R ANGER
April 5, 2018 Volume 88 Issue 10
Moving swiftly into the future
Amarillo College forms partnership with Apple By BLASS GUERRERO and ZAKARY GRIEGO Ranger Reporters with contributions from the COMM2311 class
Students at AC have the chance to take a bite of the Apple. Amarillo College has announced a partnership with Apple, Inc. to bring the Swift application coding program to AC. The college held a news conference March 29 about the new educational opportunity. “With Apple’s Swift certification, students can immediately earn up to six-figure salaries all while continuing to live in Amarillo,” Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, AC president, said. Apple’s Swift is a programming language that allows its users to create their own
apps. AC students will have the opportunity to check out Apple hardware free of charge. Along with approving the partnership, the AC board of regents approved the purchase of $55,000 worth of Apple products including the Macbook Pros, iPads and the iPod Touches. Lowery-Hart said with Apple’s presence at AC, students will be learners, who become creators, who will become earners. “We are partnering with Apple Inc. to become a community that can code. Our goal is
at the end of this partnership that we can develop pipelines for any independent school district in the community that wants to be part of the Amarillo College Code Program,” he said. AC began researching and planning with Apple last fall to become one of only three community colleges in the state of Texas to partner with Apple to offer Swift courses, said Dr. Tamara Clunis, vice president of academic affairs. The partnership is an exciting development for AC and the city of Amarillo, she said. Other AC leaders are equally excited about the new offerings. “This is a big
CLAIRE EKAS | The Ranger
Hitting notes, not books By BLASS GUERRERO
Ranger Reporter
After a stressful day in math class, some students escape the pressures of assignments, tests and studying for hours, by picking up a guitar or singing. Many Amarillo College students are currently participating in music ensembles. Most of these students are majoring in music, but there are many Courtesy photo non-music majors as well. The Amarillo College Chamber Orchestra performs in the “About 140-150 non- Oesheger Mall, right in front of the College Union Building. majors are currently in music ensembles and that’s said. jazz ensemble, all require continuing to grow,” Camille “Music is something that auditions or instructor Day Nies, associate professor has been part of my life since approval, but non-majors are of music, said. I was a kid and will continue encouraged to audition. AC currently offers many throughout the rest of my life Most of these ensembles music ensembles for any no matter what career I’m meet in the evenings for student to join such as band, doing,” Christine Davison, a rehearsal, except the piano choir, orchestra and guitar. general studies major, said. ensemble, which rehearses Many of the participants are Some AC music ensembles Saturday mornings. music-lovers who have always do not require an audition. Students can register to enjoyed musical activities. “Any AC students is welcome receive academic credit Nies said that students find to join even if you don’t know or continuing education things common with others anything about music,” Jesse credit for participating in an when making music together. Neel, a nursing major, said. ensemble. Most of the non-majors were The chamber orchestra, For more information involved in musical activities guitar classes, band and piano about the music ensembles or in high school and now at don’t require auditions or how to join, students can call AC they continue to take instructor approval to join. the music department at 806music classes in order to stay Other ensembles, such 372-5340 or contact Camille involved, learn new things as the guitar ensemble, Nies at 806-371-5356 or by and “add some fun to the concert choir, the Amarillo email at cdnies@actx.edu. academic experience,” Nies Master Chorale and the
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of their internal programming to the Swift programming language. Hands added that the Swift programming language is the next up-and-coming language for any prospective programming student to learn. “This will help us get into the job market a lot easier,” Cameron Meyers, a computer science major, said. “Opening the door to such a large market helps not only the students at AC, but also the college as a whole,” he added. The new curriculum could also benefit the area by providing trained employees for local businesses. “I could see Amarillo and this region becoming a technical hub in this part of the U.S.,” Mark Nair, an economics instructor, said. Starting this fall, students will be able to enroll in two out of the three classes in the Apple Swift app program. All three classes will be available in the spring of 2019 and all these classes are eight weeks long. Students can complete a certificate in iOS app development, which can lead to an 18-hour certificate in coding and design, which will then help lead to an associate degree in coding and design. Within a single semester, students can earn a certification that will be applicable to the real world job market. Registration will open April 9 for the new fall semester Apple classes.
