The Paisano Volume 51 Issue 10

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Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio 2014 Columbia Scholastic Press Gold Medalist

{SINCE 1981}

Volume 51

Issue 10

April 7 - April 14, 2015

Racial tensions, free speech step up to the plate

UTSA UTSA Professor of biology, John McCarrey, is set to receive the Society for the Study of Reproduction’s Distinguished Service Award for his work in reproductive biology.

Brittany Brink Staff Writer

@ThePaisano news@paisano-online.com

San Antonio 114 Acres of unused land located between UTSA Boulevard and Hausman Road were purchased by a developer who envisions a master planned mixeduse development on the site.

Texas A plan passed by the House of Representatives would defund HIV prevention programs to pay for abstinence education.

Legislature The Texas legislature will be hearing public testimony on the decriminalization of marijuana.

Marcus Connolly, The Paisano Although UTSA implemented a smoking ban last year, many students have continued to light up, albeit in discrete, out-of-the way locations.

Smoking banned in name only Alysha Gallagher Staff Writer

@ThePaisano news@paisano-online.com Eleven months after UTSA enacted a tobacco and smoke free campus policy to promote a healthier campus environment, cigarette butts continue to litter the grounds as students smoke in unofficial smoking areas.

Section 9.36 of UTSA’s Handbook of Operating Procedures states “Smoking and the use of tobacco products will be prohibited in and on all University-Owned and Leased Property to include buildings, grounds, resident and housing areas, parking lots and structures, green space, sidewalks, walk ways, as well as personal vehicles on the property.”

However, the ban’s dependence on the compliance of students, staff, contractors, vendors and visitors left students and staff with torn perceptions on its effectiveness and enforcement.

“I think the smoking ban is a good idea,” said smoker

Are license plate designs protected by the freespeech principles of the First Amendment? This was the question proposed to the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday, March 23, during the Walker v. Sons of Confederate Veteran’s case.

Texas is one of many states that allow drivers to choose specialty license plates for their vehicles. In 2009, the Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) proposed a license plate design that features the Confederate flag logo. In 2011, The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) board rejected the proposal, provoking the SCV to sue, arguing that the Board demonstrated “viewpoint discrimination,” a violation of their First Amendment rights.

The TxDMV board responded that the government speech doctrine allows a state to choose the messages and symbols that will appear on specialty plates.

The government’s reasoning was that the state’s Specialty Act was a form of free speech. Due to the negative history associated with the Confederate flag, the state did not want to endorse the SCV’s design as their own.

The Fifth Circuit of Appeals ruled in favor of the SCV, citing that the Texas Board engaged in impermissible viewpoint discrimination by allowing other private groups to design plates and not the SCV. “By rejecting the plate because it was offensive, the Board discriminated against

and junior psychology major Mary Mooneyham. “It keeps the campus much cleaner.

I’m very aware that people that do not smoke get very annoyed and uncomfortable with cigarette smoke being around them and that should be respected.”

Senior English major Jordan Smith feels the ban was a positive change, but acknowledged that it isn’t always enforced. “I actually like it. I can walk around the MH without fighting to breathe through someone else’s smoke.”

“When I do see people smoking,” Smith continued, “it’s usually in the parking lots, or they go to places that aren’t as populated, like the bridge connecting the MH and business building — the one with the Tobacco free campus banner on it.”

However, not all students see the smoking ban as effective. “I feel that the cigarette ban is ineffective in that it isn’t doing its intended purpose,” said senior English major Therese Quinto.

“Cigarette smoking is not banned on campus because

I know the patio area by Cancer Prevention and the MH building brings to- Research Institute of Texas gether friends and smokers (CPRIT) requires that toalike.” bacco free zones be esWriting composition pro- tablished in the locality of fessor Deanna White has CPRIT projects. also noticed the preferred The tobacco and smoke unofficial area for smokers free policy was intended and lack of enforcement by to ensure compliance with UTSA officials. “I come by CPRIT regulations; howeveryday, right outside of ever, with unofficial smokthe McKinney building, and ing areas in parking lots, there are student’s openly behind the Main and Arts smoking over there and I’ve building and in between the never seen anyone say any- McKinney Humanities and thing to them,” White said.

Business building, UTSA is Mooneyham disagreed. “I a tobacco and smoke free think it is campus properly in name enforced; only.

I’ve per“I don’t sonally think the seen the smoking campus ban was police of(created) ficers tell Deanna White b e c au s e people to Writing composition professor they were put out c o n their cigarettes and have cerned with student’s health seen them go to the unof- — they were concerned ficial areas and make every- about their perception. one stop.”

However, it’s not being enUTSA’s mission and goal forced.” White concludes, of becoming a premier re- “If you’re not going to folsearch institution and ac- low the rule that you passed, cepting funding from the why do you have it?”

having a close connection to a religious community may be something that does play a factor and tips the scales one way or another,” stated Hoffman.

After living in Chihuahua, Mexico for two years and falling in love with the people and the culture, Hoffman wanted to include Mexican youth and migration into his doctoral studies.

During his doctorate program in 2008 at the University of Arizona, Hoffman joined Dr. Flavio Francisco Marsiglia, foundation professor of Cultural Diversity and Health in the ASU School of Social Work, and

Ste pha nie L. Ayers , associate director of research of the ASU Southwest Interdisciplinary Research C e n t e r, Marcus Connolly, The Paisano in their Researchers at UTSA have examined the role religion plays in one’s decision to move to the U.S. study of religiosity and external religiosity and lationship with God or the in youth from Mexico. their influence on youth’s divine that does not necesThe study focused on migration aspirations.” sarily require belonging to a “(advancing) knowledge Internal religiosity means specific church or organizaSee IMMIGRATION, Page 2 specifically about internal having a more personal re-

“IF you’re not going to follow the rule that you passed, why do you have it?”

See FLAG, Page 3

Religion plays key role in lives of immigrants

MariaCristina Moreno

Sports UTSA’s baseball team will be facing off against the Old Dominion Monarchs Friday, April 10 through Sunday, April 12 at Roadrunner Field in San Antonio.

Staff Writer

@ThePaisano news@paisano-online.com “Religiosity isn’t the first thing people think of when they think of why would someone want to come to the United States,” said Steven Hoffman, UTSA’s Assistant Professor of Department of Social Work, one of the authors in his dissertation “Religiosity and Migration Aspirations among Mexican Youth.”

“And I’m not suggesting it’s the only reason or the primary reason, but it would be something to consider…

SPORTS - Feature

ARTS - Play Review

Catch up with UTSA Alum LeRoy Hurd

A tiny problem results in a big production

page 13

page 10

OPINION - Religious Freedom Laws

Arts - Dashing for Degrees

Do Religious Freedom laws discriminate or protect the rights of business owners?

Coverage of the Diploma Dash 5K

page 4

page 9

Please recycle this newspaper!

NEWS

2 April 7- April 14, 2015

Immigration: ‘internal’ and ‘external’ religiosity show drastic differences

Marcus Connolly, The Paisano Unlike other studies, Hoffman looked at the role of religion prior to immigration.

tion, while external religiosity means sharing your devotion to God or the divine with a community by participating in church activities, as well as going to mass on a regular basis.

They predicted that as one’s religiosity increases, whether its external or internal, the desire to work or migrate to the U.S. will decrease.

The students were asked a series of questions to measure how devoted they are to their external or internal religiosity, to measure their

socioeconomic status and their relationship with their parents.

The data was collected in 2007 from 474 single, Catholic high school aged students enrolled in 252 alternative high schools in Guanajuato, Mexico. Not to be confused by the typical alternative schools in the U.S. for juvenile delinquents, alternative schools in Mexico are more unique.

Hoffman explained, “They were created to serve youth in rural locations that did not have access to what would

be considered a typical high school.” Videos, rather than a formal teacher instructing in the presence of a class, did most of the educating.

The results showed that as external religiosity increases, the desire to work or live in the U.S. decreases.

