March 30, 2017 Volume 87 Issue 10
Honor society welcomes new members By JALYNN VINSON Ranger Reporter
Some Amarillo College students have reached a milestone in academic achievement. On March 24, the AC chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the national community college honor society, inducted new members. The inductions took place at 7 p.m. in the Concert Hall Theater. Current PTK officers, members and advisers welcomed new members into the honor society and congratulated them on reaching this turning point in their college careers. “Tonight’s induction is a recognition of the hard work and dedication put in by outstanding students at Amarillo College. Each person invited to join must have earned at least a 3.5 GPA with a minimum number of hours taken at Amarillo College,” Larry Adams,
New members join Phi Theta Kappa honor society.
co-adviser of Phi Theta Kappa, said. “They have reached a milestone in their college careers and the ceremony is a celebration of that achievement and a way to encourage each student to continue on their
path of excellence and road to achieving their goals. It is very rewarding to see students succeed at this level and also see their family and friends be recognized for supporting them along the way.”
JALYNN VINSON |The Ranger
Phi Theta Kappa is the largest honor society in higher education with 1,285 chapters on campuses in all 50 states and at least 10 other countries. The mission of PTK is to recognize academic achieve-
ment of community college students and to provide opportunities for them to grow as scholars and leaders. That is the sole purpose of the chapter at Amarillo College, according to members. Students develop lifelong relationships and have a great time in the process, members said. An elected team of officers leads numerous initiatives throughout the year to serve the campus and community. They organize several campus and community service projects and participate in a global honors project each year. The officers also attend an honors conference, leadership conference, district and regional conferences and an international conference each year.
Phi Theta Kapa continued on Page 6
Workshop addresses fears Second eight-week session begins By SAL GUTIERREZ Ranger Reporter
Possible deportation, obtaining a green card, student visas, leaving and reentering the country and other immigration-related concerns are causing anxiety for some Amarillo College students. Students, staff and community members crowded into the Oak Room on March 22 for a free workshop to address these worries. The AC legal studies program, the Legal Society of Amarillo College, the AC legal clinic and Legal Aid of Northwest Texas sponsored the program, which was led by local attorneys Shilpa Shah and Felipe Zavala. Their goal was to address worries and confusion about recent changes in immigration policies. Immigration processes and guidelines to obtain a green card or validated US citizen status captured attention as the attorneys provided information to calm fears. Students do not have an adequate understanding of immigration law and do not know what is going to happen with the new administration, according to Brett Howard, legal studies major and legal clinic staff member. “What we are trying to do is to find attorneys who are good at what they do, who know what they are talking about to go and give advice to students,” Howard said. Attorneys discussed students’ rights and responsibilities in various situations, such as when to provide information on legal status, different types of visas and
the future of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Josephine Rodriguez, legal studies major and president of the legal society, helped organize the workshop because for her the issue is personal. Rodriguez’s older sister came to the United States with her parents when she was a baby. “She is here under deferred action. She has honors for everything and she is a member of PTK. How do I help my sister stay here?” Rodriguez said. According to the Immigration Policy Institute, there are 1,932,00 subjects potentially eligible for DACA as of 2017 and the numbers may increase in the future, but, since Donald Trump took office, the future of DACA is unclear. Since the administration changed, many AC students have sought advice from the new legal clinic. “With all these executive orders being signed about immigration, we felt that we had to do something to bring awareness and let everyone know what they can do, and that they have a safe place to expose their situation in the legal clinic,” Rodriguez said. The AC legal clinic is located in the Legal Studies Department, on the third floor of the Byrd Business Building at AC’s Washington Street Campus. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Fridays by appointment only. Students can call to make an appointment or schedule via Facebook where it is listed as the Amarillo College Legal Clinic.