Get a head start with AC By LES JONES
Ranger Reporter
www.facebook.com/acrangerpaper
deal to partner with Apple and to develop a curriculum that is Apple-created and Apple-driven,” said LoweryHart. “Apple will train our faculty who will be able to train AISD teachers who can teach students K through grade 12.” Denese Skinner, vice president of student affairs, said the new curriculum will help AC students find employment. “It gives another avenue for students to become employable very quickly with a skill set that’s 21st century, high in demand and one that employers are desperately seeking. Everything in our world is driven around software and we have to be able to code,” she said. Students said they are looking forward to enrolling in the new certificate program. “It’s going to bring big opportunities to learn Swift, and I wouldn’t be able to afford it if it weren’t for Amarillo College,” Julian Jacquez, a computer information system major, said. “This opportunity will help me be on the modern side of coding, helping many to get big jobs like at IBM.” Andrew Hands, a computer programming student, said that many large technology companies have switched all
High school students of Amarillo Independent School District can now work toward earning a full general studies associate degree from Amarillo College. On March 19, 2018, AC President Russell Lowery-Hart and AISD Superintendent Dana West signed a partnership between AISD and AC’s Diplomas and Degrees Program. This will allow students to begin working toward a college degree as early as their high school freshman year. “We are thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity to AISD, which has the largest population of students in the Panhandle,” said Jason Norman, AC’s director of P-16 career pathways advisement and co-director of dual credit. The program will begin for AISD in the fall semester of 2018. Students wanting to participate will have to sign a contract, be Texas Success Initiative Assessment compliant and maintain a 2.0 grade-point average. High school students wanting to pursue the general studies associate degree must be sure it is what they want to do during their years as
high school students. “The key to success is students must communicate with their parents and guidance counselors to be absolutely sure that this is what they want to pursue because this is a very strenuous program,” said Dana West, AISD superintendent. Diplomas and Degrees will benefit students by giving them a head start on their college education, and will save students’ families money since each credit hour costs $50. It will also give high school students a glimpse of what college life is like. “This program will show them how to be college students and how to succeed as college students,” said Becky Burton, AC’s dean of academic outreach and support service. Several high schools in the surrounding area are already taking part in the Diplomas and Degrees program, Highland Park High, Bushland High, and River Road High. Despite the harsh schedule of being a high school student taking college courses the students are succeeding. “We have several students in the Diplomas and Degrees program and they are on track,” said Amy Frances, River Road High School guidance counselor.
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2 Opinion The Ranger
April 5, 2018
What role has music played in your life?
“I was in choir for seven years where I met some of the friends that I have now while expressing myself.” Yessenia Diaz Mathematics
“It helped me through some really hard times. It finds a way to speak to you that people can’t.”
TAYLOR RANGEL | The Ranger
Auto-Tuned artists out-of-tune Mckenzie Glenn Criminal Justice
“It’s more like a tool, I’ve gone through some hard stuff in life and it helps me express what I’m going through.” Hannah Copeland Psychology
Don’t wait to say I love you
Value the present, put family first Family is one of the most important things on this earth. That is one thing you should not take for granted. We are losing people left and right these days. One day a person is here and the next day they are gone. I can speak from experience. I have lost three family members in the past two months. First, it was my grandfather in California, then it was my aunt and now it is my cousin. You have to cherish your family while they are here, don’t wait until they are gone to love them. Give them their flowers while they are still alive. If you still have your mom here, call her at least once a day just to tell her you love her. If you still have your dad here, call him at least once a day just to say, “I love you.” Don’t wait until it’s too late to say I love you. Today is here, and tomorrow is not promised. After losing so many family members in such a short amount of time, it makes you sad when you see people take loved ones for granted.
With all his fortune, fame and influence, one aspect of Steven Tyler remains unavoidable… he’s butt ugly. Technology advances faster with each passing day and is infiltrating more industries than ever before. The music industry is no exception. The advent of Auto-Tune and other computer-aided pitch correction software has enabled talent agencies to look for beautiful people and correct any lack of talent in post-production. Just as some magazines and retailers are focusing on doing away with heavily Photoshopped beauty advertisements, it’s time we take a hard look at the way we value the fantasy of “perfect voices” over real talent. Take artists like Alice Cooper or Gene Simmons for example. Neither of them was overly blessed in the
EDITORIAL looks department, but they both have incredible musical abilities. In the age of social media and smartphones, more often than not, a consumer has to enable audio playback but the video starts as soon as it becomes visible. Talent agencies, advertisers and record labels have switched their priorities to finding people who are visually appealing to draw in the consumers. But what happens when that audio hits the consumer’s ears for the first time? In years past, recording artists had little more than a microphone, band and the occasional backup singer. Each artist lived and died by their musical abilities. When you listened to a vinyl album or cassette tape and then went to a concert, barring any voicealtering illness, the artist would sound the same in person as
they did in the recording. Now, with artists like T-Pain and Ke$ha, the veritable king and queen of Auto-Tune, you never know what you’re going to hear when you see them perform in person, but you know it’s going to be vastly different. There are even artists like Adam Young of Owl City who can’t perform at all without their computer there to process the audio live. All of this plays into a society that places so much weight on perfection that it would rather exalt an unrealistic portrayal of human talent than basking in the glory of our own inherent imperfections. We, the Ranger staff, believe that artists should be respected for their god-given abilities rather than for some computer-generated fallacy that creates a standard that no natural human could ever attain. It’s time to tune in to reality.