However, contrary to the hypothesis, the results also showed that as the internal religiosity increases, the desire to work or live in the U.S. and plans to migrate increases.

Hoffman believes, “with the internal religiosity, hav-

ing a strong sense of ‘I have this good connection that is not necessarily tied to a church, but because of my confidence in my relationship (with God), I think I will be protected or blessed and keep this connection with me when I travel.’”

Hoffman’s study is unique to its kind. “It looked at migration and religiosity before the individual migrated, if they ever did… people have looked at the impact migration has on someone’s level of religiosity,” said Hoffman.

Bill seeks to protect police, may make holding them accountable harder Anthony Mendoza News Assistant

@dAnthonyMendoza news@paisano-online.com Texans’ rights to film police may be under scrutiny after the introduction of House Bill 2918 — a bill outlawing the filming, recording, photographing or documenting of police within a 25-foot radius.

Representative Jason Villalba, R-Dallas, proposed HB 2918 in response to increasing police filming issues. Villalba reasoned that, while on duty, police should have the capacity to order citizens to step back to prevent interference. The bill’s intent is to give police an adequate space between citizens and officers during police duties to ensure officers are comfortable and safe.

“I guess with everything going on — everything is kind of heated — but I guess

when they see a police officer, they think, ‘Okay something’s going down, he’s a cop, something’s not right,’” said UTSA mechanical engineering senior Steven Shuler.

“I do see those videos where (an officer) is trying to arrest somebody — you know the whole crowd is jumping in and they’re around. I guess it kind of does distract (officers) and hinder their job. I could see that.”

Current Texas Penal Code law 38.15 (1) “Interference With Public Duties” prohibits citizens from interfering with law enforcement duties, stating “A person commits an offense if the person with criminal negligence interrupts, disrupts, impedes or otherwise interferes with: (1) a peace officer while the peace officer is performing a duty or exercising authority imposed or granted by law.”

HB 2918 would amend the existing law to include a 180-day jail sentence and a

$2,000 fine — classified as a class B misdemeanor — if an individual were to violate the 25-foot legislative rule. For Texans carrying firearms, the bill requires a 100-foot radius and consequences would increase up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.

“I can understand the need for (HB 2918) because you don’t want to impede the police process, you don’t want anyone to get in the way,” said UTSA public health senior major Alyssa Pope. “I think as long as we’re able to still record from a distance that we can actually see from, then that will be fair.”

The bill does allow “news media” — a radio or television station that holds a license issued by the Federal Communications Commission — to film police within the 25-foot radius, but only if they are acting within the course and scope of their employment.

Additional

acceptable outlets include suggests documentation of weekly newspaper publica- police actions could be contions and magazines that ap- sidered illegal. pear at regular intervals and Although extreme and are made readily available to unlikely, simply documentthe public. ing an officer’s badge numHowever, with recent ber or recording a convercases — such as the sation while within 25 feet Michael could be Brown considincident ered a viin Ferguolation of son, Mo. the bill.

— pubAn adlic interditional est in co n ce r n holding includes police who is accountconsidable has Alyssa Pope ered a leb e e n gitimate Senior public health major prevanews outlent, especially through let. The bill’s language does public video recordings. not include media sites that The issue with HB 2918 is are exclusively online, sugwhether the bill will limit gesting that representatives Texans’ ability to hold police for online publications canaccountable. Under the bill’s not document police activcurrent language, as the ity; likewise, independent Breibart Texas explains, any journalists and the pubconduct within 25 feet that lic are not included in the

“We do need to find a balance between allowing police officers to do their jobs but also allowing civilians to hold them accountable.”

“news media” exception.

Last year, Bexar County Precinct 4 constables began wearing body cams while Bexar County SAPD implemented a pilot program to test the efficiency of body cameras. Additionally, members of the Bexar County Sheriff’s department are expected to begin wearing body cameras as well, pending a Federal Grant approval, which may lend some indication of increasing transparency between San Antonio police officers and the city’s citizens.

“I think the law seems fair, as we do need to find a balance between allowing police officers to do their jobs, but also allowing civilians to hold them accountable if they feel officers are overstepping their boundaries,” said Pope. “I would only be really concerned if there was a law banning filming of police procedures.”

NEWS

3 April 7 - April 14, 2015

FLAG: license plate skirts boundary of First Amendment protections Texas SCV’s view that the The last time the Supreme Confederate flag is a symbol Court considered a First of sacrifice, independence Amendment case about liand Southern heritage,” the cense plates was Wooley v. court stated.

Maynard, in 1977, in which Based on this ruling, the the court ruled that the state state of Texas took its peti- of New Hampshire could tion for not rew r i t q u i r e ce r t i o vehicle rari to owners the Suto display preme plates Court, with the argus t a t e ’s ing that motto, allow“ L i v e ing the Jonathan Mason Free or promo- Senior communication major Die.” tion of This hate groups and discrimi- case will address the connation in Texas and other trasting issue of what a state states would have “unten- government must allow peoable consequences.” ple to express, as opposed

“They should have a choice to have what they want on their plates without government interference.”

to what the government requires people to express.

Senior communication major Jonathan Mason immediately saw this as a situation that necessitated proper applicaRobert Pistocchi, The Paisano tion of First The use of the Confederate flag on Texas license plates by the SCV has created a controversy over free speech and First Amendment rights.

Amendment rights. said. “But because of their want on their plates without ate Veterans is in the hands “I don’t necessarily have First Amendment right, I government interference.” of the nine Supreme Court to agree with what people think they should have a Ultimately, the ruling of justices who are predicted to put on their plate,” Mason choice to have what they Walker v. Sons of Confeder- make their decision by June.

Local Congressman uses Twitter town hall to reach out to students, criticize opponents Caroline Traylor News Assistant

@ThePaisano news@paisano-online.com

Marcus Connolly, The Paisano A common theme of Castro’s Twitter town hall was the rise in student debt.

In an effort to generate discussion on college affordability, Congressman Joaquin Castro held a Twitter town hall where he encouraged over 26,000 followers to tweet their education related questions using #UMatter. The discussion took place on April 2, and lasted about 30 minutes; the Representative of Texas’ Congressional District and UTSA spent that time directly answering individual’s questions concerning their loans whilst criticizing the GOP’s proposed budget.

“There are basically three ways students pay for college: loans, grants, work study. The GOP budget could hurt each one,” Castro

WOODLAWN THEATRE PRESENTS

tweeted.

The Republican-led House of Representatives tout that their proposed budget resolution (A Balanced Budget for a Stronger America) would balance the budget in less than ten years without raising taxes, cut 5.5 trillion dollars in spending and bolster national defense funds. The proposed resolution would streamline the GOP’s legislative priorities including tax reform, energy independence via the private sector, a reliable and robust transportation system, repealing the Affordable Care Act and overhauling Medicare. The resolution would also limit eligibility to Pell Grants, citing the draining of the system by students accessing them who do not truly need them.

Speaker of the House John Boehner lauded the proposal in a statement: “For 53 of

the last 60 years, the federal government has spent more than it has taken in — 53 of the last 60 years. It’s unacceptable. To this day, now in his seventh year in office, the president has never proposed a budget that balances. Our budget will balance but it’s also about growing our economy, growing jobs and building economic strength for our future.”

At a time when student loan debt exceeds $1.3 trillion dollars and is generally surrounded by a cloud of confusion, families need solutions to alleviate the cumbersome cost of higher education. A motif throughout the #UMatter discussion was the juggling act that many college students struggle with: maintaining their grades and working simultaneously to afford tuition.

Castro expounded on this idea, stating, “Many col-

lege students are in a work/ school tug- of- war. Need to pay tuition, but work too much to focus on school, so their college work suffers and they are pulled toward work. It happens way too much in America.”

He reiterated this theme, saying that “the GOP budget exacerbates the work-school tug- of- war.”

