Volume 91, Issue 4 October 29, 2020

The Great Pumpkin Issue Amarillo College's News Source Since 1930 Volume 91, Issue 4

acranger.com

October 29, 2020

On or off?

Zooming in on the webcam issue

Illustration by SHAWN McCREA | The Ranger

By BRIDGET ULLOA Page Editor

The shift from having in-person classes to remote learning on Zoom has left both teachers and students with mixed feelings over whether or not students should be required to have their cameras on during Zoom lectures.

Andrea Isela Varela, a psychology major, said that she personally believed students should be required to have their cameras on even if they would be rocking that “slept in” look.

“If I am lying in bed just having my laptop next to me not having to show my face or actively participate

in class, I know I am going to fall asleep,” Varela said. “Rather if I have to show my face I will probably be sitting up with my back toward the wall, looking at the camera and actively participating in class or at my desk even though I will be looking worse than any of my classmates.”

For some students having their cameras on allows for a more productive learning environment; however, for others that simply may not be the case.

Ngan Trinh, a business administration major, said that having students turn on their cameras isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but there are students who may not have the

same luxuries as others.

“Turning on the camera is essentially exposing your home life to your peers and professors, which for the most part is OK, but we should take into account that some don’t have the luxuries that others do (their own room, light, etc.) and so they would be reluctant to show it,” Trinh said. “Having cameras on can actually be potentially distracting to other students as well as myself. I find myself unconsciously focusing on how I’m acting instead of paying attention to the meeting.”

Professors, just like their students, also have different views on the issue.

See ZOOM, page 3

Reflections on athletics at AC

By CAYLEE HANNA Page Editor

Competitive sports once helped alumni find success

By CAYLEE HANNA Page Editor

Amarillo College Vice President Denese Skinner remembers the day she played in a national college basketball tournament.

“There were recruiters from all over the country there,” said Skinner, the former basketball player who now heads up student affairs at AC. “Our team did not play well enough to win the tournament, but all of the sophomores who wanted to play at a university were offered scholarships to do so. That is an awesome success story,” she said.

One of the most striking aspects of Skinner’s story might not be evident immediately – the fact that the college she was playing basketball for was AC. From its founding up until the mid-1980s, AC had an athletic program, which is something few current students realize ever took place.

The AC athletics program gave students opportunities to win scholarships and move on to big universities to continue their sports careers. They also gave students many memories that they are able to reflect on while See HISTORY, page 3

After 30 years, AC sports may be back on the field

HENRY ORTEGA | The Ranger

Tammy Crafton shoots a layup while Debbie Leeper is at the ready for a possible rebound in a December 1977 game against Wayland Baptist. The Lady Badgers won 66-51.

Intercollegiate sports may be coming back to Amarillo College. Dr. Russell LoweryHart, AC president, said the board of regents is in the process of determining if starting men’s baseball, women’s basketball and men’s and women’s cross-country would be a successful and cost efficient move for the college. AC once had an athletics program, but eliminated it in the 1980s.

“The regents have engaged in feasibility studies and are trying to determine the budgetary implications of adding sports,” LoweryHart said. “They are working with experts in the field to ensure exactly what we would need to ensure we did athletics successfully and cost efficiently.”

Lowery-Hart said that the regents have noticed how important sports are to students and want to see if bringing back this program could increase enrollment.

“As our community changes, I think the regents want to make sure we adapt and change as well,” he said. “Sports are important to many students locally.”

Communications content

producer, Joe Wyatt, said that the regents have been doing research on other successful athletics programs.

“They’ve been conducting some informal polling to assess the viability of reestablishing such a program here,” Wyatt said.

Cecilia Mendoza, a visual arts major, said that bringing back sports to AC would be great for students.

“I feel like people are always looking for an excuse to stay active and be a part of a team and sports are a great avenue for anyone,” she said.

Lowery-Hart said that this program could begin in 2022, depending on the regents’ decision, but that timeline remains uncertain. He added that AC is constantly looking for ways to grow and serve the community.

“As with most things, AC will always look for innovations and new programs that could help grow our college and diversity and grow our economy,” Lowery-Hart said. “Athletics could be one of those additions if the benefits to enrollment improve our financial position.”

Follow The Ranger online at acranger.com for the latest updates on the regents’ decision.

October 29, 2020

WHAT ARE YOUR OPINIONS ABOUT THE UPCOMING ELECTIONS? KRYSTAL SISNEROS

Graphic Design “I hope they have a way of keeping everyone safe at the polls, rather than having everyone being close to each other.”

KOBE PHIMMASONE

Mechanical Engineering “It’s going to be a dumpster fire. The main reason is because of the presidential debate. We all saw how Trump and Biden were going toe to toe. It’s not really working out.”

MACKINZE LINPENG Pre-Nursing

“As a first-time voter, I think it’s really crazy that we’re having to still vote in person, although I think it’s really good that were remaining 6 feet apart at the polls, and there are other options to vote.”

Dancing with COVID OPINION

By AUGUSTINE GALVAN VEGA Staff Reporter

I am a COVID-19 survivor. I caught the virus over the summer while dancing at a local club. That night everyone over the age of 18 was disregarding the recommendations from the government to stay home, self-quarantine and maintain six feet of social distancing. That all went in one ear and out the other for about 50 college students that fateful night.

It was one of the last nights that the club was going to be open before the state shut everything down. By 11 p.m., there was a line out the door.

