December 8, 2016 Volume 87 Issue 6
AC VP resigns By JENNA GIBSON and EMILY PRISK Ranger Reporters
On Dec. 1, 2016, Amarillo College President Dr. Russell LoweryHart announced the resignation of Dr. Deborah Vess, vice president for Academic Affairs. Vess began working at AC as the VPAA in 2014. Dr. Tamara Clunis, dean of Academic Success, has been named interim VPAA while a search is conducted, Lowery-Hart said. Frank Sobey, dean of Arts and Sciences has been named interim associate VPAA. “Dr. Vess was a great academic leader who worked to advance many of our programs,” Lowery-Hart said. In an email to college staff, Lowery-Hart announced that Vess has opted to pursue other opportunities that will further enhance her career. According to Lowery-Hart, Vess brought important focus to the college’s No Excuses 2020 Plan. “Without her systems thinking, we would not be as far along as we are with accelerated learning, stackable credentials and guided pathways. We will continue to build on these parts of our plan with even greater commitment to students and each other,” Lowery-Hart said. In regard to his new position, Sobey said, “My job now is to continue working on the initiatives she put into place to implement the aspects of the No Excuses 2020 Strategic Plan that are located within Academic Affairs. I am humbled by the opportunity to be the interim Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, appreciative
Deborah Vess
of the responsibilities that the position places on me, and extremely confident in Dr. Tamara Clunis’s leadership as the interim Vice President of Academic Affairs and the team she has assembled around her.” “As a college, we thank Dr. Vess for her dedicated work and wish her well on all the great things ahead for her,” Lowery-Hart said. According to Sobey, this change in leadership should not impact students in noticeable ways, as Vess did not have much interaction with students in her role. “Her implementation of key aspects of the No Excuses 2020 Strategic Plan is what primarily affected students’ ability to identify and achieve their educational goals,” Sobey said. “We have good people already in place, from President LoweryHart and his leadership team to the faculty and staff, who support the vision and mission of the college and who will continue to advocate for students and develop an educational experience that enables them to be successful,” Sobey added. According to Lowery-Hart, Vess’ plans, as well as the No Excuses 2020 plan will continue in full force. “Our plan won’t change. My hope is that we will move forward in greater trust, transparency and communication together,” Lowery-Hart said.
What’s inside: The gift of travel
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n w o d t n u o c s l a n fi e h t It’s By MICAH SMITH and JENNA GIBSON Ranger Reporters
As this semester comes to an end, the approach of finals week edges out the excitement of the holidays. While tensions are high, finals week doesn’t have to be tearinducing. It’s time for students to step away from energy drinks and late night cram sessions and come to terms with healthy study habits. According to a survey by The Associated Press and mtvU, 80 percent of college students reported feeling overwhelmingly stressed and nearly 40 percent reported feeling depressed and anxious due to their studies. “The stress I am feeling as finals approach is a feeling of a never-ending list,” Hailey Brown, a dental hygiene major, said. “I feel like every professor keeps adding and adding to the list of things to complete. I feel exhausted and like I will never catch up.” According to a study done by the Center of Young Adult Health and Development, in 2011, 31 percent of college students
reported abusing prescription stimulants non-medically to induce concentration, such as Ritalin or Adderall. Finals week is a big deal, but according to experts, it doesn’t have to cost students both their physical and mental well-being. “Your brain is fragile. Just relax, eat right and get some sleep,” said David Vilena, a tutor at the Math Outreach Center. While night does seem like an opportune time to get in a few extra hours of studying, research shows that students who are deprived of the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep per night often have lower GPAs, are more inclined to illness and are more susceptible to feelings of stress and depression. A little bit of planning can mean all the difference in a student’s study regimen. “I use a planner, because it helps me keep track of when I need to get things done,” said Allison Prater, a chemistry major. Planning doesn’t have to be elaborate or even used every day. Planning can be a to-
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do list or even a post-it note reminder. “Flashcards are my favorite way to study,” said Christen Brandt, a business management major. From color coding to mind maps, there are innumerable ways to study, but some of the best resources are on campus. “We just want students to know that this is a sanctuary for them to study. We will help them,” said Vilena. The Math Outreach Center, the Science Enrichment Center and the Writer’s Corner are equipped with tutors and other resources to help students in their study endeavors. Jo Moore, a nursing major, said she has gotten used to the stress she feels during school. “I’m not too worried about finals because I feel prepared for them, but the pressure is still there. I have learned how to deal with the stress by calming down and focusing on what needs to be done. I like to take things one step at a time,” Moore said. Lindsey Eggleston, a counselor at the AC Counseling Center, said the majority of her clients have faced issues with stress in their academics.
“It is very common for stress to increase as finals approach because it reminds students that this is their last chance to get their grades up to the level they want before the class ends. As stressful as finals can be, it is important for students to still take care of themselves,” Eggleston said. “My best advice for students who may be starting to feel overwhelmed is to stay organized, avoid procrastination and make time for yourself to relax. Schedule breaks from your studying and let yourself go for a walk or take a hot bath so you can have time away from the books,” she added. “It is important to remember that while feeling stress during finals is normal, there are healthy ways to cope with the stress and not let it take over your life,” Eggleston said. The impending doom of finals looms over campus, but with dedication and some constructive study habits, finals week can be nearly tear free. The counseling center will be open until Dec. 16. Students interested in scheduling an appointment can contact Promise Garrison at 371-5191.
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2 Opinion The Ranger
december 8, 2016
The obligatory season of giving becomes a burden EDITORIAL
Do you feel obligated to give a gift if someone gives you one? Why or Why not?
“It’s just instilled in my brain, I don’t want to be owing something to somebody. I want to give back.” Chad Leavitt
Business Management
“Yes, I do feel obligated because I feel like it’s the nice thing to do.” Kristin Pevehouse General Studies
“I do feel obligated because I feel like I have to give them something in return. To just be nice, not rude.” Eddy Delgadillo
Business Mangement
Ah the season of giving. A time to cherish those around you and display your appreciation for them materialistically. What a magical time, right? Wrong--the season of giving has quickly become the season of burdening with white elephant exchanges, secret Santa gifts and that uncomfortable surprise when a well-meaning coworker shows up with an unexpected present and you quickly scramble for anything laying nearby. The holidays become consumed with feelings of obligation and panic to find a gift to make things “even.” When did this selfless season become such a selfish one? Instead of being grateful and touched by receiving a gift, we find ourselves saying, “Oh no! Now I have to get them something when am I going to find the time?” Our hearts are no longer filled with love
and the desire to show others our appreciation with gifts. We are immediately filled with dread, drudgery and the disappointment that we now have one more thing to get done during this hectic time. We, The Ranger, are here to tell you now is the time to ditch the awkward gift-giving scramble. Be authentic. Own up to your lack of preparation and admit you didn’t think to get them something and quite frankly do not have the
Illustration By: DESTINY KRANTHOVEN
time. Don’t make excuses about still needing to wrap that present or uncomfortably grab a pen and a pad of sticky notes nearby and offer it to the giver with a sheepish grin. Just say, “Thank you so much,” and move on, obligation free. Who says an act of kindness has to be met with an act of reciprocity? A hand-written thankyou note, a smile or a hug are all that you really need to give in return.
