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LGBTQ+ club creates community By MICAH SMITH Ranger Reporter
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender college students are twice as likely to drop out as heterosexual cisgender students, according to the Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Association of New York City. This deterrent from academic success is often attributed to the high levels of harassment faced by the LGBT community. Two-thirds of LGBT students have reported being emotionally, verbally or physically harassed in school. Despite the often discouraging statistics about LGBT students in college, a new club on campus seeks to provide guidance and acceptance. AC’s LGBTQ Student Association was founded this September by theater major Alastair Ramirez, who also helped established Tascosa High School’s LGBT Alliance. The club is sponsored by fine arts adviser, Ruth De Anda. “Alastair and I have been working on this for about a year,” De Anda said.
The club had its first meeting at noon, Sept. 28 in the Oak Room on the second floor of the Badger Den. The LGBTQSA members plan to meet the third Wednesday of every month. “I think that Amarillo College having LGBTQSA shows that we are diverse and understanding. It also lets students know this is an accepting campus and a safe place. You can be yourself here,” Ramirez said. This is the first club of its kind at AC. A statistic from the Human Rights Campaign states that 64 percent of LGBT students are “out” to their classmates. With on-campus organizations such as LGBTQSA, students that face sexuality and gender issues can find a network of safety and comfort to be themselves. “People don’t take me seriously, because I’m not straight,” said Taylor Hanson, an education major. “They don’t understand the struggles I go through on a daily basis. LGBTQSA is like having a support group on campus. Having a straight counselor isn’t
the same as having a group of people that can relate to what you’re actually going through.” While society is moving in a more progressive direction when it comes to LGBT rights and acceptance, there are still numerous issues for LGBT students, said Ramirez. “LGBT still face problems today. Sexual assault, discrimination and a lack of gender neutral bathrooms to name a few.” He added that having basic citizen rights and gender neutral bathrooms doesn’t automatically make life easier. The LGBTQSA serves as an accepting community and a means of education about the LGBT community, Ramirez said. “My goal with this club is to help provide the comfort I got from coming out to others and to let people know that there are other people like them. I want to build a safe place and also build a sense of community,” said Ramirez. “I’d like to inspire other people to fight for this community. There is still so much to do.”
llustration by DESTINY KRANTHOVEN
Campus police take strong measures to prevent sexual assault By JENNA GIBSON Ranger Reporter
Beginning Oct. 15, the police department is implementing 10 hour overlapping shifts to increase campus safety and be more aggressive in patrolling on all AC campuses. One of the largest dangers a student can face is sexual assault. According to the National Sexual Violence
and Resource Center, “One in five women and one in 16 men are sexually assaulted while in college.” Over the last year, the Amarillo College Police Department has implemented various programs to ensure campus safety. One of the department’s key focus areas has been preventing sexual assault. Scott Acker, AC po-
lice corporal said the department has established a safety and education function. “One of these key elements in our department has been a concentrated effort to establish a more productive relationship with the college community to develop trust and mutual respect,” Acker said. The department has developed 31 awareness
and prevention programs including; sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. “We have developed a better working relationship with outside agencies and advocacy centers to help the victims in these types of situations,” Acker said. “Sexual assault could be a problem anywhere and can occur without being reported. It is a major
concern with our department and we have not had any reported problems with sexual assault on campus,” Acker said. According to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), “Only 20 percent of female student victims, age 18-24, report to law enforcement and only 32 percent of nonstudent females the same age do make a report.”
Because reporting can be an issue, the police department has an alternative to reporting sexual assaults where the victim can remain anonymous and report to a campus security officer without having to make an official police complaint. “Those reports are forwarded to the police department in case the victim wants to file charges at a later date.”
Sex talk empowers listeners to take charge straight into the real issues. She talked about Ranger Reporter the five circles of sensuThe importance of ality, the three stages of consent was the focus of falling in love and what it a talk given by sexolo- means to be in a healthy gist, Dr. Justine Marie relationship before she Shuey, on Tuesday. By said that consent is not teaching students that sexy-it’s mandatory. “It taught me things an “affirmative, enthuthat I didn’t know and siastic ‘yes!’ means yes,” Shuey flipped the script how to respect myself on the usual message of more and what to do in relationships from now ‘no means no.’ The presentation was on,” said Bianca Johnson, aimed at eliminating LVN major. While talking about misinformation and how to have a healthy enhancing awareness. MARISSA KING | The Ranger Shuey With no holds barred, relationship, Dr. Justine Shuey explains the importance of sexual Shuey forewent the included the signs and consent and the secrets of healthy relationships. awkwardness and dove symptoms of relationBy LIZ MOORE
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ship violence, which is not just limited to physical violence, it also ties into verbal and emotional abuse. “It showed me some interesting abuse signs that I didn’t know were abuse signs because they’re more low-key,” said Melissa Boyd, an LVN major. Shuey got started on this track as an undergraduate student. “When I discovered sexology was a thing as an undergrad I knew this was what I wanted to do,” she said. “So I finished my bachelors and went
to graduate school to get a masters in human sexuality education, then a doctorate in human sexuality.” “I liked that she was close to our age and she tried to relate to us,” said Boyd. Shuey’s presentation also touched on the topic of relationships, She talked about how to compromise and be supportive. “It really helped me figure out an answer to some questions I might have in the future,” said Barbra Walker, mass media major.
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2 Opinion The Ranger
October 13, 2016
We have the power to give consent EDITORIAL
What are your concerns about sexual assault among AC students?