Since I was under the influence and my judgement was impaired, I had forgotten that there was a deadly virus going around. I was dancing, singing, and sweating talking loudly to people around me over the noise. A banger came on the speakers and I locked eyes with a girl, a friend of mine that I had bumped into at the bar quite frequently. We started dancing together and the next

Design Manager Shawn McCrea Page Editors Joey Pantoja, Bridget Ulloa, Taylor Burton, Caylee Hanna, Jessika Fulton, Pierce Lawson Online Editor Alyssa Fant

thing you know, we were making out on the dance floor.

About a week later, she texted me saying she had to get a COVID-19 test for work and she was positive. I had been feeling weird and was already paranoid about having it, but she confirmed my fears. I went and got tested with my brother who was with me that night. Tests came back for both of us and my brother lucked out. He was negative. I was the winner with the positive test.

I was locked in my bedroom for 14 days. The symptoms were the worst during the first five days.

I slept a lot, watched so many movies and played way too much Call of Duty.

My only interaction with the outside world was a knock at the door, which meant there was food for me left on a stool outside in the hallway.

When I finally recovered, I went and got retested and came back negative. I was so relieved that I could finally get out, get some sun on my skin and see my friends again.

Columnists Emma deGrood, Ruth Martinez Graphic Designers Sydney West, Daniar Oñoz Photographers Brandon Belflower, Zach Quiros

Spookified Ranger Banner designed by SYDNEY WEST

Illustration by DANIAR ONOZ | The Ranger

Students say thanks EDITORIAL For the Fall II semester, Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, AC President has authorized a transition to a more tech supported environment for classes in an effort to streamline and focus faculty efforts while continuing Amarillo College’s fight for everyone’s safety against COVID-19.

If President Lowery-Hart were a football coach, we’d shower him in Gatorade.

Students and teachers alike were hoping for a semester that allowed for in-person learning, the preferred format of many, which would give a taste of normalcy in the midst of the ongoing pandemic.

Fans of the format testify to a more effective learning system with in-person classes, stating that the video options or the split online/offline accommodations necessary to comply with COVID-19 rules only end up adding hurdles to accessing and, more importantly, understanding teachers’ lessons and instructions.

The fact is that AC students and teachers have had an unprecedented struggle with the currently

modified, half online, half in-person system applied to many, one with effects that couldn’t possibly have been known until attempted. Well, here we are, having given it the ol’ college try with seemingly more cons than pros at the end of the day. The energy we hoped to gain incorporating an in-class element is divided, lessening its effectiveness.

We have attended classes with modifications that ultimately ended up inhibiting the time and effort necessary for a quality lesson from teachers, with logistics and communications issues becoming the dirt in what should be nicely oiled set of gears, not to mention disruptions from active infections culminating in more worry and anxiety. We attended in-person classes expecting to gain from them what we used to before COVID-19, underestimating what it would cost. The cost is quality and clarity.

As students, we often forget the other end of the college spectrum, the faculty. Professors have seen an increase in their workload

in having to make sure all students are included, and the more their students are separated, the more balls are being juggled at once.

The result is divided energy. We are experiencing a situation where we want a quality classroom experience and that doesn’t seem to be possible as long as it’s divided.

There’s something special about in-class lessons, but, with COVID-19 safety protocols, that experience cannot be achieved. So long as the options are available, we should choose the system that delivers the most focused energy and effort for our tuition. If we can’t have a fully focused inclass experience because of COVID-19, then we’ll take a more concentrated effort in remote learning instead. Splitting the difference with lesser educational quality and higher risk of infection just hasn’t been cutting it.

Thanks go to President Lowery-Hart for making the move toward an improved educational experience for staff and students alike.

Disney dishes out disclaimers OPINION

By RAYGAN LOPEZ Staff Reporter

With current social justice movements and protests against police brutality toward people of color, change is needed and on the rise. Although civil rights laws were passed in the 1960s, racism has been ingrained into our culture.

The modern movement has encouraged big named brands to bring awareness to this issue. Disney is one of these newly-enlightened brands.

Change is escorted by accountability. A prime example is Disney’s addition of a warning label for racial stereotypes in some of the company’s films.

The 12-second disclaimer cannot be skipped and is played at the beginning of older films. It states to the

audience that the racial stereotypes were wrong then and are wrong now.

Disney’s disclaimer also expresses that, instead of removing content, Disney “wants to acknowledge [its] harmful impact.” Disney’s ultimate goal is to begin this conversation and create an inclusive future.

Children will soon lead future generations and Disney is at the forefront of producing childhood entertainment and memories. The accountability for past actions lets children know that it’s OK to make mistakes and be wrong, but also that it’s OK to change and grow from mistakes.

Times were different back then when these movies were being produced. Racial jokes were deemed as “entertainment” and “funny,” thus

being ignored.

What children view will impact what they think is OK. Racism is not OK and never will be. Making a mockery of one’s appearance or culture can be very harmful to the futures of children. What a child consumes in their formative years will affect their behavior as adults.

America’s built-in systematic racism has messed with the wrong generation.

America is painted with different skin tones and framed by many beautiful cultures, and it’s important for children to know that.

Without holding oneself and others accountable, the needed change will never occur. Disney’s disclaimer is a steppingstone toward making up for a flawed history of allowing racial stereotyping in films.

October 29, 2020

Pandemic creates potential excuse to avoid responsibilities

By BRIDGET ULLOA Page Editor

As the school year progresses and the work that students are receiving intensifies, the temptation of making excuses to get out of certain responsibilities increases. The added stress of the pandemic possibly created an excuse that students may use to get out of certain responsibilities.

