THE PAISANO
Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio Community /PaisanoOnline /ThePaisano
District 8 hosts city council candidate debate
By Marisela Cruz Assistant News Editor
All six candidates running for the District 8 council member position
attended a debate hosted by the San Antonio Report. At Elevate Events on April 17, candidates Sakib Shaikh, Cesario Garcia, Cindy Onyekwelu, Rodney Kidd, Ivalis Meza Gonzalez and Paula McGee sat and awaited questions from Moderator Leigh Munsil, the editor-in-chief at SA Report.
Since Manny Palaez is running for mayor, his position as District 8 Councilman will become vacant.
District 8 residents filled the room to formally meet the candidates and hear their positions on city topics and political issues.
At first, the moderator questioned each candidate’s qualifications and experience dealing with potential city issues. The first spark from the debate came from Shaikh after he mentioned rumors and accusations that were spread about him by Meza Gonzalez. Shaikh replied, “[It is] unfortunate to say there’s one candidate that has kept it negative. [She] tells lies about me to voters,” in regards to Meza Gonzalez.
“I’m here to clear that up. She said things like I don’t pay my taxes, and that I don’t live in District 8. I’m here to clear the air because I’m going to bring leadership that you deserve. Honest and transparent,” Shaikh said. Gonzalez was allowed to respond
but chose to not answer. Following the exchange, the candidates were asked to explain why they should be the one to take on the role to handle District 8 and all its issues, as well as the city budget.
For the remainder of the debate, all candidates answered the questions accordingly with little to no disruptions from the crowd. At the halfway point, Munsil allowed a moment for Shaikh and Gonzalez to clear the air for the accusations, starting off with Shaikh’s response.
“So when you run a campaign it should be about you, and it should be about the voters and what you’re going to do for the voter,” Shaikh said.
“[One] of the things that were brought up by my opponent [was that] I don’t pay my taxes, now what is true is that last year I was behind on my property taxes like any normal person,” Shaikh said referring to his property taxes for the Airbnb business he runs.
He then went on to resolve the rumor that he is not a resident of District 8.
“[I’ve] lived in and around District 8 for the past 25 years. There’s a portion of that time when I lived outside of city limits, but as soon as I get outside of my neighborhood, I’m in District 8 again,” Shaikh said. Gonzalez responds to the accusation of campaigning negatively, stating, “That’s just not the case.” She further goes
into Shaikh’s lawsuit against him from the city, explaining that transparency about what issues candidates are facing is essential for the voters to know, while also clearing the air that she never said he does not live in the district.
This issue was discussed for several minutes, leading to the personal questions that were exchanged between each candidate.
Each of the six candidates was asked to explain their position on public transit, Project Marvel, budgeting for District 8 and other topics related to San Antonio.
Accusations continued during Gonzalez’s turn to answer her question; she spoke in regards to an ethics claim filed against her accused lobbyist activity.
A back-and-forth occurred again between Shaikh and Gonzalez concerning this ethics claim being filed. Consistently, both candidates fired accusations and claims about one another.
Near the conclusion of the debate, one of the final questions referred to what letter grade each candidate would give Councilman Manny Pelaez on his work being District 8’s councilman.
Varying responses from the audience came when each candidate acknowledged the question at random. McGee gave Pelaez a C, Gonzalez said an A, Kidd gave an F, Onyekwelu said B+, Garcia offered a D- grade and Shaikh concluded with an A.
Voters’ perception of the mayoral race, Fiesta and Project Marvel
By Johnpaul Buwule Staff Writer
Led by Associate Professor of Political Science and Geography Brian Gervais, the UTSA Center for Public Opinion Research released its latest poll in April detailing San Antonians’ perception of the mayoral race, Project Marvel, the Missions Stadium, Fiesta’s impact on voting behavior and satisfaction with government and its officials.
Conducted from April 7-8 with 685 responses, the CPOR found a significant lead among the top nine from the 27 total candidates in the poll, a slight dip in support for the new stadiums and a lessened likelihood of Fiesta impacting voter behavior.
From the top nine candidates of the mayoral race, Gina Ortiz Jones leads with a 13% following, a jump from February’s 9.3%. After Ortiz Jones, John Courage comes in with a 7% following and Beto with a 6.6% following. Although Courage remains relatively favored in the poll, he has experienced a slight drop since the February poll, which held him at a 7.9% following. Altamirano has risen three points since February.
In addition to candidate preferences fluctuating, the April CPOR found that the number of respondents who were unfamiliar with the candidate or did not know who they were voting for dropped. For unfamiliarity with the candidates, the percentage in February was 20.5% and dropped to 15% in April, which is less than 1-in-7
voters. When questioned about who they are voting for, the number of respondents who said they do not know dropped to 30% from a 35.3% CPOR poll in February.
The poll also uncovered Fiesta’s likely impact on voting behavior. As Director of CPOR David Gervias explains, Fiesta has “real, practical implications because it coincides with the entire voting period this year.”
Fiesta ranges from April 2 to May 4, and voting begins on April 22 and ends on May 3. The CPOR asked people about their likelihood of voting. 96% of respondents reported that Fiesta would not affect their likelihood of voting, 1% said it would, 1% said it will make them more likely to vote and 1% remained unsure. The poll displayed many voters indicating that Fiesta would not dissuade them from voting.
The CPOR poll tracked the public’s perceptions about the various projects approved for San Antonio. First, when asked whether Project Marvel should move forward, 34% approved and 44% disapproved of the project, a slight drop from February, which garnered a 41% approval rating and a 36% disapproval rating.
The same trend continued with the usage of the venue tax for the construction of the Spurs Stadium. 40% of respondents indicated they would vote for the venue tax, but 44% said they would not vote in opposition. The numbers slightly shifted from February, as 42% were in favor and 41% were opposed.
The final project asked about was the San Antonio Missions Stadium, a $160 million ballpark. In September
and February, 40% of respondents favored the new stadium, and 35% opposed it; however, in April, 34% were in favor and 42% were opposed to stadium construction.
Although support for these endeavors has dropped, Gervias explains, “We caution a little bit interpreting this as a real trend, a real change. There could be a lot of reasons why we might see some changes.”
Overall, San Antonio residents were more pleased with local government than the state and federal governments. When asked about the direction of the city, state and country, 48% indicated San Antonio is headed in the right direction, while 29% said it was moving in the wrong direction. Respondents’ satisfaction dipped as they moved on to the state and federal government. 33% believed Texas was headed in the right direction, while 53% opposed. 30% believed the country was headed in the right direction, and 62% believed the country was headed in the wrong direction.