Down to the last drop
TASHANA SMITH Ranger Reporter
People tend to laugh because I call my mom at least once a day every day, but that is something that I do because I am thankful to still have my mother here on this earth with me. So, give your sister a hug, even if you had an argument the day before. Put the phone down and talk to your family. Spend time together. Even if it’s just doing something simple like cooking dinner or watching a show together. Love your family while they’re still here. Don’t take anyone you love for granted.
- Serving Amarillo College since 1930 For a complete staff listing, please visit The Ranger online at www.acranger.com.
Can someone please tell me why there are giant puddles of water in the street and it has only rained once in six months? That’s right, people water their grass when we are in a drought. We need to conserve all the water that we can, or we will run out. I totally understand that people want to have pretty grass, but I would much rather have other options to choose from. Maybe a nice shower or some water to drink, because that is essential for survival. Pretty sure that people can live with dead grass. Yes, it is ugly, but it is a price we should pay. Our lakes and ponds are drying up. Lake Meredith is drying up due to the state not pumping water into the lake. Instead we are pumping that water into our yards. If the lake were to dry up, then hundreds of fish would be killed. Not only that, but families would
COLTON DROWN Ranger Reporter
no longer be able to go to the lake to have fun during the hot summer months. The little pond at Medi Park is almost completely dried up. If it were to dry up completely then the geese that I used to feed as a kid would have to relocate. That wouldn’t be fair to children who wouldn’t get a chance to feed the geese and see how beautiful the pond is.
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.
If we use water irresponsibly, we will run out of the fresh supply that we have. That water helps farmers water their crops and livestock-- most of our food supply would die. I do not drive, but if I did, I would want my car to look squeaky clean almost all the time. One-way people waste water is by washing their cars at home. When you wash your car at home, you are not just washing your car, you are also washing your driveway. If you want to wash your vehicle, you should go to a car wash which reuses water. You also waste water when you get wasted. It takes so much water to grow crops, we should be using the crops for food not booze. It also leaves you dehydrated, so you are drinking more water than you should. So let’s stop wasting water and start conserving it before we eventually run out.
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 April 5, 2018
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The Ranger
Luncheon benefi ts students our students have achieved,” By KIPPER SINCLAIR Ranger Reporter
The Amarillo College disability department is preparing for the LITE (Living Independently Through Education) luncheon. The event benefits students with disabilities by providing scholarship money. This gets them the help they need in order successfully navigate their studies at AC. The LITE Luncheon is hosted each year by AC’s disAbility Services in conjunction with the Amarillo Advisory Commission for People with Disabilities, the AC Foundation, the Amarillo Civic Center and other community organizations. The LITE luncheon began about 16 years ago by Brenda Rossnagel, who is now retired Courtesy photo from the Amarillo College AC media students pose with awards won at TIPA. The staff took home over 50 awards during disAbility department. The the convention, setting a new record for the program. luncheon is now an annual tradition. This year’s theme is success stories. “We are going to showstudents to exchange ideas recognized for their work in case the successes that some of By STEVI BRESHEARS with their peers, network with radio and video reporting, Ranger Reporter prospective employers and general news audio, blogging By ANDREW MENOZ For most students, the week learn about university transfer and online engagement. Ranger Reporter “Amarillo College students Maddisun after spring break is a time to options,” said get back into the groove of Fowler, AC student media have established a tradition The Mead Faculty Excelof winning statewide and things. For a handful of student coordinator. lence Award is Amarillo Coljournalism and “These benefits, along with national media staff members, however, lege’s prestigious award that returning to school meant the hands-on experience using media contests,” said Fowler. traveling to Dallas to attend their skills in a competitive “While it is great to receive recognizes the integral role of a three-day long convention environment, makes this awards, the true benefit is the the faculty in accomplishing filled with workshops, live convention an invaluable learning that takes place as a the goals of the college. “As a special means of recresult of participating in this experience.” contests and awards. ognizing outstanding faculty, Amarillo College Student convention.” The Texas Intercollegiate Amarillo College will presStudents that attended the Press Association, or TIPA, is Media brought home over ent a faculty excellence award the oldest and largest student 50 awards, both from the on- convention were able to sit in on press association in the nation. site contests and previously- workshops about storytelling, each year at commencement design and photography to exercises,” said Shawna Lopez, Every year, the association published works. “The students’ performance further develop their skills as chair of the Mead Award comholds a convention where mittee. students come from across in these contests validates that student journalists. Students are able to “The competitions we got the state to collaborate and they are learning the skills nominate their favorite full-time needed to succeed in media to compete in helped us learn compete with one another. Students have the careers,” said Jill Gibson, to do our jobs under pressure faculty member for the award. opportunity to put their Matney Mass Media Program and the workshops gave us Nominations can be based on fresh ideas to bring back and excellence in classroom teaching, knowledge and skills to the chair. Salvador Gutierrez placed use in ‘The Ranger’ and ‘The professional activities, service to test in live, on-site contests, as well as learn valuable tips and first for the on-site Spanish Current’,” said Claire Ekas, the college, student and peer tricks