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By RYAN COTTEN Ranger Reporter
The second set of Amarillo College’s spring semester eight-week classes is underway and both Amarillo College students and employees say the college has sped up education and set up students for success in a short amount of time. Eight-week classes have become a popular alternative to the traditional 16-week classes, and have been the popular topic around campus. Eight-week classes include developmental courses: psychology, government, US History, liberal arts, sociology, composition and several more. “Some of the higherlevel classes, like classes in the STEM Program (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) will probably remain 16-week classes, but for the majority of our students, it seems to be working.” Frank Sobey, interim associate vice president of academic affairs, said. Eight-week classes are not a new concept. “We sent a team to Odessa Community College, led by our president, Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, and they explored the eight-week model and came back to AC and put an emphasis on developing the eight week classes. Wherever it makes the most sense we’re going to do it,” Sobey said. The change in the length of courses has dramatically increased students’ success rates. “My students were succeeding in a class at 80 percent, whereas before, I had been in the mid-60’s.” Sobey said. Several teachers and stu-
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dents are in favor on the new eight-week courses. “I think eight-week classes are great because you get done much faster and you stay engaged in the class the whole time because it’s going so fast,” Jared Aragon, a business administration major, said. Aragon has taken several eight-week courses including Texas Government and US Government and he said the shorter classes make it easier to pay attention and stay on track. “With a 16-week class it feels like you’re not engaged the whole time, and I think a lot of my friends like eight week classes online and like getting it done quick.” Professors have noticed an increase of attention and focus during the eight-week courses. “I seem to have less people drop or withdraw because it is so much quicker that they’re done, so they might as well
just hang on and get it done,” Dr. Elizabeth Rodriguez, an associate psychology professor, said. The condensed format also helps professors revise their courses. “I get to have more students that come through my class. I can also find out if something is working or not, so I can mess up in the first eight weeks, I can try to fix it and try to see if it works in the second,” Rodriguez said. Shortened courses can have its disadvantages. “Sometimes it can go a little too fast. “If you’re taking too many eightweek classes, it can be a little tough,” Aragon said. Professors also say the shorter time frame tends to decrease student-professor interaction. “I don’t know the students as much. Just when I get to know the students really well, they’re gone,” Rodriquez said.
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2 Opinion The Ranger
March 30, 2017
Mead award recognizes faculty Students are urged to nominate instructors
By GENE SOCKWELL Ranger Reporter
Who doesn’t like to be recognized for a job well done? Think about a time you have poured your heart and soul into something, have gone beyond the norm, have worked long hours that you didn’t get extra pay for, have taken on a difficult project because you want it to be successful or have been there for someone to help them accomplish a goal. You would want to be recognized for your effort and achievement. Well guess what, some faculty members do all that and more and don’t get the recognition they deserve. We’ve all had that one person during our college lives who has made an impact because of the way he or she has gone above and beyond to help us succeed. Maybe you have had an in-
structor who didn’t allow you to give up when you were ready to throw your hands up and quit. Now is your opportunity to recognize someone for doing an outstanding job. In everyone’s AC gmail inbox there is an email from Deborah J. Harding that gives you the opportunity to nominate that outstanding faculty member for AC’s most prestigious teaching award. The John F. Mead Award was created in 1988 and is named after the second AC president, whose unique contributions included leading the college during the 1930s and returning as a full-time member of the faculty in the 1960s. Criteria for the award are: demonstrated excellence in classroom teaching, research, service to the college, student and peer support and professional activities. The recipient will receive a plaque, $1,000 and a paid trip to a teaching seminar or professional meeting. So think about a professor who deserves to be honored. Take a few moments to fill out the short online recommendation form. Who knows, the faculty member you nominate may win.
Classes best in moderation EDITORIAL
Spring semester is passing by, and with the end finally in sight, it’s time to start planning for the next term. Summer and fall registration opens April 10. Now is the time to consider your registration options, but we, at The Ranger, urge you to be sure to build some relaxation time into your summer plans and think before you overcommit. Taking summer courses can be a great way to get ahead and speed up your path to graduation but, before you rush to your advisers’ office and sign up for summer classes-- make sure you are prepared. Though they are a great way to get courses out of the way, the fast-paced nature of two six-week summer sessions is
exhausting. Spring semester ends, a week passes by, and summer sections start. Even the most hard-working and high-achieving students are likely to ask themselves what they’ve just committed to. Unless students are truly willing to devote all of their free time to class or studying, they may not be successful in these high-pressure quickpaced courses. Even if students manage to survive intense summer schedules, they often find their relationships and emotional and mental health suffer. Do you want to start the fall semester exhausted and drained? We aren’t suggesting that you avoid summer classes, but you need to limit the number
of courses you take during the summer and think about your other responsibilities. Ask yourself if you’re willing to devote the time you will need to succeed. Make sure you’re not working too much or taking on more than you can handle. Now is the time to make an appointment to visit with your adviser about summer and fall registration. Use summer sessions strategically to balance your courses and space out the load. Summer sections are a great way to knock courses out and get ahead, but make sure to plan your schedule to avoid the dreaded burnout. So as you register for the summer, make time for yourself and relaxation before fall rolls around.