The next issue they dealt with was voters’ perception of the performance of public officials. Mayor Ron Nirenberg had a 56% approval rating, Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai was 40% and Governor Greg Abbott and President Donald Trump accumulated 32%. The results followed the same trend as the previous polling about San Antonians’ satisfaction with city, state and federal government direction.
Early voting for the mayoral race runs from April 2229, and the official election date is May 3.
Harvard versus Trump – budget cuts affect university grants
By Henry Holmes Contributor
Institutions of higher education in the U.S. have become the most recent target of President Donald Trump’s administration. Beginning in late March, the White House has frozen $5.345 billion in grants primarily for university research. These funding freezes come during the Department of Education’s investigation of over 50 universities and graduate programs, accompanied by demands from the federal government over alleged discrimination and Diversity Equity and Inclusion programs. Since the Israel-Gaza war began, mass protests
advocating for both sides took hold of universities in the U.S., peaking in spring 2024, with school organizations placing encampments in high-foot-traffic areas. While many campuses cracked down on these encampments by negotiating with demonstrators, arresting them and closing encampments, the shadow of these protests still remains and, along with DEI, have been placed in the cross hairs of the White House. On April 11, the federal government sent a letter to Harvard President Alan Garber, making several demands to the private university. The letter requests Harvard reform many of its policies, including the way it hires faculty and admits students. It demands Harvard “cease all preferences based on race, color, national origin or proxies thereof,” and disclose admissions and hiring
data to the federal government while making statistical information, such as race, color, national origin and GPA, public information. It specifically states that all DEI programs “under whatever name” be stopped. At the same time, the letter calls for “viewpoint diversity” and that any department within Harvard that does not meet a standard for viewpoint diversity will be forced to hire a “critical mass” of students or faculty to meet those viewpoints. Given that a strong majority of Harvard faculty and students are politically left-leaning, this would force Harvard to admit students and faculty who are more right-leaning, which has raised many logistical questions.
Paula McGee Cindy Onyekwelu
Rodney Kidd
Ivalis Meza Gonzalez
Sakib Shaikh
Cesario Garcia
San Antonio Report hosted a debate with Editor-in-Chief Leigh Munsil as moderator of the event — all six candidates running for District 8 Councilperson attended the hour long debate with residents.
Diego Cisneros/The Paisano
Councilman introduces medical debt relief program
work is no longer needed.”
On City Hall’s steps, District 9 Councilman
John Courage held a press conference alongside partners Undue Medical Debt CEO Allison Sesso and San Antonio Metro Health District Director Dr. Claude A. Jacob to introduce the Medical Debt Relief Program for San Antonio. On April 16, Courage communicated to the press that with the help of Undue Medical Debt — a national nonprofit 501(C)(3) — they are partnering to eliminate medical debt for 45,000 debtors in San Antonio. Courage and his staff have been evaluating the feasibility of this program for over a year and have decided to work with Undo Medical Debt.
Courage brought up the story of Miguel Casado and how his situation is a common occurrence that many can relate to when undergoing this financial burden.
“The city was planning to demolish the home of Miguel Casado and charge the Casados $10,000 to demolish it due to its unsafe condition. With little resources at hand, their once beautiful house had deteriorated and was on the brink of being uninhabitable,” Courage said. “But the community came to the rescue and saved Miguel’s home. Their health bills had put their lives and homes at risk, but the community stepped up to help.
“That is emblematic of why we are here today. There are thousands of Miguel Casadas in San Antonio. Our friends and neighbors struggle to maintain and retain their homes and families while facing huge medical debts,” Courage said regarding this debt relief program’s ability to help avoid such problems.
Undue Medical Debt has partnered with numerous state governments to mitigate this problem. Their partnership with San Antonio is the first time Undue Medical Debt has worked with the Texas government. Sesso commented on behalf of the company while expressing her concerns about San Antonians’ medical debt.
“So many people are burdened by the way that our healthcare system is not working for them. Healthcare is increasingly unaffordable to people. There really is a misalignment between what we expect people to pay out of pocket and what they actually have,” Sesso said. “As an organization, we are dedicated to helping people today while also pushing for a future where our
UMD has been around for nearly eleven years and has abolished over $15 billion of medical debt. Within that time frame, they have helped ten million people relieve their financial burdens. While partnering with Courage, UMD plans to eliminate $60 million of San Antonio medical debt.
“How our model works is we go to either the secondary market or to a hospital or other health care provider, and we buy debt like a for profit debt buyer, except we use either government or donated dollars, and we’re able to buy all this debt for pennies on the dollar. And that’s why a relatively small investment gets you a big return,” explained Sesso regarding the company’s process on clearing debt.
Jacob explained that this effort removes stress from many individuals’ lives and allows them to seek healthcare again.
“People struggling with medical debt often delay or completely avoid seeking necessary care, including life saving prescriptions,” explained Jacob.
“Just know that through the experience of the pandemic, we looked at conditions that worsened here across the city, and we looked at improving access to care as one of our priority areas. Just know that the reality is that when someone faces medical debt, they often have to cut back on other essential needs, things like food, clothing and even housing.”
Statistically, in Bexar County, one in five residents carry medical debt, and communities of color oftentimes struggle with this financial stress more severely. Hispanic, African American and Indigenous American communities, such as these, are twice as likely to face medical debt compared to other populations across the city.
In closing, Courage spoke about the program’s future and what will be accomplished.
“I believe this is one of the most significant and impactful programs I’ve initiated. What has been presented to you today by Undue Medical Debt, as you’ve heard, will have a positive impact on the lives of 45,000 San Antonio residents. We believe it will have a phenomenal effect on their lives,” said Courage, concluding the press conference.
This program will be an ongoing effort to assist residents of San Antonio that courage hopes will continue under the new city council.
Texas universities affected by Trump revoking student visas
By Anika Engler Contributor
President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14188 on Jan. 29.
This order put federal agencies, such as the State Department, to work, demanding they investigate and potentially revoke visas of international students conveying signs of involvement in pro-Palestinian protests on U.S. collegiate campuses.
Since the order’s implementation, over 1,550 international students and recent graduates from more than 240 colleges and universities have had their legal status changed by the State Department. In Texas, over 260 student visas have been revoked. KVUE News reported the University of Texas system has confirmed at least 176 visa terminations. Other universities — such as Texas A&M University, the University of North Texas, Texas Tech, Texas Woman’s University and the University of Texas at Arlington — have been affected as well.