Plus, if the giver is truly giving from his or her heart, nothing is expected in return and, for those of you who are giving to get, shame on you. That is not what the holidays are all about. Let’s band together to stop the season of burden and change it back into a season of genuine giving. The holidays should not be a time of guilt, burden and mandatory materialism. Free your wallet and your psyche and embrace true peace on earth.
foods to coats. Many of us get caught up in our busy lives and we often forget to help people in our community. Every year during Thanksgiving and Christmas, ‘Pay it forward’ stories become more frequent. Witnessing others give is a beautiful thing, especially with all the bad things going on right now. It is important that we use this time to help others, spread love and inspire others to follow the same footsteps.
amount to in the long run? Not a lot. It’s not as if the universities would be unable to operate by missing out on the potential profits from denying transfer students the credits they have rightfully earned. All universities and community colleges across the country should be collaborating, rather than working against one another, to ensure that students don’t have to waste countless hard-worked hours and countless hard-earned dollars. I should have looked into the transfer process earlier instead of naively assuming that every credit hour would transfer to the university of my choice.
Student says embrace reason behind holiday season ‘Tis the season! With Starbucks unveiling the seasonal cup and all the mall decorations, the holidays are at the forefront of our minds. Everywhere I go, there’s something reminding me that the holiday season is here. Radio stations beginning to play Christmas music, neighborhoods lighting up and families coming together are some of the perks that come with the holidays. It is time to get in the spirit and embrace
the beauty this season has to offer. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Why? For many reasons. Family and friends unite, while forgetting about the negative to remember the good. Longlost relatives roll into town. Aromas from your favorite dishes penetrate your nostrils and new memories develop. The holiday season is a great opportunity to take time off work and school to celebrate with
loved ones. Plus, it gives you a chance to update Instagram with new family photos. All year I look forward to one entree and it’s tamales, usually cooked in bulk and used as leftovers for the following days. Truly, honestly, the holidays are a blessing. Santa Claus makes his appearance for pictures at the mall, neighborhoods get brighter and the Elf on the Shelf stays busy. Since most of us have made the naughty list,
the only thing we’re getting from Santa this year is a picture. Cruising
different neighborhoods becomes a seasonal hobby. A street full of decorated homes can put anyone in a great mood. Scrolling down your Facebook timeline becomes more entertaining, as mothers post their Elf on the Shelf doing crazy things to keep their children on Santa’s nice list. During this season, it is more common for people to help the less fortunate, donating anything from canned
By JONATHAN GIBSON
do so as elective credits. They might as well not transfer at all, because elective credits mean absolutely nothing to me. Frustrating, isn’t it? An article published by “Inside Higher Ed” states that 80 percent of community college students planned to transfer to a four year university at the time they enrolled, but only 25 percent transfer within five years. Of that 25 percent, just 17 percent complete a bachelor’s within six years of transferring. This percentage is alarmingly low. I believe that part of the problem is the difficulty transferring credits from community colleges to universities. Thankfully, some
universities and community colleges are collaborating and creating programs to ensure that all credits earned will transfer. One example of this is the “2 + 2” partnership between San Antonio’s Alamo community colleges and Texas A&M University. There’s a similar agreement in the works between Amarillo College and Texas Tech’s mass communication department. According to a 2014 study conducted by the American Educational Research Association, over 10 percent of community college students lose nearly every credit they’ve earned after transferring, leaving them only one option -
to start over completely. This is not OK. Students should not be punished for attending community college. Attending a university is insanely expensive, as I’m sure you know. Many students simply cannot afford to attend university straight out of high school, and community college is their only other option. There is no good reason that these similar, high quality classes should not transfer to a higher institution, but all universities are, of course, driven by profits, and if they refuse to accept community college credits they’ll make quite a bit more money from that individual student. What does this
By FRANKY CANCHOLA Ranger Reporter
Transfer problems lead to classes that don’t count
About a year and a half ago, as I registered for my first semester at Amarillo College, I was excited. Excited to meet new people, to (hopefully) make new friends, to learn new things, and most importantly to earn credits that would eventually transfer to a university. I am now preparing to start my last semester at AC, and I have achieved all of those things, but I find myself disappointed by one in particular - the ability to transfer class credits to a university - more specifically the University of North Texas. Upon visiting UNT last summer, I discovered that many of the classes I had already taken at
Ranger Reporter
Amarillo College will not transfer and count toward a bachelor’s degree in media arts. UNT and many other public universities in the state of Texas will not accept transfer credits that are majorspecific. The classes will transfer, but they’ll only
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Student Media exists to serve you--the students. The Ranger serves as an open forum where you can learn and talk about the things that matter to you. The Ranger staff urges you to get involved. Submit ideas, photos, writings and videos. Tell us what you want covered. A public critique and meeting session is open to the campus community at 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.