in workshops taught by newswriting and Spanish editor of The Current maga- support. “There is a criteria that we radio announcing and Stevi zine and graphic design major. professionals. “It gave all of us who use in selecting who is eligible At this year’s convention, Breshears, editor of The approximately 500 students Ranger, was recognized as attended the chance to get to to obtain the award. For were in attendance from Two-Year College Editor Of know each other better which example, this can be classroom helps us work together even teaching or service to the The Year. colleges across the state. college so it doesn’t become a Students were also better than we did before.” “The convention allows our popularity contest,” Lopez said. The winner will be honored at the May graduation. “The winner will get a even though I was completely room. “AC listened to the needs plaque, a $1000 prize, a paid By MACKENZIE covered,” Campos said. expressed by our students who trip to a teaching seminar or SHIRLEY Currently, there is only one are breastfeeding and found professional meeting and you Ranger Reporter lactation room located on the space on our campuses to serve will have your picture placed There are 4.8 million people first floor of the College Union their need. AC constantly with past winners,” Lopez said. enrolled in college who are par- Building in room 104 at the strives to identify the unmet All faculty members who needs of our students and find are nominated receive a letter ents in the United States and Washington Street Campus. According to Steven Smith, appropriate solutions,” Skinner regarding their nomination. 71 percent of them are women. the vice president of business said. This is why Amarillo College Smith agreed, noting that it officials say they have created affairs, soon every campus will is important to look for ways have a room for breastfeeding a lactation room for breastmothers. to make it easier for parents feeding mothers to be able to “I think it’s a great idea. of infants to attend college. comfortably breastfeed, pump I don’t disagree with moms “We constantly look for ways or store milk. breastfeeding publicly, but I to better support our parent“This is amazing,” Daniela Campos, a nursing major, said, do think that in a setting like ing students to continue their adding that she had to feed her school, it is a safer and more education and maintain their baby in the car. “My mom had private environment,” Saman- academic needs,” Smith said. “All of AC values center to come to school with me. On tha Kenny, a mother of two, around caring for our stumy breaks, I would go and feed said. dents. Having the lactation Denese Skinner, the vice her, making sure I was parked president of student aff airs, room is one more way that we far away from other people because of the looks I would get said AC students came up with will serve the needs of our stuwhen they walked by my car, the idea of creating a lactation dents,” Skinner said.
Student media wins big
Lactation room available for mothers
Courtesy photo
The Lactation room is available on the first floor of the CUB building on Washington campus.
Tyler Grisham, academic adviser for disAbility services, said. The event will be held from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. April 24. It will be held at the Amarillo Civic Center in the Heritage Ballroom. The cost to attend is $20 per person. Tickets may be purchased at the Ask AC counter, disAbility services or in the AC business office. There will also be a silent auction with more than 200 items to bid on. One of the main items will be a photography session with a legacy portrait by Davey Knapp, valued at $3,000. There will also be tickets for various events and jewelry and art that will also be available to be bid on. Donations are still being accepted for the auction. Anyone who has service to offer, such as an item to be bid on, whether it is cooking, cleaning or yard services, should contact the disAbility services department for further information at (806) 371-5917.
Mead award nominations due
“Even if they are not the award recipient, this nomination lets our faculty members know that they are doing a great job,” Lopez said. Lopez said she hopes students will get involved in this award so they can have a chance to show that they have a voice in getting their favorite teacher nominated. “I have sent an email to all students on what the award is and have sent a link on how you nominate and vote for your favorite teacher,” she said. Not a lot of students know about the Mead Award, but the ones that do say they find it important to have their teachers receive an award for all their hard work. “It’s important to take part and vote for your favorite teacher in this award, because if a teacher really does something for you, you should take the time to award them for their hard work in class,” Shauntelle Campbell, an education elementary major, said. Josh Ballard, a mass media major agreed, saying, “It’s important to recognize instructors for what they do. It also gives the instructors a sense of belonging and it will be nice for students to help select the professors they think have helped them the most in their academic career.” The deadline for nominations is April 13.
4 News The Ranger
April 5, 2018
There’s no alternative to alternative By JOSEPH HORNE Ranger Reporter
One of the most difficult music genres to define is alternative. Alternative music is an alternative to…what? Alternative music tends to morph, change and include many different mixes of genres. These factors are part of what attracts many to its sound. The Amarillo College licensed radio station, FM90, has been the mainstay for what most would consider alternative music for decades in the Texas Panhandle. “Some of the music played on FM90 in the past couple of years has a sort of pop sound,” Amy Presley, FM90 program director, said, adding she believes the sound coming from many bands in the next year or two may transition back to a crunchier garage band sound. Presley said alternative music has an edgier sound than what is normally played on Top 40 or contemporary hit radio stations. Yet, she said a small number of alternative artists do crossover to mainstream music genres. Joel Beanes from Hart, Texas, has worked as music director for FM90 since the fall of 2016 and as an on-air announcer since 2012. “Sounds have changed every year since I have been associated with alternative music and FM90,” Beanes, a mass media major, said. Beanes said alternative music has more than one sound and can be acoustic, rock, pop, punk and much more.