These visa revocations were often done with minimal warning, notice or explanation, sparking confusion and fear among students. As of now, the Trump administration primarily targets students with nonimmigrant F-1 academic-student visas and J-1
exchange-visitor visas. They are also cracking down on proPalestine students participating in protests.
The policy has raised concerns among university administrators, legal experts and civil rights advocates. Critics argue that the revocations lack transparency, due process and may be infringing upon certain rights such as the freedom of speech. However, the Department of Homeland Security affirms that the actions are aligned with national security priorities and legal visa conditions.
In his 2025 joint session address to Congress, Trump defended his policy shift, stating, “We’ve ended the tyranny of so-called diversity, equity and inclusion policies all across the entire federal government and indeed the private sector and our military. And our country will be woke no longer. We’re getting wokeness out of our schools and out of our military, and it’s already out, and it’s out of our society. We don’t want it. Wokeness is troubled. Wokeness is bad. It’s gone. It’s gone. And we feel so much better for it, don’t we? Don’t we feel better?”
As uncertainty lingers, university officials across Texas are continuing to assess the impact while seeking clarification from federal agencies.
State of the City
Week of 4/22
By Khoi Nguyen Staff Writer
Not subscribed to local news but still want to stay up-to-date on the happenings around town? Look no further. Highlighting notable stories from external San Antonio news sources, State of the City summarizes the most captivating news headlines of the week. This week covers the “March for Equality,” construction concerns as Fiesta nears and the third inmate death in Bexar County jail of 2025.
San Antonians “march for equality” as part of 50501 movement
Over 1,000 people took to the streets of downtown San Antonio in a “March for Equality” on April 19. Part of 50501 — “50 protests, 50 states, 1 movement” — the march was one of many rallies organized across the country seeking to “remove, reverse and reclaim” President Donald Trump’s administration’s actions. The “March for Equality” comes weeks after “Hands Off,” another 50501 protest against the Trump administration, which took place in downtown San Antonio. According to the San Antonio ExpressNews, demonstrators held signs reading “No Kings in America” and “Hands off my social security.”
Fiesta-goers anticipate traffic amid construction
By Jaylee Paredes Contributor
Amazon plans to establish a drone delivery center in San Antonio by the end of 2025. These drones are meant to deliver packages within 60 minutes of the order’s placement. Amazon plans to build a 9,400 square-foot area in the SAT3 Facility. Amazon first introduced the Prime Air delivery initiative in 2013 to make faster purchases a reality. There have been many test locations for these drones in Lockforde, California and College Station, Texas.
This facility has been active since 2023 and is a cornerstone of Amazon’s logistics network. The drone center would house Prime Air, Amazon’s battery-powered drones that are designed and built in-house to deliver packages more effectively. These drones can carry up to five pounds and travel within a 10 mile radius.
To get this process to continue, Amazon would need to secure a specific use permit to officially start working on and modifying the structure. Amazon is communicating with locals to help with the planning process and taking steps to ensure that everything will meet guidelines.
The drone delivery center also includes designated landing pads for the drones,
local officials to possibly bring Prime Air to San Antonio — which would support our efforts to provide fast delivery and great service to our customers,” Amazon spokesperson Steve Kelly said. The project is still in its early phases of planning, with additional regulatory and zoning steps still needed before the operation can continue. Although there is no clear timeline of construction, Amazon expects the facility to be operational by late 2025, pending approvals from officials.
While Fiesta nears, San Antonians have voiced concerns over traffic as downtown construction continues. According to KSAT, the South Alamo Street construction project has set traffic down to one lane on South Alamo Street and continues work on intersecting streets, including East César E. Chávez Boulevard and Market Street. Many of these roads are near La Villita where festivities take place. “It’s just, like, finding the little routes to try to get in between it all. It’s ridiculous,” Joshua Robles told KSAT. The South Alamo Street project is scheduled for completion next spring.
Bexar County Jail sees third inmate death of 2025
A 28-year-old inmate identified as Eric Lee Green died in Bexar County Jail after experiencing a medical episode compounded by withdrawal symptoms, according to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. After his cellmate told deputies that he was unresponsive, a deputy administered Narcan and, upon seeing no effect, began lifesaving measures. Medical staff and San Antonio Fire Department responders continued resuscitation efforts, but they pronounced Green dead at 9:15 a.m. This incident marks the third inmate death in Bexar County Jail this year. The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s office is investigating the cause and manner of Green’s death.
Crews, volunteers clean up trash from Easter weekend
Crews with the City of San Antonio’s Parks and Recreation department and volunteers cleaned up Brackenridge Park Monday morning following outdoor Easter celebrations. While city workers hauled bags of trash and stray furniture, volunteers — as part of the Brackenridge Park Conservancy’s “Cascarone Cleanup” effort — focused on smaller pieces of trash.
By Marisela Cruz Assistant News Editor
A crowd gathered on City Hall steps to listen to a press conference led by District 9 Councilman John Courage.
Erick Henriquez Camargo/The Paisano
OpiNION
Abbott vouches for a failed school system
School voucher bill will see decreased funding for public schools, despite budget infusion
Editorial
The state of public education in Texas may never be the same following the current state legislative session. On Thursday, the Texas House of Representatives passed their school voucher proposal, Senate Bill 2, in a 86-61 vote. This brings the State of Texas closer than ever to providing public funding for families looking to send their children to private schools — one of Governor Greg Abbott’s champion agenda items. Abbott has attempted to push through a school voucher bill in previous legislative sessions, although his efforts have been largely unsuccessful. In years past, strong coalitions of both state Democrats and Republicans have thwarted any attempt to create school voucher programs in Texas. That is, until this legislative session. Newlyelected House and Senate Republicans — handpicked and endorsed by Abbott in the most recent election
cycle — joined the rank and file of the party, voting to pass SB2 alongside a nearly $8 billion public education funding bill. While the additional funding to public education is essential, SB2 threatens the future and wellbeing of public education in Texas.
