R ANGER
February 15, 2018 Volume 88 Issue 8
When love and college collide
Higher ed leads to lower standards Photo illustration by Stevi Breshears
Debra Avara, a sociology and psychology professor, said. “When I enter a classroom to Ranger Staff start teaching, everyone is on Valentine’s Day is a day of their phones. One last check celebrating love, a day that of this, one quick response to couples often look forward to that. Instead of talking to each and make special plans for. But other and getting to know for a large portion of students, each other.” In today’s society, phones Valentine’s Day was nothing are where the majority of commore than another Wednesday. Is this generation of stu- munication takes place. Social dents skipping out on the clas- media is a huge part of keeping in touch with old friends, sic college romance? “From what I have wit- as well as meeting new people. “It’s just how people do nessed over the last 15 years, things now,” Ivan Bitella, a student relationships and interaction has decreased,” web programming major, said. By ZAKARY GRIEGO and JAMES LUSK
What’s inside
“Online dating is just another form of social media.” College is supposed to be a place where you can make lasting relationships according to Avara. Clubs and other events are good ways to do this, but many students are too busy. It makes it hard to find time for those activities, explained Avara. “I don’t know many college students in a healthy relationship,” Emma Womack, a nursing major, said. “I know a few couples that are in college, but the relationships aren’t healthy necessarily. I’ve noticed stu-
dents typically stay away from the commitment of a relationship,” said Womack. Womack said she thinks students are opting to remain single while pursuing a degree in order to limit the distractions and emotional conflicts that relationships and romance bring. Also, dating can be an expensive activity for a college student on a frugal budget, Womack said. Although students may not be building traditional relationships, they’re still meeting people online. Many students turn to dating apps like Tinder
for hookups. “I don’t really know many people who use Tinder for serious dating,” Anthony Aragon, a general studies major, said. “Most of the time, it’s just to get some.” Statistics from the National College Health Assessment II, administered by the American College Health Association paint a different picture. The survey found 47 percent of students had only one sexual partner in the past 12 months, while 25 percent reported no sexual partners.
Married students face challenges By JOSEPH HORNE
Amarillo College’s drafting program sees resurgence... STORY ON PAGE 3
Read all about relationships... STORIES ON PAGES 4 AND 5
Campus pets? Find out about animals on campus... STORY ON PAGE 6
against the other. If each Ranger Reporter member of the relationship can see the value in the AC has a significant success than it usually works percentage of married couples better and having the support continuing their education. is more beneficial,” Rodriquez More than a quarter of said. AC students are married, Angel and Brad Johnson according to Jarrod Madden, are full-time students who senior research associate. work part-time jobs. Angel These students face is a pre-med student and additional stresses that the Brad is an audio engineer/ majority of their unmarried music composition major. peers don’t have to consider. “Balancing schedules to “Marriage is a much more study and spend time involved relationship so it together is a challenge,” can lead to more difficulties if Angel Johnson, said. She the relationship is troubled,” said that time management Dr. Elizabeth Rodriquez, a and communication are psychology professor, said. important to their school and “If you are not married and relationship success. Staying there are issues it is easier to motivated and driven are walk away or get out of that also important to keeping on relationship than it would be track. for a married couple.” The Johnsons give good Many married students examples of what many often find motivational married college students support from their spouse. “If experience. “Balancing the loved ones are involved responsibilities is always a in the process to help the difficult task. If one plans student succeed then it is a ahead and makes sure to group effort rather than one stick to a schedule they will
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find they have more time than they think. Schedule time to study, know your work schedule and make sure you set aside time for yourself and your loved ones,” Rodriguez explained. Other AC married couples offered more suggestions. “Asking for help from family members and not being too prideful are important considerations,” Citlaly Zamarripa, a sonography major, said. Zamarripa’s husband is a music business major at
West Texas A & M and works part-time to full-time hours depending on his schedule. “Finding time to spend with each other is the most difficult part,” Zamarripa, said. Both couples expressed the need to continually communicate to maintain stable and healthy relationships while balancing work and school schedules. On average, one out of four AC students are balancing school with married life.
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2 Opinion The Ranger
February 15, 2018
What role does communication play in a romantic relationship? “Without communication there isn’t a relationship. You have to communicate in order to get your points across.” Brittney Vasquez Nursing
“Communication is the foundation of a relationship. You can’t fix any problems without communication.”
SALVADOR GUITERREZ| The Ranger
Taking time to communicate Luz Marquez Child Development
Victoria Marquez Criminal Justice
“It is one of the biggest factors in a relationship. Without communication you may start to lose trust in each other.”
Beware of dating ghosts Today’s dating scene isn’t what it used to be. More and more people are meeting each other online and texting has become a main mode of communication. In a world so focused on communication and transparency, how is it so easy to disappear? “Ghosting” is a new and rather unfair dating trend. It can happen at any time, but mostly before a relationship officially begins. After a few dates, one of the people involved completely disappears hence the term “ghosting.” This person doesn’t respond to texts or calls, leaving the other party confused, disappointed and wondering where they went wrong. If you haven’t been in this position, congratulations. If you have been, I’m sorry. I’m right there with you, and I’m here to tell you: it is most definitely not your fault. If the person you were talking to couldn’t find the decency to let you know why they suddenly lost interest, they’re not worth your time anyway.