Other education issues important to Castro are access to year-round Pell Grants, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, the ability for students to refinance their loan debt at the lower interest rates available to new borrowers and in-state tuition for undocumented students, or Dreamers. Throughout the discussion, he vocalized his support for these programs while chastising the GOP budget for threatening their existence.

UTSA plays host as state science fair unfolds in San Antonio

$17 Student Tickets Photo Courtesy of Texas Science and Engineering Fair Each year, the Texas State Science Festival is hosted by UTSA, giving the university a unique opportunity to showcase itself.

Lisa Michaels

Contributing Writer

@ThePaisano news@paisano-online.com

APRIL 3 - MAY 3

FRI & SAT AT 7:30 PM SUN AT 3:00 PM EXCEPT SUN APRIL 12 AT 7:30 PM

June 26 - July 26 A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

Over 1,000 budding scientists, engineers, physicians and humanitarians from middle schools and high schools traveled to San Antonio last weekend to compete in the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair (TXSEF) hosted by UTSA. UTSA has hosted and sponsored this event since 2004, which has helped students showcase their research projects in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

“UTSA is an excellent institution that can offer so much, but we are in the shadow of bigger, older, better established colleges and universities,” said Stuart Birnbaum, UTSA associate professor of geological sciences, who is instrumental in organizing the event. “The Science fair is just one way we can identify and recruit top quality students.”

Students came from over 12 regions in the state to present their original research to win prizes in one of the 17 project categories.

The three-day event began with students eagerly waiting in line to register on Thursday and Friday. With tape, glue and thumbtacks in hand, students assembled their boards, which sometimes soared up to nine feet high. Students retreated that night to either enjoy the lively city of San Antonio or to prepare for the very long day of interviewing the next morning. Judges piled in Saturday morning to assess these projects, ranging from ‘What Makes Us Eat Healthy? A Research to Promote Healthy Eating Habits’ to ‘Understanding the Role of CCR2 during Inflammation Associated with Metabolic Syndrome using Next Generation Sequence Analysis’.

For over five hours, students enthusiastically stood by their projects in the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. They devotedly awaited any judges passing their way that wanted to know about their project, and they had two-minute and five-minute pitches ready to enlighten them.

That evening, middle school students hurried into the ballroom for the final

awards ceremony. Sitting with their friends and family, they hoped for good news.

The following morning, high school students awaited the same fate. But their journey involved the possibility of traveling to Pittsburgh for the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). More than 1,700 high school students from over 70 countries, regions and territories were awarded the opportunity to showcase their independent research and compete for more than $5 million in prizes. ISEF is the world’s largest international pre-college science competition.

On Saturday morning, students discovered if they earned a spot in this lifechanging opportunity. The TXSEF students also receive many special awards from the Air Force, Office of Naval Research and National Space Society.

This year, the Best of Show Award — and grand prize — went to Kritika Iyer from Ischool STEM of Lewisville and Grace Ranft-Garcia from STEM Academy San Antonio, who tied for top honors.

OPINION Jakob Lopez

Lack of Hazlewood funding hurts UTSA

Managing Editor:

Editorial

News Editor:

UUTSA is asking Texas legislators for a break, seeking legislative relief from over $10 million in forgone tuition and fees due to Hazlewood Act exemptions for the 20132014 fiscal year.

The Hazlewood Act and the Hazlewood Legacy Act offer honorably discharged military veterans, their dependents and spouses, tuition-exemptions at Texas public colleges and universities. As unfunded state mandates, these acts pull from university funds, impact the university’s financial solvency and indirectly affect the quality of education afforded to all university students.

UTSA’s thriving military campus culture — which has garnered the university

Mia Cabello

Matthew Duarte

Arts Editor:

Beth Marshall

Sports Editor:

Shabazz I. Dawkins

Web Editor:

Michael Turnini

Special Issues Editor: Jade Cuevas

Photo Editor:

Marcus Connolly

Social Media Editor: Rebecca Conejo

Business Manager: Lizzette Rocha

Ads Manager:

Edidiong Adiakpan

Senior Copy Editor: Kate Kramer

{Staff Writers} Anthony Mendoza, Patrick Martinez, Robert Avila, Pavela Bambakova, Savin Weerasinghe, Brittany Brink, Maria Cristina Moreno, Daniel Shaw, Teia Herrera, Alysha Gallagher, Anelia Gomez-Cordova, Brayden Boren, Christopher Breakell, Caroline Traylor, Patrick Martinez. Julian Gonzales, Alexander Morovitz {Staff Photographers} Robert Pistochi {Contributing Writers} Olivia Ybarra, Linda McNulty, Colleen Adams, Jordan Sanchez, Darryl Sherrod, Catherine Forsyth, Luis Alanis, Lisa Michaels

{Adviser}

Diane Abdo

{Advisory Board}

Steven Kellman, Jack Himelblau, Sandy Norman, Stefanie Arias, Diane Abdo The Paisano is published by the Paisano Educational Trust, a non-profit, tax exempt, educational organization. The Paisano is operated by members of the Student Newspaper Association, a registered student organization. The Paisano is NOT sponsored, financed or endorsed by UTSA. New issues are published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters, excluding holidays and exam periods.

The Paisano is distributed on all three UTSA campuses — Main, Downtown and the Institute of Texan Cultures.

Additionally, Paisano publications are distributed at a variety of off-campus locations, including Tri-point and a variety of apartment complexes near the UTSA Main Campus.

All revenues are generated through advertising and donations. Advertising inquiries and donations should be directed to:

14526 Roadrunner Way Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78249 Phone: (210)-690-9301 {Letters to the Editor} Letters must be fewer than 400 words and include the writer’s name, classification or title and telephone number. The Paisano reserves the right to edit all submissions.

Send letters to: Editor@paisano-online.com

© 2015, The Paisano

4

April 7 - April 14, 2015

{The Paisano} Editor-in-Chief:

The Paisano

national accolades — in part draws from San Antonio’s four major military bases and their local influence.

More than 1,000 students attend UTSA tuition-free because of Hazlewood exemptions; however, the majority of UTSA students who benefit from Hazlewood are not veterans themselves, but veterans’ family. Student veterans also choose to use the federally funded GI Bill, which does not extended to their dependents and creates no financial burden on the university.

As of August 2014, Hazlewood-related impacts total $169 million statewide — a figure predicted to burgeon to $286 million by 2017. Additionally, a recent Texas

court ruling prohibits universities from denying Texas veterans and their dependents access to higher education under the Texas Hazlewood Act; this ruling could inflate the costs to universities.

For the 2013-2014 fiscal year, UTSA alone felt a $10.2 million impact from Hazlewood expenses. Moreover, UTSA projects an additional $11.2 million in lost revenue for the 2014-2015 fiscal year.

The university’s request for reimbursement is not without legislative precedent. In 2013, the Legislature approved, and UTSA received, a one-time $2.4 million reimbursement for forgone revenue due to Hazlewood exemptions.

Although the Hazlewood mandates were passed with

noble intentions, its exemptions fatigue Texas’ public colleges and universities that shoulder its costs — costs increase as developmental and economic factors increase tuition prices. For example, from fall 2004 to fall 2014 tuition and fees for a full-time resident student at UTSA rose approximately 125 percent.

Military and veteran enrollment comprise 10 percent of the UTSA student body, and considering the university’s limited budget and trek to Tier One, the Hazlewood Act exemptions weigh heavier on UTSA than on other UT-System universities.

UTSA’s initiative for Hazlewood relief encourages responsible questioning about

the university’s expenditures as well as its spending plan.

University and military stakeholders can only hope that if Hazlewood receives legislative funding, UTSA will direct revenue to idyllic options such as hiring more faculty, funding new research and investing in new campus amenities.

While still fostering an award-winning education and academic environment for military veterans and their families, legislative funding for the Hazlewood exemptions would afford UTSA greater financial solvency and agency over its multi-million dollar expenditures.