Rodolfo Guillen machining major
“One should be able to feel safe in school and shouldn’t go around worrying that something might happen to them because one doesn’t understand the word no.” “As a female we get attacked more often than men. We basically get seen as sexual objects and I think we shouldn’t be afraid of the people among us.”
Joelysbeth Valle sonography major
“It’s a nation wide problem that we face and it shouldn’t have to be. The force is unnecessary and people should just understand that no means no.” Patrick Soto music major
Recently the states of New York and California passed a law known as the affirmative consent law. According to the survivor advocacy group End Rape on Campus (EROC), the legislation puts a new requirement for affirmative consent in place. “The law established that consent is a voluntary, affirmative, conscious, agreement to engage in sexual activity, that it can be revoked at any time, that a previous relationship does not constitute consent and that coercion or threat of force can also not be used to establish consent. Affirmative consent can be given either verbally or nonverbally. Additionally, the law clarified that a person who is incapacitated by drugs or alcohol, or is either not awake or fully awake, is also incapable of giving consent.” This law is a dramatic step forward in the battle
against sexual assault. Consent should never be something that is questionable or something surrounded by blurred lines. Consent should be straightforward; yet, countless rapists and sexual abusers walk freely, claiming a clear “no” was not in place. We, as students and as simply human beings, must stand up, a united force to fight for what is just. We must rise to the occasion, and promote a clear understanding of the concept of consent. We must make those who abuse others accountable for their appalling and inexcusable actions. Consent should not have to be so strictly defined in order to be clear, but the affirmative consent campaign will undoubtedly change the at times bizarrely loose view of consent. EROC’s Take Action campaign illustrates how every single person is capable of taking a stand against sexual harassment
in all forms by “believing and supporting survivors, avoiding victim blaming, being intentional with your language, knowing your rights, and practicing affirmative consent.” It is incorrect to think that you are just one person, who is incapable of cultivating great change.
We, The Ranger staff, ask that you stand together and promote the affirmative consent campaign. We urge you to spread awareness. We plead that you support those around you and educate others. It is within our power to put a stop to sexual assault.
Advertising campaign destroys stereotypes Since when is being a girl a bad thing? Women are frequently the victims of stereotypes, particularly in the mass media, but a recent advertisement is challenging that perception. This commercial produced by feminine care product manufacturer Always, shows an audition during which men and woman are asked to demonstrate what it means to run or hit or fight “like a girl.” All of the older people auditioning act out negative stereotypes of female behavior. They are weak, clumsy, silly and ineffec-
tive. But when younger girls are asked to run or hit or fight “like a girl,” they are strong and powerful and 100 percent themselves. When a 10-year-old girl is asked to “run like a girl,” she takes off running as fast as she can. The commercial shows how girls lose their confidence once they start growing up and begin conforming to the expectations of the media and society. As children we watch shows that make doing things “like a girl” seem like a huge insult. People don’t think women can do all the
By Pamela Cerros Ranger Reporter
things that men can do. If anything, women can do the same, if not more, than men. The ad goes on to point out that fighting or running or hitting “like a girl” can be powerful and effective. The commercial shows that women are actually strong and
capable and they need to recognize their own strength. Later in the commercial, the older girls offer advice to the younger girls. They say not to let anyone make you feel less of yourself because you’re a girl. Instead they advise the girls to continue being themselves because it is working. I love how this advertisement makes me feel proud to be a girl. I love how the younger girls in the ad are unafraid to be themselves. Their innocence and purity are great. I remember when I was younger, I felt like
the strongest little girl. I felt invincible. But it’s true as we get older, the way society sees women makes us question how we should even view ourselves in the reflection of the mirror. This commercial encourages me to help other girls see the power that lies in the hands of women. Instead of promoting the media’s stereotypes, we can help make the difference and help shape how society views women. I recommend this piece to all the girls that will go and are going through puberty. It is a
friendly reminder that we are never alone. As girls we all go through it together, and together we will be one, a strong one. The end of the commercial shows all the girls and women of different ages running, hitting and fighting like the strong girls they are. This scene is powerful because it demonstrates that we can make the change. As women we should all stick together and help reshape the way the media views us. It is not always about the beauty in a girl, it is about what is inside that we forget about. Let’s change that.
Discrimination still an issue
By Salvador Gutierrez Ranger Reporter
The United States has been dealing with all forms of discrimination since the first days of its independence. Racism, sexism, classism and all kinds of judgements have always been the main obstacles in the search of freedom and prosperity. Nowadays, we live in a
society in which it is hard to see the line between being offensive and being offended. Our most innocent actions and comments can hurt someone’s feelings. Sexism also runs rampant in the workplace. Even today, sexism prevents women from doing jobs that would maximize their potential and contribute to growth. People from other lands come to the U.S. looking for growth, progress and “a better life,” but some Americans do not care about the immigrants’ background. Instead, they care about what the immi-
grants can do and their negative impact on society. They do not realize that their country is a place where, with a lot of hard work, people can create wealth, contributing to the growth of the nation. Regardless of how much progress we think we have made, people with different skin color and customs are treated differently and are judged. Our society must do more to solve these problems. Despite decades spent fighting sexism, racism and all the other isms, we still have a long way to go.
- Serving Amarillo College since 1930 For a complete staff listing, please visit The Ranger online at www.acranger.com.