Uncomfortable conversations stop awkward advances EDITORIAL
Ranger editorials typically contain some sarcasm and satire, but this editorial deals with a difficult topic and is not meant to make light of a serious topic. Recently, it seems like each day we hear of yet another person being accused of sexual harassment or misconduct. In most cases, the accuser initiates the process by contacting the authorities or news outlets. With so many people being accused and found guilty, it’s easy to jump to conclusions and side with the “victim,” but we, the Ranger staff, feel that it’s important to dig into the specifics of a case to determine who is at fault. The question we are wrestling with is this: Is it possible that some of the blame could ever fall on the “victim?” In our research for this topic, we discovered the case
of Aziz Ansari and a woman called “Grace.” In a piece written by Katie Way, for Babe.net, Grace describes her evening with Ansari. Grace talks about the way Ansari kept moving forward with sexual activity, but that she was uncomfortable with the situation. This is where we began to question whether this was a case of sexual misconduct, or simply miscommunication. Grace mentions that Ansari moved her hand to his genitals “five to seven times” and that they both performed oral sex on each other. Way quotes Grace as saying, “Most of my discomfort was expressed in me pulling away and mumbling.” In this situation, it’s entirely possible that Ansari is simply guilty of misreading the non-verbal and verbal cues as if Grace was “playing hard
to get.” In the article, Grace never mentions any moments where she explicitly tells Ansari that she does not want to have intercourse with him and that she was uncomfortable with the situation. In today’s climate, we feel that it’s of utmost importance to make your intentions absolutely clear. We want to encourage our readers to communicate their intentions clearly and boldly during their romantic encounters. Be bold in communicating your intentions and level of comfort with what is happening. We want to be clear that sexual harassment is never the fault of the victim. Our stance is this: clear communication can mitigate or even resolve many situations where sexual harassment accusations could occur.
Get busy with binary
STEVI BRESHEARS Ranger Reporter
Which brings me to my next point: communicate your feelings. It really sucks to be left in the dark, wondering what you said or did to make the other person so angry that they would just leave. It could so easily be fixed with a simple phone call or text. You don’t even have to be a totally decent person and say it to my face. I would prefer a text over complete silence for the rest of my life. So, if you’ve been talking to someone for a while now and you’re just not feeling it, let them know. Literally, that’s all you have to say. Don’t be a jerk.
- Serving Amarillo College since 1930 For a complete staff listing, please visit The Ranger online at www.acranger.com.
For better or for worse, ‘til updates do us part. It’s a perfect Hollywood love story. The husband comes home to find his woman waiting in bed. He kicks off his boots and begins to make love to her. Afterward, he lies back, deep in thought contemplating his own moral values, because, strangely, his wife is still downstairs watching Netflix. The woman softly begins to speak, “You’re the greatest baby, I love…” but before she can finish her statement, the man reaches behind her and flips her switch to off. That’s right, she is artificial intelligence programmed into a woman’s body and a swimsuit model of a woman’s body at that. No, I’m not talking about the typical blow-up doll you may have seen in the past. I am talking about a full-fledged human modeled robot that reacts to your touch, voice and even has to be
BRANDAN WALDROP Ranger Reporter
“warmed”up to the idea of mating. Are you disturbed yet, or perhaps intrigued? Well it may shock you to know that slightly more than a third of people polled recently in England said they would happily have sex with a robot. Forty percent of those polled said they wouldn’t consider sleeping with a sex-toy as cheating on a spouse. So is it cheating or not? I
Student Media exists to serve you--the students. The Ranger is 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, writing and videos. Tell us what you want covered. A public critique and meeting session is open to the campus community at 9:30 a.m. Fridays in PH 213. Student Media outlets include The Ranger, The Ranger Online, AC Current, FM90 and our various web shows and podcasts. You can reach us at acranger@actx.edu. We look forward to hearing from you. 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.
would have to agree with that 40 percent and say that I don’t think it is cheating. We are talking about a nonliving object simply being used for sexual stimulation. Women have been doing this for decades already with smaller battery-operated electronics, while men masturbate as well, is there much a difference? Robot sex dolls could revolutionize the world’s oldest profession. A brothel in Vienna, Austria just announced that their sex doll named Fanny has surpassed the human prostitutes in sales, which could be a plus when you think about disease prevention. I hope that in the future we won’t be competing with robotic partners in order to keep our significant other’s attention. Perhaps there will be no competition at all -- humans will simply have their spouses programmed and uploaded.
In 1993, The Ranger was inducted into the national ACP Hall of Fame. The program is nationally accredited by the Community College Journalism Association. The Ranger is an independent student publication. Articles published in The Ranger do not necessarily reflect the views of Amarillo College administrators or staff.