Point-counter-point: Religious Freedom Laws Businesses retain the right to Businesses should not be legally allowed to refuse service to patrons based on their beliefs responsibly refuse service

Commentary O n March 26, Ind i a n a Governor Mike Pence signed into law Indiana’s Religious Freedom Restoration Act. The bill allowed businesses the right to turn away anyone on the basis of religion. On April 2, the bill was amended to protect gays and lesbians, after thousands protested the bill, arguing that it was a vehicle used to protect discrimination against the LGBT community.

Despite the massive backlash in Indiana, a similar bill is being considered in Texas.

Legislators have addressed the possibility of introducing an amendment to Texas’ Religious Freedom Restoration Act from 1999. The amendment would allow Texas businesses the right to deny anyone service on the basis of religion.

If passed, this amendment will prove to be unjust, un-

Commentary constitutional and against the very morals this country has come to be recognized for.

Businesses that are legally allowed to turn away customers on the basis of religious preference, not only defy the basic logic of business and making money, but also stifle the LGBT progress that has been made within the last ten years.

Much of the discussion hinges on the definition of marriage. Many religious groups define marriage as a relationship solely between a man and woman. Additionally, many religious groups believe that sexual identity is an individual’s choice.

But since 1973, the American Psychiatric Association has removed homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses.

The belief that homosexuality is a choice — and the wrong one — condemns a community based on a set of beliefs that is integral to and inseparable from their identity.

In this way, the push for

LGBT equal rights mirrors the civil rights movement throughout the 1960s. There is no difference in denying service based on religious beliefs than on skin color.

While businesses have the right to deny service, it is important to specify under what context. Denying service based on disruptiveness or not wearing shoes or a shirt differs from denying service based on something someone cannot change.

Equal rights and opportunities should be afforded to people of all races, genders and religions. The passing of this proposed amendment to Texas’ Religious Freedom Restoration Act would discriminate and target a group that only wants to be treated justly. Should these measures pass, Texas will persecute its own residents.

Jakob Lopez Editor-in-Chief

I’ll just sit here by Christopher Breakell

In the midst of an everlasting battle for equality, the n a t i o n ’s attention is tuned into the recent controversy in Indiana involving a pizzeria and gay rights. This has sparked other states, including Texas, to look at reforming their religious freedom bills.

Texas’ Religious Freedom Restoration Act from 1999 legally allows business owners to refuse service to patrons of differing beliefs when the requests would substantially defy the business owners’ own practices.

A proposed update to this bill would involve changing the language so that religion can be the basis on which business owners can turn away anyone who practices a different religion with no repercussions, legally, to the business. Regardless of the burden placed on the business, any establishment would have the right to refuse service.

Businesses should have the right to refuse service to anyone they choose to; however, they need to use this freedom wisely. If a patron is inadequately dressed, too rowdy or too disruptive to the environment, a business owner absolutely should have the right to refuse him or her service.

Should a Christian bakery owner be asked to cater a wedding in which two men or two women would be getting married, they also should absolutely have the right to refuse them service if this is asking them to compromise too much of their religious

beliefs. However, they need to be prepared to suffer the consequences economically and publicly.

The double-edged burden these so-called Christian businesses are claiming to be put under is a little ridiculous.

It’s not as if in performing a catering service, they are officiating a wedding ceremony in any way.

As a Christian, I don’t really see the harm in serving others, as we are called to do anyway. Refusing service in circumstances like this is silly, and these business owners’ actions will have repercussions. A dose of “only God can judge you” is in order, as well as a reminder of “love thy neighbor.”

Aside from the religious logistics of this issue, the business side must also be taken into account. It’s important that people keep in mind how valuable personal freedom is, but also how much responsibility accompanies this. These businesses should pick their battles. If they feel attacked or bullied by customers requesting service, maybe it would be easier to get behind this act of refusal.

If it’s just a matter of complying with cooperative citizens interested in placing an order, then why argue?

At the end of the day, these businesses are turning down revenue and tarnishing their reputations for a service that has nothing to do with religion.

Practicing what they preach and taking responsibility for each inquiry is a simple fix for this amplified and sensitive issue.

Beth Marshall Arts & Life Editor

Letters to the Editor Letters must be fewer than 400 words and include the writer’s name, classification or title and email address. The Paisano reserves the right to edit all submissions.

Send Letters to the Editor to: editor@paisano-online.com

5

OPINION

The Paisano April 7 - April 14, 2015

Problematic diversion of HIV funds to abstinence-only Commentary During a marathon debate over the state’s budget, a party line vote to divert funding from an HIV screening program to abstinence-only education sailed through the House Tuesday, April 2.

The amendment’s author, Stuart Spitzer, a surgeon

from Kaufman, stated during a contentious and at-timesawkward debate that his “goal is for everybody to be abstinent until they’re married.”

Spitzer cited — “I’ve had sex with one woman, and that’s my wife” — as proof of the effectiveness of Texas’ current education program.

Texas has the highest teen pregnancy rate as well as the highest repeat teen pregnancy rate in the United States.

Texas also receives more federal funding than any other state designated for abstinence education.

Spitzer’s amendment proposes increasing the annual abstinence education budget from five to eight million dollars per year.

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, over 76,000 people in the state of Texas are reported to have HIV. The Texas

Department of State Health also estimates that more than 13,000 people in the Lone Star State live with HIV but are unaware of their status.

From 2009 to 2013, the number of Texans known to have HIV increased by nearly 20 percent.

Through the duration of those years, lawmakers relied on abstinence education to equip young people.

These policies are ineffec-

Nuclear Ban for safer Iran Commentary O n April 3, the Obama admini s tration announced a comprehensive deal that seeks to limit Iran’s nuclear program.

The deal called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) cites specific parameters for Iran’s nuclear enrichment levels (amongst other things.) The JCPOA states that, “Iran has agreed to not enrich uranium over 3.67 percent for at least 15 years.” It also places a special emphasis on enrichment levels because uranium – which can be used as a source of nuclear power – can be weaponized at advanced levels of enrichment.

Subsequently, if all outlined parameters are abided by, the U.S. and E.U. agree to provide Iran with sanctions relief by lifting all nuclear-related sanctions.

I believe this deal is an absolute success for both parties.

Tensions have been high between the U.S. and Iran for many years now and negotiations for the framework of a deal similar to the JCPOA have been ongoing for the last two years. This deal could potentially provide Iran with the added strength it needs to secure the region, given the current insurgency of the socalled Islamic State.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has habitually criticized the negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, has recently utilized strong rhetoric to criticize the deal.

“It does not roll back Iran’s nuclear program. Not a single centrifuge is destroyed. Not a single nuclear facility is shut down,” Prime Minister Netanyahu lamented to CNN on Sunday. He continued, saying that it was a “very bad deal for Israel, the region and world.”

Ultimately, what Netanyahu fears a regional nucleararms race. Being that Israel is in such close proximity to Iran, he has a true existential fear for his country. As understandable as his concerns

are, I believe that the framework of the JCPOA should quell his fears.

Netanyahu, and other critics of the plan, has expressed concern that no facilities have been closed completely within the deal, however, Iran agrees to convert its facility at Fordow so that is used for “peaceful purposes only”.

The most important part of this deal are the clauses on transparency.

The JCPOA requires that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have regular access to all of Iran’s nuclear facilities including Fordow.

This plan takes a pivotal step in allowing for an additional – and much needed – nation of influence in an otherwise habitually terror-laden region.

Students have already begun to show great interest in the event, with more than 15,000 students registering to vote this week. In a poll conducted during registration, 97 percent of students cited the Wii U as their reason for voting. The other 3 percent cited the importance as local stakeholders living in the city of San Antonio to play a part and help decide who will be chosen to run the city.

Mayoral candidates have taken notice of this increase as well, with many changing their advertisements to target now interested student voters. New advertisements include candidates playing a Wii U in a nursing home, playing in a competitive Mario Kart tournament with elementary students and new promises to use taxpayer funds for citywide Wii U playing stations.