Ilustration by Destiny Kranthoven
By Charles Diaz
Recognize importance of mental health
Have you ever heard the phrases; “just be happy,” “it’s not that bad, just be calm,” “you’re probably just upset about something, it’ll go away,” “it’ll be OK, just don’t worry about it?” These phrases are often drilled into people’s heads as a way for society to push out the thought of someone feeling a certain way because of a mental health disorder. Therefore, people who suffer from disorders such as depression and anxiety are often told to push aside their feelings, be happier about whatever the situation may be, and simply move on. As someone who suffers from anxiety, panic attacks and depression, I would know firsthand that hearing the statements listed above do not help
the situation in any form. It’s also off-putting to know that serious issues like these are shut down in typical conversations due to society’s view on the matter. Most often, once people speak out and state that they’re suffering, they’re immediately judged because of the other person’s lack of understanding the disorder itself. Many people are blamed for their illnesses, and are often labeled as irresponsible or lazy for letting the illness take hold of their lives. For someone who deals with anxiety, panic attacks and depression daily, your mind could be filled with a ton of negative thoughts throughout your day. You may feel that your disorders are a weakness, a burden or an excuse to pop pills and skip planned events
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with friends and family: however, none of those thoughts are true. I have spent mornings wondering why I was panicking over eating a doughnut in front of my classmates. I have spent nights cursing at myself because I was crying about the smallest little things. The problem with society labeling the mentally ill is that many of these people suffering turn society’s comments inward and the harm themselves. It often leads to distress in people suffering that sometimes becomes worse than the illness itself. The most common aspect of society’s judgment toward mental illnesses is that they are more of a disease that can be treated and done away with once it ‘disappears.’ This is, however, not the
I believe this these people need to be heard. Speak up. Shout out. Make your voices heard so that the society around us can see that mental health is a serious topic that needs to be discussed. People with these disorders shouldn’t have to suffer any longer due to the way the outside world views the ‘side effects’ of mental illness. If you are suffering from any form of mental illnesses, don’t be afraid to admit to yourself and others around you that By JAYLNN VINSON this is something you’ve been Ranger Reporter case. Starting medication or struggling with. Admitting scheduling visits with a thera- you’re dealing with something pist/counselor may help people bigger than you can handle is who suffer from depression or the first step to recovery and a anxiety deal with their negative better outlook on life. I admitthoughts or actions, but these ted my struggles to myself and things do not essentially ‘cure’ a group of close people, and I haven’t looked back since. that person of the illness.
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.
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 March 30, 2017
Five Questions
with Trent Oneal, intramural director By GENE SOCKWELL Ranger Reporter
What activities are coming up for AC Intramurals? The activities that I’d like students to know about are the current softball season, which people can join until April 11. There will also be a one day soccer tournament on April 20 and a one day sand volleyball tournament on May 4. I also have plans for a night of paintball [but] no date has been set. What sport are you most excited about? As far as excitement I’m really enjoying softball right now because it’s so relaxed and there is so much camaraderie amongst all of the players – even players from different teams. My favorite although is sand volleyball. I’m a sanctioned referee for volleyball and I’m actually a pretty good volleyball player or a least I used to be when I was younger. When you have two teams playing against each other that are full of good players it can seem almost like a dance out on the court.
What goals do you have for AC Intramurals? My goal for the intramural program is to grow the number of participants and the number of opportunities for students to participate in. I would also love to increase the funding for the program so that extra initiatives could be considered as prizes and help increase participation and opportunities. What I would [love] to do even more though is to really get to know the students of AC and let them know that opportunities do exist for each and every one of them, and hope that they might get out of their comfort zone and become engaged. What is your greatest accomplishment with the intramural program so far? My greatest accomplishment so far has to be the implementation of the daily activities that take place at the Carter Fitness Center. There are games and sports offered every Monday through Thursday around the noon hour. We have had days with as many as 47 people participate and we play everything from dodgeball to capture the flag on Mondays, as every Monday is a different game. Every Tuesday is volleyball, Wednesday is ultimate handball, and every Thursday is basketball. What’s one thing that you would you like every AC student to know about intramurals? I hope that every student would realize that the opportunity exists to come participate, and experience level or fitness level shouldn’t hinder them from participation. Daily activities do not have to be signed up for, just come and play.