Allocating this much-needed funding for school voucher programs will bleed the budgets of public school districts dry. Several San Antonio school districts — all operating on multit-million dollar budget deficits — have seen their state funding stagnate. Should their funding begin to decrease, these districts anticipate implementing cost-saving measures — including increased classroom sizes and campus closures — that will be detrimental to the quality of education Texas school children receive. Abbott’s voucher bill, which he strongly armed through the Texas legislature, does not serve Texans seeking a quality education from their public school. School districts across the state could see declined enrollment rates and reduced budgets from the state long term. Regardless of the $8 billion funding bill, Abbott’s school vouchers pet project will be detrimental to the public education system in Texas.
Does anyone actually remember the Alamo?
Commentary
By Luna Infante
Assistant Magazine Editor
The Alamo being highly valued and culturally significant to locals and tourists is no secret. Despite its rich backstory and the often-repeated phrase, “Remember the Alamo,” forgetting the landmark has been no challenge for many.
The Alamo was established in 1718 as Mission San Antonio de Valero, and over time it served as a garrison for five different armies, becoming best known for the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. The battle and its still-standing location symbolizes Texas’s resistance and strength when fighting for independence during the Texas Revolution, making the site a historically rich landmark.
Unfortunately, the current site brings injustice to its legacy. Its tours and a simple walkthrough are underwhelming and often boring. The guided tours and lack of vitality brought to the Alamo make it feel like any other old building — a curiosity lives inside those who visit, but also a lack of connection. Small signs here and there line the building, and often a tour guide or audio recording of someone reading a lackluster script fills visitors’ ears. The former mission is full of stories of
resilience and honor, yet these feelings are not brought to life in the current attraction.
The Alamo even landed a spot on Thrillist’s list of America’s Most Overrated Tourist Destinations, being called unimpressive as a landmark — not its history — and disappointing to tourists due to its exhibitions.
Museums and exhibitions are not only meant for storytelling but also for educating and commemorating. No matter how hard Texans and the infamous “remember”
Not ‘Brat’ behavior
Commentary
By Meadow Riley Staff Writer
Charli XCX’s album “Brat” was undoubtedly one of the biggest highlights of her career. With Charli’s album garnering over a billion streams, many are skeptical if it has all gone to her head after her latest stunt at a Coachella 2025 afterparty.
The afterparty taking place hours before the headliner of the night, Green Day, took stage, Charli arrived at the afterparty in a sash with silver print writing. “Miss Should Be Headliner” read the accessory. This action had news outlets and social media accounts alike voicing their opinions. Although the choice was tacky, referring to this outfit as an “attack” is more than an exaggeration.
X users have taken this bold statement as well as they ever do, making claims such as “In what world would she be a headliner over Green Day?” while her fans have come to her defence on the stylistic choice. Those who have shielded Charli from hateful comments were responded with arguments on who’s more famous. Many note that while Charli experienced a brief period of fame with her album, the overall population is more familiar with and favours Green Day in general.
Some deem this sash as distasteful given that Green Day used their performance to talk about social issues, such as Gaza and President Donald Trump. Green Day’s tributes were valuable, but this event was before their set, making those claims faulty.
Charli wearing this sash definitely comes off as self-absorbed and ignorant to the impact Green Day’s music had on a generation. However, the arguments that it was a disrespectful piece is an extreme. This is not the first time where an artist has become cocky with their work, and it will not be the last. Being boastful about her hit album and the lack of recognition for it from Coachella is not a crime and should not be taken to heart by people who are not directly affected by it.
This afterparty was clearly something Charli was invited to and felt comfortable at; this sash was not even something
impactful to her. This could have been a joke, and she may never have expected for drama to erupt. The only people who genuinely take this issue seriously are super fans of either performer. It is astonishing this is something people care so deeply about, especially due to the fact that Billie Joe Armstrong, the lead singer of Green day, and Charli have posted photos together at Coachella. Furthermore, Armstrong wore a Brat baseball cap when performing his headliner show. If that is not enough to prove no serious damage was intended or involved, it may be time to remember these celebrity scandals do not involve or affect the common person.
Neither Charli nor Armstrong have said anything on the issue, leaving this a debate against a brick wall for media outlets and fans. It is important to ponder the seriousness of situations before engrossing oneself and one’s energy in them. The sash was a bit showy, but it was not a ground-shaking, multiple-articlesneeding-to-be-posted feud between two popular artists. The idolization of celebrities’ lives damages people, and it must be exhausting to those who choose to care.
quote try, the landmark feels like something locals are forced to cherish, rather than something they organically appreciate.
In 2023, Governor Greg Abbott signed into law the over $400 million appropriations request for the Alamo Plan. This funding will renew the Alamo, “ensuring the preservation and revitalization of this iconic historic site,” reads the Alamo Plan website.
The Alamo Plan proposes an entirely new Alamo District, featuring beautified pedestrian areas, including Alamo Plaza, Alamo Promenade, Alamo Gardens and Paseo del Alamo, which will lead to the River Walk. These spaces will give the Alamo its much-deserving attention and proper respect. Additionally, there are plans to open a collections building, an education center for the district and in 2027, the Alamo Visitor Center and Museum.
This revitalization will create a larger designated space to learn about the Alamo and value it more. The rich history the former mission holds in and outside its walls deserves to be relished and never forgotten, not because of a quote, but because of its symbolism and importance to Texas culture. Hopefully, this new Alamo District sheds light on the city’s abundant history and fosters greater community appreciation.
Bills out of the way
Commentary
By Marcela Montufar Soria Opinion Editor
The San Antonio Zoo implemented a completely cashless system starting last Friday April 18, an evolution from their cashless admission ticket sales started during the Covid-19 pandemic. All transactions in the zoo will require a credit card, debit card or mobile payment option. For those carrying cash, the zoo offers various reverse ATM kiosks that will exchange the cash for prepaid Mastercards they can use instead.
The new rules may take time to process for all guests used to using cash not for ticket sales, but for buying snacks around the zoo or giving children an allowance to buy toys. However, the zoo has taken every step to make the transition as smooth and accommodating as possible. The choice to go completely cashless is a step in the right direction.
The zoo says the change allows them to provide faster service, increased security and touch-free convenience, all meant to improve guests’ experience.