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News december 8, 2016
3
The Ranger
The gift of travel: students spend holiday in Japan By DUSTIN CLARK Ranger Reporter
Some of the best gifts don’t come in boxes. During winter break, 13 Amarillo College students will get a priceless present. The college will take them on an 11-day journey through Japan. The travelers are members of the AC’s Presidential Scholars program. “The trip is included if you get admitted into the Scholars Program,” Julia Cotten, a general studies major said. Cotten noted that COURTESY PHOTO students pay a portion Paige Glazner presents research on religion in Japan to fellow Scholars as part of semester-long preparaof the travel cost. tion for the trip. The group will depart Jan. 4, 2017. world’s first atomic He also added that he is said she looks forward to been fascinated with the Lesley Ingham, the trip bomb was dropped Aug. looking forward to seeing seeing the flowers, trees distinct look of Japanese coordinator, said the 6, 1945. Hiroshima because of its and other diverse plant- flora,” she said. trip will feature stops in The travelers said historical significance. life. “I am personally This isn’t the first Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and they are excited for the Cotten said she most excited about trip for this group of Hakone. They will ride a entire trip, but everyone eagerly anticipates the seeing the Imperial Presidential Scholars. bullet train, visit many is interested in different natural beauty of the Palace and also Mount “We went to Dallas at temples, castles and aspects. country. “We’re going to Fuji, and the general the beginning of the shrines and see Mount “The food - getting go see Mount Fuji, and landscape and native year, but this will be Fuji. to try the food over we’ll be out on a boat Japanese trees will be totally different,” Cotton The trip will also there is pretty exciting,” and I think that’ll be absolutely exhilarating said. include a tour of Abhi Bhakta, an really cool,” she said. for me since I love to Travel is an integral Hiroshima, where the engineering major, said. Similarly, Ingham paint and have always part of the Presidential
Scholars program. “These amazing trips have been part of the Presidential Scholars program for years now,” said Ingham. “Each trip is a wonderful cultural excursion that is truly eye-opening and unforgettable for our students.” Last year the Scholars traveled to Lithuania and Poland. Previous destinations have included India, Cambodia and China. The program is a competitive applicationonly learning community designed to give highachieving and motivated students the opportunity to participate in student-centered learning experiences that promote intellectual growth, cultural appreciation, professional focus, leadership development and civic participation. Each year, AC accepts 15 new Scholars. Updates on and photos from the Japan trip will be posted on the AC Honors & Scholars Facebook page -- https://www.facebook. com/achonors/.
Students seek seasonal work Ultimate handball scores; By MATTHEW RIVERS offers fun, fast-action Ranger Reporter
‘Tis the season to be working. This semester is almost over and it’s time for many students to work during the holidays. “There will be a lot of AC students working seasonal jobs,” Mitch Parker, career and testing services director, said. Students described working during the holidays as a good way to earn extra money. Josephine Rodriguez, a criminal justice major, has worked for Party City during the holidays. “It was for Christmas, but it wasn’t too bad; you know you have a limited time there,” Rodriguez said. “It helped me pay for tuition,” she added. Many workers are needed in seasonal jobs. “Everybody is hiring seasonal help right now,” Parker said. “Basically, if you work a seasonal job and don’t mind working retail, you can find one real easily this time of year.” One local store that hires extra help during the holidays is Julie’s
By GENE SOCKWELL Ranger Reporter
Hallmark. Beverly Brown, the store manager, said working there can help students earn both money and life skills. “Cashier service can help you be a better person; you never know who you are going to deal with.” Brown said “A lot of students work a seasonal job until school starts back up or when the holiday is over, and then they are done, but that’s all they wanted,”
Parker said. Also, for students who prefer to take some time off and then work extra hours, there are seasonal jobs at the Amarillo College bookstore at the beginning of the semester. “I work at the bookstore seasonally,” Heather Day, an education major, said. “I get all of the students their books. If there’s any book they need, I go and get them.”
Ultimate Handball? How can there be anything ultimate about hitting a little ball up against a wall? “The name fools a lot of people,” Trent Oneal, intramurals coordinator, said. Some imagine players wearing pads and knocking each other to the ground, said Oneal. “When they come to see what it’s all about, they leave hooked. It’s a great combination of fun, teamwork and a great exercise. You leave ready to come back next week to play again.” The game involves two blue areas as score locations, each protected by a goalie. There must be an even amount of people on each team, but any amount of people can play. The teams must get the ball across the court and score. However, players can only take two steps with the ball before having to pass to a teammate without the ball being
How much students must pay depends on when they sign up. “The sooner a student signs up for the payment plan, the less down payment they would have to make,” Olga Kleffman, accounting supervisor, said. Students can sign up on the AC’s homepage by clicking on “student alternative payment plan.”
Students will then get instructions about how the plan works. “We have had a large push on changing the payment plans, so we decided to just go for it,” said Kleffman. “It’s new to us as well, so we will fix problems as they arise. We hope that the students understand because we are working to help them as much as
possible.” The payment plan is offered at all AC campuses and also applies to students with financial aid. Whatever isn’t paid by the student will be taken out of the student’s aid and any unused money will be returned to them. Students have reacted positively to the new plan. “Having the chance
COURTESY PHOTO
By GENE SOCKWELL | The Ranger Mikayla Calhoun launches the ball at the score zone to help her team win.
stolen by the other team. Oneal said an advantage of this game is that it can accommodate a large number of players. “The game is catching on and we can adjust and expand the court to accommodate large amounts of players. The
more players, the more exciting it gets.” Ultimate handball is fast-paced, exciting and makes for one great workout. Games are held at 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the Carter Fitness Center, room 113.
to choose my own percentage helps me manage my money for books and other school supplies I may need,” Raul Granados, an engineering major, said. “But most importantly I’ll be able to start saving more of my own money for bills and other things.” Kleffman is optimistic. “The more students
we get signed up prior to January, the better for everyone involved including students and staff, so students don’t have to procrastinate on paying their tuition anymore.” Kleffman said she also hopes the new plans will help eliminate the long lines at the Student Services counter in January.
New payment plan creates new way to pay By Adrian Kemp Ranger Reporter
Amarillo College students now have more choices about how and when to pay tuition. The college has started a new payment plan. Starting with the spring 2017 semester, students have the option of paying 20, 25, 34 or 50 percent of total tuition.