Student Media exists to serve you--the students. The Ranger serves as an open forum where you can learn and talk about the things that matter to you. The Ranger staff urges you to get involved. Submit ideas, photos, writings and videos. Tell us what you want covered. A public critique and meeting session is open to the campus community at 10:30 a.m. Fridays in PH 214. Student Media outlets include The Ranger, The Ranger Online, AC Current, FM90 and our various web shows and podcasts including Badger B.S. and Screen Louder, along with a new web series that will debut this fall. You can reach us at acranger@actx.edu. We look forward to hearing from you--The Student Media Staff The Ranger is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press, College Media Advisers, Panhandle Press Association, Texas
Intercollegiate Press Association and Texas Community College Journalism Association. In 1993, The Ranger was inducted into the national ACP Hall of Fame. The journalism program is nationally accredited by the Community College Journalism Association.
News October 13, 2016
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The Ranger
Bestselling novelist visits campus By JENNA GIBSON
rillo College’s Washington Street Campus on Ranger Reporter Tuesday, Oct. 11. “Hotel on the Corner Author Jamie Ford’s of Bitter and Sweet” is visit to Amarillo College was all sweet and set in Seattle WA during not bitter. The New York WWII during the time Americans Times bestselling author Japanese were sent to internment of “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet” camps. The novel tells came to speak at Ama- the story of a romance
between two pre-teens-a Japanese girl and a Chinese boy, and focuses on issues surrounding cultural identitiy, discrimination and family relationships. To start off the day at 9 a.m., Ford spoke at an Introduction to Mass Communication class
CODY MCGEHEE The Ranger
New York Times bestselling author, Jamie Ford, signs a copy of his novel in the Badger Den.
and then gave a reading and answered questions in the Badger Den. The day wrapped up at 7 p.m. with a lecture and book signing at Ordway Auditorium. Students from several AC classes and some from Caprock High School crowded into the Badger Den. Many sat on the floor and others stood for the approximately 45 minute presentation. Dressed in cargo shorts, a plaid shortsleeved shirt and sneakers, Ford said one of the strangest aspects of becoming a best-selling novelist is knowing your book will be someone else’s homework. His novel was even assigned to read in his daughter’s English class. He began the event by reading aloud some mean tweets posted by students who were assigned to read the book. These tweets included “Nobody read Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet. It will crush your heart and you will cry your eyes out #stupidEnglishclass” and “More like Hotel on the Corner of This Book Sucks Boulevard.” Laughing, Ford said
criticism does not bother him. Having a background in art and design prepared him to meet deadlines and handle rejection. “Art is hard. That’s why it’s worth doing. But if it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it.” Ford said he is more affected by the people who are touched by his books than by the critics. “They say things like, ‘This was the first book I was forced to read that I actually loved.’” “Books are the ultimate gateway drug,” Ford said. Ford is currently working on his third novel. All of his work is based on research and history. “I’m curious. That’s where my ideas come from. I like to turn over society’s rocks and look for the squishy things underneath.” His casual and approachable manner kept students engaged at all of his speaking events. “I liked the way he talked about his inspirations,” Azalea Barron, a nursing major, said. “I really wish it would become a movie.” Ford pointed out that he has had several discussions regarding turning the novel into
a movie, but producers have been reluctant to fund a film with three minority protagonists. “I’ve had weird moments in Hollywood. Three Hollywood producers said the exact same thing—and this is a quote—‘How do we mitigate the financial risks without a white male lead?’” Ford said he refuses to allow producers to change the ethnicity of any of the characters. The book has been staged as a play and a group in Chicago is currently working on turning it into a stage musical. “I love it,” said Dylan Smith, a computer science major. Ford worked as a creative director at an advertising agency in Seattle before becoming an author. Several of his children are pursuing careers in the arts. “If you want to pursue any artistic discipline, you have to allow yourself to suck. Practice— it’s a craft. The more you put into it, the more you will get out it.” To view more coverage of this year’s Common Reader author go to www.acranger.com
Cultural excursion expands horizons By LIZ MOORE Ranger Reporter
The Amarillo College Presidential Scholars are preparing to learn about arts and culture. With their arts excursion on Oct. 14 and 15, the Scholars will visit the Dallas Museum of Art and attend a performance by the Dallas Symphony. “I always like going to museums, even though where I come from there aren’t that many museums, so there’s not much to see,” said Karen Rivas, an education major. “It’s really interesting to go to these large scale museums and have somebody talk it through with us so we understand what the painting means and not just look at it blankly.” At the Dallas Museum of Art, the students will be accompanied by Am-
arillo College art history professor, Mark Morey. Morey will explain the paintings, as well as their history, to the students. In September, Morey led the group on a tour of the Amarillo Museum of Art. Taylor Gray, a biology major, said, “I’ve come to really appreciate art. I think it’s something that goes by and people don’t give it as much praise as they should, and I want to know a little more about it and how it came to be and to respect it.” After visiting the art museum, the Presidential Scholars will also be attending a live symphony performance of Tchaikovsky #6 that Friday evening. “Presidential Scholars is a small learning community of the top academic performers,” said Honors Program Coor-
dinator Lesley Ingham. They take on leadership roles around campus, and while on their international trips, they volunteer. The students come from the top 10 percent of area high school graduates, and 15 new students are accepted into the program each year. During their local trips, the students get many learning opportunities. The scholar’s theme of cutural idenitity has allowed for them to gain more knowledge on art and artists. “A large part of it is the museums, to show the students a variety of culture because (Morey) will be talking about not only the history of the painter but the history of the painting itself,” said Rivas. “A lot of the art has history and stuff like that
COURTESY PHOTO
Art History Professor, Mark Morey, tours Scholars through the Dallas Museum of Art on a previous trip.
that can in some way or another relate to our studies in college and just in general,” Mercedes Rivera, a biology major
said. “I’m hoping to gain more of everything.” “I’m hoping to have a good time with all my friends from Presiden-
tial Scholars, experience some culture and broaden my mind a bit,” Clarissa Clifford, a biology major, said.