Whether or not students could be using being in quarantine as an excuse, professors at Amarillo College are adamant that students need to complete their assignments in order to pass the class but deadlines will be extended for those who are feeling ill or are in quarantine.

Dr. Eric Fauss, a history professor at AC, said that his students haven’t been pulling the quarantine card to get out of any assignments.

“I clearly communicated that students still had to do their work even if they are in quarantine unless they were too sick to get it done; in that case, it still had to be completed later,” said Fauss. “I had many students report potential exposures to COVID and a few even test positive, resulting in folks not physically attending class, but they still generally kept up.

I don’t think there was anything to be gained from lying about being sick.”

Ngan Trinh, a business administration major, said that one of her professors posted a notice on blackboard reminding students that they must complete weekly quizzes and assignments since it is imperative

for their grade even if they are quarantining at home.

“I do understand that some people are currently still being affected by the pandemic so they need extensions on deadlines,” said Trinh.

Though college can already be stressful and even more so during a pandemic, Trinh said that even with the added homework and responsibilities she had to face this year, she still wouldn’t lie about having to quarantine.

“It goes against my morals,” Trinh said. “And I understand the importance of doing your work and learning new skills to prepare me for life beyond AC.” Destine Dominguez, a business major, said that she has thought about pulling the quarantine card not necessarily in class but at work.

“I considered calling my boss and telling her I wasn’t feeling well and that I needed to stay home and quarantine just so I could catch up with all my assignments,” Dominguez said. “But I never went through it because I knew it wasn’t right.”

“I would stress the importance of reporting honestly: making stuff up could potentially result in many people being impacted,” Fauss said.

“I would hope that this would not discourage students from reporting because, in actual cases of exposure, lives can sometimes be at stake: folks need to know if they were potentially exposed so they can quarantine themselves and not put others at risk.”

Illustration by DANIAR ONOS | The Ranger

Coronavirus leaves students stressed, struggling

By FLOREYA QUINTERO Staff Reporter

Of the many things that students juggle in a regular semester, the addition of COVID-19 has changed the day-to-day life on campus. Students are now required to learn and work, all while in the midst of living through a pandemic.

“Since our in-class time is reduced, the professors do not have enough time to even overview as much as they used to,” Leslie Martinez, a general studies major, said.

Martinez also said that it’s easy to get distracted with having to do so much school work especially from home.

With being on campus less, it’s also hard to feel excited about school since she can’t be as involved due to new regulations brought upon by COVID-19.

“The school just feels so empty now,” Martinez said.

While dealing with split and online classes has been a nightmare for some, there are other students who enjoy and actually prefer this new norm.

“COVID hasn’t really affected me when it comes to learning,” said Juan Luis Aguilar, an engineering major. “I learn just fine, and I even enjoy wearing my mask to school because I get to hide my face.”

Sarabeth Rangel, an art major, said that something she has been struggling with the most this semester is finding out what things to prioritize over others.

“Right now, a lot of my focus is directed toward finding a new job so that I can continue making money to support myself and my family,” Rangel said. “Dealing with school and work life is hard

because sometimes you’re focused on surviving instead of your education.”

Rangel also said that it’s hard to find time for anything when she focuses on her job.

“To deal with school and work, I balance out my school work throughout the week and complete little-by-little each day,” Victoria Millirans, a child development major, said.

Millirans also said that this semester is something new for everyone, so she feels it’s okay and expected to feel a little lost and a bit stressed out this semester.

“One thing I would say to struggling students is be honest with yourself,” Rangel said. “Ask for help when you need it. Don’t be afraid to tell people what you’re going through because at the end of the day, everyone is dealing with things.”

encouraged students to enroll into college and awarded students scholarships for playing on sports teams.

“Certainly sports helped add to the enrollment at AC. One might assume that students came to AC to participate in the sport who might not otherwise choose to go to school here,” Skinner said. “For me, I would not have attended college had AC not offered me a scholarship to play.”

According to Skinner, the AC athletic program gave her a new opportunity to continue her education and

helped her have a successful professional career.

“The opportunity for me to play basketball at AC changed the trajectory of my life. I would not be where I am today had it not been for the scholarship that brought me to AC,” Skinner said.

“Kelly Chadwick’s ability to teach me how to play the sport led to my opportunity to continue to play at a 4-year university. I have a bachelor and master’s degree and have had a successful professional career all because AC asked me to play basketball for the college.”

when I broke the students into groups or asked for interaction, I got nothing. Some students would not participate.”

For the most part, all professors keep their cameras on during their lecture for their students and when they see that all their students have their cameras off, some professors may feel a little bit disconnected with their class.

“I feel lonely and disconnected when students turn

their cameras off,” said Jill Gibson, the chair of media, arts and communication. “I also know that when I turn my camera off in a meeting, I am more likely to text or check email and less likely to pay attention. I do understand that students deserve the right to preserve their privacy, but unless students are quarantined, they can come to campus to video conference,” Gibson said.

HISTORY: Remembering the positive impact of AC’s sport teams Continued from page 1 thinking about their time on the college campus.

“Sports were important when I first started teaching in 1972,” Bill Young, AC retirees association executive director, said. “Some were more noticeable such as basketball others were more in the background like tennis and gymnastics.”

Even though AC sports had successful moments, the program came to an end in the mid ‘80s.

“I’ll never forget being at the board meeting when they

canceled basketball. That was sad because both the men’s and women’s team competed well in a conference that was called the Western Athletic Junior College Conference,” Paul Matney, former AC president, said.