News February 15, 2018
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The Ranger
Industry demand boosts program By JAMES LUSK Ranger Reporter
Two years ago, the Amarillo College drafting program faced a crisis, one that could have ended in the program being shut down. All of the program’s full-time faculty members were retiring and rumors were circulating that the program would be closed. Recently, however, the drafting program has seen resurgence with the addition of a full-time program coordinator, increased interest, new equipment and resources. With the expansion of the program and the constant need for drafters to meet Drafting students hard at work on an assignment for class. industry needs, AC officials such as Bell Helicopter,” Julie pointing out that she is always say the future of the program is Sutton, the drafting program looking for new students so she coordinator, said. Whenever can graduate more drafters to looking bright. Drafting is essentially a part is needed to make meet local industry needs. This demand for drafters mechanical drawing, such as something work, or a problem the drawing of floor plans or is encountered, a drafter will be is the primary reason for the parts of an engine or a called to fix the problem and the recent expansion of the program. piece of machinery. Drafters draw up practical designs. “Drafting will be used more Drafting students said are employed into many fields such as architecture and in the future. There will be even they are optimistic about the engineering due to their wide more jobs in Amarillo,” Sutton program’s future and their career choice. “I enjoy the range of skills in drawing, said. “As everything advances creativity that goes into every designing and problem solving. “The program is very technologically, the need for project,” Noe Roganista, a important to local industry, drafters increases,” she said, drafting major, said.
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offers a two year plan that can transfer into a bachelor’s degree and a one-year certificate to help some students get a head start on a career or beef up their resume for the future. AC officials say both the program at AC and the industry will see relevance well into the foreseeable future. The program keeps constant contact with many local businesses in order to keep students up-to-date with the ever-changing requirements of the industry, giving them an advantage whenever they move beyond AC to start their careers. The employment of drafters BRYAN ARVELLO | The Ranger is projected to grow 7 percent There are a wide variety of from 2016 to 2026, about as jobs available and the median fast as the average for all occustarting salary is $53,480, which pations, according to the Buprovides a high incentive for reau of Labor Statistics. “The program is always students to consider drafting as looking for students who like a possible career path. “The demand is what details. Students must have makes the program popular,” attention to detail and not mind sitting at a computer,” Roganista said. Another student, Cassidy Sutton said. To learn more information Cross, a drafting major said, “I like the challenge of it, because about the program, students of all the detail that goes into can visit www.actx.edu/drafting/ or they can talk to their every project.” The drafting program at AC counselors for more details.
Scholarship season opens Save time, cut costs By SANTOS ROMERO
By JUAN RODRIGUEZ
support all AC students and Ranger reporter the student programs that are available,” Tracy Dougherty, Students attending AC, co-executive director, said. “We or planning to attend, are would love to see more students strongly recommended to applying for scholarships.” Applications are available apply for an AC Foundation but there are scholarship. Students may online, receive a financial package if requirements that students qualified and the scholarship will need to meet in order to will help provide for students’ qualify for the scholarship. Requirements include a academic futures. Scholarships are given to minimum 2.0 GPA as well as students in all areas of study being enrolled in a minimum at AC and are also available of six hours per semester. The deadline to submit for students graduating from AC and continuing on at a the scholarship application is university. Last year, more Oct. 1 of each year, however than 2,000 students applied the applications received early and the number continues to gain priority. Scholarships are available for numerous grow each semester. According to organizers, programs at the college, the goal is that every person including disability services. The Foundation currently attending AC has an opportunity to get a scholarship and administers more than 650 scholarship funds to students a college education. “Amarillo College and assists with more than Foundation exist solely to 1,800 students annually with
college expenses. The typical award amount ranges from $800 dollars to $5,000 dollars annually with over $1,000,000 in scholarship money administered each year. Taylor Gray is a past scholarship recipient who has received numerous achievements, such as National Honors, with the assistance of the AC Foundation. The form is available at www.actx.edu/foundation/ scholarships and completion of the online form is required. The staff at the AC Foundation are available and welcome all students or school counselors to stop by with any questions they may have. The Foundation recommends that students apply as early as possible so that the first round of awards are given by the preferred deadline, which is March 1.
How to break up with your math class By BLASS GUERRERO Ranger Reporter
Many college students stay up day and night to maintain good grades in their classes, while also working a 9-5 job. When they run into problems keeping their grades up, some students try to get help but, in the end, it doesn’t work out. Once students have been unsuccessful, one of their options is to withdraw. There are many reasons why students drop a class, according to Irene Hughes, an advising associate. Some students often think most classes don’t have much work or studying is not necessary, Hughes said. “Students don’t study and fail and that’s one of the main reasons.” Most students are surprised and unprepared by how much work some classes have and get overwhelmed. Students should take extra
time to study and work hard from the start instead of waiting until an adviser or instructor recommends withdrawing. Elisa Chavez, a physical therapy major, said, “I was thinking of dropping, but after studying and getting my work done that was not necessary.” There are also good reasons for dropping a class. During college, some students decide to change their major and change classes and drop those that are not needed. Life changes such as illness, family death and divorce sometimes leave students with no option but to drop and focus on their personal lives. Another reason why many students drop is because of scheduling conflicts. Most students are full-time in both school and work. Most students would like to put all of their energy into both school and work and not have a conflict
with either. The procedure for withdrawing from a class is simple. Students can talk to their instructor to start the process. They will receive an academic withdrawal request form, signed by the instructor and turned in to the student’s adviser. Their adviser will let the student know if dropping a class will affect their financial aid. If a student wants to drop all courses before they reach the 60 percent point of the semester, then it could result in having to pay back financial aid funds. But, like in marriage, advisors say students should try to work it out if things start to get complicated, talk to an instructor or get help from tutoring before thinking about withdrawing from a class. If things don’t look good then, a divorce will be your only option.