The San Antonio Zoo is a nationally renowned institute that welcomes over one million of local and travelling visitors every year. Their growing presence on
social media, where they update and entertain the world with educational and funny content about their 750+ species of animals, works to increase sales and attendance. With that, there comes the need to adjust policies to make people’s time at the zoo as enjoyable as possible. Waiting for a long time in lime while cashiers count cash or searching around for enough bills to buy a tiger plushie can definitely make visits stressful. Cashless transactions are quicker, safer and growing more and more common every day. The number of people who carry around cash is significantly low these days, with 51.6% of Americans not using any cash at all in a week. Oftentimes, people are forced to stop by an ATM before attending tourist attractions due to a lack of accommodation for cashless payment, thus wasting their time. There is nothing radical about the zoo going cashless, they are merely keeping up with a global trend. What started as a safety measure in the pandemic for the zoo has transformed into a system to better operations and improve visitors’ experience. Less time counting coins means more time feeding giraffes and taking photos of cute capybaras, taking advantage of all the zoo can offer.
Catherine Salonga/The Paisano
Kara Lee/The Paisano The 57-acre San Antonio Zoo
The Alamo’s renovation; a part of the “Alamo Plan”
Enrique Figueroa/The Paisano
Armin Suljovic/The Paisano
OpiNION
No rules, no fear and ‘No Mercy’
By Mogbekeleoluwa Shebioba Assistant Opinion Editor
Every 68 seconds, an American woman is sexually assaulted. 1-in-6 American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime. Now, imagine living in a world where there is a game called “No Mercy,” with the goal being to rape or sexually assault every female character, including the player’s mother, aunt and sister. It sounds horrific, and unfortunately, it exists outside one’s imagination.
Developed by Zerat Games, “No Mercy” has the player discovering their mother has
cheated on their father. They are told to “claim her for yourself,” leading to various scenes of the player forcing themselves on multiple women, including their mother.
Due to the game’s unpleasant nature, a petition demanding the game be taken down was created. It garnered over 70,000 signatures as of April 20, and the game was subsequently withdrawn from the Steam storefront. How a game this appalling managed to be sold in the first place is perplexing, but some gamers’ responses suggest otherwise.
Some argued that there are worse games available on Steam, and this one just managed to break through the
mainstream media coverage for some reason. Furthermore, the game’s outrage gave it more opportunities to thrive, as the developers moved it to a different storefront before it was suspended from there as well.
Depicting sexual assault can be acceptable if the subject matter is handled with empathy, but actively encouraging players to participate and enjoy the act of rape is where the developers crossed many lines. An X user said in a post, “When we legitimise businesses that normalise the objectification of women, we create environments where exploitation thrives.”
The developers issued a statement in response to
the backlash, claiming that playing games can be an outlet for people who have the desire to carry out these actions in a way that is “similar to shootings.” However, people with these desires do not need video games — they need help.
“This is still just a game, and although many people are trying to make it into something more, it remains and will continue to be a game,” the developers said. It is not just a game; simplifying it to that is a one-dimensional way of interpreting artistic expression through video games. While it may be difficult for some to determine whether this game deserves to exist, it is essential to remember that life imitates art, and art inspires life.
How hate has a home in Texas
Commentary
By Adith Magavi Contributor
Hate crimes are on the rise, and the nation is doing less and less to fight against them. This may seem okay at first glance, but the truth of the matter is that these heinous ideals are not removed from local communities. In San Antonio’s North East Independent School District, school teacher April Jones was forced to remove a sign that stated, “Hate has no home here,” from her classroom. Forcing the censorship of phrases on this sign is not only symbolic of the rampant hate that is festering within the U.S. — it is also symbolic of how it is spreading closer and closer to local communities, day by day.
The small cloth sign’s removal from Jones’ desk may have initially been insignificant, but NEISD parents and families quickly
took notice. More than a dozen people attended a NEISD board meeting to protest the sign’s removal. Although initially a
Regardless of the district’s so-called compromise, the damage has been done. As communities around San
minor action, the censorship casts a far larger shadow over the community than the board may have expected.
The forward push by parents, fellow teachers and students forced the district to compromise on the banner’s censorship. NEISD agreed to permit the sign so long as the phrases encouraging transgender and LGBTQ+ rights were covered.
Antonio become increasingly aware of their liberties being trampled, citizens find their voice to speak out. The repression of voices, not only in San Antonio but across the U.S., is telling of how President Donald Trump’s administration is affecting the average American citizen. With bills such as the Bluebonnet Bill — which forces religion into public
schools — being implemented across the state, it is clear that the youth’s education is under attack nationwide.
The NEISD school district’s rejection of the phrase “Hate has no home here” sends a troubling message to the community’s youth: that even a simple, unifying statement against hatred can be divisive among the adults they are supposed to trust. Infamous dictator and orchestrator of the Holocaust Adolf Hitler said that “He alone, who owns the youth, gains the future.” This country is either choosing to secure a safe, empathetic and equal future by teaching children empathy from a young age, or it is pushing an agenda and repressing opposing ideologies instead. Investing in youth can lead to progress and peace; however, if used manipulatively, that investment can lead to destruction.
Somehow, Kamala has returned
Commentary By Tyler Hirata Contributor
The Democratic Party’s loss in 2024 left Democrats with an identity crisis. Now, the Democratic National Committee is left with few options for recuperating from its losses and reorienting itself to strike back in 2028 with a stronger campaign. No one feels the brunt of the loss more than former Vice President Kamala Harris. With her political identity entwined with former President Joe Biden’s, Harris must take further steps to distinguish herself. Harris might run for Governor of California in 2026, which could cause an unfavorable outcome for the DNC because California has many high-profile Democrats, such as Gavin Newsom and Katie Porter. With the reintroduction of Harris into the California political landscape, unnecessary interparty conflict will occur.
While she only received 107 days to campaign, the weight of Harris’s loss is a blemish on her political career and the DNC’s ability to provide the best candidates to its constituents. For Harris to even attempt to run for president in 2028, she must find her identity outside of Joe Biden and earn the workingclass vote.
Suppose Harris were to
run for governor in 2026; she would likely do exceptionally well in the election. In a survey conducted by Emerson College of Polling, of the 911 respondents, 39% remain undecided, and 31% would vote for Harris as governor. Given the results, Harris will
believe Harris should not run for governor in 2026. It seems the Democratic Party is undergoing an identity crisis; the percentage of Republican voters has been consistently rising throughout every state. The Democratic Party needs to adapt its approach to
likely dominate the governor’s election if she runs, even holding a 23% difference from second place.