“The reason athletics finally ended was that they seemed to lose their reason for being at AC. One of the reasons was the fact that we did not have dorms and so our players had to live in apartments. And it’s very difficult for coaches to supervise players when they are not all together living in

a dorm somewhere.”

The athletic program at AC benefited a lot of organizations and even created oragnizations as well, such as the pep band, cheerleaders and the Badger Belles.

“We hated to see the program eliminated because it was great for the music department. It was good for the Badger Belles, which was a dance troop. It was good for the radio and TV department and the cheerleaders,” Matney said. “All of those activities revolved around having basketball teams.”

The AC athletic program

ZOOM: Professors share their take on cameras off during zoom Continued from page 1 Amy Presley, the audio media coordinator and the audio production professor at Amarillo College, said that while she loves her students to have their cameras on, she understands that some may feel more comftorable having their cameras off.

“I understand that some students may feel insecure about their surroundings.

Maybe they overslept and didn’t have a chance to brush their hair. Or maybe their kids are in the room with them and they would prefer them not on camera,” Presley said. “There are lots of reasons why students might not want to be on camera. I don’t pressure them to turn them on. They can always join when they’re ready.”

Courtney Milleson, a speech professor, said that

it depends on the course that she is teaching whether she requires her students to have their camera on.

“For my upcoming eightweek interpersonal communication courses, I am requiring my students to turn on their cameras. The reason is I need them to interact with me and others as a part of learning and exploring the content,” Milleson said. “What I experienced last eight weeks was

October 29, 2020

Festivities must go on Halloween spreads joy, not germs OPINION

By RUTH MARTINEZ Staff Reporter

Halloween is right around the corner, and so is COVID-19 as Amarillo has its numbers rising once again. It is not going to cancel Halloween though, that’s for sure! Trickor-treating on Halloween has been on many people’s minds lately. As usual, the Centers for Disease Control guidelines should be applied in order for Halloween to be a safe environment for both children and adults. Going door-to-door in your neighborhood might just be a bit different this year.

It’s insane how much COVID-19 has taken from us since December 2019. For example, proms, graduations, ceremonies, parties, concerts and many holidays have been canceled solely because of a virus that keeps on spreading.

It even gave kids and college students an early summer in March 2020. Funerals have increased tremendously, and unfortunately have hit home to many friends and relatives close and far. It is now October, and this virus won’t take away the celebration of candy, costumes, ghosts and so much more.

Going door-to-door this year can be dangerous because of the virus. Because parents want their children to be safe, we’ll see less little ones out trick-or-treating this year. There could be fewer parties this year in the neighborhoods, and some families might not celebrate the

spooky holiday at all.

Instead of COVID-19 canceling yet another holiday celebration, try to make activities and plans as safe as possible for all friends and family.

CDC.gov does have Halloween guidelines for all of us to follow: “Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters; give out

treats outdoors if possible; wash hands before handling treats; wear a mask and make your cloth mask part of your costume.” They also mention having a sanitizer bottle at all times after touching objects and others, and maintain sixfeet social distancing standards in public areas.

Being safe is the number one priority, so always plan ahead before leaving somewhere public. Do not let the virus take away memories, whether Halloween is spent at home or trick-or-treating.

If staying home is a better idea, there are still many activities to do, such as carving and painting pumpkins, face painting scary faces, decorating the home inside and out, baking Halloween treats and watching horror films. The festivities for fall are endless.

ZACHARY QUIROS | The Ranger

Costumes Day of the Dead honors loved ones go back to the basics

By ZACHARY QUIROS

Staff Photographer

El Dia de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) is not a Mexican version of Halloween, but they are both celebrated with parades and costumes. It is a Mexican holiday where families have a brief reunion with the souls of their deceased relatives. The day is a mixture of Pre-Columbian rituals and European beliefs introduced by the Spanish to Mesoamerica.

The holiday is celebrated annually from Oct. 31 – Nov. 2. At midnight Oct. 31 the gates of heaven are opened and the spirits of children can rejoin their family for 24 hours. Nov. 1 is The Day of the Children and All Saints Day “El Dia de los Inocents.” Nov. 2 the spirits of adults can rejoin their family on The Day of

the Dead (All Souls Day).

El Dia de los Muertos is a celebration dating back around three thousand years, when the Aztec and Pre-Colombian cultures where still living in Central Mexico before European religious influences. Calacas (skeletons) and calaveras (skulls) are symbols presented to enjoy life. Another symbol noticed is the Aztec goddess of the underworld, a female skeleton known as La Calavera Catrina. There is a parade that begins at 3 p.m. in Mexico City. Before the parade the streets are covered with color, skeletons, costumes, masks, flowers and floats through the city.

The parade starts in Mexico City at the Angel of Independence and ending in Zocalo, the city’s main square.

It lasts around three to four hours and from 150,000 to 1 million people are expected

to watch the parade.

Mexicans and others believe the gates of the afterlife are opened and their loved ones who have died return to join the festivities of feast, drink, dance and playing music with each other. The deceased are honored guests to their living family, who leave the deceased’s favorite foods and other offerings at gravesites or ofrendas built in their homes. An ofernda is a home altar with a collection of objects placed on a ritual display during The Day of the Dead.

People all over the world that are afraid and scared of death. The Day of the Dead is a celebration of life and teaches people not to be afraid of death, but to realize that it is a part of life and to remind people to enjoy and take advantage of every moment of life.