Ranger Reporter
Working toward a college degree while still in high school sounds like a pretty good deal to most students. Amarillo College has a program that does just that. AC defines the program as a cooperative partnership between a high school and the college that awards both college and high school credit in courses that meet the requirements of both institutions. An initiative for high school students to enroll in the dual credit program is the price. Dual-credit classes cost much less than the courses college students pay for. AC charges high school students $50 per college hour, so a three-hour course would be $150 and a four-hour class would be $200. “Dual-credit saved me a large amount of money when college enrollment came around,” David Preciado, an engineering major, said. The dual-credit program at AC has helped many high school students in gaining college credits and college ex-
perience before walking the stage. Not only does the dualcredit program save high school students money in advance, the program also gives students a look at the difference between high school and college curriculum. “It has helped give me a little insight into the time and effort it takes to be in college,” Maddie Brasher, a current dual-credit student, said. Dual-credit teaches high school students the essential skill of balancing multiple things going on in their lives. This keeps students from going into college without an understanding of the responsibilities to come. Brasher said taking dualcredit classes has helped her work on her time management skills and study habits, especially while having other class work, sports and a job. AC, along with many other high schools around the area, have teamed up to give students opportunities to get college experience and will continue to give these opportunities to future students.
4 News The Ranger
February 15, 2018
name and if he was dating anyone. I finally had the courage to talk to him one day. We have been dating for two Ranger Reporters years now,” Richard said. Michael Zapata, a recording arts Whether it’s love at first sight major, met his girlfriend Kayla in or the most unlikely union, every relationship starts somewhere. At high school. He knew who she was Amarillo College, students have but did not talk to her until they had a class together. “We have been found romance in a variety of ways. Karen Mack, an undeclared together for three years and eight major, met her significant other in months now,” he said. During that time, the two spent an elevator at work. She told her one year dating long-distance. “It coworker, “I am going to marry him.” They dated for a year and have now was tough, but she made it back on weekends and trust in each been married two years. Kelsey Richard, a child other made it easy.” Angelica Beanes, an AC custodian, development major, planned to said she met her sweetheart through work out, not find romance. “I fell a friend. “When we met, we knew in love with my boyfriend when he walked into the gym. I knew he it would be forever. We have been together for eight years and four stole my heart that day. I was determined to find out his months, married for seven years eight By CARTER HALL and RAMONA SALGADO
months,” Beanes said. She noted that they both support each other in all they do since she works fulltime and he attends school and works. Nick Stone, a continuing education student, said when he met his wife, she was dating his friend. Stone said he knew he would marry her someday. A few weeks later she broke up with his friend and Stone got up the nerve to talk to her but she was still not ready for a relationship. Stone said he kept asking until she agreed to go out with him. They kept dating, got married a few months later and have been married for 23 years. Love can blossom in ordinary places. “I started working at Amigos my junior year and remember seeing this guy named Tobias and I thought he was cute, so one day we kind of hit
it off. Now, we’ve been dating a year and nine months,” Cecilia Almanza, a biology major said. Persistence paid off when Tobias Romero, a radiography major, met his sweetheart. “I didn’t give up, so I asked her out and since then, it’s been magical,” he said. Regardless of how relationships begin, there is a process that moves a couple into the realm of “officially official,” according to Courtney Milleson assistant professor of speech communication. “ We have to move past the physical issues of ‘ What do they think of how I look?’ to ask ‘Am I the best person I can be when I’m with this person?’ and ‘Do they bring the best out in me?’” “That’s what marriage is based on,” Milleson said.
By KIARA ALLEN Ranger Reporter
PICK UP A HOBBY Keep yourself busy by learning something new, like French.
MEDITATION Meditating for fifteen minutes a day can destress and give you clarity.
TREAT YOURSELF! Pamper yourself with that long, overdue mani/pedi or brunch mimosas.
VOLUNTEERING Giving back can relieve depression and improve self-worth.
WRITE IT OUT DIARY
Work out your feelings in a diary or journal.