4 News The Ranger
december 8, 2016
Summer 2016 Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) CERT Courtney E. Zamora American Sign Language/Interpreter AA Montana L. Taylor Associate Degree Nursing AAS Ashley R. Rodriguez Courtney N. Perry Michelle Arredondo
Engineering AS Emmanuel Rodriguez Covarrubias English AA Blatney D. Jackson Nicole J. McGee Fire Protection - Basic Firefighter CERT Christopher Wilson Cory O. Fenton Jason O. Hill Marshall E. Stallwitz Fire Protection Tech. AAS Brad W. Britten
Automotive Collision Technology Intermediate CERT Yaidel B. Aramburo
General Studies AS Abdulfatah A. Sheriff Adrianna M. Richardson Alicia R. Wilshire Amber B. Thomason Automotive Technology Andrea M. Johnson AAS Anson J. Washington Carrie M. Phommachanh Aldo Saenz Colton D. Stamps Maria K. Solano Elizabeth H. George Hannah L. Carthel Aviation Maintenance Hayle R. Aufleger Technology AAS Jennifer A. Burgin Brandon R. Barrick Keagan T. Rohloff David G. Metcalf Kolthida Egwu Kristen M. Torres Aviation Maintenance Technology - Airframe Kristin A. Jackson Larry D. Puryear Mechanic CERT Leah R. Forrest Bennett M. Lindsey Macayla R. Griego Quincy W. Webb Madison J. Bowles Ms. Keri B. Shelburne Biology AS Norma J. Reyes Charity L. Connally Racheal L. Ray Rebeca Z. Hernandez Randal W. Walker Tasha D. Clark Business Tucker S. Looney Administration AS Whitney M. Wilson Andrea D. Saxon Andrew M. Walsh Industrial Technology Brandi N. Gonzalez Christopher L. Gonzales Basic CERT Christopher J. Garvey, Crystal A. Conway III Gregory M. Palacio, Jr. Israel Machado Legal Studies AAS Ja M. Lar Esmeralda Garcia Larry G. Rolen, II Jason D. Lee Mabel A. Moreno Mason D. Smith Legal Studies Megan A. Brazille Paralegal Professional Nicole M. Norman CERT Sarah R. Hoffpauir Luisa Vigil Timothy P. Money Business Management AAS Edward L. Cantu Clinical Medical Assistant CERT Hser K. Htoo Kathy Le Computer Networking/ Cyber-Security AAS David C. Fansler
Pre-Physical Therapy AS Devin A. Castaneda Sarah R. Howell Psychology AS Jazmin D. Munoz Jennifer L. Lewis Savannah J. Sandoval Tammy S. Johnson Radiation Therapy AAS Ervey O. Tabares Respiratory Care AAS Cassidy R. Reed Dora A. Monarrez Jessica L. Armstrong Laura M. Barrow Malynda K. Jenkins Misty A. Branscum Misty R. Williams Sally C. Davis Sarah M. Abalos Shantell N. Freitas Tori M. Mulanax Social Science AS Ariel A. Bowie Social Work AS Claudia M. Cordova Dekontee G. Goe Destiny N. Maldonado Mariah R. Cox Melika James Speech Communication AS Hope A. Mclaughlin Sports & Exercise Sciences AS Keziah O. Taylor Surgical Technology CERT Andi B. Hutto Lacey R. Elliott Macy N. Woods Norma E. Gonzalez
Liberal Arts AS Mary E. Norman
Surgical Technology AAS Austin G. Mcdonald Brenda D. Marquez, Jr Cecilia Talamantes Jordan L. Perry Leslie M. Ramirez Rachel V. Velasquez Selene Garcia
Mass Media AS Frank Navarrete
Theatre AS Driana E. Bramer
Mathematics AS Clinton W. Kelley
Welding Tech. Advanced CERT Erick D. Villela
Medical Data Specialist CERT Tiffany D. Smith
Medical Laboratory Technology AAS Alexander De la Cruz Ashlyn T. Shubert Christopher P. Kelly Gabriel K. Sultemeier Gina L. Miller Education - 4-8 AAT Heather C. Miele-Jones Summer A. Skipper Heather N. Sandoval Education - Elementary Henry S. Gonzales Kaitlin H. Kessler Generalist Krista N. Sorrells Brittany A. Earl Marla L. Pacheco Brittany C. Paulson MarthaClaire Norton Pamla D. Wortman Sydney J. Farley Mortuary Science Wendy D. Yarbrough CERT Education - Elementary James S. Symon, Jr Joanna L. Gore Specialist Linda T. Arismendez Hannah M. Corbett Jasmine M. Cordova Mortuary Science AAS Tina R. Brooks Joanna L. Gore Education - Secondary Pharmacy Tech. CERT Constance H. Fincher Andrea I. Lule Cynthia Rodriguez Vilayphone Keophimphone Elizabeth S. Bradley Nalleli Garcia Criminal Justice AS Daivanie A. Garcia Irene Almanza Laura L. Spencer Yuri Flores
Photography AS Sarah J. Hazel
Welding Tech-Basic CERT Aldalberto Espinoza Davila Alvaro I. Portillo Brant S. Powers Damian Guerrero Graden R. Garrison Jace W. Ammons Jeremy S. Simmons Jesus M. Botello Ridge D. Dallas Skyler Q. Jordan Ysmaldo E. Salinas
Fall 2016
Automotive Collision Technology Intermediate CERT Joseph C. Jacob Automotive Collision Technology – Advanced CERT Logan D. Meredith Aerospace Manufacturing AAS William K. Medina
Aviation Maintenance - Aerospace Manufacturing CERT Caleb H. Houghton Aviation Maintenance Technology Powerplant Mechanic CERT Moises Moreno Art-Graphic Design AAS Katarina K. Rinehart Adrian N. Moore Sean M. Black Skyler D. Hamby Thomas N. Taylor Art-Graphic Design CERT Katy M. Estrada Art-Fine Art AS Brooklyn R. Harper Makayla N. Ksor Automotive Technology AAS Casey J. Whittington Corey D. Barker Joseph G. Duran Lal Tawng Laura C. Sena Automotive Technology - Basic Automotive CERT Benjamin S. Diaz Automotive Technology Advanced CERT James C. Blalock Biology AS Anna V. Stratton DeeAnna M. Henson Jordan D. Chadwick
Kimberlynn S. Sundblom
Julian A. Alvarez
Business Management Marketable Skills CERT Alek G. Perez Business Management AAS Alicia Delossantos Alicia Reyna Angella R. Cantrell Autumn S. Trimble Brandy D. Cartrite Chase R. Warrick Christie A. Word Cristina V. Campos Dominque M. Beard Emilia M. Hernandez Eric D. Hernandez Gilbert Maldonado Griselda L. Saucedo Javier Lira, Jr Karrie R. Nicholson Robin D. Smith Summer C. Jackson Trisha N. Morrah Ynai L. Hamilton Yolanda D. Ramos