A single Wii U winner will be announced on TV follow-

where Texans have sex without considering how their local representatives feel about the matter.

Caroline Traylor News Assistant

Photo Poll Has UTSA’s tobacco ban been effective in curbing smoking on campus?

Shabazz Dawkins Sports Editor

“Yes, it’s effective because you don’t have to walk through school with smoke blowing in your face.”

Devon Acosta

Sophomore, business major

“It has been some what effective. I don’t think it has been achieved. But I think they have handled it well.”

Allen Fuentes

Senior, marketing major

“I think so. I see less people smoking now...

I’ve seen police officers stop people that are smoking.”

Daniela Ariana

Senior, bio-medical engineering major

Satire UTSA hosted a San Antonio Mayoral debate two weeks ago at its main campus as a convenient way to help students decide whom to cast their votes for in May. Many student seats were left empty, despite the number of students who tweeted beforehand #UTSADebate, #IAmTotallyGoing and #SeriouslyIamGoing. The low turnout raised serious questions about the number of students who actually vote.

To combat this lack of interest, UTSA has created an event — #WiiVotedForU — to offer students the chance to win a Nintendo Wii U in exchange for participating in this upcoming election.

To enter the raffle, a student must vote in the San Antonio mayoral election, enjoy Nintendo products and present his or her UTSA student ID at the polls to receive a #WiiVotedForU raffle ticket.

tive at best and downright dangerous at worst.

By defunding programs that educate citizens on preventative measures that empower them to practice safer sex jeopardizes people’s livelihoods.

Holding their constituents to their own puritanical standards, GOP lawmakers who champion this amendment prove how out of touch they are with reality: a reality

ing the official announcement of the winning mayoral candidate. A press conference will be held immediately following the announcement, where the new mayor will present the Wii U to the winner and the winner will state his or her plans for the console and what he or she intends to play in the coming years.

“This event shows a great sign for student progress,” stated UTSA President Ricardo Romo in a recent speech. “It is important for the future that these young adults participate and attain a Wii U. I have one at home, and it’s awesome!”

Note: The #WiiVotedForU Wii U giveaway is not in any way related to UTSA Libraries’ survey to enter for a chance to win a Wii U.

“The ban on smoking has only been effective in the way that the smokers go about finding location. They seem to find dark corners or lonely spots to smoke.”

Carlos Villanueva

Sophomore, biology major

“No. I still see kids smoking cigarettes around campus.”

Megan Warden

Junior, business major

“No, because I still see people smoking around campus.”

Robyn Parker

Freshman, health major

Robert Avila Staff Writer

{Come join the team!} We are always looking for innovative writers, photographers, videographers and graphic artists.

Interested? Email us at:

editor@paisano-online.com

6

April 7 - April 14, 2015

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ARTS & LIFE

7

April 7 - April 14, 2015

“The Gunman” fires a blank THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO

MASTER OF P U B L I C A D M I N I S T R AT I O N

OPEN HOUSE Visit with faculty, alumni and current students to discuss the benefits of and requirements for a Master’s Degree in Public Administration.

Tuesday, May 12, 2015 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Meeting Assembly Room Buena Vista Building, First Floor Room 1.338

UTSA Downtown Campus To RSVP or for more information: Karen.Metz@utsa.edu, (210) 458.2533 Free parking is available in Lot D3. h t t p: // co pp. u t s a . e d u /ca t e g o r y /pu b l ic - a dm in is t r a t io n / The MPA program at The University of Texas at San Antonio educates responsible leaders and ethical public servants through a curriculum incorporating original research and practice. The program’s diverse graduates, representing a wide range of professional and community backgrounds, serve the public locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. Bridging research and practice, MPA graduates demonstrate the decision making, management, communication and analytical skills necessary to sustain a responsive and effective public sector.

UTSA Main Campus Build on your resume, network, and gain insight from industry business solutions and technology

April 7 - 8 9 A.M. - 4 P.M.

HEB University Center

Registration is FREE and open to the UTSA community!

Register today at

www.utsa.edu/oit/ oitspringtechfest Enjoy lunch while listening to our keynote speakers

Special Thanks To:

Sean Penn movie shoots itself in the foot Daniel Shaw Staff Writer

@ThePaisano arts@paisano-online.com A movie that is bad is one thing; a movie that’s both bad and boring is something entirely different.

Sadly, this is the ultimate outcome of Sean Penn’s strange outing as an action hero. Penn, who normally finds himself in polarizing movies such as “Milk,” is comically miscast in director Pierre Morel’s fourth attempt at an action film that easily – as well as lazily – could have starred Liam Neeson.

“The Gunman” follows the exploits of retired “gun for hire” Jim Terrier (Penn), along with his fellow mercenaries Cox (Mark Rylance), Felix (Javier Bardem) and Reed (Billy Billingham). The film opens in the Congo, where Terrier and his cohorts have been hired to assassinate a key figure in the unstable climate of the country’s natural resources.

Terrier is also joined by his humanitarian girlfriend, Annie (Jasmine Trinca), who is completely unaware of Terrier’s true mission.

Years after the assassination, Terrier finds himself the target of a mysterious force and the race is on to find out who is responsible.

This movie is a text book example of false advertising.

The trailers and all other promotions lauded this film as a cerebral action-packed

thriller. The actual movie, however, is a dud, with a plot that takes two hours to make a single statement – rich people exploit developing countries. Riveting.

The unfortunate reality is that “The Gunman” is more or less an onscreen checklist of all the general attributes of a basic action flick.

If this movie is any indicator of how real shadow governments may operate, then we live in a world of truly stupid super villains.

Once again, we’re treated to a plot starter that showcases the villains interrupting the quiet life of our reformed super spy, thus igniting a vengeful fire in his belly that would never have arisen had they just left him alone. Idris Elba also makes a glorified cameo in this movie as an Interpol agent working behind the scenes.

I would discuss Elba’s character in greater detail, but that would imply that he has more than three scenes and ten lines of dialogue, which he doesn’t.

There is an interesting subplot involving a cumulative ailment that Terrier must deal with, however, it too is rendered completely irrelevant by the time the credits roll. I can understand why this might be included.

Making the hero more vulnerable and human could raise the stakes and lead to some intense moments, but like many other things in this script, it’s an opportunity that was left

knocking. One opportunity they didn’t waste, however, was to show off Sean Penn’s “action man” physique over and over again. While it may seem ridiculous to the audience for Terrier to have more shirtless moments than Taylor Lautner and Captain Kirk combined, I’m sure Sean Penn felt it was all just part of the job.

Many other absurdities pervade “The Gunman’s” script, but to go into all of them would lengthen this review substantially. The movie couldn’t simply decide what it wanted to be. Is it an action film or activist film?

Its attempt to combine the two only resulted in a boring convoluted plot that was perpetually stuck in slow motion. Elba stands around with absolutely nothing to do, and the other characters are just as forgettable.

Action films have a way of sticking around these days, thanks to a combination of popular actors and deathdefying stunts. The winning combination of Vin Diesel and Paul Walker in the “Fast & Furious” franchise and Liam Neeson in the “Taken” franchise have produced millions of dollars. Try as he might, Sean Penn can’t carry the movie on his own, as the thin story crumbles under the weight of the story’s thin plotline.

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8

Arts & Life Events Calendar: Wednesday 4/8 7:15 p.m.

Be ready to dance until the world ends when the Alamo Drafthouse Westlakes brings the Britney Spears Dance Party to San Antonio! Presented by the Action Pack, The Alamo Drafthouse DJs will be spinning all of Ms. Spears’ classic videos, as you and your friends dance to “…Baby One More Time” all the way “‘Till the World Ends.” To buy tickets or for more info, visit drafthouse.com/ san_antonio.

Friday 4/10 5 p.m.