Illustration by Jake Wagner-Russell
Everyone’s has their own personal methods for getting over an ex. Some people cut their hair, some people rebound, some people binge-watch romantic comedies and some people never move on. At Amarillo College, students have varying opinions regarding how best to handle a breakup. Some students prefer to be smothered in support to mask the empty feeling they get post-break up. Other students prefer to never interact with that specific person ever again, as if seeing their ex in real life would be fatal. “I think the best advice is to make sure that you surround yourself with people who are on your side. It’s reassuring to know that you have people there for you,” Blaze Witcher, a business administration major, said. Scientific studies prove that reflecting on the good and bad aspects of a relationship are helpful in the long run. “Reflect on the relationship for what it was, likely it was neither all good nor all bad,” Dr. Karen Weinstein, a New York City psychologist was quoted in Businessinsider.com. “Resist the common tendency to idealize the relationship. It’s very common to only recall and focus on the wonderful aspects of the relationship. This makes it even harder to accept the reality that it’s over and is the equivalent of ‘denial’ in the stages of grief,” Weinstein said. Some students find it helpful to avoid their ex all together. “Disconnecting from them socially and keeping communication at a bare minimum helps get them out of your head faster. Don’t go to places they frequent because seeing them in real life is so awkward, you’d wish you’d never dated them,” Ryley Griffith, a general studies major, said. Most students agree that working on yourself is the best way to successfully get over a relationship. “Get some type of closure and do things that make you happy. You don’t need to rely on anyone else to make you happy,” Robert Auth, a criminal justice major, said.
News February 15, 2018
By MACKENZIE SHIRLEY Ranger Reporter
Illustration by Claire Ekas
The season of romance is upon us and couples everywhere are asking themselves this one important question: what do I get my significant other? Typically, they worry about what that person will think when they receive the gift. Lesley Ingham, an interpersonal communication professor, said, “A gift communicates many things, including affection, an apology, a thank you and tradition. You will choose a gift depending on the recipient.” Many gift-givers strive to find presents that show love for their significant others. Sarah Forsha, a radiology major, explained that little surprises are a good way to show your love. “For example, I had a really bad day the other day and my boyfriend brought home flowers to cheer me up,” Forsha said. Expressions of love aren’t always material. “I think the best way for someone to show their love is not necessarily about gifts, but more about always being there for them and making sure they never feel alone,” Kaleigh Newcomb, a nursing major, said. “It’s a nice gesture to give gifts every now and then, but it’s important to make sure you are not buying their love.” However, for every great gift, there is a gift horror story.
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Haley Ward, a nursing major, said cheap stuffed animals are a bad gift idea. “Bad Valentine’s gifts would be something that the significant other did not pick out or even put effort into,” Forsha said. “For example, a previous boyfriend gave me a Valentine’s gift that his mom picked out and wrapped for me. He just gave it to me and when I opened it he said ‘Oh cool, so that’s what she picked out for you. I had no idea.’” “It’s best to stay away from clothing, because size can be hard to tell, and boring household items like a blender,” Ingham said. Flowers are a common and traditional gift for your sweetheart. Although they can make a significant other’s heart flutter, prices range from $20 to $90, leaving some to believe they aren’t worth the cost. “For me I say no,” Ingham said. “Honestly, I believe that a single rose and my favorite chocolates are just as sweet as a dozen roses.” “I think they raise the prices around Valentine’s on roses, so it’s better to buy them any other day of the year,” Newcomb said. So steer clear of cheap stuffed animals and blenders. Instead go for classic gifts such as jewelry, chocolates or a simple sentimental gift from the heart.
Amarillo College wraps it up By LES JONES
comes from a grant given by the Department of State Health Service. “This grant In an effort to prevent the gives the city the funding to spread of HIV and sexually give out a minimum of 75,000 transmitted diseases, free condoms,” Marcus Nerious, condoms are available at the HIV and STD prevention Washington Street Campus. coordinator, said. The condoms can be found For the past two years, at the food pantry in the condoms have been provided Ware Commons and in the to AC by the city, but not downstairs bathrooms of the many students are aware. “I Collage Union Building. had no idea that they were Condoms are always in available. It can be a good stock at the Amarillo College and a bad thing. It is good to food pantry and there is no protect yourself, but bad limit to how many a person to encourage premarital may take. “It is to make sex,” Jessica Lindow, a preventative care available to vet tech major, said. everyone,” Ashley Hernandez, The state social service coordinator, of Texas said. has the For four years the Haven highest rate Health Clinic has provided of HIV and condoms for the AC food STD risk in bank. The condoms come the southwest from grants and the American region. Condom Campaign. Condoms “The goal of it is to have an 85 percent reduce teen and unwanted reliability rate. The pregnancies,” Abril Vasquez, use of condoms Haven Health Clinic director is not foolproof in of education, said. preventing unwanted Most AC students think it pregnancies or the is a good thing that they can spread of diseases, but it get condoms for free at the is a lot better than nothing. college. “It’s a positive thing If a student uses one as long as it helps students of the free condoms, it is and promotes safe sex,” his or her responsibility to Carter Hall, general studies check the integrity of the major, said. condom. The Amarillo City Health Health officials say to Department provides the never use one if the package condoms located in the CUB. is already open or has a hole Funding for these condoms in it. Ranger Reporter
ire Ekas
Illustration by Cla
6 NEWS The Ranger
February 15, 2018
The ‘Fauss’ about history By CHRISTIAN GARCIA Ranger Reporter
PATRICK NGUYEN|The Ranger
One of the many biology animals that are used for learning purposes.
Biology animals provide opportunities for students By PATRICK NGUYEN Ranger Reporter
The Amarillo College biology department is raising a number of animals in the Science Building such as, geckos, hamsters, a bunch of worms and a hedgehog named Wiffy just to name a few. All of the animals are being looked after by the lab and material supervisor or by the student workers. Gerek Burford, the AC greenhouse director, said that the animals are used in the biology labs. “Being a biology department, we think it’s a good engaging tool to have and know the students like to come by and say hi,” said Burford.