Les Jones, a mass media major, said alternative music is not the normal type of music you hear on practically every other radio station and could be summed up simply as not mainstream. Jones also works as a radio personality for Wild 104.3 radio station in Amarillo. He said he thinks the alternative scene gives some new bands their start and a chance to make it into mainstream markets. “Alternative is a good blend of rock and pop,” Allison Ricenbaw, a mass madia major and FM90 DJ, said. Ricenbaw said she could remember her first memories of listening to alternative music when her parents played it on the radio when she was a young child. Finding any other radio station other than AC’s FM90 in the Texas panhandle playing music by Dashboard Confessional, the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs, Wallows, The Decemberists, or The Front Bottoms or other bands that don’t have a mainstream sound is difficult. That’s what makes the music played on FM90 and other alternative stations outside the area ‘alternative.’ Many music historians will argue that alternative music started during the 1980s with bands like The Cure, Red Hot Chili Peppers or R.E.M. while others would say alternative started in the 1990s with bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam or Smashing Pumpkins. College radio played the bulk of alternative music in the early days and FM90 continues to play non-mainstream music that most people consider alternative. LILY GAMBLE | The Ranger
Musings on
melody
magic
By CARTER HALL Ranger Reporter
Music touches the lives of many people. It is no wonder that many students at Amarillo College walk around campus with headphones. Music allows people to escape from reality, if only just for a few minutes. Music can send you to a state of euphoria. It is a cultural activity that many of today’s students use to express their feelings. Experiencing that one band or entertainer can be an experience of a lifetime. Amarillo may be a small city, but it is home to lots of culture, including music and art. The Cadillac Ranch, Big Texan and The Starlight Ranch all call Amarillo home. Meeting up with your friends and going out to a music event can be the apex of the weekend. “Lovestock” is a music festival for music lovers and it allows them to listen to all the songs they love. Drake Hutton an AC mass media major and his friends came up with “Lovestock,” which is scheduled for June 30 and will be held downtown on 10th Street and Madison. The event allows people from all types of musical backgrounds to come together and enjoy their love of music. “It’s honestly a fun event to throw. We enjoy making other people happy and help making a difference in the local music and art scene,” Hutton said. Listening to music can bring out a wide range of emotions. It can feel as though you are on a fast emotional roller coaster where it is defying gravity and your knuckles turn white from gripping on tight to the cold metal bar. Loved ones can make listening to music this meaningful. “I always go back to the Artic Monkeys and Cage the Elephant,” Carly Stewart, a general studies major, said.
Simply listening to that one band or song will bring back memories of that significant person. “Someone I loved showed them to me and I’ve listened to them ever since,” Stewart said. Throughout the years there have been many different devices and ways of listening to music. In 2001, Apple released the iPod with the slogan “1,000 songs in your pocket” and a battery life of up to 10 hours. This revolutionary new device redefined the meaning of listening to music. Next came the creation of streaming radio apps such as Pandora and Spotify that allowed users access to music for free in exchange for listening to select ads. This meant anyone could listen to music any time they wanted, anywhere they wanted – and they do. Listening to music is relaxing for students. At school, students are focused on their lectures or labs and once it is done, they plug their headphones in and start jamming out. “I think music is important for college students because it’s an escape from reality, especially homework,” Bria Hughes, an accounting major, said. As music makes an impact on students, it can also interfere with their studies at times. When a favorite song starts, it can redirect their attention from their work to the music. The sound of the singer’s voice will turn the study session into a jam session. “I listen to music in my free time, I feel like I can’t concentrate when I am studying and trying to listen to music at the same time,” Jasye Erwin, a nursing major, said. Music is a form of art and it allows students and all people to express the way they think and feel. The beat to their favorite song starts, the singer begins to sing the lyrics and people start to relate. “Music will always have an impact no matter what, music is always alive and changing, changing people,” Stewart said.
News April 5, 2018
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The Ranger
Choirs raise voices, spirits By KIPPER SINCLAIR Ranger Reporter
Music has the power to move us all. Amarillo College’s two choirs, the Master Chorale and Amarillo Concert Choir, are no exception. The Concert Choir is open to the students of AC and the Master Chorale is open to members of the Amarillo community and is composed of many different people from all walks of life. Joining either group begins with an audition. Being part of the choirs requires singing skills, although the need to sing is not always necessarily what drives people to become members. “It is great to be a part of something that creates beautiful music,” Michael Robinson, a Master Chorale member, said. The Master Chorale performs locally, whereas the Concert Choir goes on an annual tour, traveling and performing all across the country. “The AC Concert Choir was the first vocal music group here at AC that was started decades ago,” Nathan Fryml, program director and director for both choirs, said.