Ghost tops them all

By EVAN STATON Staff Reporter

Halloween 2020 may look a little bit different because of the ongoing pandemic. There will not be as many people trick-or-treating or gathering for parties, but many Amarillo College students say they are still planning to dress up in costumes for Halloween.

Top-selling costumes often reflect trends in the media. “I’m thinking Tiger King and Carol Baskin costumes might be popular,” Jacquelyn Blalock, a general studies major, said.

This year, social media has led to a resurgence of the traditional ghost costume. “The costume I know that is popular this year

would be the classic ghost with the white sheet and cut out for eyes because of a TikTok video of teenagers just dressing up as the ghost and taking photos pulled in millions of views,” Steven Vences, an engineering major, said.

Retailers say they strive to offer a mix of trends and old favorites. “Every year people come into the store and get the basics like Michael Myers, Ninja Turtles, Alice in Wonderland, etc. but we also receive new costumes every season, showing us what is popular and is in style. This year, college kids have gotten the ghost costume, nurse, and Rick and Morty costumes,” said Ashley from Spirit Halloween Amarillo.

Most Popular

Costumes for 2020 Kids & teens:

• • • • • • • •

Photo Illustration by ZACHARY QUIROS | The Ranger

Forky Baby shark Fortnight Mulan Frontline worker Stranger Things Black Panther Inflatables

Adult men:

• Beetlejuice • Joe Exotic (Tiger King) • Alexander Hamilton • Mr. Rogers • Michael Myers (Halloween) • Joe Biden • Borat

Adult women:

• Carole Baskin (Tiger King) • Harley Quinn • Wonder Woman • Sschuyler sisters • Black Widow • Sanderson sisters • Moira Rose (Schitt’s Creek)

October 29, 2020

Badgers unmask plans for Halloween

By CAILEY DINGA & CHILES SPENCER Staff Reporters

Halloween is around the corner, and, with COVID-19 spreading rapidly, some students are making changes to stay safe, while others are ignoring disease prevention recommendations.

Mason Acker, a business major, said he plans to attend a large Halloween gathering and will not be wearing a mask; however, he did say he intends to follow social distancing guidelines while out. “I’ll regret not wearing a mask if I get sick,” Ackerman said. “I’d feel pretty bad knowing that it’s a life threatening pandemic and that I would be stuck in quarantine for a while, but I don’t plan on wearing a mask because it distracts from my costume.”

Alana Ramirez, a psychology major, also said that she will also not be wearing a mask on

ZACHARY QUIROS | The Ranger

Halloween because she plans to spend the holiday hanging out with family.“I honestly hate masks, I don’t use them unless I am in an area with a big group of people. I feel like everyone will get or have had COVID,” Ramirez said.

Nick Gunn, a horticulture major, said he will be going all-out for Halloween this year. His plans include going

to Dallas and attending haunted houses. “I will not be wearing a mask because it won’t go with my outfit,” Gunn said.

“I will take one in case I need to in order to go somewhere. ”Unlike most students, Ryan Miles, a photography major, said he does plan to wear a mask on Halloween.

He does not plan to attend a traditional Halloween par-

ty, but instead will be taking photos at a wedding. “I’m wearing a mask because no one will try and help protect others, so we need to protect ourselves,” Miles said. Other students said they will not be wearing masks because they will not participate in traditional Halloween activities.

“I can’t do anything this year,” says Alana Soliz, who

suffers from lupus. “I usually buy a costume and some drinks, see some friends and hit up some parties. I think this year, I’m just going to order a pizza and watch some horror movies with my mom.” Businesses have also cancelled their Halloween celebrations.

Local car dealership All-Star Dodge usually hosts an annual “trunk or treat” to show off their vehicles and hand out candy to local kids.

“It’s disappointing,” Ronnie Kyle, the manager, said.

“I always like to make kids smile and it’s a great way to advertise to parents.” Other students said the COVID crisis hasn’t had any impact on their Halloween plans.

Emily Tull, a nursing major, said she isn’t much of a fan of Halloween.

“I don’t really dress up or go to parties anyway.

Halloween has always been a movie marathon day for me,” Tull said.

Find refuge from 2020 nightmare in spooky flicks

By ADELINE HARRIS Staff Reporter

The leaves are changing colors, the air is getting crisper and the nights are getting longer. Horror movies are beginning to make their appearances on TV, which means Halloween just around the corner. Although All Hallows’ Eve may be a little different this year, that’s not stopping people from getting in the spirit and continuing traditions such as watching scary films.

“The best scary movie by far is ‘Psycho,’” Kasey Celniker, a sociology major, said.

“The fact that it is old and in black and white makes it ten times scarier. The music in it is also pretty eerie.”

Although the ‘oldies’ are classics, others have found

favorites in recently released horror flicks.

“My favorite scary movie is definitely ‘Hereditary,’” Katie Sinta, an art major, said.

“It’s not the typical scary movie that is only pop-up scares, it is very psychological.”

Some films take a different approach by adding components such as humor which is appealing to some people when choosing a movie. “’Don’t Breathe’ will forever be at the top of my list,” Katie O’Shea, a communications major, said. “It is funny, pretty messed up and super suspenseful.”

With the pandemic still at large, this last year has been scary enough, but the tradition of watching spooky movies may offer a distracting escape from the frights of real life.