Burford also said that the animals are sometimes used during labs and for observation, so it’s important to always have them on hand. The biology department also uses the animals for other purposes besides lab experiments. “We keep microorganisms alive for the various classes to use for microscopy,” said Burford. “Some of the larger animals are used to promote biology, for instance at the last Community Showcase for local events all of our animals where used as teaching tools to promote interest in biology, plus who doesn’t like having a pet iguana?” With so many animals already at their disposal, the
biology faculty plan to get more animals once the greenhouse opens. “We should have a couple hundred new fish over there possibly catfish, possibly some shrimp, crawfish or tilapia even,” said Burford. Although the biology department has a huge number of animals used for labs, some students taking biology aren’t aware of the animals. Junyky Swe, a biology major said that they she was unaware of the animals at AC. Other students are excited about the animals sharing their campus. “I think it’s cool that they’re using animals as pets and for educational purposes,” Morgan Adams, a biology major, said.
“What the heck is going on here?” That’s the reaction first-time visitors to Amarillo College history professor Eric Fauss’ classroom often have. In one corner of the room, a group of students is rehearsing speeches. Dressed in homemade costumes, the students interrupt each other frequently with suggestions and laughter as they work together to craft their presentation. On the other side of the room, a different group makes signs and argues about women’s suffrage. As voices raise in friendly debate, one student grabs his textbook and reads aloud from a passage that supports his argument. It’s loud, chaotic and intensely interactive. It’s a typical day in Fauss’ class. Fauss teaches both U.S. History I and II and says he loves every bit of it. According to Fauss, his favorite part about teaching the classes are toward the end of the semester called ‘Reacting to the Past,’ a role-playing, history game in which members of the class are assigned to an actual, nonfictional character from a certain historical event in American history to capture how life was back then in that specific character’s perspective and point of view. “I really liked it and thought it was very interactive. It was kind of like being in a history textbook rather than just reading one,” said Cameron Babcock, a psychology major.
Eric Fauss
CLAIRE EKAS| The Ranger
“I liked having him in class. The way he teaches history is much better than anyone else that I’ve had in history classes in middle and high school,” said Bryan Arvello, mass media major. Fauss started with earning his bachelor’s degree at the State University of New York at Potsdam and later on earned his master’s and Ph.D at the University of Connecticut. Another reason why he teaches at AC rather than a university is because he loves how determined the college is to help students achieve their goals. “I believe AC, is extremely dedicated to their students and I love to be a part of that in any way that I can,” Fauss said. Fauss said he specifically wanted to become a college professor to teach adults simply because he believes they are more complex than high school or middle school adolescents. Some students would agree that his style of teaching is unique and understandable.
Pantry provides assistance Several hundred students helped in January with food and goods By JAUN RODRIGUEZ Ranger Reporter
The AC Pantry provides non-perishable food as well as clothes and other accessories to anyone in the AC community who may need a little extra help. The pantry provides these services for students who may face difficult decisions financially. AC opened the pantry in 2012 after a faculty member
saw students confronted with choices between paying for gasoline or paying for food. Since the college has opened the pantry, pantries at the East and West Campuses have opened as well. The pantry is donation-based, whether it is cash or actual goods such as food or clothes. “We are here to serve students the best we can which means stopping any barrier that may prevent a student
from being successful,” Jordan Herrera, director of social services, said. The pantry provided food and goods for up to 300 students just last month and received over 500 visits regarding the pantry throughout January. As of last year, another social worker was hired full-time for the AC pantry due to the increase of donations and students visiting. Students can choose items
based on his or her needs twice a month and fill a grocery bag with nonperishable goods. “Needs are absolutely being met,” Judith Lara, the social services assistant, said. “We provide assistance with tuition, transportation, utilities and car repairs.” Rene Granados was one of three students who was on the verge on dropping out of college in 2016 due to difficult decisions, but with the help of the
pantry, Granados went on to graduate college. The goal for the pantry is to make sure students never leave empty-handed. The pantry is located inside the Ware building in the Resource Center Room 108 on the Washington Street Campus. Donations may be made through the AC Foundation. For more information please contact Herrera or visit http:// actx.edu/socialservices.
Instructor inspires students By ANDREW MUNOZ Ranger Reporter
Seasoned college students say the chances of running into a great professor can make or break a class, no matter how interesting the subject matter is. It’s no secret that one of the best ways to hear about a professor’s teaching style is from students and the occasional employees who have been in the class or work alongside a professor. One of these professors is Edie Carter, the dean of academic success who teaches developmental math.