Hart of FM90:
According to the Amarillo College website, the Civic Chorus, which is the original name given to the Master Chorale, was established by George Biffle. Once the Civic Chorus established a nonprofit status, it then became associated with Amarillo College in 1985 with the assistance of the music chair, Dr. Dale Roller and renamed the Master Chorale. The chorus was conducted by Dr. Richard Nance from 19851992 and was under the leadership of Dr. Steven Weber from 1992 through the spring of 2016. Fryml then took over from there. Members of both groups said they enjoy performing pieces for the community. “I don’t mind performing, because it gives me the motivation to do better,” Chase Armstrong a business major and member of the concert choir, said. Other choir members said they enjoy sharing their talents. “I think it’s that one thing you do in your life that is not about yourself,” Terry Rogers, Chorale member, said. The next performance for the Concert Choir will be in the Concert Hall on the Washington Street Campus April 12, 2018, from 7:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Admission is free. LILY GAMBLE | The Ranger
AC grad returns as program director By LAUREL SEBASTIAN Ranger Reporter
Amy Presley, also known as Amy Hart, has returned to her roots in her role as the new audio media coordinator for FM90 and Panhandle PBS. Presley is an Amarillo College graduate who worked as the music director for FM90 as a student before moving onto other projects, such as her most recent job with 100.9 The Eagle. As audio media coordinator, Presley is the program director for FM90 and will teach radio classes at AC. “I’ve always loved FM90. Coming back was always something I wanted and hoped I would have the chance to do. Being back is fulfilling a lifelong dream to become a program director and to teach students about what I love so much,” Presley said. Since her arrival Feb. 1, Presley has made some slight changes in the tempo of the station, making it more upbeat. She said listeners can expect a few more changes in the coming months, but she is committed to maintaining the aspects of FM90 that she loved when she was a student at AC. “I am thrilled about my new position. I hope to bring my love and passion for radio to the classroom. I want every student to feel confident in their abilities and be ready for a job in commercial radio,” Presley said. FM90 is a student-run radio station based on campus that allows any student, regardless of major, to test out their abilities and get a chance to be on air. “We’re focused on bringing the latest songs to our listeners and keeping them updated on what’s new in the community,” Darian Hunter, a mass media major and FM90 announcer, said. Hunter, along with other FM90 staff members, said she believes that Presley will bring a new perspective and new energy to the station. Brian Frank, former FM90 program director and current AC audio instructor and KACV content producer, said AC and FM90 are lucky to have such a talented and enthusiastic member on staff. “I’m looking forward to what Amy can give to our students - she was just like them at their age. She provides them with an example of success as well as fun leadership to help them experience what college radio is all about,” Frank said. Kyle Arrant, director of Panhandle PBS and FM90 operations, agreed. “Amy has been part of the Amarillo radio scene for over 15 years and she brings that experience along with her passion for teaching students to FM90 and Amarillo College.”
Amy Presley, the new program director of FM90 DJing on the radio.
Illustrations by Claire Ekas
6 NEWS The Ranger
April 5, 2018
Students spend spring break exploring Paris
By MACKENZIE SHIRLEY Ranger Reporter
A group of 22 students and faculty spent spring break on an Amarillo College-sponsored trip to Paris, France. The trip connected to several courses offered during the first eight weeks of the spring semester that focused on issues and topics related to Paris prepared students to go overseas. “The purpose of the trip was to get immersed in the culture that there is in Paris, because it is such an old city,” Josh Ballard, a mass media major, said. “It helped teach us about the world outside of Amarillo and overall it just helped everyone
experience things they’ve always wanted to experience.” The travelers explored classic Paris destinations including the Eiffel Tower, the church of Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomph, which for some was the highlight of the trip. “The most memorable moment for me on the trip was going up to the top of the Arc de Triomph with a group of friends,” Sean McDonald, a biology major, said. “Not only were the sights breathtaking, but it also helped me get over my fear of heights.” Six of the travelers also went to the Disneyland Paris theme park, which also connected to the material the students had
covered in their speech class. “The purpose of Disneyland Paris was to understand how a bunch of different cultures react together in a sort of melting pot,” Ballard said. Ashley Sanders, a chemistry major, said, “It was a chance for us to see how the French interpreted such an iconic thing in American culture. It was really cool to see how similar they actually were.” While getting to see cultures collide in a lighthearted environment, the students also had fun in the theme park. “While I was waiting in line for the rides, I saw many different cultures from the British to the Japanese and it
was very interesting to see how other cultures do things,” Michelle Wittler, a biology major, said. A highlight of the Disneyland Paris visit was Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show, which showcased the French perception of cowboys and Indians of the Wild West. “It was an interesting experience to see how Disneyland displayed our culture as Americans and as Texans when some of us got to go see Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show,” said Ballard. “The show was really far off. I couldn’t count the number of times they said ‘yeehaw’.” Previous faculty and students have traveled to Germa-
ny, Czechoslovakia, France, Italy and England during spring break. Planning is now underway for next year’s spring trip and college officials say they hope to offer an additional overseas trip during the fall break of 2019. Participation in these trips is open to all students, but preference is given to those enrolled in connected classes. Students are responsible for their travel costs. Faculty members can apply to sponsor and lead upcoming trips and teach connected classes. The Paris trip sponsors were Courtney Milleson, Stephanie Jung, Diego Caetano and Becky Easton.