Andrew M. Signor Andrew R. Bichsel Carlos M. Ortiz Cassandra K. McKaskle Chantel J. Perales Charles J. Dearmon Christopher L. Davis Christopher M. Eaton Chyna B. Thompson Cristina Chavez Darlinda G. Wheeler Donna M. Maurer Francisco A. Rivera Guillermo Cisneros Hannah M. Thompson Ishmael A. Urias Ixsel Huerta Jacob W. Whittington Janie Arce Jared M. White Jennifer S. Mashburn Jessica Zepeda Gomez Jyl L. Spence Kendra S. Braughton Kevin Herrera Kristanna J. Willimon Kyaw K. Htay Lisa Nguyen Maira K. Ramos Mari-lyn G. Martin Matthew P. Johnson McKayla B. Robinson Mikaela M. Flores Miranda M. Rupe Ms. Wendy D. Martin Nicholas A. Perez Nidia Sepulveda Philip E. Miller Samantha J. Zamora Samantha N. Malatesta Shawrlette S. Uy Sheree L. Griego Tiffany E. Russell Tyler W. Ramsay Veronica G. Dye Vicente R. Pena Virginia D. Williams Business Administration Computer Information Systems AS Claudia A. Silva Colin T. Vo Shelby L. Buckler Child Development Early Childhood AAS Brooke E. Pinkert Child Development - Early Childhood Administrator CERT Kimberly L. Williams Michelle L. Nolte Instrument and Control Tech CERT Leroy Aldana Justin S. Oliver Criminal Justice AAS Devin K. Cantwell Scott A. Acker Stephanie N. Birkenfeld Vincent S. Bissoni
Business Management Intermediate CERT Cassius C. Rivers Julie K. Essary LaTia B. Sutton
Computer Information Systems AAS Daniel W. Poole Giovanni Leon Joshua J. Brown Kevin M. Bowen Lowell B. Brooks, Jr. Ralph M. Villegas
Food Service Supervisor CERT Sierra D. Muncy
Computer System Support CERT Danny Pina
Management Business Management Basic CERT Cassius C. Rivers James A. Glisson Sylvia A. Alcozer Trina E. Frost
Computer Digital Forensics CERT Jeffery S. Wainright
Business Administration AS Alec R. Law Alisha G. Gollihugh Andrew C. Crisman
Criminal Justice AAS Devin Cantwell Scott A. Acker Stephanie N. Birkenfeld Vincent S. Bissoni Criminal Justice AS Adrian M. Hernandez Adrian M. Perez Angelica R. Magallanes Brittany S. Miller Casey J. Hayward David A. Aragon Erica J. Hooks Genlater S. Mason Jeremy R. Ortegon Juan J. Granados Kendra Hanson Marcos A. Diaz Marquez V. Savala Nakeasha S. Ward Patrick W. Hoven Pete A. Ochoa Randall D. Lee Raul Candelario Raul Chagoya Sean M. Brinson Tracy K. Reyes Zane R. Hughes Diesel Technology Basic Mechanics CERT Rene R. Granadoz Diesel Technology Advanced Mechanics CERT Chauncey M. Sieber Daniel M. Nelson Francisco Velarde Ivan Gonzalez Julissa L. Gallego Nathan R. Woodard Omar T. Chacon Drafting AAS Cynamon A. Tyson Jennifer L. Mitchell Luis E. Carrasco Phaosakhone A. Koulavong Po H. Klay Tabitha D. Black Thomas A. Nokes Drafting Cad Specialist CERT Daniel H. Mcclure Jacob R. Saenz Sanpadi T. Ninsavang Drafting Technician CERT Joshua A. Milford Richard M. Eads Education 4-8 AAT Alana C. Wyatt Cheyenne N. Paulson Jasmin I. Mendoza Kandace N. Bender Meranda L. Graves Nancy E. Duncan Education - Elementary Specialist AAT Aydrian J. Myles Da Q. La Janet I. Castillo Laura R. Willson Marissa D. Lafferty Morgan D. Kelley Mu Aye Victoria R. Oliver Yadira G. Patino Education - Elementary Generalist AAT Anna C. Ojeda Carsyn L. Kirby Cindy E. Cano-Mendoza
Computer Network Essentials CERT Brittany A. Hieb Cody D. Case
Katy M. Pitman Kristen J. Britton Kylie D. Weaver Lanee B. Aldaz Lena M. Reining, Sr Michelle N. Alonzo Tonya R. Martinez
CIS - Web Developer Specialist CERT Joe S. Cardenas Vernon M. Watkins
Education-Secondary AAT Aaron M. Ballesteros Alexis M. Tarango
News december 8, 2016 Almadelfina T. DeLeon Claudia G. Castillo Gerardo Salazar Karen A. Rivas Kent K. Weatherly Maria G. Lino Melissa R. Garza Jeffrey B. Wallick Joel E. Miller, III Emergency Medical Services Professions Austin S. Rook AAS Mark A. Lankford Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Marketable Skills CERT Noah S. Goodson English AA Amanda N. Wright Jessica L. Erwin Lourdes De Avila Mikayla L. Milburn Engineering Computer Science AS Benjamin C. Flowers Ibsa A. Ahmed Jecsan Blanco Licano Joshua A. Allen Julian R. Moore Kevin A. Grant Petterson N. Pham Sean P. Wylie
Zahra Nourmohtad Ramiro Aceves, Jr. Reagan L. Orr Sara J. Kunkel Sarah E. Young Stephen D. Santos Tauheeda A. Berry Taylor K. Holt Tiffany N. Reynolds Vaneza Avila Walker Z. Kuykendall Xockxay R. Souvannakhily Yajaira L. Duran Yanira Y. Tagle Industrial Technology AAS Christopher Quintana Ever H. Trejo Jesus Espinoza, Jr. Jonatan Loya Victor A. Chavira Industrial Technology Basic CERT Andrew E. Bobadilla Edgar R. Chavez Industrial Technology Core CERT Jose E. Hernandez Lucy C. Castro Industrial Technology Advanced CERT Jose E. Hernandez Nathaniel R. Mitchell
Engineering AS Alan Gomez Damian Trejo Gerardo Delgado, Jr Guy A. Woumfouo James E. Tikker Jose A. Burciaga Jose M. Flores, Jr. Justin D. Hicks Lance O. Duncan Maira C. Salazar Mauro Miramontes Michael R. Williams Vanessa M. Perez
Liberal Arts AS Berna Gamez Di'vante L. Jones Diana J. Velasquez Logan E. Lamberson McKinnzey B. Yarbrough Taylor M. Holmich
Fire Protection - Basic Firefighter CERT Brayden J. Murphy Dylan J. Millis John D. Brown Ransom C. Braly
Mathematics AS Straton J. Smith
General Studies AS Abel Perez Allison M. Cameron Averie S. Wilson Brian Mingkhamsavath Brian Rodela Brianne A. Montgomery Bryson S. Reyes Cameron M. Meyers Chanathip K. Kongvongsay Christen D. Chiantaretto Cindy Ratsaboud Connor J. Brown Cristian Medellin Dakoda R. Scott Dalton D. Dodson Dan T. Meyer Destiny J. Perez Edith V. Zapata Evelynn A. Gleaves Giselle I. Leon Hanna D. Perez Hirali H. Patel Iris Trujillo Jaylee R. Felts Jeremy D. Taylor Jesus V. Hernandez Jonna B. Underwood Julie Gutierrez Kara C. Wallace Karen S. Mahannah Kenda R. Mote Kenneth L. Suhl Kitana J. Roybal Kristin A. Pevehouse Lauren A. Schnaufer Leslie J. Ascacio Lucia Avitia Marcus J. Navarrette Meagen S. Turner Megan E. Miller Merry M. Smith Miss Zannia Avila Moniquik Q. Kemp Jeffrey B. Wallick Yalily G. Valdez