FAFSA applications now available three months earlier By AMERICA ADAME Ranger Reporter
Recent changes in the financial aid process could help students. This year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) became available three months earlier—moving from Jan. 1 to Oct. 1. “The sooner students file, the sooner they will learn how much aid
they’re getting,” said Kelly Prater, AC financial aid director. “The change will eliminate delays and will help students plan better. It will be good for students as well as the financial aid department,” Prater said. In the past, the FAFSA application became available Jan. 1 of the upcoming award year, so the application for the 2016-2017 school year
came out on Jan. 1, 2016 and was based on tax information from 2015. This process gave a student eight months to submit the FAFSA, but the students often had to wait until their parents had filed income taxes. “Maybe the parents had asked for a tax exemption or had not filed their taxes yet,” said Prater. Now, the 2017-2018 FASFA will be based on
2015 tax information. “The change will positively affect students because they will be able to complete the process a lot sooner than before,” Prater said. “It will help eliminate barriers that would often cause delays in filing for aid.” Prater said the earlier application opening will be especially important for students graduating from high school and
those preparing to transfer from AC to a university. “This change will allow them to be able to plan ahead better,” said Prater. “Because students know how much aid they qualify for, they will know which colleges and universities they can afford.” Prater said the AC financial aid department is gearing up to spread
the word about the earlier application availability. The department will also increase its outreach efforts to help students through the FAFSA process. “We will be visiting high schools and holding application events on our campus,” Prater said. She added that she expects the change to have a positive effect on students. “It’s a good thing,” she said.
4 News The Ranger
October 13, 2016
Push for gender-neutral facilities creates divide By LIBBY GIBSON Ranger Reporter
Inside Texas schools, colleges and universities the call for regulations to protect transgender people has turned into a battle about bathrooms. Now some students at Amarillo College are ready to enter the facilities fray. Recently, the U.S. Department of Education directed all educational entities that receive federal funding to allow transgender students to use the restroom of the gender they identify with. This directive has sparked an outcry across the state and has led several colleges and univer-
sities to create genderneutral bathrooms. Some AC students say that adding gender-neutral facilities on AC campuses is a necessary part of protecting transgender rights. “Equality is a right for everyone, not an exclusive privilege for a few,” Steve Garcia, a nursing major said. “AC should have gender-neutral bathrooms in order to encourage a welcoming environment to all its students,” Garcia said, noting that he feels conflict regarding gender-neutral facilities “only causes ignorance and hatred.” Macey Gibaszek, a history major, also favors
“The only thing officially differentiating them as being genderneutral is the sign, and sadly the signs are what seem to be causing some to react negatively.” Other students say they are ready to flush proposals to add gender-neutral facilities. “I do not think we should have gender-neutral facilities, because it opens up the doors to serious RAZ RASMUSSEN | The Ranger problems,” Erika Mejia, a the addition of gender- showing that AC is in- biology major, said. “We neutral facilities. “Stu- clusive and caring when already have problems dents should be able to it comes to their stu- with assault. Imagine feel comfortable and safe dents. A lot of people do allowing a male to use while they are at AC,” not realize that there are the same restroom as a Gibaszek said. already gender-neutral female. Someone could “I think that gender- bathrooms in a large easily walk into the restneutral bathrooms are a number of public places,” room and harass someone.” wonderful step toward Gibaszek said.
Nursing major, Eunice Rangle agreed. “I do not think it is necessary and if it is like a genderneutral restroom, I would personally feel very uncomfortable.” Bob Austin, vice president of student affairs, said there are no plans to add gender-neutral bathrooms on AC campuses. “I am not aware of any student requests for gender-neutral facilities, which leads me to believe that AC students are not passionate about this issue,” Austin said. Austin did mention that there is one gender-neutral facility on the Washington Street Campus located next to the bookstore.
Amarillo student shares experiences of being transgender By MACEY GIBASZEK Ranger Reporter
Q: What are your preferred pronouns? A: I use he/him and they/them pronouns. Q: Can you tell me about your experiences being a part of the LGBTQ+ community both in Amarillo and in general? A: I was usually friends with LGBTQ+ identified people by accident. Those are the people I just happened to get along with. Especially because my high school (AHS) didn’t have any LGBTQ+ clubs, there wasn’t really a LGBTQ+ community. That’s really unfortunate because there is a growing body of research that says that supportive LGBTQ+ communities can really help counteract the negative physical and psychological effects of being a stigmatized minority. For that reason, I really hope that Amarillo, especially Amarillo high schools form a more explicit LGBTQ+ community soon. Q: What are your views on the LGBTQ+ community as a whole? A: The LGBTQ+ com-
munity is an extension of the community it’s in. By that I mean, its general politics and personality aren’t as different as you’d expect. In my experience, the LGBTQ+ community is a little more accepting and a little more liberal than the surrounding community. So I tend to get along with those people better; but things like racism, transphobia and misogyny are all still present in the LGBTQ+ community. Q: In what ways would you like to enlighten people about being transgender? A: A lot of people equate being trans with being a sexual deviant. I wish people knew that my identity outside of gender expectations has nothing to do with my sexuality, my relationships with others, or any chosen expression, it’s just who I am. I also wish people knew that gender expression, and gender identity are different things. Just because I identify as transmasculine, doesn’t mean I have to fit the mold of masculinity for my gender identity to be valid. I can wear a pink crop top and still be a man.