The 3rd annual Maverick Music Festival is coming back to La Villita’s Maverick Plaza this Friday and Saturday, with both international and local Texas acts coming to San Antonio. For more info or to buy tickets, visit maverickmusicfestival.com.

Saturday 4/11 7:30 p.m.

The Shops at La Cantera (15900 La Cantera Pkwy) are hosting their Spring Jazz at the Falls series of shows this Thursday and Saturday. This free outdoor event showcases some of the quality live jazz musicians from around the U.S. and San Antonio, including saxophonist Tom Braxton and R&B jazz vocalist Melina. Bring a chair or blanket, and relax the night away. For more info visit theshopsatlacantera. com.

April 7 - April 14, 2015

ARTS & LIFE

Photojournalist captures attention at UTSA National Geographic’s Annie Griffiths discusses worldly excursions Linda McNulty Contributing Writer @ThePaisano arts@paisano-online.com

UTSA’s celebration of Women’s History month drew to a close on a high note last week with a President Romo-endorsed Professorship Lecture given by renowned National Geographic photojournalist Annie Griffiths.

Thanks to the Honors College and Professor Valerie Sponsel of UTSA’s Biology Department, Griffiths was able to bring her lecture series to campus for this “National Geographic Live!” event. Once the auditorium’s lights dimmed, Griffiths’ photographs and anecdotes elicited plenty of oohs, aahs, laughter and enthusiastic applause.

One of National Geographic’s first female photographers, Griffiths says she always wanted to be a writer, but after three years of studying journalism in college, she audited a photography class, fell in love with it and changed her major almost immediately.

Now, she tells stories with her photographs, and her passion for what she does is palpable.

Most of Griffiths’ work focuses on women from around the world, inspired by her own mother’s desire for travel. Turned away from

Marcus Connolly, The Paisano One of the first female photojournalists for National Geographic, Annie Griffiths eloquently shares her stories of travel and photography at a Prefessorship Lecture hosted by UTSA.

a job as an airline stewardess because she wore glasses, Griffiths’ mother instead became a pilot.

“I look for populations that are living on the edge,” she said, “and I try to tell their stories.”

Her storytelling has earned her many awards, but more importantly it has changed lives, even in seemingly hopeless circumstances. To do this, Griffiths created Ripple Effect Images, a nonprofit that uses photography to shine a light on the needs of women living in poverty, in order to match them to aid organizations which provide smart, sustainable programs to help them.

“I look for populations that are living on the edge and I try to tell their stories.”

Annie Griffiths

National Geographic Photojournalist Women, Griffiths noted, are the key to alleviating poverty and suffering in their communities, because whatever knowledge or help they receive, they will share with their families, friends and communities. Griffiths

emphasized that this is why encouraging females to receive an education is so important. Griffiths shared a story of an Indian girl she met who, orphaned as a toddler, was taken in by a woman who had lost seven of her own children as a result of malnutrition. The woman had just received seed money to start a small business, and when she began to make a profit, the first thing she did was send her adopted daughter to school.

Griffiths flashed a photograph up on the screen. The little girl, certainly no older than seven, crouches next to her mother, who holds a pen and paper. She has taught her mother how to

read and write.

Such are the kinds of women whom Griffiths photographs. They are not victims, but rather, they face obstacles and overcome them. Griffiths herself has been breaking stereotypes and pushing the limits imposed on women since day one. Some may think it is impossible to travel the world and be a good mother, but Griffiths did both, taking her children with her on assignments.

Griffiths stated that her daughter Lily “…was in thirteen different countries before she was born.” Others may think that simply being a woman in oppressive foreign countries would be a huge disadvantage; yet when the men she encountered told her “no,” she could not photograph them, their wives told her “yes.”

Annie Griffiths promotes a philosophy that highlights the good that women can spread. She mentioned that her mother did what she could to get around the challenges that life gave her as a woman. These are the women Griffiths has dedicated herself to photographing.

And Griffiths, too, is paying it forward, especially to all in attendance at her lecture, as she advised them to not be afraid, and to “pursue your own dreams, and to be useful to the world, because of the great change you can bring about.”

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ARTS & LIFE

9 April 7 - April 14, 2015

31st annual Diploma Dash takes students on a run around campus

Mia Cabello, The Paisano A man sprints toward the finish line with his canine companion at the end of the Diploma Dash.

Brittany Brink Staff Writer

@ThePaisano arts@paisano-online.com The 31st Annual Diploma Dash, sponsored by the UTSA Alumni Association, brought current and former UTSA students, community members and even some canine runners together to compete in a 5k race around campus. The race and festival began at

8 a.m. at the Convocation Center and included a certified race course around the main campus.

It was a brisk and windy morning, but that didn’t stop community sponsors and hundreds of racers from coming out to participate and show support for the Alumni Association. The Alumni Association puts on events throughout the year to benefit the Alumni Association Scholarships, Programs and Services. Since

1982, the Alumni Association has awarded more than $1,000,000 in scholarship funds to more than 385 students. The Diploma Dash is also a great way for the San Antonio community to help make this a successful event and help fund higher education.

The 5k race welcomed runners of all ages to form teams to compete for prizes and awards. The individual racers were divided by gender to determine the fastest runners; the teams’ times were calculated by age and gender to determine their sum age and graded time.

For the male category, Moses Luevano held the winning time of 16:07.0. Samantha Wallace won in the female category with the winning time of 18:16.5.

The top dog’s time was 19:15.3. Los Correros Locos won for the team category with the sum age graded time of 1:27:52.

The Diploma Dash welcomed many co-sponsors to participate in the festivities around the Convocation Center. The title sponsor for this year was SACU. There were dozens of booths giving away food, drinks and even beer. Sponsors like

Dress like a pro

Liz Moreno, The Paisano The National Society of Collegiate Scholars hosts a fashion show demonstrating how to dress professionally in casual and formal settings.

Andrea Pieratt Contributing Writer @ThePaisano arts@paisano-online.com

Positive energy, punch and cake were just a few of the successful elements present at the Style for Success Fashion Show produced by the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS).

The event kicked off Easter weekend on April 3, 2015, in the Richard S. Liu Auditorium business building. The fashion show was a two-part structure that aimed to demonstrate the do’s and don’ts of business fashion.

As host Maureen Akpaka said during the fashion show event, “Conservative is always better.” Models graced the stage with outfits that showed the student audience what is both appropriate and inappropriate for casual, business casual,

business professional, semiformal and formal wear.

While the event was a team effort put together by the fashion show’s committee board, Chapter President Alexandra Flores and Vice President Destinee Williams supervised the management of the NSCS event. Flores attributes the inspiration of the project to her vice president.

“Destinee came up with this idea as we were brainstorming through the year,” Flores said. “We’ve never done anything of this magnitude before, but we wanted to go through with it and see what we could do together as an organization and get our name more known around campus.”

Upon being asked why she thinks it was necessary to put on a fashion show for UTSA students, Flores expressed that she’s been to events with a dress code, and admitted “I have to go

on Google just to make sure that my business professional is not business casual.”

“I feel that a lot of students have this misconception of what these titles are,” Flores said, “and that’s why we wanted to put it on in a fun way and still teach people that information. It’s very valuable in the career world.”

While both President Flores and Vice President Williams served as codirectors of the fashion show, each held different responsibilities in the organization of the event. Flores describes her responsibilities as the “more legalistic” duties, such as securing the sound, the room and the background events. Meanwhile, Williams took on the responsibilities of finding the models, holding auditions and hosting their rehearsals.

When asked how she enjoyed the whole experience with this event, Williams replied, “I just really want to help people. I feel there are different avenues to helping people, and this is my avenue. I would love to continue doing this for the rest of my life.”

In addition to putting the show together, NSCS provided a $25 Macy’s gift certificate for the raffle winner, and volunteer models from the audience received free NSCS T-shirts. NSCS member Daniela Bosquez also prepared cake and punch for the audience members to enjoy after the show.