“She works really hard to make the classes interesting by showing how math is relatable to our students,” Kim McGowan, a math instructor, said. According to students, Carter goes above and beyond by showing how much she cares. “For me personally, she would tutor me in the morning time before class started. She would just help me with my homework,” Shauntelle Campbell, an education major, said. When Carter is working with students, the focus is always on her students and their learning. She focuses so much
Edie Carter
on how her students can develop and understand the lesson. When test time rolls around they will be able to pass as one
STEVI BRESHEARS|The Ranger
student said. “She has made it pretty painless. Our reviews actually applied to the tests, from the notes
and homework we had,” Taylor Rangell, a biology major, said She works extremely hard in the classroom, is completely dedicated to helping students outside of the classroom and is a leader across campus as one of her colleagues said. “She has a lot of character. She’s generous, has integrity. We share ideas and activities. We used to observe each other in the classroom so I have been able to get good ideas from watching her in the classroom,” Karen White, a developmental math instructor, said.
Culture February 15, 2018
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The Ranger
AC theatre produces ‘Fool for Love’ By SIR GAREN GRAYSON Ranger Reporter
Courtesy Photo
Staff of the music program pose for a picture after the recital.
Faculty recital showcases talent By ZAKARY GRIEGO Ranger Reporter
The “War and Peace” Music Recital performed by the staff and students of Amarillo College’s music program was truly enjoyable to attend. The recital took place early in the evening inside the Concert Hall Theater Feb. 10. With a decent sized audience in attendance, the performers did not disappoint. As I found my seat preshow, my attention was pulled toward the huge white background that contrasted with a massive black piano at center stage. Also, as the stage crew was setting up the instruments and chairs for the first act to begin, I noticed they too were wearing all black. I thought this was a nice little touch that complimented the theme of the recital well. The recital itself was made up of nine individual songs. The show began with a short
dialogue from Mary Jane Johnson, a music professor. “We want you to feel what composers feel during times of war,” Johnson said. The second song of the recital, written for piano and flute by a German-Jewish composer in 1927, drew the audience in and really set the tone. The piano specifically stood out in this song (as it did throughout the recital) and you could almost feel the emotion coming off the tips of music professor and pianist Diego Caetano’s fingers. The next notable song was written inside a World War II concentration camp. It was described by the composer as “Tangle of rainbows, for the angel who announces the end of time.” The emotion of the song was captured well by all four quartet members, however one stood out. Russell Steadman on the cello was captivating and I couldn’t take my eyes off his passionate performance. The ominous tones of the cello ac-
companied by the bright notes of the piano made this song one of the best of the night. Another memorable piece featured a quartet of guitars. The name of the piece, “Spanish Dance,” captured the mood with smooth, high pitched notes from the guitars that made me feel relaxed. I couldn’t stop myself from nodding my head and tapping my foot. They say save the best for last and that’s exactly what happened. The final song, “Wise One,” was my favorite of the night. “A song of cultural celebration, a song of peace,” Jim Laughlin, a music professor, said. Judging by the many times the audience broke into applause during the performance, I think it was an overall favorite. AC’s annual Music Faculty Recital was a success. The whole performance was well thought out. From the list of songs to the outfits of the performers, the music faculty got it right.
The Deltaz performing at the Amarillo College Concert Hall Theater.
CLAIRE EKAS | The Ranger
The Deltaz play bluesy country-rock at AC By JOSEPH HORNE Ranger Reporter
The Deltaz played a rousing set of alternative country/ rock tunes at the Amarillo College Concert Hall Theater at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, for a crowd of approximately 60 people. FM90, Panhandle PBS and the AC Creative Arts Community sponsored the free performance to show appreciation for students and the community. The crowd seemed to really enjoy the show from their applause, hoots and loud whistles of appreciation for songs like “Don’t You,” “Like Your Brother” and “Creek Bed.” The Deltaz’s performance was well done and the combination of earlier material with new material was evenly presented throughout the concert. They have a nice blended sound of old-time blues
sounds and hard driving guitar riffs. Brothers Ted and John Siegel work off each other’s talents extremely well. Ted’s deep throaty vocals and guitar licks combined with John’s ambidextrous drum and harmonica playing were amazing to watch and hear. Bassist Mico Olmos added depth to their rocking bluesy tunes. They may hail from California’s Los Angeles basin, but sound like they could have come from Texas’ music scene. Theirs is a true American sound and feel. Panhandle PBS and FM90 personnel set up the theater with colorful computer controlled light effects reflecting off-white mobile wall panels that added to the energy of the performance. The fans in attendance were mostly couples sitting together dispersed throughout the dark Concert Hall. “We liked everything about their performance,” Lance and
Melanie Cearly said. The couple had seen The Deltaz before and said they would see them again. Another couple said they really enjoyed the concert. “I thought the best thing about their performance was they expressed a lot of energy,” Steve Brown said. “I really liked how they began the concert with my favorite Deltaz song “Don’t You,” Rachel Hernandez, Brown’s girlfriend, said. John Siegel explained that he and his brother grew up enjoying their parents’ blues-influenced music. He stressed their desire to stay true to the authentic American sound influenced by blues, rock and country. The Deltaz have been touring nationally since 2012. They said they are especially fond of Amarillo because the city was the home of the first venue they performed in outside of California.