Mass Media AS Brandon R. Garcia Dakota J. Kessler Ethan Hershey Francisco J. Canchola Jerah M. King Karina Hidalgo Lauren A. Vanderford Mikaela C. Chavez Natalie L. Villarreal
Legal Studies AAS Desire'e Schultz-Kennedy Jennifer D. Mager Maribelle Carbajal Sheila L. Seymore Terran A. Velasco
Precision Metalworking Tech-Basic CERT Michael J. Olivarez
Mass Media AAS Magaly Tinoco Mass Media CERT Joel Beanes Cody McGehee Mass Media Digital Image and Design Marketable Skills CERT Gentry B. Anderson Mass Media Social Media Marketable Skills CERT Gentry B. Anderson Clinical Medical Assistant CERT Carri A. Martinex Danielle N. Dawson Perla V. Villela Ruby A. Martinez Tommie L. Briseno Medical Data Specialist CERT Chris S. Fox Jo Anne Coronado Sarah M. Deleon Office Administration AAS Alejandro Cabrales
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Janae M. Rodriguez Katelyn A. Mathis Lakeisha D. Hardy Miranda M. DeLuna Ms. Monica Flores Patricia A. Woods Rolla D. Fisher Shannon L. Horn Office Assistant CERT Angela D. Jimenez Dana R. Moore Jamie R. Renteria Susan M. Cox Office Administration - Professional CERT Katelyn A. Mathis Occupational Therapy Assistant AAS Laci N. Wheeler Sports and Exercise Sciences AS Cassie Trevizo Chandra Powell Emily E. Nipper Hailey D. Garcia Robert T. Taylor Rylee D. Bagwell Yvonne M. Bennett Photography CERT Kortni K. Lindley Vanessa J. Underwood Victoria A. Solis Psychology AS Annie J. Ray Haley B. Macina Ijzel M. Rangel Kimphung T. Tran Lindsey R. Gillis Maggie A. Longwill Michael A. Baeza Patricia A. Heatley Rachael M. Woods Raylene D. Buckallew Shandra D. Telford Sydney R. Torres Tu Trinh J. Rodriguez Radiography AAS Gunner M. Peek Jocelyn Penaloza Leesa M. Robinson Shaina O. Apodaca Pre-Nursing AS Adela Monarrez Alix D. Rodriguez Angel J. Black Angellica M. Mccraw Ashton C. Gomez Bettye L. Parker Gabriel De la Rosa Iris Lujan Jenna L. Pickard Jose L. Avila Marisela Escobar Thelma Martinez Tu Trinh J. Rodriguez American Sign Language Interpreter AA Aston D. Brundage Social Science AS Hannah C. Smith Nathan S. Jesse Social Work AS Brenda Rodriguez Christa N. Moore Destiny D. Whitaker Esmeralda Munoz Gabriel T. Mundo Gisel A. Caballero Jakie L. Thompson Jessica L. Claudio Jessica N. Lamance Jessie R. Roberts Mary C. Reid Mercedes H. Gonzalez Meztli Ostos Mireya Lozano Nicole Haskins
No Rin Raphael S. Whyte Rosalba J. Deschamp Steven L. Russell Speech Communication AS Maria A. Adame Stephen M. De Leon Surgical Technology AAS Gerardo B. Diaz Theatre AS Stacy M. Southern Utility Power Worker CERT Jatoris L. Finney Welding Technology Basic CERT Andrew M. Richard Daniel Chamorro Mortuary Science CERT Beverly D. Jackson Chad A. Stubblefield Latrenna S. Hughes-Coss Mary L. Miller Michael J. Felix Rebecca L. Gramm Mortuary Science AAS Kendriah D. Boudreaux Mary M. Estrada Associate Degree Nursing AAS Abbie N. Garza Abbie R. Massingill Alexis M. Sotello Amanda L. Leal Amelia N. Gonzalez Amy K. Allen Ana R. Mejia April R. Harper Ashby M. Mcwilliams Ashley B. Douglass Ashley D. Montee Aspen E. Loukas Bailey D. Rousseau Brittany L. Birtciel Brooke M. Harrison Chelsea D. Saiz Chelsie L. Anderson Courtney L. Mincey Cynthia B. Braddock Darian P. Irons Desiree N. Castaneda Desiree R. Grubb Destiney P. Gomez
Di A. Lemarr Elizabeth A. Haley Elizabeth G. Rodriguez Erin B. Rickert Eryn N. Calderon Haley L. Rhea Heather M. Mills Henry R. Grinie Hunter C. Hutchison Jacqueline M. Ray Jada L. Roberts Jaimie A. Sanchez Jenna L. Pickard Jessica F. Pinon-Castillo Jordan M. Estala Juan Garcia Jude V. Navarro Justin S. Ruiz Kadie A. Spinhirne Kalene A. Kinnison Kalie M. Sweitz Kelleena S. Duran Kelsey E. Carrell Kenleigh E. Kinnison Kimberly A. Sykes Kimberly Edwards Kylie M. Westerby Lauren D. Goad Madajah M.Charles-Simmons Marissa A. Martinez Mckenna K. Matthews Mckenzie C. Roberts Merrilee N. Yocum Micaela Garcia Michelle A. Adkins Misty G. Middleton Mitzi N. Rodriguez Rhonda D. Hale Roxana Y. Sommers Santiago Fuentes, Jr. Sharlyn B. Wren Shelby R. Stephens Sheryl L. Warren Skyla R. Venhaus Stephanie M. Barrientez Summer B. Tyrrell Tacy L. Bennett Tammy K. Frazier Tammy P. Tillery Teri Gonzales
Tressa Broussard Vanessa A. Talmadge Vanessa Rodriguez Wesley G. Jewett Ashley L. Duarte Ashley N. Butler Aspen L. Hathaway Berkley E. Sauer Brittainy M. Robbins Brittany M. Zotter Christian Chavez Citasha M. Hammer Courtney N. Endsley Crystal Chacon Crystal D. Stovall Crystal M. Roman Deidre D. Frazier Elvira R. Moctezuma Jennifer L. Carroll Jovon Y. Marinelarena Laura C. Shepherd Misty D. Wall Patricia R. Rodriquez Sabra R. Peregrino Shirley E. Jennings Tanya C. Paris Vocational Nursing CERT Aaron A. Gann Ana K. Tarango Chelsey L. Castillo Cindy E. Jacquez Claudia K. Martinez Damaris Y. Salazar Desaree A. Armijo Faith A. Roberts Julia B. Gallegos Karen J. Hernandez Kimberly A. Zeis Lacey D. Hernandez Leslie Reynoso Marina A. Rivera-garcia Misty B. Luna Mkijuan C. Verge Ms. Alejandra Jimenez Rachel L. Linton-Mohamed Shantel Benson Tequila A. Butler Valerie R. Leitner
2016 Fall Commencement Graduation Date: Friday, Dec. 16, 2016 Time: 7:00 p.m. Location: Amarillo Civic Center
6 NEWS The Ranger
december 8, 2016
Christmas Carols
This app provides more than 40 Christmas carols and songs with lyrics that you can set as ringtones, alert/notification tones and alarm tones. It also works as a Video Karaoke!