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Small changes create big results for fitness By JULIE RAMBIN Ranger Reporter
Spring is a season when consumers are bombarded with advertising for fitness and weight loss programs, to get ready for swimsuits and summer break. Some of these programs are expensive, and not all of them are effective. However, AC students looking to get fit and lose weight have the option of the fitness center on the Washington Street campus. “Currently enrolled AC students can now use the Carter Fitness Center at no charge,” Craig Clifton, fitness center director, said. Clifton and his team are working toward increasing funding for the fitness center, with the goal of offering free classes at the center. Currently, most classes at the center are fee-based. “Starting this summer, you’re going to see more classes offered here,” Clifton said. “Beginning in fall 2017, students, faculty and staff will be seeing more programs promoting fitness and wellness, and that will include weight loss programs.”
Why did you join intramurals?
Students who are trying to get fit and lose weight face numerous challenges, including emotional and psychological barriers to weight loss. “Each individual is different and everyone has different goals,” Clifton said. “Some people get upset and angry over weight loss – they might have food addictions and cravings, or just long-time habits, and those are tough to break.” Long-lasting weight loss can be achievable with longterm changes, Clifton said. The trick is to avoid so-called yo-yo dieting, losing weight on a fad diet and quickly gaining it back after a return to previous eating habits. “Weight loss in general is a very complicated issue. The best strategy is small changes that you can live with. If you can’t live with it for the rest of your life, figure out what you can live with,” Clifton said. “You might have to add foods to your diet, more fruits, vegetables, whole grains. It might involve taking sweets or high fat foods out of your diet. It might mean cutting out fast foods and cooking from home more often. It might involve changing habits – whether you
eat late at night or in front of the TV – that’s something that contributes to weight gain,” Clifton said. Clifton questioned the amount of money students spend on weight loss products. “Why spend the money on all these supplements and programs? Make changes in your diet, add some physical activity to your daily routine, get enough sleep, drink enough water.” Starting small is better than not starting at all. Though you should consult your health care provider before beginning an exercise program, adding activity is a small change nearly everyone can make. “Walking is a really good safe exercise that almost anybody can do,” Clifton said. “When you start out, you don’t want to be doing too much too soon. Start out moderately, even if it’s just walking.” The real difficulty of fitness and weight loss comes in making life changes for the long haul, Clifton said. “Most people know what they need to do, but doing it, and making those changes for the rest of your life is the hard thing,” Clifton said.
Patrick Sanders, Computer Information Systems Major I joined intramurals to meet people and get more practices for leagues.
PHOTOS BY GENE SOCKWELL | The Ranger
(above, left) Students practice and compete in softball and basketball through AC Intramurals.
Sabrina Trujillo, Surgical Technology Major I joined intramurals as a getaway from school and clinical. I’ve played softball for as long as I can remember and it feels great to get back on the field.
Tilor Stuteville, Mechanical Engineering Major I just love to play sports and have fun doing it. It’s just fun with no bad blood between anyone. GENE SOCKWELL | The Ranger
The team “Bad and Boujee” celebrates after placing first in the AC Intramural Basketball Tournament, March 3 at the Carter Fitness Center.
4 News The Ranger
March 30, 2017
Students lose layers as days get warmer By: CRISTINA GOMEZ Ranger Reporter
As the weather gets warmer, the layers get lighter. When spring arrives, students trade their sweaters for tank tops, but some Amarillo College students and employees say there is a time and place for everything-- and school specifically may not be the most ideal place to pull out that mini skirt or tube top. Amarillo College does not have a dress code. “We shouldn’t need a dress code because we’re adults,” Payton Nelson, a general psychology major said. “We should be modest in the way we dress because it’s our professionalism. We’re here to learn and not distract anyone.” There’s a thin line between
freedom of expression and disrespect. T-shirts with profanity, see-through leggings, yoga pants and crop tops, may be literally and figuratively cool to some, but can be distracting and offensive to others. “Just be respectful and remember that this is an academic environment,” Jill Gibson, mass media program coordinator, said. The rule of thumb is wellknown to anyone who attended public high school in Texas. “I was brought up that skirts and shorts should be fingertip length.” Heather Carlton, a surgical technology major, said. Maddisun Fowler, instructor and student media coordinator, said she has witnessed a common misconception about leggings. “Leggings are
Leggings are not pants - Maddisun Fowler, student media coordinator
not pants!” Fowler said. Carlton said people should dress appropriately for their bodies. “Yoga pants for example, some people should wear them others shouldn’t. It’s distracting,” Carlton said. Avoiding becoming a distraction to fellow classmates is not the only reason to dress more modestly. The way students dress can impact success in school and in life, according to Gibson. “Clothing choices