From Feb. 22-26 AC Theatre is performing “Fool for Love.” “It’s a Sam Shepard show. It’s kind of gritty. It is kind of rated R, so there are some challenges there,” Ray New Burg, assistant professor of theatre arts and director, said. “There is not any sexuality happening onstage but it is implied. “ Excitement is buzzing
throughout cast and crew of this particular play, with a brand-new face coming to the stage by the name of Jason Driver. “He is really working hard for this role, I like his dedication,” Harrison Blount, a theater major, said. Tickets are available for purchase with prices starting at $8 for adults, $6 for senior citizens, and $6 for current students and staff. Show times start at 7:30.
Courtesy Photo
Spend evening with retro and romance By BRANDAN WALDROP Ranger Reporter
If you’re looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day with an edgy, shaded romantic film that showcases a time when pure love could still be dangerous without gifts and a signed contract to include weekly spankings and kinky leather, then revisit the 90s cult classic, “True Romance.” Directed by the now deceased British filmmaker Tony Scott, who made numerous critically acclaimed films such as “Enemy of the State,” “Déjà vu” and “Man on Fire,” comes a film adapted from a script by the legendary filmmaker, Quentin Tarantino. The story follows a young, simple man named Clarence, played by Christian Slater, who lives in grimy downtown Detroit City. He enjoys comics and Kung-Fu movies as he lives in a loft above a comic book store where he works. After meeting a beautiful and mysterious young lady named Alabama, played by Patricia Arquette, coincidentally on the night of his birthday, he has the night of his life and feels that it’s too good to be true, true romance that is. Perhaps he was right, because his world will never be the same. This film tends to be in a world of its own, so keep that in mind as you sit back and fully take in the experience. There are plenty of pop-culture and classic film references for all film buffs alike in this movie. Plus the A-list cameos
that sprout up through the film will leave you shocked as they play unforgettable and unlikely characters, which will lead them to star in many more of Tarantino’s future films. Gary Oldman stars as Alabama’s ex-pimp, a dreaded gangster who is cold as ice when it comes to appreciating life. Samuel L. Jackson has a brief appearance as a drug dealer. Dennis Hopper plays a retired cop who is also Clarence’s dad. Christopher Walken gets his classic role as an Italian mobster. Brad Pitt even has a few lines as a stoner who rarely leaves the couch. Pitt’s character later influenced James Franco’s character Saul, in the raunchy comedy “Pineapple Express.” Val Kilmer plays an imaginary dead Elvis Presley, who lives in the back of Clarence’s mind and paces in the background while delivering subconscience messages. Once this film takes off, you’ll feel like you’re watching a love story that could have been a spinoff from “Pulp Fiction.” So fasten your seatbelts as this film will take you on a roller coaster (literally and figuratively) ride of emotions as the eerie soft instrumentals that repeat throughout will have you guessing whether you’re going to get a hallmark moment or a spurt of brazen violence. This movie pushes the limits to see if true love can exist in the most mundane of situations, causing one to ask, how much baggage is a man willing to take in the name of love?
8 Feature The Ranger
February 15, 2018
Dating can be difficult. Dating in college can be even worse. Youʼre always busy, schedules never line up and money is always scarce. Luckily, there are quite a few ways to have an enjoyable date without breaking the bank. Go hiking. In Amarillo, weʼre fortunate enough to be located minutes away from the second largest canyon in the United States. Palo Duro Canyon has an entry fee of $5 and the views are definitely worth it. There are hiking trails for beginning hikers and more advanced if thatʼs what youʼre looking for. Either way, itʼs a great way to get outside and explore the local beauty with your significant other.
Go on a picnic. Picnics are super easy to create, and can cost little if you pick the right food. Amarillo has several nice parks to choose from, and this would also be the perfect opportunity to watch the sunset. Have a movie marathon. It might not be warm enough for picnics in the park quite yet, but there are plenty of things to do inside. If youʼve got a streaming service subscription, a large collection of DVDs or a few bucks for a couple of RedBox rentals, you have all the ingredients you need for a movie marathon. Throw in some snacks and a couple of cozy blankets, and youʼve got yourself one fine date.
Have a game night. Game nights are always enjoyable, because theyʼre so incredibly versatile. You can keep them small, or you can invite some friends over and really get the competition going. The best part is that all you need are the games you already have stuffed away in your closet.
Go antique shopping. Sixth Street is a fantastic and underused resource for dates. There are tons of awesome shops to walk around in, even if you donʼt buy anything. While youʼre there, you could eat at one of the many restaurants or grab some coffee at The 806.
Go out for ice cream. Ice cream dates are a great way to beat the heat and spend time with each other. They offer the perfect setting for good conversation, without the pressure or price tag of dinner.
Go bowling. Admittedly, bowling can get rather expensive. However, Western Bowl has specials on certain nights of the week that can get you knocking pins down without forcing you to empty your pockets. A couple of games is always fun.
Volunteer together. There is no shortage of places and organizations to volunteer with in the Panhandle. This is a fantastic way to support a good cause, give back to the community and spend quality time with your partner. Itʼs also completely free.
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Get active together. Memorial Park at Amarillo College has basketball courts, tennis courts and a huge open park that is perfect for a multitude of activities. ¢
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Bake a cake. The ingredients for a cake can be obtained for a relatively small amount of money, and baking it together can be a blast. In the end, you get to eat cake. What could be better than that?