HULU

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) The Cabin in the Woods The Omen Hellraiser Pet Sematary (2019) Blade (1998) Double, Double, Toil & Trouble Oculus It Follows House of 1000 Corpses Dawn of the Dead Interview with the Vampire An American Haunting The Hug

NETFLIX

Little Evil Veronica The Witches (1990) Sleepy Hollow Poltergeist Hush The Ritual Creep Silence of the Lambs

AMAZON PRIME

Fright Night The Village Hereditary The Shining The Blair Witch Project The Conjuring Carrie Let Me In It (1991) Pitch Black The Last House on the Left American Psycho Child’s Play The Hills Have Eyes Halloween

DISNEY PLUS

Hocus Pocus The Nightmare Before Christmas Coco Twitches Halloweentown Haunted Mansion Frankenweenie Mom’s Got a Date with a Vampire

Pumpkin spice and everything nice

By RILEY MORPHIS Staff Reporter

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word fall? Probably the fun holidays within the season — Thanksgiving and Halloween. These holidays create warm and comforting memories for everyone involved.

During the fall, Americans buy an abundance of one specific type of produce that signifies the season; the pumpkin. They come in all colors, shapes and sizes, yet, not a single one is exactly the same. You can even get what is called an ‘ugly pumpkin.’ which is commonly referred to as a gourd.

Throughout the autumn months, pumpkins are in our foods, on our porches and in our homes for decoration.

ZACHARY QUIROS | The Ranger

“Pumpkins make the season,” Miley Barber, a radiography major and Amarillo pumpkin enthusiast, said. “I can’t imagine the season without pumpkin pie, a warm pumpkin

spice latte, carving pumpkins come Halloween. To me, pumpkins are a symbol of a colder season outdoors, but a warm place in my heart.”

How can you participate in these exciting activities you

may ask? For starters, you need to get a pumpkin or two, or three. Pumpkins are everywhere in Amarillo. Howard Farms has over 10 pumpkin patch locations around Amarillo. The company not only

sells pumpkins grown in Clarendon, it also offers an experience while shopping, including food trucks with funnel cakes and other treats.

Halloween celebrates the legendary fruit in its entirety… or almost you may say. Carving pumpkins is a popular activity. The most common and iconic pumpkin carving is of a jack-o’lantern a geometrical face that consists of two eyes, a nose and a mouth. While the jack-o’-lantern is the most iconic carving the possibilities are endless.

The pumpkin can help create the memories people cherish during the fall season. What will you be doing this fall? If you have no plans grab a couple of pumpkins and some friends and family and make a few memories that will last a lifetime.

October 29, 2020

Keeping safe while voting

COURTESY PHOTO

OPINION

By PIERCE LAWSON Page Editor

As 2020 rages on, so does the election cycle. With a record voter turnout nation-wide, poll workers are faced with a major issue - how to continue with normal voting practices while maintaining safety during the pandemic.

As I discovered, polling places are providing everything necessary to encourage people to come out and vote, while maintaining an environment that allows

people to feel safe. Mask measures are in effect at most polling places and efforts have been put in place to minimize contact while maintaining efficiency.

Because mask wearing is mandated in most public buildings city-wide, when I went to vote, I was not surprised to see masks were required inside the polling place. Voters who entered the building without a mask were promptly asked to grab one from the box sitting on the counter.

Signs on the door clear-

ly read, “no firearms” and “masks required.”

Behind the double doors I could see two police officers standing at full attention and, as I walked in, I was faced with a line of people - all socially distanced. When I approached the poll worker sitting behind a plexiglass window, I was asked for my ID, and given a cotton swab.

“This is your super high-tech voting tool,” I was told as I was directed to the nearest polling station.

Although voters are encouraged to bring their own

“touch-tool,” polling places will offer a cheaper, disposable alternative.

On my way out, I asked one voter about their thoughts on the social distancing measures. “I think they’re doing everything they can,” she said. “There’s only so much you can do, processing hundreds of people a day especially in a climate like this.”

Another voter described the safety precautions as excessive. “I feel that the measures are a bit over the top. You’d think they were

processing DNA in here,” they said.

In this election cycle, not only do Americans feel divided over several long-standing issues but also over COVID safety measures and whether these protocols are keeping people safe or infringing on our civil liberties.

One thing is clear; Americans are going to the polls despite the pandemic and poll workers are doing everything they can to ensure all eligible voters can cast their ballots without concern.

First time voter explains process OPINION

By ALYSSA FANT Staff Reporter

Illustration by DANIAR ONOZ | The Ranger

Acceptable forms of photo ID

Infographic by SIDNEY WEST and SARINITY FRAZIER | The Ranger

More information about the poll locations in Potter and Randall county as well as a guide to voting in-person can be found on acranger.com.

Knowing who to vote for can be a difficult decision, and some students may not choose to vote at all. Voting is a very important right to exercise and is a civic duty to uphold.

Here is my experience voting for the first time.To start off with, I went to a local church to vote with my mom. The line inside was pretty long. Mom said it was unusually long and normally is not that bad.

The line did move fairly quickly though. When it was my turn, I gave the lady my driver’s license.

I have a voter registration card, but you don’t need one unless you don’t have a driver’s license.

I confirmed my information, and then another lady gave me a ticket with some numbers on it. I went up to the voting booth and typed in the numbers I was given with a stylus since we weren’t allowed to touch the screen because of COVID-19. With every position you vote for, you have the option to type in a response. Also, the option to vote all Republican or all Democrat is no longer available. There were 23

different races to vote for, but all I voted for was the president and propositions A through C. Most of the other names I didn’t recognize, and I didn’t want to risk voting for someone whose policies I might disagree with.

I only knew the policies of Donald Trump and Joe Biden, and the screen actually told me what propositions A through C were. I kind of felt bad for not voting for the rest of them, but I still voted.

