

http://www.polygon.com

Image Source: http://technicallyphilly.com/2012/04/13/chris-grant-new-video-game-site-polygon-to-be-led-by-fishtowns-former-joystiq-editor-video

Although I walked into Swype’s weekly meeting to simply observe for the purpose of writing this article, it wasn’t long before I found myself following step-by-step instructions on how to perform the Wobble.

Swype, a dance group created by third-year public health student Phu Nguyen, invites everyone, regardless of skill level, to come and enjoy themselves. A third-year political science student and Swype’s President of Business Development William O-Shields encourages a model in which people can come for any reason, from having fun with friends to training for participation in on-campus events.

Maps… How do they work?

 I wasn't going to mention iOS 6 because, well, it's iOS 6. But apparently the loss of Google Maps and the inaccuracies of Apple's own mapping system are a much bigger deal than I thought. So much so that Ireland Minister for Justice, Alan Shatter, has personally made arrangements to inform Apple of these errors. “The Verge” wrote an article overviewing the issue and also point out “iMore” editor Rene Ritchie's observation -- iOS 6 was made more for the company instead of the customers.

LMFAO Disband-

There may not be as many parties rocking in the near future as Redfoo and Sky Blue are moving on to work on different projects. Redfoo has been coaching junior tennis player Ayaka Okuno in Las Vegas and wants to create a tennis clothing line. He's also been writing a song specifically for the New England Patriots. For now, Sky Blue will embark on solo career where he will continue making LMFAO inspired tracks. Well shucks.

Cruel Summer-

In the new G.O.O.D music compilation album Kanye West says "Mitt Romney don't pay no tax." Well, actually, he does. Or did. Anyway, Romney paid  $1.95 million on his 2011 taxes and, according his advisors, did not receive full deductions for his $4 million contribution to charity. But for someone who thinks $200,000 - $250,000 is the middle American income, giving the government a cool $2 million is probably chump change.

For more insight: 

iPhone 5 launch shenanigans-http://venturebeat.com/2012/09/21/iphone-5-launch-day-marketing/#s:iphone-5-police 

DMX vs. Google-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOiiHfxHnTk

Alan Shatter to Apple-http://www.thejournal.ie/alan-shatter-apple-maps-airport-dundrum-602115-Sep2012/

The Verge-http://www.theverge.com/2012/9/20/3363914/wrong-turn-apple-ios-6-maps-phone-5-buggy-complaints

iOS 6-http://www.imore.com/yes-ios-6-more-about-apple-new-user-features-thats-okay

LMFAO & Redfoo-http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/music/redfoo-calls-time-out-on-lmfao/story-e6frfn09-1226478504612

Romney's Middle Income Math-http://finance.fortune.cnn.com/2012/09/14/romneys-middle-income-math/

Image Source: http://cultofmac.cultofmaccom.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/iOS6.jpg

If you’re new to USC, or unfamiliar with the off-campus living situation, you’ll soon learn that pickings can be slim if you haven’t reserved an apartment six months in advance. Don’t panic yet! Check out these interesting living quarters before you consider a cardboard box.

After their friends’ wave of appeals for them to start a band, Kelsey Lopezdevictoria, a fourth-year psychology major, and Randy Moore, a second-year social work student, met last spring and, after getting to know each other, gave it a shot. 

Check out our Q&A with WUSC DJ, Rixon Lane of "The Fast Lane," as he discusses his sports show here at USC.

DJ name: DJ LBD

Show name and time: The Countdown
Thursdays, 4-6 p.m.

Describe your show in one word or acronym.
B.A.M.F.

A recent addition to the local music scene, Can’t Kids played their first official show under the name this past August. The band’s vocalist and drummer Jessica Oliver describes their sound as “Appalachian cheerleader metal.” Adam Clayton Cullum, the band’s guitarist and accompanying vocalist continues on, “We wanted to be horror movie music.” Although a new band, its members are music vets, having been in numerous other groups including Thank God, Magnetic Flowers and Silent Spring Ensemble.

Carolina runs on the drive, innovation and creativity of its students. These four Gamecocks, through their chosen medium, express curiosity about the world and a passion to contribute to it. Consider the work of a filmmaker, a designer, a sculptor and an actor. You don’t have to leave campus, let alone Columbia, to enjoy world-class talent.

While “The Walking Dead” may rule basic cable, “Dexter” singlehandedly made Showtime a contender in the world of premium packages (and with good reason). The show’s first season was fresh, exciting and, quite often, darkly funny.  The premise of a serial killer who only murders killers wasn’t exactly new (the completely atrocious “Suspect Zero” did it in the worst way possible), however “Dexter” was unique in that the audience sympathized with and frankly, flat-out liked this violent psychopath.  Add in a talented supporting cast and some genuinely effective plot twists and you are left with the best new show of 2006.