Q: From “Transparent” to Laverne Cox to Caitlin Jenner, trans people are getting more and more recognition and representation in the media. While this is only a baby step, what are your thoughts on it? A: In a lot of ways, it’s really exciting. A lot of transphobia just comes from ignorance and so I think that the more people see trans people as people with lives and personalities and human qualities, the less transphobia we will see. I’m also really glad that Laverne Cox is getting so much attention now because if trans people have to have a spokeswoman, Laverne Cox is much better for that job than Caitlyn Jenner. Q: Have there been instances where Amarillo and the people that live here have negatively or positively impacted you since coming out? A: I had a few teachers who really supported me and tried to respectfully ask questions so that they could be better allies and teachers. I also had some friends who were great. In general though, the school administration and the
overall city culture are really difficult for trans people. My time in Austin has shown me the impact that city culture and knowledge can have (e.g., gender inclusive restrooms, job opportunities, practices such as asking for people’s pronouns in all kinds of spaces, etc.). Q: Do you have any goals for the trans community both in Amarillo and just as a whole? A: I’d like to see the trans community, like the rest of the LGBTQ+ community, be more inclusive of, and even follow the leadership of trans women of color. Trans women of color have the most oppresMACEY GIBASZEK | The Ranger sion to overcome, and Royale Reeves is a transgender student who grew if we don’t rise up their up in Amarillo, that now resides in Austin where he needs they won’t be met. is attending the University of Texas. Racism and misogyny are trans issues as much political movements/ A: There are several as transphobia is. parties is important for trans resources in Amahaving the confidence rillo (e.g., trans support Q: More and more to “come out.” Hope- group, trans-friendly people of the LGBTQ+ fully more people com- psychologists and physicommunity are coming ing out means there are cians, etc.). So if anyone out. Why do you think less LGBTQ+ people reading this is in need of, this is? internalizing homopho- or knows somebody in A: LGBTQ+ people are bia and transphobia and need of such resources, a lot more visible in the dealing with that hatred I’d be more than happy media now and I think in isolation. to share that informathat seeing yourself tion. Just shoot me an reflected in TV char- Q: Is there anything email at royalereeves@ acters and seeing your else you would like to utexas.edu. identities respected by tell me?
Know your terms... Gay
A person sexually attracted to someone who is the same sex.
Lesbian
A woman who is sexually attracted to other women.
Bisexual
A person who is sexually attracted to both men and women.
Pansexual Questioning
Transsexual
Demisexual
Someone who can only experience sexual attraction after an emotional bond has been formed. This bond doesn’t have to be romantic in nature.
Asexual
A person who does not experience sexual attraction. Asexuality differs from celibacy in that it is a sexual orientation not a choice.
Intersex
A general terms used for a variety of conditions in which a person is born with a reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn’t seem to fit the typical definitions of female or male.
A person who has the potential to be attracted to all or many gender identities and expressions. A person who is unsure of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
A person who strongly identifies with the opposite sex and may seek to live as a member of this sex especially by undergoing surgery and hormone therapy to obtain the necessary physical appearance.
News October 13, 2016
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The Ranger
Drag queen dreams come true for future teacher people have many misconceptions about drag Ranger Reporter performers. “I identify as Amarillo College stu- a girl but there are a lot dent “Parris” is a senior of straight men who pereducation major and a form in drag shows. A drag queen. Every Satur- drag queen does what she day, she applies make-up, does for entertainment,” slips into a sparkly skin- Parris said. Unlike some tight dress and lip-syncs drag queens, however, popular songs onstage at Parris is transgender. “I knew something the 212 Club in downwas different about me town Amarillo. Crowds gather every in middle school, I wasn’t weekend to watch Parris sure what exactly it was, perform. Parris describes but I could feel it,” said performing in drag as “a Parris. “When I started high calling,” but she notes school, I dated girls and that her weekend work has the potential to get was crowned prom king. in the way of her educa- Then I began identifying as a girl and started to tional career. “It’s hard to separate experiment with wearyour personal life, school ing makeup, but, because life and drag life,” said I was popular, not many Parris. “You have to be people messed with me careful who knows what.” for being different. I was Parris said she worries lucky,” she said. Knowing that some that people will judge her unfairly if they learn transgender people unabout her performances. dergo bullying and hu“I am currently in college miliation for being difto become an elemen- ferent, Parris said she tary teacher and if people makes an effort to conmisunderstand who I am, front misunderstandings. and why I do what I do, She answers questions it could affect my future.” on Facebook about her Parris said she hates gender identity and her knowing she might performances and tackles jeopardize her chance to difficult issues on Facereach her goal of becom- book Live before she ing a teacher “just be- goes on stage. Read more about cause I dress in women’s clothing and lip sync to Parris in the AC Curwell known songs.” rent on newsstands this Parris noted that December. By CODY MCGEHEE
Drag shows occur every weekend at 212 SW 6th Ave.