affect the way you feel and the way you feel affects the way you perform.” Gibson said that she requires her students to dress in business casual clothing when representing AC on school trips. “People treat you differently if you look respectable.” Nelson seconded that point, noting that small actions that seem unimportant now can have greater effects in the future. “Watch how
Tips for surviving the spring slump By LIBBY GIBSON Ranger Reporter
Students and faculty shared their tips for spring semester success: Dr. Beth Rodriguez, psychology professor: In the spring the hardest part is going to class because the weather is so nice. My tip is just suck it up and go to class. Schedule the fun stuff after class times -- kind of as a reward for going to class. Drink plenty of water. Wear clothes that are appropriate. If your mom or dad would ask you to change then don’t wear it. Dr. Stefanie Decker, history professor: I guess one of my tips would be to get sleep. Too many of my students are sleep-deprived, which impedes their class performance and ability to attend class. So get enough sleep. Brigette Crosslin-Sims, physical therapy: I would have to say staying on top of the materials for class such as notes and pictures of models etc. It may seem easy when you are talk-
you’re dressing because how you present yourself now can represent your professionalism later on in your career,” Nelson said. Since dressing inappropriately can harm the learning environment and can damage the scantily-clad student’s reputation, Carlton said she feels college professors have a responsibility to speak up if a student is making poor clothing choices. “Faculty should be allowed to comment if someone continues to dress in a manner that is distracting in class,” Carlton said. So as Texas heat starts rising, both students and faculty said they hope people will make appropriate clothing choices. Be cautious and courteous to others and remember, it’s a classroom -- not a beach.
ing about it as a group but once you are alone it can get a little complicated. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions or even answer questions in class even if it’s not the right answer. If possible try to get a study group, every little thing helps. Macey Gibaszek, history major: I use multiple things to plan out my day. I write in my planner and keep it bright and eye catching so that way I’m more likely to actually look at it. I also set alarms and reminders on my phone to be sure I do things. Every assignment and event is written in multiple places to be sure I don’t forget and hold myself accountable. Also I nap, at least once a day. Jo Moore, nursing major: Some tips for spring success are to find some motivation. Spring is basically the last leg of the relay. You just have to hang in there and hope to finish on top. Stay dedicated and don’t let the fact of almost being done for the year keep you from doing your best.
“The first day of spring is one thing, and the first spring day is another. The difference between them is sometimes as great as a month.”
-Henry Vandyke
“Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!’” -Robin Williams
“The beautiufl spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also.”
-Harriet Ann Jacobs
News March 30, 2017
k l a w a e ak
1: T
c i n c i p a e
2: Hav
4: Ride a bike 5: Enjoy a snowcone
ook b a d a e R : 6 r ou y h t i w e k r a p e 3: Driv h t in n w o d s w o wind
7: Fly a kite 8: Blow bubbles 9: Climb a tree
10: Go for a
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run
11: Stop and smell the roses 12: Enjoy th e weather
Don’t be a chump, By SENTORA RODRIGUEZ Ranger Reporter
Spring break has come and gone, and it seems like there are fewer people attending class. The last eight weeks of the semester really separate the serious students from the slackers. It is difficult once the weather gets nice to sit in a classroom, and even harder when you are tired and burned out. Dr. Deborah Harding, Amarillo College psychology professor, said a burn out results from a variety of factors, including poor sleep and poor nutrition. “Working and trying to go to school, poor study habits, lacking time and money management skills and lacking social support are all examples of things that leave us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted,” Harding said. “All of these factors lead us to experience symptoms such fatigue, depression and sadness, anxiety and even panic, as well as the sense that we just don’t care
anymore.” So what are some things students can do to get themselves through these last eight weeks? Vanessa Salas, a business administration major, said to always remember why you go to school, keep that in the back of your head and finish strong. “Keeping myself focused on pretty days when I can be on the patio at Ruby’s
is hard,” Salas said. “I know more of those days are to come with no worries of school once I complete my degree.” Alex Fairbanks, an engineering major, says his advice is not to let yourself slack off and make sure y o u are
mentally prepared for class. “Make sure you are going to bed at a decent time,” Fairbanks said. “If you go to bed early, you can wake up early.” Harding says there are many things students can do to get themselves through the spring slump. The Counseling Center and the Student
Resource Center can help with study skills and time management. Harding also says to make sure you are getting plenty of rest and try to exercise daily. “Take a 20 minute walk or even pull some weeds,” Harding said. “There are lots of ways to get exercise.” Harding says to also review your goals. Write out the reasons you want an education and remind yourself of the prize at the end of the tunnel. “Getting an education is not easy,” Harding said. “If this were easy, everybody would have a degree. Hang in there.”