Once I was done, I confirmed my submission and picked up an ‘I voted’ sticker. A lot of people say that the stickers are a pointless way of demanding recognition for something basic that everyone does, but one of my high school teachers wanted a picture of all her former students with the sticker, so I had a good excuse for wearing it.

I do feel that not voting for some races is better than just guessing who you think you might like based on their name and what political party they’re a part of. The actual voting itself was easy and took very little time.

Exercise your right as a citizen. There’s no reason you shouldn’t go vote.

October 29, 2020

‘Hubie Halloween’ haunts with tricks, fewer treats Bad movie that could be worse REVIEW

By ALYSSA FANT Staff Reporter COURTESY PHOTO

This ghoulish collab is absolutely boo-tiful REVIEW

By JESSIKA FULTON Page Editor

As someone who is an avid lover of all things Halloween or “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” this was the collaboration for me.

I know every scene and song by heart and my bedroom is decked out with “Nightmare Before Christmas” décor. I even have a mini tree with mini Jack ornaments and a Zero tree topper.

Needless to say, when Makeup Revolution announced their collaboration with “Nightmare Before Christmas,” I screamed with joy and counted down the days till launch day.

At first I was a little wary of the collab due to certain movie makeup palettes that I’ve bought in the past. They were all a total bust with opaque coloring or funky smells. But Makeup Revolution broke this stereotype and made the palette a deadly hit.

I have used products like foundation or small eyeshadow palettes from Makeup Revolution and they have all been pretty decent.

So I had pretty high hopes, not only the brand itself, but how they were going to represent a classic Halloween movie.

This cutely packaged collection consists of two high-

lighters, two makeup bags, four lip glosses, a brush set and two 36 shade eyeshadow palettes — one for Jack and Sally.

The journey to obtain the products, however, was a living hell resulting in me only having 75 percent of the collection due to Ulta’s shipment coming in late and incomplete.

On top of that, I had to go two different days to buy certain pieces and constantly call to find out when or if items would be in. I am pretty sure I am now on Ulta’s “watch out” list for being an annoying customer. If they could block my number, they would.

But in the end, I got what I wanted and I am absolutely loving it.

The biggest hit for me was the eyeshadow palettes.

Each consists of 36 shades that are a mix of satins, mattes, shimmers, neutrals and bright pops of color that allow the consumer to freely express themselves through boring browns or bright flamingo pinks.

I absolutely love the color choices when picking my makeup for the day.

To add to the fun colors, Makeup Revolution truly paid attention to details when adding unique imprints of Jack’s face and cre-

ative names that came from aspects from the movie.

For example, the color “What’s This” is a snowy silver, reminiscent of the song Jack sings when he finds Christmas Town.

The makeup bags were super cute with different characters on a clear bag and Jack’s face all over a black bag with a neon green zipper.

The brush set had extremely soft bristles and a different character on each of the handles with a case that matched the black makeup bag.

The highlighters had Jack’s imprint, with a color for light and darker skin tones, and four lip glosses, each named after characters in the movie.

Another more thing that makes this collection even better is the price.

Each item is $22 or under, making it extremely affordable and reasonable for the amount of product in each piece.

Overall, this collection was absolutely amazing— from the price and packaging, to the formula and the versatile options.

It is a collection that will delight the “Nightmare Before Christmas’’ fandom and will allow Makeup Revolution to gain more loyal customers.

"Hubie Halloween" is a movie written and starring Adam Sandler, which was released on Netflix earlier this month. Since it's release, it's a Halloween movie that hasn’t earned itself a very good reputation.

Like a lot of Sandler’s movies, it’s filled with silly, dumb jokes that aren’t meant to be taken seriously.

If you go into the movie not expecting anything amazing then you’ll find that it’s OK for what it is.

For what it's worth, it's a decently fun, cute little movie to watch if you're ever in need of a laugh to get your attention off everything else that’s been going on in the world.

The movie is about a man named Hubie (Sandler), who is constantly getting picked on and bullied by the people of his hometown, most likely for his extremely annoying, high pitched voice that Sandler uses throughout the film.

I feel that one of the major flaws of this movie is the constant ‘bully’ humor that’s used over and over in order to make fun of Sandler’s character.

The joke quickly gets old and wasn’t very funny to begin with.

Hubie, as you would expect from your typical Hallmark movie, is in love with a girl that he thinks will never love him back, but of course, gets her in the end.

The movie is filled with a combination of terrible jokes and OK ones.

If you can somehow manage to see past the many cringey, overused jokes then you can tell that there are a few clever jokes placed here and there.

For example, Hubie rides his bike down a particular

road multiple times, and each time, he has to dodge three items that get thrown at him in the exact same place every single time.

It’s kind of funny once you notice it. Also, Sandler’s cooler that works as Batman’s utility belt is a pretty funny running gag.

Not only are a few of the jokes actually kind of clever, but the ending of the film, if you can make it that far, is pretty solid as well.

I mean, it’s still corny and dumb like the rest of the movie, but it’s also sweet and satisfying once you find out who the real kidnaper is.

It makes the rest of the film almost worth it to watch.

Everything that’s happened throughout the movie comes together in a neat little package at the end that’s cute, enjoyable and just as stupid as the rest of the film.

This movie is filled to the brim with famous actors. Not only Adam Sandler himself, but Kevin James, George Wallace and China Anne McClain were also cast in this movie, along with some star cameos.

This is the kind of movie where you know where the budget went.