CODY MCGEHEE|Ranger Reporter
Preferred pronouns pose perplexing problems birth gender, should have an option. Ranger Reporter “They should be “What’s your pre- called what they want to ferred pronoun?” The be called,” said Ashley question is becom- Wilson, a general studing more common as ies major. ”It is imporuniversities and col- tant so that other people leges across the country feel they are getting are asking students to treated fairly.” Business managespecify their preferred ment major, Chase pronouns in an effort to make transgender, non- Warrick, agreed that binary and genderfluid students should be givstudents feel more com- en a choice of pronoun. “Whatever their third fortable. “He” and “him,” “she” pronoun suggestion is, I and “her,” “they” and will go with it,” Warrick “them” and new gender said. “I would like for neutral pronouns such them to have an option as “zie” and “zim” or “ve” if that is what they want. and “ver” are all options. Some are OK with it. At Amarillo College, Some are not. Everyone Infographic by LIZ MOORE students have been dis- is different.” A handy guide to diff erent pronouns. Other students said cussing the topic of pronouns. Most students the solution is simply to name,” said Christina want to be called is what said they believe that avoid using a pronoun. Coca, a physical therapy I will call them,” Coca those who do not iden- “They have a name, we major. “Homies, peeps, said. Knowing how to refer tify with their assigned should call them by their humans. Whatever they By PAMELA CERROS
to other students would be a relief, according to some students. “Just by looking at someone, it is not necessarily easy to tell what they want to be called,” Hannah Roberts, a human resources major, said. “It would be hard to find a word to associate someone without offending them.” Whatever the choice of pronoun, Roberts said, education on what to say would help. “If it is something people are going to put to use, I feel more people should be informed about it,” Roberts said. Students agreed that the pronoun “it” is not acceptable for referring to people. “How degrading is that, it is regressing,” said Britt O’Rand, a business management
major. “We have come too far to call someone it.” EMT major, Chesney Rendon said, “I wouldn’t call a baby that is inside of someone ‘it’ so why call a person that?” Students said we need to move beyond labels and toward an understanding of humanity. “I don’t know, I would call them a person,” said Wilson. “I think it is a challenge. I am sure they are upset they are being grouped when they are just people.” Students said the best advice is to remember to think before you speak, avoid judging and acknowledge others as human beings. “Just remember one thing,” said David Cervantes, a business major. “Be proud of who you are.”
6 NEWS The Ranger
October 13, 2016
By SAL GUTIERREZ and CLAIRE EKAS From relationships to emotional support, smartphone apps provide assistance and encouragment for everyone. Regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
MOOVZ The platform’s overarching goal is to provide real-time interaction and authentic user engagement on a global scale within the gay male community.
CIRCLEOf6 A personal safety app where you choose 6 friends to add to your group. If you end up in a risky or uncomfortable situation, you can send a preprogrammed alert message with your exact location.
Q On “Q” users are required to display their first name and a photo, and are encouraged to share their stories through “memoirs” that have no character limit.
Fall break arrives By ADRIAN KEMP Ranger Reporter
Students say they are excited for the upcoming fall break Oct. 17 through 23. Some plan on being lazy and playing video games, while others won’t let the break slow them down. Jescan Blanco, a computer engineering major, has a simple plan for the week off from classes. “Sleep, sleep, and oh yeah sleep,” Blanco said. Other students said they plan to use the time to put the stress behind them.“I have friends coming from out of town so we are going to meet up. There are quite a few new movies we haven’t seen so we are going to watch a couple,” Cole Richardson, an animation major, said. Students aren’t the only ones who need time away from school. Some professors said they are eagerly anticipating the week off from classes. Most professors will use the time off to prepare for the next eight-week
Distinc.tt Facebook for the LGBTQ community. Distinc.tt launched its Community Support Resources component, which users can access through the app or anyone can access online.
term. “I will be getting ready for my second eight week classes which are F.Y.S. and Honors General Psychology,” Dr. Beth Rodriguez, a psychology professor, said. “I’ve taught the classes before but I have to learn the new material to make sure I know what I’m doing. Also I get to catch up on grading assignments.” Rodriguez added that she will won’t devote the entire week to working. “I have a chance to clean up the house and the fun part I get to coach my second grader’s basketball,” Rodriguez added. This is the first time AC has had a fall break and all classes will get the week off regardless of whether they are 16 or 8 week. Students can register for the second set of eight week classes during the break. All services will be open during the break including the library, bookstore, financial aid and advising center.
One Love The danger level of a relationship can be difficult to assess. One Love “The My Plan App” helps women and their friends to determine if a relationship is unsafe and create an action plan to leave safely.
Pride Pride is a social media type of app where people can read stories, chat with people, read LGBT+ news, and meet new people. This app is a community for everyone that embraces all walks of life. You can share pictures, stories, listen to music, and more.