Christmas Gift List
Appy To Help
Track Christmas gift ideas entering them in the app. Set a gift budget for each friend and mark the gift as you do your shopping.
Do you want to know how to celebrate Christmas? Or are you looking for ways to get back to more traditional roots? Learn about decorating a tree, drinking traditional beverages, baking Christmas cookies, roasting a Christmas ham, sending Christmas cards and wrapping gifts.
By Sal Gutierrez
Christmas is awesome. Of course, there are the obvious perks: spending time with friends and family, opening gifts and getting away from work. Sometimes we may complain about Christmas –the pressures, the commercialization, the enforced Christian messages and the added expenses. But there is so much to love. This time, Christmas apps will be our main focus. We hope they help you to make your Christmas tasks easier. Appy Christmas!
Christmas Traditions
Xmas Organizer
With this app you can organize all your Christmas gifts. Keep track of your ideas, gifts and always be aware of your budgets. Never forget to buy a gift for anyone.
Yummy Christmas
This app has many Christmas recipes for adults and children.
New episodes every Sunday at 11:30 pm on FM90
Your update on what was, is and will be loud!!! COURTESY PHOTO
AC professor wins international award By SAL GUTIERREZ Ranger Reporter Amarillo College music professor Diego Caetano is the winner of an international music contest. Caetano recently won London’s Grand Prize Virtuoso International Music Competition, a contest that encourages young musicians from all around the world to perform and grow. The Brazilian-born musician recently completed his doctorate in music-piano performance and joined the AC faculty as an assistant professor this fall. In conjunction with the award, Caetano will give a piano performance Dec. 14 at London’s Royal Albert Hall, which is similar to New York’s Carnegie Hall where Caetano previously performed.
“It is one more step to become a better musician, a better performer and a better instructor,” said Caetano. “It shows my students that they can do it too.” To win the award, Caetano submitted a recorded performance of himself playing Chopin’s Etude in A Flat and a list of all his appearances throughout the world. “I had materials that represented me in the best possible way. I submitted them with letters of recommendation from other artists and videos,” Caetano said. For the 25-year-old pianist, being a first-place performer is nothing new. His latest triumph will be added to his list of more than 40 national and international top awards, which include
the “Shining Stars” International Concerto Competition, the “Spartacco Rossi” Piano Competition and the Best Interpreter of Brazilian Composers award. Camille Nies, music department chair, said Caetano transmits a positive attitude to the people around him. “His energy and enthusiasm are infectious, which comes across in his performance as well as in his collaborations with faculty, students and the community,” Nies said. Caetano said he hopes to set an example for current and future AC music students. “I want to make AC a destination, attract more and more students and represent our community much better. This is also great for AC,” he said.
AC Film Club
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AC Film Club
Culture december 8, 2016
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Hallmark brings back the holiday shows By RAZ RASMUSSEN Ranger Reporter
REVIEW
Directed by Stephen Bridgewater and written by Joany Kane, “The Christmas Card” is a Hallmark Channel Christmas special released in 2006. It tells the story of a young sergeant, Cody Cullens, played by Edward Asner, deployed to Afghanistan. After experiencing a tragedy, his commanding officer instructs him to go on leave for the holidays. Cullens is an orphan and has nowhere to go for Christmas except to follow the invitation he received through a Christmas card from an anonymous writer in Nevada City. Faith
Spelman (Alice Evans) writes the letters for the church congregation in town and one of her letters was addressed “To Any Soldier.” This is the Christmas card that brought them to know each other and the movie covers their journey of a relationship over the magical Christmas season. “The Christmas Card” is a humorous seasonal story told by whimsical characters with hooking personalities. You will get to know Spelman’s family and understand the importance of each individual person and how each role pushes the plot along. Throughout the
entire film there are fantastic scenes from nature capturing the glory of winter without freezing your toes off. Cullens experiences the warmth of the small town’s love and returns his thanks in many strong and unexpected ways. Just like all love stories there has to be another guy, an antagonist. The two men deal with each other appropriately and I was happy to see Cullens remain upright as a soldier of the country. You can tell that he is military and understands the meaning of honor and respect, family and work as he grows throughout the movie. In the sense of production, filmmaking
and presentation it was pretty decent. The camera work is fantastic and like I said earlier captures some amazing views. They keep to the story and don’t bring in any unnecessary characters though some characters are awkwardly introduced. The plotline is typical and we can probably guess what will happen next but the script was not a typical Hallmark script and the actors seemed so much more genuine than most Christmas specials, specifically “The Christmas Wish” (don’t waste your time on that one). “The Christmas Card” is a good, warmyou-up movie that will touch your soul but not leave tissues all over the
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floor and your couch like say “The Christmas Shoes” or “The Angel Doll.” These are both movies that I love
and can watch over and over again. With “The Christmas Card,” once a season is good enough for me.
quality. At moments I couldn’t tear my eyes away, while at others I had trouble keeping grasp of the story. The story is not confusing, and does well as an introductory movie into the universe, but doesn’t portray the passage of time well. At times it felt like years had passed in movie, while only months had; or months had passed while only weeks had actually gone by. Although the timelessness of this movie was a drag for me personally, this aspect added great amounts of intensity in specific scenes. I enjoyed this movie from the viewpoint of a “mega Marvel fan,” someone who has
to see every Marvel movie. If you are one of those people then you should definitely go see it. If you want to introduce someone to the Marvel universe, this is a good movie for that as well. It’s simple enough with few enough references or Easter eggs that a new viewer can easily follow along. If you are a longtime fan and only in it for the inter-movie references, then the movie is still a good watch, but you have to wait until the last 10 minutes. With everything this movie has to offer, if you have considered watching Dr. Strange, you should. It has a little something for everyone.