6 NEWS The Ranger
March 30, 2017
The majority of Alabamians considered Virginia and Clifford Durr traitors for supporting the Black civil rights movement in the 1950s.
President Clinton said, in a statement: ‘’A white woman, born to privilege in the Deep South, Mrs. Durr refused to turn a blind eye to racism and intolerance in our society.” Virginia Foster Durr was on hand when Rosa Parks was bailed out of jail where she was being held for not giving up her seat on a bus to a white man in 1955.
Event marks women’s history month By Macey Gibaszek Ranger Reporter
Each year Amarillo College hosts a lecture in honor of Women’s History Month. This year the lecture was held on March 22 in the Ware Student Commons. The theme for this year’s event was “our strength is our history.” Dr. Stephanie Decker discussed the life of Virginia Foster Durr, an unlikely activist whose work began in the 30s and carried on all the way into the 60s. Born in 1903, Durr came from a prominent Birmingham, Alabama family. Her father was the minister at a well-known church, and like many well-off white children during that
time, Durr was raised by an African-American nurse that she called Nursie. When Durr was seven, a family member called Nursie the N-word and Durr grabbed a knife and threw it at them. “That was the first time she realized southern society was segregated,” Decker said. After briefly going to college, Durr came back to Alabama and married an up-and-coming lawyer by the name of Clifford Durr. Her sister, Josephine, would later marry Hugo Black who would go on to be a Supreme Court Justice from 1937 to 1971. “Virginia and her husband are going to be a force when
it comes to civil rights,” Decker said. When the Great Depression hit, Durr saw the severity of poverty and suffering that her upbringing had shielded her from. She started up milk drives to help malnourished children. “I saw the world as it really was,” Durr wrote. During the Depression, Durr’s family would lose its plantation. This would lead Durr to not only realize the problems poverty created for children, but also for women. “Her social consciousness began to be awakened,” Decker said. After her husband lost his job, they, along with many other New Dealers,
moved to D.C. Durr joined the Women’s Division Democratic Party. One goal of the group was to get women, especially in the south, to get involved in politics. One of the biggest barriers keeping women from voting, or even being active in politics, was the poll tax. While men were willing to fork up enough money to pay the tax, they often would not be willing to do the same for their wives. Durr would spend about the next 10 years striving to get rid of the poll tax. Durr and her husband supported and were deeply involved with the civil rights movement. During the
Selma march they housed protestors and fed them. She was close friends with Rosa Parks, and was there to bail her out when she was arrested for not giving up her bus seat to a white person. Durr called Parks a “lovely woman,” and when Parks heard of Durr’s death in 1999, she said, “She was a lady and a scholar, and I will miss her.” “I believe in equal rights for all citizens and I believe the tax money that is now going for war and armaments and the militarization of our country could be better used to give everyone in the United States a secure standard of living,” Durr once said.
PTK spring 2017 induction Continued from page 1
Cecilia Azpiroz Gutierrez Moving to the United States is a big adjustment and one of the most significant changes is the weather, according to Cecilia Azpiroz Gutierrez, an administrative assistant at Amarillo College. Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Azpiroz Gutierrez came to the United States in 2001. “America is really windy, especially in the Midwest,” she said. “It was hard to get used to the wind and I
realized that I had allergies.” According to Gutierrez, Amarillo is more easygoing than Buenos Aires. Azpiroz Gutierrez said she misses some of the springtime actives that occur there. “We have the most important polo tournament, go to clubs and there are many tourists that come through. Another classic thing we do is have barbeques with a lot of extended family because all of our family lives in Argentina.” The weather in Amarillo is also different. “Amarillo is not as humid, the night life here is not as exciting and for students the school year
ends in the spring,” Azpiroz Gutierrez said. Since Argentina is south of the equator the seasons are reversed. “November is spring for us and in America it is fall, so that was different.” Education is also different in Argentina. Students start their school year in February or March and are done in December, whereas in America students go to school from August to May. Even though Argentina and America are on different hemispheres, springtime is an occasion for people to come together and enjoy the nice weather.