Harris’ support in California is divided; 50% of the polled
appeal to a broader segment of Americans. The best place for that change is the governor’s seat, where new leaders can take their turn in office and build experience
The Paisano
Editorial Board
Jake Mireles | Editor-in-Chief Editor@paisano-online.com
Jasmine Williams | Managing Editor Manager@paisano-online.com
Alessandra Avila | News Editor News@paisano-online.com
Marcela Montufar Soria | Opinion Editor Opinion@paisano-online.com
Malaki Lingg | Arts & Life Editor Arts@paisano-online.com
Haley Aguayo | Sports Editor Sports@paisano-online.com
Raul Martinez | Web Editor Web@paisano-online.com
Armin Suljovic | Photo Editor Photo@paisano-online.com
Kara Lee | Graphic Editor Graphic@paisano-online.com
Regan Williams | Multimedia Editor Multimedia@paisano-online.com
Sofia Mejia | Magazine Editor Magazine@paisano-online.com
Jaclyn Banda | Business Manager Business@paisano-online.com
Karis Vickers | Social
Christopher Delgado | Copyediting
Christian Loustaunau | Distribution Manager Distribution@paisano-online.com Assistant Editors
for a potential nomination at the DNC. It is unfair how the DNC has effectively sidelined Harris; changes are needed for the Democratic Party to regain its momentum and become relevant in the U.S. again. Effective personnel are the key to the Democratic Party’s recovery. However, the party needs to appeal not just to Democrats but also to Republicans and the working class. Until the Democratic Party stops its elitist attitude towards policy and starts trying to include the constituents of the centrist Republicans, the DNC will lose its steam and start to lose more power. Harris is not yet the champion the Democrats need, which leaves the DNC to do some soul-searching. Harris’ career is far from over; after being vice president, it is hard to step down to more local forms of government. The answer does not lie with becoming governor for Harris; it starts with going back to her roots and redefining what Kamala Harris’ politics are. Politics that are not Joe Biden’s brand but Harris’. It is time for Harris to make a statement; if she has any chance of running for president in 2028, she needs to take action. It is possible that Kamala Harris will run for president, and hopefully, this time her campaign will have soul.
The Editorial is the official opinion of The Paisano editorial board. Commentaries are the opinion of the individual writer.
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 the UTSA Main Campus. Additionally, Paisano publications are distributed at a variety of off-campus locations, including Tripoint 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 © 2025 The Paisano The University of Texas at San Antonio’s Handbook of Operating Procedures states in 5.03 that: The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) will not exercise control over the format or content of Student Publications, but will regulate distribution on campus. Student Publications will be free of censorship and advance approval of copy, and their editors and managers are solely responsible for editorial and content policies and decisions. Editors and managers of Student Publications will not be subject to arbitrary suspension/expulsion or removal from their positions within a Registered or Sponsored Student Organization (Student Organization) by the University because of student, faculty, administrative, or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. Student Organizations that distribute Student Publications are afforded the same rights and privileges as Student Organizations that do not distribute Student Publications.
Kate Stanford/The Paisano
April Jones/Courtesy
arts & life
Earth day market event at the house
By Marisela Cruz
Brothers Jared and Josh Ramos hosted a block party event dedicated to Earth Day with messages of sustainable and ethical living through fashion, food and plant vendors among the community. The Ramos’ have been in the thrifting business for over 11 years and have had their brick-and-mortar, “House of Trends,” for four years. This year, they hosted their first Earth Day event outside their shop on Fredericksburg Road.
Classic 90s to Y2K shirts fill the block of vendors with other staples for the upcoming season, such as denim shorts, floral skirts and tank tops. Other sustainable and earthlike vendors offered plants, herbs, tea and crystals to those participating. Starting at 5 p.m. on Saturday, they also had three bins filled with free clothes sourced from McAllen and Laredo rag houses. Both brothers agree to continue to promote shopping mindfully. Connecting with the community throughout their years working in the thrifting business came naturally to them. Along the way, they have met like-minded individuals who support the message to shop locally and advocate for small businesses.
A small booth called “Degenerate Gardener” displayed little oddities of taxidermy insects, propagated plants of pothos, monstera and arrowhead plants. The owner, Destinie Bruno, runs her independent business and often participates in market events. Everything is created by her efforts of recycling and upcycling ethically sourced materials.
“The insects and the bones that I use to make my oddity displays are foraged. I grow the plants at home, and I recycle or reuse mason jars or liquor bottles or whatever from home for my propagations,” said Bruno.
Bruno promotes her message with the repurposed jars and vases she uses to hold her plants. The owners reached out to her personally to include her
business and the message it stands for with their Earth Day market.
“When it comes to Degenerate Gardener or just myself in general, I love making a positive impact and being a kind of voice for what a lot of vendors are here doing, which is wanting to push our lifestyles towards sustainability. I think that goes hand in hand with gardening and plants, and that’s why I have these seeds here today. I’m trying to start this movement to pollinate San Antonio, beautify San Antonio, and that’s just something I’m really passionate about. And that’s what I like to tell everyone that stops by my booth,” said Bruno.
UTSA alumna Calli Recore had a booth at the event offering custom-made printing on cards, clothing, tote bags and more. Calli has been printing for some time now and expressed her excitement to be there after anticipating the event for over a month.
“I’m excited to have created some new designs just for people to use on their shirts to upcycle them,” said Recore.
Her designs include star sparkles, rabbits leaping, flowers and lizards. She encouraged those interested in getting a print to pick a free clothing item from the bins so she can then print on the old item to make it anew.
“Working with The Paisano has taught me so much as an artist. I continue to use the same graphic design techniques I learned while working with The Paisano in the art and zines I create today. I have always appreciated the independence [The] Paisano has as a publisher, and it inspired me to work and create independently with my own business as an artist,” said Recore.
This was the first Earth Day event hosted by the House of Trends, but it could be the start of more in the future.
To check out the shop, visit the brick-andmortar location at 1512 Fredericksburg Rd. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Calli Recore,
Vintage drip is only a short trip away at Rag Parlor
By Sofia Mejia Magazine Editor
Strolling up to the local thrift stores, scouring the racks and finding a vintage piece is the highlight of any thrift trip. However, this moment of joy is getting increasingly rare with the influx of fast fashion leftovers and retail markups on anything remotely good. For those left searching, there is a shop where every item is a gem of a find: Rag Parlor Vintage. Rag Parlor Vintage believes “good fashion never goes out of style.” which one look at their racks filled with assorted garments from the early 2000s to the 1940s proves this, as there is a ton of fashionable clothing. Customers can enjoy the shop decorated with memorabilia from
all ages, hear soothing music playing and be greeted by shop owner Bea Rudkini, who shows off the clothes from years past.