Save money during time away from class By FRANKIE CANCHOLA Ranger Reporter Planning dates with friends can be challenging when you’re a college student on a budget. Daily deals are all around the city of Amarillo, from all-youcan-eat wings, dollar margaritas to half-priced bowling and movie tickets. Having many discounts gives options. Here are a few places to consider next time you’re planning to go out. Monday •Bubba’s 33: $6 Burgers •La Fiesta Grande 99 cent margaritas •Braceros on 6th St. $5.49 enchilada plate $1 margaritas every day •Hooters $12.99 all-you-can-eat wings • Amarillo Zoo Free admission
Tuesday
Thursday
•Texas Firehouse BOGO one-topping pizza
•Buffalo Wild Wings 60 cent boneless wings
•Buffalo Wild Wings 40 cent wings
•Joe Daddy’s $7.49 burgers
•Rosa’s Cafe $4.39 Taco Tuesday
•Texas Firehouse $6 pizza rolls
•Hollywood 16 $5 movies •Western Bowl Free bowling for ladies Wednesday •Texas Roadhouse Wild West Wednesday $10 8oz sirloins •Rain Premier Sushi Bar Half priced sushi •Ruby Tequila’s Happy hour all day •La Fiesta Grande $2 margaritas •Western Bowl $1.99 games
•Midnight Rodeo College night Saturday & Sunday •Torchy’s Tacos $3 Tequila Sunrise, Mimosas and Sangrias •Joe Daddy’s $3 domestic draft beers, margaritas and wells •The Plaza $2 short draft beer (Sunday Only)
7
Culture October 27, 2016
The Ranger
Hip-Hop album, ‘Atrocity,’ takes a twist By JOSEPH HANSEN
majority of this record was produced by British multi-instrumentalist, REVIEW “Atrocity Exhibition” Paul White, along with is the fourth studio al- production credit to bum from Detroit-based super-producers Black rapper, Danny Brown, Milk, The Alchemist and released Sept. 27, 2016. several others and feaAll I can say is this album tures from rappers Kendwill either be a classic or rick Lamar, Ab-soul and Earl Sweatshirt who all criminally underrated. “Atrocity Exhibition” land on the album’s third is named after a Joy Divi- single “Really Doe.” But with all of the sion song with the same chaos, from the obscure name, this song is also instrumentation to the sampled in the seventh song titled “Golddust.” over the top rap features, Standing at 46:38 min- Brown is the one who utes long with 15 tracks, shines through, as always. Brown has always built there’s a lot going on. a reputation from his This album is experiunique style in the hipmental. The instrumenhop community along tals are left field. The Ranger Reporter
with a high-pitched delivery and off-the-wall lyricism. You can pick him from a line-up of
different rappers. It took me a day or so to understand what Brown was trying to do
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with this album. I am under the impression that his goal was to reinvent the genre of hip-hop, while also reflecting on his issues with addiction and coming from a background where he constantly plays with fire but doesn’t get burned. The beats he raps over are like nothing I’ve ever heard on a rap song, but the way Brown raps over them you wouldn’t even know the difference. Right from the introduction “Downward Spiral,” the theme of addiction is set. In this song, Brown is genuinely afraid his next day could be his last, fearing an overdose.
Brown also touches on the subject of the loss of his friend in the song, “Tell Me What I Don’t Know,” and he delivers some hyped-up tracks too, like the spastic, post-punk inspired track, “Dance in the Water.” I fully believe Brown achieves the goal of putting his own spin on a genre that is constantly shifting. He does everything his own way. He chooses the most absurd beats, with a wacky delivery. For more on this great album review and other great stories check out the Ranger online at www.acranger.com
Making it in the media: What grinds my gears Ziggy’s Virtual Viewpoint By CODY McGEHEE Ranger Reporter
As I pursue a career in mass media, I have encountered several issues that prevent me from
reaching my goals. So today I want to share with you some of the things that really grind my gears. First off, as a male in the media industry,
whether I am blogging, shooting photographs, doing videography, news reporting or any of the unlimited amount of things you can do via social media to cause people to read your posts and follow you. I find it difficult to get ahead simply because I am a man. If you look at social media, you can’t throw a stick without hitting a female online entertainer with at least 20,000 followers. Now, as a male, I understand that women can be nice to look at, but that still shouldn’t matter. People like me put in the time and we have the education, but some people have become success-
ful just posting pictures of themselves getting drunk on social media sites. Honestly, I think that people forget that there are tons of things to do on the internet beyond following women blindly just because they have a random opinion or just because they show off parts of their bodies. I have seen this many times in the pop culture world. Have you ever wondered why there are more successful female cosplayers than men? Well, it’s simple--in the anime world, whether you read the manga (story book) or watch the TV show, you see female characters looking as if
they have just been put in a bathing suit, given a power or a gun and sent to storm the town to save the world. Why do 35-year-old men still watch cartoons? Well the answer is simple. I don’t have to spell it out. Another thing that grinds my gears is the influence of the mainstream media. I think we need to back up because between CNN, CNBC, FOX News and other news outlets like them. We have had a difficult time in the media industry because everyone thinks we are lying, being scripted by the government or just making something up to get ratings.
Now, I am not going to disagree that some of the things the 24-hour news channels have done is wrong. Hell, I have seen anchors flat out lie to the public over something so small and trivial just to get a reaction. We need to get back to the journalistic basics of integrity and honesty. Even in the news world, if you’re not a woman between the ages of 18-32, the chances of you having a decent job in front of the camera is slim. For more of Ziggy’s Virtual Viewpoint check the Ranger online at www.acranger.com. Follow Ziggy on Facebook and Twitter at ZiggysV2.
‘King of Shadows’ leaves ending open to interpretation By KALEB PAFFORD Ranger Reporter
REVIEW Theatre AC’s first production of the school year was “King of Shadows” by Roberto Aguierre-Sacasa. As a fellow theatre nerd, I was in the audience on opening night. This play tells the story of a graduate student named, Jessica Denomy, played by Tressa Caldwell. Jessica’s mission to help the disenfranchised. This of course includes the other lead, Nihar, played by Alisatair Ramierez. Nihar is not like other 15-year-old street kids. He tells a story of other worlds, powerful
beings and his escape from them. His story causes some to be skeptical. Jessica’s police officer boyfriend, Eric, played by Chris Tarver, stands as a voice of reason, but Nihar’s story opens the eyes of Jessica’s rebellious younger sister, Sarah Denomy, played by Karen Rivas. The production opened on a simple set of a building façade and a projection screen with the title for all to see, any furniture to be needed hidden away in the façade. This design eliminated the need for stagehands to rush the stage at lights out, preserving the illusion of the characters living in their own world.