During the year, the officers and members work on various projects related to the college project and honors research. This year the chapter won awards of merit for both its Honors In Action project and its college project. One of the officers, Citlaly Zamarippa, received recognition as Outstanding Chapter Officer in the Texas region. Larry Adams was awarded the Horizon award for his work as an adviser in the Region. “These are huge honors for our students and excellent recognition for the college,” Zamarippa said. Lexi Reyes is the current president of AC’s PTK chapter. Her job position includes helping with general meetings, working to recruit new active members, helping fellow officers fulfill their roles, helping new members better understand what Phi Theta Kappa is and making sure the organization is
known on campus. She has been president for almost a year now. She has just recently finished her term as a regional officer of the Texas region. “From my personal experience, I know the amazing opportunities that Phi Theta Kappa can offer and it’s exciting to see these new members be given a chance to take advantage of these wonderful opportunities. I hope that these students will take an active role within the society and even pursue leadership roles as well. Since I will be finishing my term as president soon, it’s exciting to see the new members that could be an officer for next year,” said Reyes. “My advice would be to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Step out of your comfort zone. I promise that whatever you put into Phi Theta Kappa it will be given back to you 10 times over. Don’t be afraid to take the risk.“
Culture March 30, 2017
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The Ranger
Kong enjoyed by the least likely of fans
Infamous ape delights new audiences in spinoff of classic film By LIZ MOORE
Ranger Reporter
REVIEW
I was someone who was never into the movies like “King Kong” or “Godzilla,” I’d much rather watch Disney movies. So when my friend asked me to go with him to see “Kong,” I wasn’t too excited. I had never seen anything regarding King Kong and the trailers for this movie, while good, never really captured my attention, I didn’t think I would like it very much. Boy, was I wrong. Set at the end of the Vietnam War, this movie follows people wanting to learn more, people just on assignment and following orders and people who are just there for the money involved. Every character that walks away having learned monumental lessons that no doubt change their lives forever. The film begins with a fight between two fighterpilots on an island. It then jumps to 30 years in the future where a group of people are planning to explore Skull Island. As soon as they land on the island, they begin dropping bombs to help map it out. The infamous Kong is then introduced as he slaughters a large portion of the group. After the massacre, the group’s trip changes from one of exploration to one of survival. They meet natives who worship Kong and believe he protects them from other monsters. The native’s story of Kong’s history shed a sympathetic light on him rather than a monsterous one. The group soon learns that Kong killed their peers as a form of protection from other monsters that inhabit the island. They then go on a long and dangerous journey throughout
Courtesy Photo
the island to find other survivors and resources. However, not everyone has the group’s best interest in mind. While the group originally views Kong as a monster, as the film progresses, many of their perceptions change. Some of the members of the group set out to protect him, even though that may require them putting themselves in the line of danger. Luckily, this action-filled film has a happy ending for the
redeeming characters. Both the humans and socalled monster are able to see the good in each other and work together. I loved the movie. I hated some characters, loved many, but above anything else—I loved the movie. The cinematography blew me away. There were so many shots that were just so beautiful that I was just in awe, even if the shots involved fire or people fighting for their lives.
people’s input, it really helps the picture come together you know? This is also the hardest part about it. People can get easily frustrated but hopefully we can just take it easy and take our time with it,” Stewart said. Dorian (Kipper) Sinclair, a mass media major, agrees that working together cooperatively can be challenging. “I think once it is done it’ll be really cool. It’s just getting to the point of having everything together so it can come together,” Sinclair said. Claymation films require hours of focus and time. “There’s a massive amount of work that goes into a Claymation film but the results are always really cool,” Sinclair said. One of the project goals was to come up with a fun topic. “You don’t want to choose something too dark or too thought-provoking. The whole idea of Claymation is just to entertain. Our other goal is to see what people think about our Claymation,” Salvador
Gutierrez, a mass media major and Film Club president, said. “We are planning to shoot 60 frames per second. Stop motion movies usually do less than 60 fps but we want to give it a try.” The Film Club has produced many projects and competed in film contests but the students said this Claymation project has been the most difficult by far. It is an area of film where the members have had little to no experience. “Getting everybody on the same page has been difficult. Getting everyone together has been the other thing,” said Sinclair. “So far the most impressive thing has been the clay characters that have been made.” Members said they are looking forward to seeing their efforts come to fruition in this new challenge. The video will be published on “The Amarillo College Film Club” Facebook page as well as the “acrangerstaff ” YouTube channel and the “AC Film Club” channel.