Marvel brings Doctor Strange to life By KALEB PAFFORD Ranger Reporter
REVIEW “Dr. Strange” is a movie from Marvel Studios that I had been anticipating for quite a while. Though unlike many Marvel movie fans, I cannot say I know the entire history of the Dr. Strange character, I do enjoy the idea behind his personality and powers. The effects, lead actor and story struck me the most in this movie. Going into the movie I expected grand special effects and a spot-on performance from Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Dr. Steven Strange, and that is what I got.
The spells cast by sorcerers popped out of the screen seamlessly to where I almost forgot I was wearing a set of 3-D glasses, and at moments my world turned inside out by how beautiful these spells could be. The character of Dr. Strange was created to be a smug, know-it-all sort of man, a type of man that Cumberbatch has had experience playing in the roles of Sherlock and Khan from “Star Trek into Darkness.” Much like he has done with Sherlock, Cumberbatch portrays the humbling moments of a man like these as if he were going through that moment on the screen. The story varies in
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Is it time to say goodbye, or hello? By CODY McGEHEE Ranger Reporter
I started an adventure a few years ago, this adventure was to further my education. I was not sure what it was I wanted to focus on but I knew college was my next step in life. I applied to Amarillo College, where I was found. Many students and faculty took me in as family and helped me as I started this new found world. Jill Gibson, Don Able, Kyle Arrant, Mike Haynes, Brian Frank, Chris Hays, Kris Fredrick, David McCoy,Quintin Marquez, Alma Bustamonte, Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, Bob Austin, Ruth De-
Ziggy’s Virtual Viewpoint
Anda, Holly Hicks and last but not least Lee Proctor. All people that I want to take a moment and say thank you. I know I have let some of you down over the years and for that I am sorry, but I want you all to know that without your guidance, mentorship and love I would not be saying that this is my last semester as a student at Amarillo College. I can remember the first day in Jill Gibson’s intro to mass communication class. She played the most annoying music video “Watch me” by Silento. From that moment on, I knew that that
semester was going to be one to remember. All the moments in the Ranger Newsroom with Quintin, Alma, Amanda, Wesle y, Austin and Salvador. Moments that will not be forgotten. As for you, Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, I say thank you for your time and energy. You have always been a smiling face on campus and always concerned about my grades and asking when I was going to get my butt across that stage. Well, I can say the time has come. Next fall I start a new chapter in my book of life. I will be transferring to
Sam Houston State University to work on my Bachelors in Mass Communication. That’s right, Dan Rathers alma mater. I am excited to say hello to my new adventure, but I also find it hard in my heart to say goodbye to my family here at Amarillo College. I want everyone to know that no matter where I go or what I do in the world that the relationships I have made, the lives that have touched my heart will never fade. More on ZV2 check out the Ranger online at www.acranger.com or folow Ziggy on facebook @ZV2.
Badger B.S. New episodes every other Thursday acranger.com
8 Feature The Ranger
december 8, 2016
Holiday food and festivities To get you into the holiday spirit we here at The Ranger would like to let you in on our favorite holiday traditions and foods. The holidays are a great way to spend time with friends and family, eating to your heart’s content and taking a wellneeded break from school. So, from all of us here at The Ranger we want to wish you Happy Holidays and don’t forget to check out The Ranger Online at www.acranger.com.
“My mom makes amazing sour cream sugar chookies every year. It sounds super weird but they are the best and stay soft forever!” -Emily Prisk
“My favorite tradition is decorating sugar cookies. My mom also makes a really pretty orange cake and puts fake berries on it for decoration. It always reminds me of Chrismas.” -Libby Gibson
“My aunt makes these really good sausage balls as well as peppermint and white chocolate pretzels.” -Karli Shafer
“On the first Monday of December we set out our nativity scene as a family and we read a passage of scripture for each character in the scene. My family opens pajamas on Christmas Eve and on Christmas day we open presents youngest to oldest.” -Raz Rasmussen
“My family always does a white elephant gift exchange. It started out as just gift cards but over the years we’ve started putting in random gifts, such as marshmallow shooters.” -Liz Moore
Students share family traditions A treat wrapped in a corn husk Tamales are a holiday tradition for many
and then on Christmas Day we’ll have breakfast Ranger Reporter together,” said Erika With the holiday Mejia, a biology major. season underway, many “We either go out to students are looking eat at IHOP, which is forward to annual what we usually do, or celebrations with their just stay home and have families. Students share breakfast together.” Exchanging gifts their holiday traditions is another common that they enjoy each holiday tradition. “For year. “Putting up the Christmas, we usually Christmas tree the day open all our presents the after Thanksgiving,” night before Christmas,” said Bentley Searcy, a said Searcy. “You know, people usually open like sonography major. Christmas traditions one or two presents, we vary from family to open all of our presents, family and while most so on Christmas we just have differences, they eat, and usually wear all focus on time with something that we got the day before.” family. Hanukkah, beginning “We have family this year on Dec. 24 and dinners before Christmas, By LIZ MOORE
ending Jan. 1, is a Jewish holiday known also as the ‘Festival of Lights’ and is one of many holidays celebrated during the holiday season. “Our grandparents send us gifts and we open up different things every night of the eight-day holiday,” Libby Gibson, a general studies major, said. With Christmas being rooted in Christianity, many families discuss the Christmas story, either at church or at home. “My grandma would tell us the Christmas story from the bible,” said Aaron Romero, a general studies major.
By FRANKY CANCHOLA Ranger Reporter
For many, the holidays aren’t the same without tamales. There’s nothing like biting into a homemade tamale to bring in the holiday season. Tamales are made of masa (corn dough) steamed in a corn husk stuffed with different types of meats, cheese or vegetables. They originated as a food source for the Aztec and Maya civilizations in 5000 B. C. Since the tamales were individually wrapped, they were the perfect portable food for warriors, travelers
and hunters. The Aztec and Mayan women tagged along in battle as army cooks, hence the creativity of the tamale. Today, many people view tamales as holiday food. “Cooking tamales is a long process,” Carolina Sanchez, an education major, said. “It takes my mom and grandma all day to cook tamales. It’s my favorite dish to eat during the holidays and well worth the wait. Plus it’s the only thing we have to unwrap for Christmas.” Engineering major Myriam Alondra said making tamales during Christmas is a tradition she and the women in her family
have established. “The kitchen is transformed into an assembly line of ladies wrapping tamales. The tradition is as much about making them as it is about eating them,” Alondra said. Although tamales are commonly stuffed with pork, other foods can be used for filling and many different recipes can be found online. “Having tamales for breakfast, lunch and dinner during the holiday season is great,” said Jair Macias, an education major. “My mom has different recipes for tamales and all of them are delicious. Sweet raisin and spicy red are my favorites.”