Their racks of graphic tees are organized by color that unfurl in rainbow order, and they have jeans in every shade of blue. The sizing range is also incredibly inclusive, so customers do not have to face the disappointment of leaving empty-handed after trying on multiple items. Prices range from $10 on the sales rack to around $60, with most garments falling in the middle.
Rudkini talked about why he chose to open up Rag Parlor Vintage in San Antonio and dedicate the store specifically to vintage items.
“I started selling vintage [clothes] in 2019 at my college campus at Liberty
University in Lynchburg, Virginia, stuff
I would find at Goodwill,” Rudkini said. “I got really into 60s, 70s and 50s clothing, like classic union-made Americana type of stuff. I got obsessed with it. I decided to move back to where I was from, San Antonio, to be closer to more used clothing down by the border.”
Since September 2023, Rag Parlor Vintage has been a cozy spot for San Antonio thrifters looking for rare garments that last through time. Rag Parlor Vintage is constantly getting new stock while reducing the amount of clothes that end up in landfills.
“So, we [buy] wholesale from independent sellers that typically sell their stuff, either online or at markets. And since
there’s not a huge true vintage scene in San Antonio besides us, a lot of that stuff comes over to us pretty cheap, and they end up coming through our doors, right? People trying to sell stuff to us, yeah? And then I’ll buy stuff from old connections that I still have from Virginia, up north [and the] west coast as well,” Rudkini said. Rag Parlor Vintage is the spot to shop for vintage lovers. Rudkini wants people to “come shop, have a good time and make some cool, mix-and-match, unique pieces.” Located at 4710 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 Rag Parlor Vintage is 22 minutes away from UTSA. From dresses to sports tees and a revolving stock, this shop is the easy pick for those looking to browse and leave with a great find.
Degenerate Gardener, an independent business run by Destinie Bruno — the owner wishes to start a movement to pollinate and beautify San Antonio through their products.
a UTSA alumna, uses handmade tools to print on various items.
Erick Henriquez Camargo/The Paisano
Assistant News Editor
Arts & Life
Honoring the late Michael Tracy at the McNay
By Jackie Cardona Staff Writer
“Elegy of Distance” honors Michael Tracy’s artistic legacy. His work emphasizes empathy, thoughtful exchange and healing as viewers consider faith, ritual, immigration and the environment. Located in the Tobin Exhibition Galleries at the McNay Museum until July 27, the exhibit honoring the late activist featured some of his never-beforeseen pieces, including many colorsaturated paintings, cast sculptures and mixed-media objects, alongside artworks on loan from other collections.
At age 80, Tracy peacefully passed away in his studio compound in San Ygnacio, Texas on June 15, 2024. His work is described as transgressive and heterogeneous. His sculptures excite viewers, and some have a sense of hidden sacred mysteries. He left a legacy behind, and his work will forever be remembered for its boldness and critical thinking.
The exhibit featured pieces from some of his series, including “Speaking with the Dead,” “Cruz de la Paz Sagrada VII” and “Gulmohar.”
“Gulmohar” had some of the brightest and most colourful pieces. His painting, made of acrylic, reflected India’s chartreuse blooms and beautifully represented them. His works, such as “To Ishtar: The Palace Which Crushes Valiant Warriors” and “Flower Sacrifice,” captivate audiences. The pieces will leave someone staring for
hours trying to decipher their purpose and what led the artist to create such a piece, with knives sticking out of random spaces and metal hearts with crosses surrounding the display of hot pink flowers.
The pieces in the exhibit represent a sense of violence and sensuality, each presenting a different story relating those themes. Although each piece had a different story, they were all bold and followed the artist’s creative designs.
“Cruz to Bishop Oscar Romero, Martyr of El Salvador” was one of the most special works from the collection.
With acrylic over wood, horns, iron spikes, hair, cloth braids, oil paint and silk-covered rods, this piece screamed bold and was larger than most in the collection. It conveys a sense of despair and angst in a way that the others do not.
The McNay mounted Michael Tracy’s first museum exhibition, “Seven Gold Paintings,” in 1971. This exhibit, being his last after his passing, is poetic. In a way, it comes as a full-circle moment for Tracy’s artistic career — featuring some of his best work on display at the McNay.
“Michael Tracy: Elegy of Distance” is on display until July 27 at the Tobin Exhibition Galleries at the McNay. The McNay is open Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Entrance to the McNay is free to all UTSA students, while access to special exhibits is $10.
Repetition seems to damage t his ‘Puzzle’
By Raul Martinez Web Editor
Puzzle’s “Damage Collection” offers listeners a fascinating experience, with eccentric lo-fi beats, ethereal synth and punky elements. The seventh release from Fletcher Shears’s solo project shows a raw approach to production compared to past releases.
Shears is the other half of the experimental punk duo, The Garden. While The Garden has always leaned into 80s hardcore punk with intriguing uses of sound — such as using bell whistles and cheap sound effects from old kid’s toys — the band has stayed in the realm of edginess.
Puzzle is where Shears displays the levitating, grainy sounds of the band’s nature.
Puzzle’s “Damage Collection!” features 15 tracks spanning across a 35-minute and 11-second runtime.
The first track of the album, “Clash!,” provides the listener with familiarity through its catchy yet odd melodies. The track is reminiscent of Puzzle’s past sounds but with a lo-fi twist. The song begins with a soft piano tune, evocative of music from 90s anime
‘Sinners’ is the movie director Ryan Coogler was born to make
By Ezequiel Pena Staff Writer Reviews Reviews
soundtracks. While past projects have been more polished, this one feels a little rough around the edges but maintains a sense of familiarity and direction.
“Slobber of the Dog” and “Run From The Good Things” stand out with their fearless experimentation. “Slobber of the Dog” gives a taste of ambient noise then quickly transitions into a punk beat followed by a mix of the two. The use of sampling in “Run From The Good Things” gives a nice segue into the jazzy rhythm that follows. Although these songs help give the album its own identity, the album ultimately falls short in being something making the album memorable. In the other 30 minutes of material that Shears brought to the table, repetition quickly gives way to boredom. This is not to say that the material is bad, but that it is lackluster and leaves something to be desired.
Previous Puzzle projects have done a better job of rounding out their respective albums; this album, while good, falls short of the previous releases.