Film Club puts clay in motion By RAZ RAZMUSSEN Ranger Reporter
Amarillo College’s Film Club is embarking on a trek to complete its first ever Claymation film. The short film is expected to last for two to three minutes. It will focus on the trials of a starving family of flies. The Film Club is now in the production phase; which club members say is difficult. “I think it is a very tedious but very rewarding process. It’s probably one of the most interesting ways to create a film, it’s just a lot of work but it teaches patience for sure,” said Carly Stewart, an art major. Stewart has been the main sculptor behind the characters. “I’ve been using clay for a few years. I like to do modeling a lot, the little characters and the like. I hope we end up with a product that we all really enjoy and are proud of,” said Stewart. In addition to learning about filmmaking and sculpture, the students are learning teamwork. “I really like hearing other
But just as much as I loved the cinematography, I was really into the story. The fight between right and wrong, good and evil--that fight that so many people love to watch and read about was so perfectly executed that I couldn’t look away. The characters have depth and backstories, and even Kong, this giant monster, has a storyline that made me emotional. There was actually one part in the big finale fight where I
almost started crying for him. This movie has all the right elements. It is part-action, partthriller and part-perfection. The characters are terrified for all the right, and sometimes wrong, reasons. The film does not spend too much time on the backstories of any characters because there is fighting to get to, but when the movie focuses more than one minute on a backstory, it ends up being worth it. Of course anything with Samuel L. Jackson is amazing. His never-ending talent and ability to bring the simplest of characters depth is admirable, but for the first time, he plays a character I didn’t really like. I was rooting against him for the majority of the movie, and I wasn’t really expecting to dislike his character. He usually plays my favorites so that was a shock. From his introduction, you could tell he is someone who doesn’t want to come home from the war. In the beginning of the movie, when they’re talking about going home because the war is over, he’s in his office staring at all of his medals and awards. As soon as someone presents the opportunity to keep fighting, he jumps at it, even though it means his men don’t get to see their families when they should. All of the actors involved are amazing, versatile actors. Tom Hiddleston plays a man who is only in it for the money. Brie Larson plays a photo journalist who gets more than she bargained for. Everyone else just hopes to go home and definitely did not sign on for this war. Kong: Skull Island was an amazing movie that did way better than I thought it would, and I’m glad I got to go see it. It’s definitely one to go see with someone so that you can discuss it afterward.
8 Feature The Ranger
March 30, 2017
Illustration by DESTINY KRANTHOVEN
Performers shine in student-run
major, said. For mass media major Jonathan Gibson, this experience was also a first. It was his first time to produce and direct a studio production. “It was stressful, but it definitely could have gone worse and I hope that the episodes in the future will be even better,” Gibson said. Smooth Taste’s lead singer Sutten Mcwaters, also plays the keyboard and occasionally the rhythm guitar. When he was in second grade, Mcwaters became involved in music. He was in the Amarillo Youth Choir and while in high school was in choir and even auditioned for All-State.
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“I have been making music with Blake Rogers since junior year of high school. We started writing our own songs and made our own demo,” Mcwaters said. “Then we met these guys and they just happened to have the same music taste.” David Lovejoy added that, “It could not be done without the hard work of each and every student on the crew. This is a total team effort.” Be sure to look for these upcoming episodes of Jackson Street Presents in April and future episodes at acranger. com. You can find The Trees and Smooth Taste on Instagram using the handles @thetrees94 @tastethesmooth.
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Jackson Street Presents has featured numerous local artists from a wide variety of musical genres. The most recent episodes spotlight two Amarillo groups -- The Trees and Smooth Taste. The Trees includes Jordy Lucero, who writes music and sings, and Nick Schmitto, who serves as producer. Members of Smooth Taste include Sutten Mcwaters, the lead singer, Blake Rogers on lead guitar, bassist, Nathan Gimpel and drummer, Pierce Lawson. This was Smooth Taste’s first live studio recording. “It was a unique experience and overall I think it went pretty well,” Lawson, a mass media
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As two local Amarillo bands tuned their guitars and adjusted their mics, there was a sense of excitement and tension in the air. Camera operators were making final adjustments while producers and floor managers checked equipment. As a hush swept through the room and the countdown reached one, host David Lovejoy introduced the first episode of the season and the musical guests. On Thursday, March 23, 2017, Amarillo College students recorded this semester’s first episode of the music per-
formance web-series Jackson Street Presents. Jackson Street Presents is an entirely student-run web series hosted by mass media major David Lovejoy. Lovejoy began the series in the Fall of 2015, when he was working as the student program director at FM90. He said he felt that there was a lot of local music that he wanted to spotlight. He also said he noticed that there were many students who wanted more hands-on video production experience. “It was a way to allow students to come in and do this type of production and work on an actual show,” Lovejoy said. Now in its third season,
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CLAIRE EKAS | Ranger Reporter