It is possible to have a wardrobe that’s fashionable, functional and professional.

Break out the higher hemlines outside of work, and keep in mind there’s a time and place for everything – including fashion.

Whataburger, Popeyes and Pollo Tropical all helped to feed the hungry racers after they crossed the finish line.

Bud Light provided beer to all racers of legal drinking age to quench their thirst after the race as well. There were lines of racers gathered from booth to booth for post-race perks like coupons and lots of free goodies. For the little ones, there was an Easter egg hunt in the lawn beside the Convo-

cation Center.

First-time racer and senior computer science major Richard Garcia was asked for his take on his Diploma Dash experience.

“It’s pretty lively. Not what I expected at all.”

Alumni Association member Ryan Gonzales, who graduated last December, shares that, apart from the windy weather, the race went well.

“It was really great. There

was a lot of good stuff, food and beer.”

Overall, the Diploma Dash brought hundreds of racers and dozens of sponsors to help support the Alumni Association’s scholarship funds and programs.

Even the cold wind couldn’t stop this annual event, and it proved to be another successful year for the Diploma Dash.

Mia Cabello, The Paisano A group of runners power through the cold air that pervaded the event all morning, giving it all they have as they approach their finishing strides.

10

ARTS & LIFE

April 7 - April 14, 2015

Tiny problems result in big production

Courtesy of Siggi Ragnar Two Irish men hug out their differences as they reconcile their ‘tiny problem’ together in “The Irish Curse.”

Patrick Martinez Staff Writer

@ThePaisano arts@paisano-online.com Everyone faces hardships and shortcomings. Perhaps one of the hardest challenges to overcome is faced by five Irishmen who have a ‘tiny’ problem. The “Irish Curse” is said to exist in Irishmen who feel like they don’t quite ‘measure up’ to other men, if you catch my drift.

“This is a play to deal with anybody’s shortcomings,” co-director and Trinity University professor, Roberto Prestigiacomo said. “This is a play about a bunch of guys coming together to help each other move past what, mentally, is something that makes them feel like less of a man.”

The story takes place in the basement of St. Sebastian’s Church in Brooklyn Heights, New York. Rick Baldwin, a ladies’ man who

habitually cheats on his girlfriend and wears a jock to make himself appear more endowed, meets with a sexually frustrated southerner, Joseph, at a self-help group.

Steven Fitzgerald, a gay Irish policeman, compares his manhood to a gun and joins them as well. Together they create hilarious dialogue throughout this witty play. Full of puns and laughable moments, the production is therapeutic to anyone who has fallen short and feels they are often outshined.

“It’s a comedy, but has a big significance to the lives of these people,” Prestigiacomo stated. “I like directing plays that have a very strong topic. Comedy is like a vehicle that allows the audience to really enter into the lives of the characters.”

“With this subject matter, it automatically intrigues people,” stated Tyler Keyes, who plays Stephen Fitzgerald in the play. “Anybody you talk to has the exact same goal, and it’s to inspire conversation.”

Soon, the priest of the Irish Catholic Church arrives with native Irishman Keiran Riley (Sam Mandelbaum), who hails from Dublin.

Each character has a unique story behind how their shrunken manhoods have ruined their lives. Keiran reveals he is engaged, but because of his lack of “confidence,” has never made love to a woman. Rick

admits that he lied about his sexual conquests and that he has actually never cheated on his girlfriend.

Stephen is a lonely guy who sleeps around with other men, but never goes “all the way,” because of his “situation.”

Joseph’s wife left him because of his insecurity. In the show, he admits, “When soft, it looks like a bottle cap. When erect, it’s a little smaller than my thumb.”

We even find out that having a “Little Willie” was the direct result of Father Kevin joining the priesthood!

Throughout the play, each man tells his story as the newcomer, Keiran, asks questions to better cope with his small problem. The men stand up to their pintsized insecurities by explaining how well-endowed men cause the bad things in life. Problems such as “guns, bombs and wars” are issues created by bigger men trying to feel powerful. “This is all just a pissing contest,” says Joseph.

They all accept what was being said, and Father Kevin remarks, “If I had a big prick, I might have ended up a big prick.”

“We do work that allows the audience to be introduced to topics that they don’t talk about,” Prestigiacomo revealed. “I want the audience to be entertained; I want the audience to laugh.

The laughs allow the audience to relieve some kind of

tension to listen more attentively to the stories that are being told.”

Trinity University sophomore Alejandro Cardona, who plays Rick, said, “I’m new to this production. I remember getting the script and falling in love with it because it was so damn funny.”

The play ends by reiterating the theme of the “Irish Curse”: The problem isn’t about having small parts, but how emasculation is tearing those who deal with

it apart. The play is meant to inspire the audience to conquer their own shortcomings and adversities.

“Irish Curse” is a laugh-outloud comedy focused on a taboo topic that is relatable to anyone with the ability to laugh at his or her own self.

The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts will be hosting the “Irish Curse,” from April 10-12. Visit tobincenter.org for ticket prices and more information.

Courtesy of Siggi Ragnar Father Kevin speaks to the group and reassures them that their “Little Willies” actually aren’t a big deal.

VOICES Of TheWEST

Briscoe Western Art Museum’s Distinguished Lecture Series Join us as we illuminate unique perspectives on the history and future of the American West.

Tuesday, April 14 6:30pm John Phillip Santos Ancestral Journeys: The Epic of Mexican Migration and its Impact on the American West Poet, writer, and producer, John Phillip Santos, will trace the paths of Mexican migrations—both ancient and modern—and discuss the profound effects they’ve had on the American West.

FREE admission for all UTSA Students, Faculty and Staff with valid ID

For all other guests, lecture tickets are $10 each Register or purchase tickets online at BriscoeMuseum.org

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SPORTS

11

April 7 - April 14, 2015

UTSA victorious on Senior Day

{Sports Events} Friday, April 10 6 p.m. UTSA baseball The Roadrunners host conference rival Old Dominion in the first of a three game set at Roadrunner Field.

7:30 p.m. Rampage Hockey The San Antonio Rampage look to build off their success and host the Grand Rapids Griffins after clinching a playoff berth last weekend. The two faceoff in a two-game series that will conclude on Saturday at 7 p.m.

Marcus Connolly, The Paisano Daniela Garcia-Diaz (pictured) is one of two seniors on the team. A native of Cali, Colombia, Garcia-Diaz transfered to UTSA after spending one year at Wayne State.

Saturday, April 11 2 p.m. UTSA baseball

Marcus Connolly, The Paisano Decorated junior Jacobea Junger (pictured) won All-Confernce USA second-team honors in singles and All-Conference USA third team honors in doubles for the 2014 season. Junger, who is a native of Stuttgart, Germany, is one of three juniors currently on the roster.

UTSA TENNIS

The baseball team continues their series with game two against Old Dominion at

Darryl E. Sherrod II Contributing Writer

Roadrunner Field.

@PaisanoSports1 sports@paisano-online.com

10 a.m. UTSA men’s tennis The men’s tennis team creates a racket on the Trinity tennis courts.

Saturday, April 11 11:30 a.m. UTSA baseball The Roadrunners end their series against Old Dominion at Roadrunner Field.

The UTSA women’s tennis team (10-11) was victorious against the women of Southern Mississippi (810) on Senior Day, Saturday, April 5, by a final score of 5-2.

“Every year we get up for senior day,” said UTSA Head Coach Erin Scott. “I think it’s a good thing for the team and just to show how good of a team we are and what good friends we are.”

Scott believed Saturday’s performance was the highlight of the season so far, stating, “I thought today was probably our best match thus far, in terms of everybody playing

well.”

The exceptional team play was on display early, with UTSA winning the first doubles match. Miriam Canudas and Jacobea Junger of UTSA defeated Carolin Drescher and Alex Kitchen of Southern Miss 6-2 on court one.