Students spent spring break in Paris, France immersing themselves in the French culture. They explored Disneyland Paris, Arc de Triomph, the Eiffel Tower and many other iconic French sites. They spent the first eight weeks of the spring semester learning about the country and their culture in order to prepare for themselves for the trip. Photos by Mackenzie Shirley and Courtney Milleson.
Culture
Rebooting Roseanne April 5, 2018
7
The Ranger
RANGER REVIEW
Musical.ly
By JOEL BEANES Ranger Reporter
After 20 years of absence, one of the most iconic TV sitcoms of America has returned to the television sets for one more season. The hit television show, “Roseanne,” started airing on the ABC network in October 1988 and ended in May 1997 after nine great seasons, making the audience think that that was the end of the show. On March 27, 2018. Roseanne returned to the network of ABC for another season-opening. The new season comes with the original cast that includes Roseanne Barr as Roseanne Conner, John Goodman as Dan Connor, Laurie Metcalf as Jackie, Michael Fishman as D.J., Sara Gilbert as Darlene, Lecy Goranson as Becky and Sarah Chalke, who played the role of Becky and now is playing the role of Andrea in the new series. Three new characters were added to the cast, Ames McNamara as Mark Con-
Innocent fun or embarrasing blip? By LILY GAMBLE Ranger Reporter
COURTESY PHOTO
ner-Healy, son of Darlene Conner, Emma Kenney as Harris Conner-Healy, daughter of Darlene Conner and Jayden Rey as Mary Conner, daughter of D.J. When the trailer for the new series aired, I had a few doubts about the reboot. Especially after the final episode of the original series when Roseanne Conner (Roseanne Barr) said that Dan Connor ( John Good-
man) had died. I was wondering how were they going to bring him back to the show. Also, toward the end of the original show, the Conners were millionaires but the trailer for the new series said they were going to bring everything back as they were from the original set. That got me a little worried. The night of the premiere finally came and so the mo-
ment of truth. The intro of the show was like the original, just refreshed. This time, the show was more of a sitcom than a story of someone’s life, but the first episode was not what I was expecting. I hope they stay away from the political issues and pursue storylines more related to family situations and comedy. Other than that, it was great.
NBA playoffs from coast to coast By RAMONA SALGADO Ranger Reporter
The NBA playoffs are just around the corner and many fans are rooting for their team to make it to the finals in June. The real question is whether another team in the league finally will end the three-year streak of the Cleveland Cavaliers versus the Golden State Warriors. Will this season become another historical rivalry like the longstanding battle between the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers? Let’s break it down. The East Coast first. Two teams threaten the Cavaliers in the East: the Celtics and the Toronto Raptors. With 48 wins and only 17 losses, the Raptors demonstrate a
strong defense and an average of 112 points per game. At this point in the season, the Raptors have a great chance of knocking out the Cavaliers in the playoffs, not to mention the wins the Raptors had over the Cavaliers back in February. In a 133-99 victory, the Raptors outscored the Cavs by 10 points every quarter along with dominating in rebounds and assists. This season, the Raptors pose a real threat to the Cavaliers. Along with the Raptors, the Celtics spell trouble to LeBron James and the Cavaliers. Differing from the Raptors, the Celtics’ defense breaks down the Cavaliers’ game, out-defending them in rebounds and stealing the Celtics’ plays to out-
smart and outscore their rivals with fast breaks and more points in the paint. Now let’s take it out to the West Coast. The Warriors are keeping their eyes on one major team, which should keep every player on alert. The Houston Rockets now are the powerhouse of three-point shots, amazing defense, and outstanding assists. There is a reason they hold the No. 1 spot in the conference. The Warriors already have suffered a loss to the Rockets at 116-108 and the Oakland team has a lot to study for the next matchup if they plan to keep their title of West Coast champions. The one true downfall of the Warriors’ game is their lack of defense. The reason
Netflix prompts the end of an era By JUAN RODRIGUEZ Ranger Reporter
One thing I loved doing when I was a kid was to go with my parents to the local video stores and rent a VHS or DVD. There were more than 25 thousand video stores in the United States in 1989, but by 2015 only 5,000 were still available and that number was winding down yearly. Following years of struggle with acquisitions and bankruptcies, Movie Gallery and Hollywood Video closed its final door in 2010. The more popular, Blockbuster, closed in
2013 followed by the Hastings Entertainment store in 2017. The rise of Netflix and the shift to everyone streaming may have been the force that sunk the ship. Throughout the years, habits have changed in regard to buying and renting movies and games. It is ironic if true because in 2000 Blockbuster passed up the opportunity to purchase Netflix for $50 million. A new chain would soon come along as well called Redbox, which made it feel like the end of an era was underway. Those still looking to purchase movies or games can still
do so at retail stores such as Wal Mart or Target and renting is still available through Redbox, but that is about it. I personally feel we just live in a digital world now where everyone is on a phone that can access movies and games through streaming apps. The video store wasn’t just a collection of movies and games, but a happy place you could go with families and maybe even listen to music while others shopped around. So the video stores that remain are a symbol of the recent past that will struggle to try to hang with the streaming present.