Although the façade was never moved off stage, the job of a backdrop was left to the projection screen. The screen was a key element in the production, creating a setting for each scene, confirming a place and the time of day. Not only did the screen provide obvious information, it also gave a little insight into what the cast, crew and director believed to be the truth about Nihar’s story, leaving a few small clues as to what happened in the shadows. Some of the character’s stage movement seemed a bit clunky, as though created to incorporate scene changes, but the overall use of the ex-
perimental theatre truly pulled the audience into the story by dragging the viewpoint of the audience to the other side of the room. The actors each did a strong job of progressing the story, but nerves got the better of everyone a few times, leading to some fumbled and stuttered words. During certain hightension scenes, Jessica appeared to be holding back some of the anger and passion her character felt toward the situation, causing other actors to keep the tone a bit more mild than the scene may have required. Also, at times both Ramirez and Caldwell fell into a pattern where
lines sounded more memorized than emotional, but this didn’t ruin the illusion completely and a well-placed reaction pulled me straight back under the spell of the show.
For more on the review of “King of Shadows” produced by Amarillo College’s Theater Program and other great stories check out the Ranger Online at www. acranger.com
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Comedian Breakdown - Doug Stanhope “The Laughing Cercle” By TRISTAN PINTER Ranger Reporter
REVIEW When Doug Stanhope planned to come to Amarillo in May 2002, he had a small issue with a then-open Amarillo Comedy Club. The issue arose from a supposedly joking email from one of the owners, using racial slurs to comment on their dissatisfaction with Stanhope’s manager.
Stanhope caused comedians to call for a boycott of the Amarillo Comedy Club, and shortly thereafter, the club closed. Now in 2016, after many returns from Stanhope, it’s clear he still might have a sour taste in his mouth when he says “Amarillo,” but at least now, he explains his distaste from a place of jest, instead of one of hate.
On Sept. 27, I walked into a dark bar room, and took my seat next to the stage, a sign on the back illuminating the letters “Doug Stanhope,” it was going to be a big night-with several comedians performing with Stanhope, all of whom had great reputations. The format of the show wasn’t the kind you usually see, Stanhope has recently released his book,
“Digging Up Mother,” and his new comedy set, “No Place Like Home,” and this would put any average comedian in a place between awkwardly reciting stale jokes that people might have heard before. For more on this review on Doug Stanhope and other great stories check out the Ranger Online at www.acranger. com
8 Feature The Ranger
October 13, 2016
Month Celebrating Diversity at Amarillo College “We should celebrate our heritage every month.”
By DUSTIN CLARK Ranger Reporter
ASHLEY LUCERO Nursing major
“To me, my Hispanic heritage means a lot because in the Mexican culture there is a lot of pride. It’s cool to be in a nation where you can be proud to be an American, but also proud to be a MexicanAmerican. This country is like a melting pot of cultures where you’ll always be able to appreciate your roots.
ROBERT REYES Social Work major
“It means that I shouldn’t be ashamed of my heritage.”
NATHAN CARREON Computer Infomational System major
Celebrating diversity and providing a voice for the voiceless are the goals of Amarillo College’s Hispanic Heritage Month events. During the first two weeks of October, college employees held several events in conjunction with the National Hispanic Heritage Month, which is designed to recognize the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and celebrate their heritage and culture. “There’s so much more to us - we’re people, we’re educators, we are women, we are men, we have so much to give and when we have an opportunity to highlight those things, we want to do it,” said Ruth DeAnda, an academic adviser who helped organize the series of events. The celebration began Oct. 11 with a presentation by Mercy Murguia, Potter County Commissioner. Murgia urged students and employees gathered at the Ware Student Commons to speak up for the people who cannot defend themselves. “I think that we should always be advocating for people that don’t have a voice or maybe aren’t a part of the process,” Murgia said. She also noted the importance of AC’s Hispanic Heritage celebration. “I think that it’s certainly a milestone that the college is doing and reflecting it,” she said. The next week, Hispanic college employees held a panel discussion to talk about their educational and career journeys and answer audience questions. The celebration will wrap up at noon Oct. 13 with a fiesta at the Oeschger Family Mall. The Hispanic Heritage events were created by “a group of people that want to get together and spread the love,” according to Melodie Graves, an academic adviser and one of the organizers. Graves noted that the employees who created the AC Hispanic Heritage celebration hope to do even more. “Our plans are to create a Special Populations Advisory Committee, made up of Amarillo College employees, because our students are so diverse and we need ways to make sure that they’re represented.” Graves said Hispanic Heritage Month is just the beginning. “We are going to celebrate diversity all year long. It will surround the major holidays of different cultures. We just want to expose the differences that make us so unique.”
“Being half Hispanic is really different. For the most part, I understand and have a good sense of my Hispanic heritage. When I spend time with my Mexican family, it’s very interesting to see the traditions and the value that is placed on family. The culture is TRISTAN BROYLES very family-oriented.” Criminal Justice major
“I haven’t gotten in touch with my heritage much, but I know it’s really traditional, and it’s a way of life every day. Even the food is awesome.”
DAVID ROBLES Biology major
“It means acknowledging the Hispanic race and informing people of the Hispanic culture. It means accepting the Hispanics for who they are.” ALEXIS TARANGO Secondary Education Major