Court three saw Daniela GarciaDiaz and Lina Hallgren of UTSA earn a 6-2 victory against Elena Roca and Kathrin Waidner of Southern Miss.

The doubles match on court two between Nicole Karakis and Alena Schichkova of UTSA and Claudia Castella and Lisa Schneider of Southern Miss went unfinished.

“It’s like a mix of emotions; I’m sad but I’m really excited to graduate and be done with tennis,” said senior Garcia-Diaz on the win.

“I thought today was probably our best match thus far, in terms of everybody playing well.”

Erin Scott, UTSA Head Coach Fellow senior Irene Gonzalez finalized the victory for UTSA with her game-winning match against Karina Gurgenyan by a score of 6-2.

“I think we were so motivated because we wanted to win for our seniors,” Canudas explained. “(We decided to) do it for the team, but most of it was for the seniors.”

Canudas, a 2014 All-Conference USA player for both singles and doubles, completed a comeback by posting a 1-6, 6-1 and 6-4 win over

Carolin Drescher at court 6.

“We’ve lost a couple of close ones this year 4-3 and a lot of doubles points (as well). We came out strong in all three doubles matches,” said Scott.

Next, the Roadrunners finish up their season with a trip to rival Texas State on Thursday, April 9.

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Makevic, Roadrunners dominate UTSA Invitational UTSA TRACK & FIELD Colleen Adams Contributing Writer

@PaisanoSports1 sports@paisano-online.com On Saturday, April 4, the UTSA Roadrunner track and field team dominated their home meet, the UTSA Invitational, by winning two-thirds of the weekend’s 38 events.

Junior distance runners Dusan Makevic and Emily Perez, both of UTSA, won two events each at the Invitational, and freshman sprinter Dionte Robinson set a UTSA school-record in the 200-meter dash with a blazing 20.56 second performance.

Robinson’s wind-aided time broke the school’s fiveyear-old record of 20.60 seconds, which was previously held by four-time All-American Teddy Williams. Robinson’s 20.56 is the seventh fastest 200-meter time in the nation this spring. Robinson also ran the lead leg of the 4x100 relay team. Robinson, Aaron Lejuene, Christopher Hall and Jurmarcus Shelvin won, circling the track in 40.54 seconds.

Makevic won the 1500 in 3:52.87 and was later victorious in the 5000-meter run as well, finishing in 14:57.81.

Makevic used the weekend to prepare toward his goal

of qualifying for NCAA Regionals later in the season.

“I think I ran well. Today was a time trial so I can run well at the Mt. SAC Relays in two weeks,” Makevic said.

“My goal is to run under 9:00 in the steeplechase at Mt. SAC so I can qualify for regionals. With the competition, if I find a good pace, I know I can break nine.”

Other track wins for the men’s team included Justin Gerbrecht’s 14.78 win in the 100-meter hurdles, senior Michael Medrano’s 1:54.39 performance in the 800 -meters, and Saul Vasquez’s 9:57.06 victory in the 3000 -meter steeplechase.

For the women’s team, Emily Perez won both the 800-meter run in 2:14.18 and crushed her competitors in the 5000-meter run with a 17:11 performance that was enough to win the race by more than a minute and a half. Senior Stephanie Wangui, the current Conference USA Athlete of the Week, won the 1500-meter run in 4:32.32.

In the sprints, three UTSA athletes — freshman Jennifer Arinze, sophomore Paige Patterson and junior Evelyn Clark — swept the 400 meter dash, finishing 1st in 55.83 seconds, 2nd in 55.90 seconds and 3rd in 56.07 respectively. Fellow Roadrunner senior Ve-

nessa Onwuchekwa won the 400-meter hurdles with a time of 1.02.65. The women’s 4x400 relay team finished the meet with a win as Swift, Arinze, Clark and Patterson passed the baton in 3:47.68.

The Roadrunner men dominated the Invitational, winning seven of eight field events. UTSA sophomore Victor Perez set a personal best of 54.56 meters in the hammer, while junior Jonas Gutierrez, also of UTSA, jumped 22’11” in the long jump. Roadrunner freshman Branden Perry jumped 6’8” in the high jump while teammate and fellow freshman Adrian Riley won the javelin with a throw of 54.11 meters.

The UTSA women picked up four wins in the field events; senior Whitney Flannel won the high jump, clearing 5’9¼“; sophomore Katelynn Homb won the hammer with a throw of 43.95 meters; senior Lindsey Pew won the pole vault, with a 12’1” performance ; and senior Zoe Meade won the long jump, leaping 17’10¾“.

The Roadrunner track and field team will return to competition next week at the Texas Invitational in Austin on Saturday, April 11.

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SPORTS

13

April 7 - April 14, 2015

{Recent Results} Friday, April 3 UTSA men’s tennis W, 5-2 vs. Texas-Pan American

UTSA baseball W, 5-3 at Florida Int’l

Saturday, April 4

Photo courtesy of UTSA Athletics

ALUMNI PROFILE

L, 6-11 at Florida Int’l

Shabazz I. Dawkins Sports Editor

UTSA men’s golf 10th/13 at Aggies Invitational

UTSA baseball W, 4-2 at Florida Int’l

Photo courtesy of CSU Sibiu

Photo Courtesy of CSU Sibiu

Hurd reflects on Euro-career

UTSA baseball

Sunday, April 5

Photo courtesy of UTSA Athletics

@shabazzvs sports@paisano-online.com

On Friday, April 3, UTSA alumnus Leroy Hurd and his team, CSU Sibiu of the professional Romanian league, Federatia Romana de Baschet, were eliminated from the final four of the Romanian Cup. The season’s end marked Hurd’s 11th year of his professional career, the strong majority of which has been played in Europe.

Before going pro, Hurd — a native of Mississippi – began his collegiate career by initially signing to play with the University of Miami. After two seasons with Miami, Hurd transferred to UTSA. “I was recruited (to UTSA) by (former UTSA associate head coach) Owen Miller, who was from Mississippi like myself; he recruited me in high school,” said Hurd. “Stepping on the campus, my family and I were welcomed right away.”

As soon as Hurd stepped on the campus, he was an

impact player for the Roadrunners. In Hurd’s first year at UTSA, he was named the Southland Conference (SLC) Newcomer of the Year after leading the con-

In his senior year, Hurd led arguably UTSA’s best team in program history.

On the strength of an SLC Player of the Year campaign that saw a league-leading

ference in scoring at 17.6 points per game.

average of 19.4 points per game, Hurd brought UTSA

to SLC regular season and tournament titles.

“I’ve won at a lot of places, but those guys on those teams were special,” said Hurd speaking on the teams from his junior and senior years at UTSA. “(Winning with them) was a great feeling.”

Hurd’s phenomenal years in the SLC were enough for him to gain the prestigious Player of the Decade award for the conference.

Despite such a stellar career at UTSA, Hurd went undrafted in the 2004 NBA Draft but found an opportunity with the San Antonio Spurs as a free agent. “I was invited to play with the San Antonio Spurs in the summer league,” said Hurd.

Although Hurd never came into the right situation in the NBA, his opportunity with the Spurs exposed him to the European scouts that would subsequently aid him in starting a lengthy career playing for various teams in Europe.

“I didn’t know basketball was so big over here (in Europe). They’re very passion-

ate about their teams,” said Hurd. “I played on a team where it was normal to have 200-300 people at a practice.”

After his career comes to an end, Hurd is interested in staying around the game of basketball, which he admitted to having a passion for.

“I can see myself becoming a collegiate coach at some point,” said Hurd. “Hopefully at UTSA.” Hurd reflected on his career saying, “People look back at my career and say, ‘He was player of the year, he ended up being player of the decade, he ended up being an honorable-mention all-American.’ Even with all of those accomplishments, I still feel like I didn’t do enough.” He followed those words by giving advice to any aspiring basketball player. “My advice is to put in work and respect the game.”

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