Not into the story or music or anything else, but to pay a bunch of famous actors to get attention so people will go watch it.

Despite this, the acting in the movie isn’t terrible.

It really seemed like the cast was having a good time making a movie they knew was dumb and full of silly jokes.

I think you can see in the movie how much everyone enjoyed making it simply through the acting.

Overall, it’s a bad movie that could be worse. If you’re cool with watching a Hallmark-like Halloween movie, go give it a watch.

Beef jerky and sticky rice is always appe-thai-zing REVIEW

By DAVID CLAYTON Staff Reporter

Amarillo is a wonderful melting pot of different flavors and cultures.

One of these staples of Millennials and Gen Z’s alike is Thai Food.

No, I am not going to be doing a review on Pho—at least not in this issue. Sorry ladies and gentlemen.

I am going to be discussing another menu item that I wish received more attention: Beef Jerky and Sticky Rice, or Neau Dad Deaw.

The rice is sticky and kind of sweet. The tomato-based sauce is sweet, yet crazy spicy.

Photo illustration by JESSIKA FULTON | The Ranger

The fish sauce, alluring and, for sure, a first-date killer.

The beef jerky is an enigma.

How can it be crispy like American beef jerky yet tender like a prime steak?

First off, to get it out of the way, the sticky rice is your standard glucose rice that can be purchased at any world market.

The fish sauce is more or less a combination of fish sauce, chopped onion, sliced shallot, lime juice and sugar.

It’s not bad at all. It’s great, I like it. I sometimes crave it.

The tomato sauce is canned diced tomato, Thai chiles, a little sugar and minced garlic.

The preparation of the beef jerky is where it gets interesting. From prep to

plate this dish takes about three hours to make.

The beef is top round steak, cut into fillets. Traditionally, the beef would be sun-dried for a day, then pan fried and served.

The other preferred method is to dry out the meat in the oven on racks at between 170 and 225 degrees for about an hour and a half.

Slice the strips into four to eight-inch cubes, then placed in the freezer for later. You can then take the frozen dried beef directly to the skillet.

Each Thai restaurant preps the meat a little differently.

Based on the knowledge I have on how this dish is prepared and the price point.

My favorite Thai restaurant is Sabaidee. They are

located in a shopping center off 34th Street and Georgia.

They have a great lunch menu. The Beef Jerky and Sticky Rice on that menu is $8.50.

It comes with about 16 ounces of sticky rice and topped with eight strips of beef jerky, roughly four to six inches in length. Fish and tomato sauce is served in twoounce cups on the side. If you're not a fan of fish sauce, you can also opt for just two tomato sauces.

My favorite way to eat this meal is: 1.) make a patty of sticky rice in my hand, 2.) place the beef jerky on the patty and then, 3.) fold the rice around the beef until it’s like a pig-in-a-blanket. Dip it twice in the fish sauce and enjoy.

October 29, 2020

Fighting COVID fatigue Safetyprotocolscauseslacking,stress ByTAYLOR BURTONand MACKI EDWARDS Staff Reporters

After more than seven months of the pandemic, many people are experienci ng COVID-19 fatigue. Some Amarillo College students are growing tired of wearing masks, staying six feet apart, not being able to travel and see family or even go on vacation, but most are doing their best to maintain safety protocols. “I do believe that a lot of people are ready to get back what they deem as normal. On the other hand some people are still very worried about COVID, so they are still going strong,” Beth Rodriquez, a psychology professor, said.

Students say that following COVID-19 guidelines is annoying, but essential. “Being a nursing student has really opened my eyes in the past two years about how many germs are really out there and how they spread very quickly. Ever since working in the hospital for clinicals, I wash my hands every chance I see a sink,” Hunter Finley, a nursing major, said.

AC Counseling Center Coordinator Amber White said students must follow the college’s COVID-19 guidelines. “Personally, it is slightly inconvenient to wear a mask; however, the risk of getting COVID or passing it on to someone I love far outweighs wearing a piece of cloth on my face. Also, this far into the pandemic, wearing a mask feels like second nature,” White said.

White added that the AC Counseling Center can help students who are having trouble dealing with the new COVID-19 policies and regulations. “They can be reached 24/7 at 833-986-1919,” she said.

While most AC students are diligently donning their masks in public, several said they understand why some people are opposed to mask wearing. “Most people are tired of wearing the mask due to

breaking out, the heat outside, the mask being uncomfortable, etc. The list goes on forever,” M’Kenna Styles, a nursing major, said. “Some might not be able to breathe, and I don’t blame them,” Madison McCown, a graphic design major, said.

Other students said they think some people view mask mandates as infringing on their rights and freedom.

“I think people don’t want to be told what to do. People are stubborn and want to do what they want,” Isaac Galan, a graphic design major, said. Galan also offered a message for the anti-maskers.

“We all have rights and do what we want and I won’t judge you. But I advise you to think of your family or people who can easily catch it,” he said.

Galan said he is careful to wear his mask and observe safety precautions. “I’m not opposed to wearing a mask at all. If it helps me a little to prevent COVID-19 I will do that. I don’t want to get it and possibly transfer it to any family or friends.”

Styles agreed, noting that wearing a mask shows consideration for other people. “When wearing a mask I feel like I am respecting everyone around me compared to the others who don’t wear one,” she said.

With the number of cases currently spiking across Texas, Galan said that if mask wearing can end the COVID-19 crisis, it is worth the inconvenience.

“We need to kick this thing and get back to how things were,” he said.

Illustration by PIERCE LAWSON | The Ranger