they didn’t take the game against the Rockets was a lack of rebounds and steals. Three-point shots and assists are the same for both teams. The Warriors need to improve their rebounding and tips back into the net in order to take the next game against the Rockets. In the end, the possibility of owning the playoffs depends on whether the team can improve its defense. Time is running out for the Warriors and Cavaliers to set their standings for the playoffs, and neither are in the No. 1 spot right now. This could be the year we see different teams in the finals. Until then, keep watching the games and keep your eyes on the standings.
Lip Syncing—what used to disappoint Britney Spears’ concert fans is now making tweens and teenagers famous with the social networking app Musical.ly. The video app first launched in 2014 and is dedicated to allowing users to record themselves lipsyncing over various music tracks. The app has created a clear divide between people who either love it or hate it. “It should stop,” Taylor Rangel, a biology major, said. “The fact that such young kids are watching it creeps me out. I feel like the young kids are sometimes sexualized.” Jason Driver, a theatre major, agrees with Rangel’s anti-app sentiment. “It makes me cringe. There’s absolutely no quality or life to the videos.” Fans of the app see things differently. “I love how creative they are,” Charlie Jackson, a biology major, said. “I think it’s entertaining if I ever have time to kill.” Whether it’s something you spend all day watching or something you refuse to download, the facts still stand: this app is making stars. Jacob Sartorius, Baby Ariel (not actually a baby), Loren Beech and German twins Lisa and Lena are just a few of the top users that also have millions of followers on Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. They’ve even gone on to have successful music, modeling and dance careers. Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to download the free Musical.ly app and decide for yourself—has lip syncing made a comeback or is this an embarrassing blip in history?
8 Feature The Ranger
APRIL 5, 2018
FM90 will turn back the clock and play music the way it used to be played with vinyl records spinning on turntables once again in the Amarillo College licensed radio station’s studios. The third annual Vinylthon will be held April 21. FM90 will be joining college radio stations across the United States to broadcast special programs entirely with music played from vinyl records. The College Radio Foundation, a nonprofit charity, which also organizes the annual College Radio Day held in the fall is responsible for Vinylthon. In another spin on the record theme, Vinylthon will be held on Record Store Day, an annual celebration of the unique culture surrounding independent record stores. FM90 will play LPs and 45 singles from 9 a.m. to noon April 21. The station’s student announcers will be allowed to bring in and play their own favorite records, Amy Presley, FM90 program director, said. “We are teaching students the skills required for live broadcasting and having a good time,” said Presley. Music on vinyl has experienced a comeback in the last decade. Many younger collectors are interested
in having something they can hold in their hands versus just downloading a digital version of their favorite music. “I have an interest in older technology and it’s kind of a visual thing,” Allison Ricenbaw, a mass media major, said. The artwork on album covers and even on the vinyl itself appeals to students who buy records. Ricenbaw said she has collected LPs since middle school and owns approximately 75 albums. “I like the sound of vinyl and have about 120 albums and 45s,” Luke Balderaz, a mass media major, said. He said he enjoys the artwork and having a tangible piece of music. Balderaz and Ricenbaw are on-air personalities with FM90 and plan to participate in Vinylthon. Kevin Ball, AC vice president of communication/ marketing and CEO of Panhandle PBS, worked as Hastings Entertainment vice president of marketing when music-lovers first began rediscovering records. “Vinyl became a collectible and a specialty product. True audiophiles started to collect this thing again. They sound excellent and the artwork is great, which appeals to the collector,” Ball said. Gradually, record collectors have set the tone for more average consumers. “I own two LPs currently and enjoy the historical value and sound of vinyl,” Carly Stewart, a mass media major, said. Stewart said she plans to increase her collection over time. Sound Systems Ltd. on Paramount Street in Amarillo has one of the largest selections of vinyl records available for sale locally. Most records are sold to male customers in their mid-30s to 60s, George Deahl, Sound Systems Ltd. Consultant, said. Some younger adults purchase LPs after discovering their parents’ or other relatives’ and friends’ collections of music on vinyl. “It brings back great memories of when I was a child because my parents had a record player,” Rey Garcia, a radiology major, said. “I enjoy the sound and the needle and how the record just spins around and round.” You can listen to Vinylthon 2018 on 89.9 FM or streaming live at KACVFM.org.