Ryan Coogler has established his name primarily through franchises. After making his debut feature film, “Fruitvale Station,” in 2013 he went on to direct and write for major franchises, such as “Creed” and “Black Panther,” to make his greater mark in the film industry. However, it is not until now that Coogler has truly showcased his full strengths as a profound force in the film industry with his 2025 masterpiece, “Sinners.”
Coogler has always been the kind of filmmaker who takes what has been done before and tries to improve upon it with his own film. This comes at its strongest with “Sinners,” where audiences will get what is essentially a much darker and engrossing version of the 1996 film “From Dusk Till Dawn.” Although, like many classic films, this manages to be both fun and entertaining on the surface while still being very deep and layered upon closer examination.
“Sinners” is a story of twin brothers, both played by Michael B. Jordan, who travel back to their hometown to make a fun juke joint for their families and friends, only to realize the devil chose that same night to knock on their doorstep. Somehow, despite a premise as simple as that, the film manages to create a vampire film that is both entertaining and frightening at the same time. It also gives
the audience characters that are sympathetic and memorable enough to care when one of them has a moment of joy or horror. Even the vampires of the film have enough layers to them so that there can be sympathy for them, and furthermore a message of how evil can come between those who have much in common. Music is deeply ingrained in the 1932 Mississippi culture that “Sinners” takes place in, and it is enough to be infectious. There are many moments where audiences will be tapping their toes along to the soulful blues that many of the characters dance to with their hearts out. It is so deeply ingrained in the film that, at times, especially in one particular scene, it almost seems that “Sinners” is a magical epic. This is thanks in no small part to the masterful soundtrack from Oscarwinning composer Ludwig Göransson. Somehow, with an already impressive set of soundtracks under his belt, Göransson manages to give some of his best work yet with a musical work that stays in the ears long after walking out of the auditorium.
“Sinners” is an incredible experience that audiences deserve to see. The praise it has garnered is warranted, and in time, it may become a respected horror classic. It certainly lands Coogler among some of the best directors working today.
Shadows of death loom upon the white snow
A review of ‘The Last of Us,’ Season 2, Episode 2: ‘Through the Valley’
By Christopher Delgado Copyediting Coordinator Reviews
Spoiler Warning:
Death fills the wintry, frostbitten air surrounding Joel and Ellie. Their love, although still unspoken, becomes even more precious than before. Ellie’s love for Joel is all that remains in the valley of death. The audience hopes it will be enough, but those familiar with the story of “The Last of Us” know that love is useless against fate. Joel and Dina embark on a patrol to ensure no survivors are stuck in the blizzard. Meanwhile, Abby scouts the Jackson settlement and begins following two villagers on patrol. In her attempt to follow them, Abby slides down a mountainside, accidentally awakening a herd of comatose Infected buried in the snow. A sporadic chase sequence ensues, demonstrating Abby’s grittiness and survival instincts; however, she finds herself in a losing battle with the infected. A gunshot kills the infected. In a serendipitous moment, Abby reaches out to her savior’s hand and realizes he is none other than Joel, the man she has been searching for. The two escape with Dina, and Abby tells them about her shelter — the next stop for the trio and the final one for Joel.
The infected return to their hive-mind roots located in a Jackson pipeline. Bells alert the townsfolk of the incoming
threat. Tommy, played by Gabriel Luna, and Maria, played by Rutina Wesley, prepare for a desperate battle against the grueling and brutish Infected. Doom lingers throughout the village; many know this may be Jackson’s final stand. Tensions run high throughout the sequence, but once again, Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin know how to slow down the pace. While villagers’ faces are mauled, Tommy and Maria share yearning glances, a reminder of love’s power to rise above despair and provide the will to survive. Eventually, Jackson overcomes the overwhelming attack. Their victory gives audiences hope that Mazin and Druckmann are telling a different story than the one from the games.
Due to the lack of radio response from Joel and Dina, Ellie and Jesse, played by Stephen Chang, squander the time searching for the duo in the forest.
This episode allows Bella Ramsey to prove why Mazin
and Druckmann cast them as Ellie. Their fright invokes that of a child’s. It is rough around the edges, trying to hide the worries, but doing so terribly. When Joel arrives at Abby’s lodging, she reveals her lineage and desires. They put Dina to sleep, and Abby shoots Joel in the knee. Kaitlyn Dever brings a psychotic nature to the role of Abby, and the tears threatening to seep out of her eyes throughout her monologue convey a tenderness. When Ellie arrives at the scene, a helpless Joel, teetering between life and death, lies on the floor. Ellie can do nothing but cry out for Joel to get up. Ellie’s panic and desperation fill the screen and the audience’s living room with tears. Mazin cuts the music and closes in on Ellie before pulling back to focus on Abby, conveying her as an unstoppable force. She slowly picks up the golf club and smoothly slides it into Joel’s jugular. The camera shoots the scene from above as Ellie cries over Joel’s body, a reversal of the Pietà’s roles. The episode plays out to Ashley Johnson’s “Through the Valley” as the camera lingers on Dina, Jesse and Ellie returning to Jackson with Joel’s dead body in tow. The ground is frozen. The camera holds still. The journey home keeps quiet before the storm rolls in.
“Flower Sacrifice” by Michael Tracy on display at “Elegy of Distance.”
The exhibit shows decades of Michael Tracy’s career and never-before-seen pieces.
No tune-up, no problem for Rory
By Alejandra Garza Staff Writer
Valero Texas Open, a tournament held the weekend before The Masters at TPC San Antonio, allows golfers to fine-tune their game in preparation for the most prestigious event. 2025 Masters Champion Rory McIlroy was not among the Tour players in the VTO field. Instead, he took the week off to rest and recover — a decision that contributed to his victory at golf’s most prestigious tournament. decision to rest was necessary, as he admitted to having trouble with an elbow injury following his finish at the Houston right elbow has been bothering me a little bit, so I’ll maybe just get some treatment on that and make sure that is okay going into Augusta,” McIlroy said. “As I went on during the week, I got better and better, as the scores suggest. It was a good week. Still stuff to work on but overall a solid week. Now, [I] have another week to get ready and fine-tune my game heading to Augusta.” this recovery time, the five-time major champion would have likely run into trouble with a worsening elbow. Avoiding fatigue was a strategic move, as playing in back-to-back tournaments could have added
McLaren victorious in Saudi Arabia
Oscar Piastri takes win and lead in world championship
By Marcela Montufar Soria Opinion Editor
McLaren driver Oscar Piastri became the leader of the F1 Drivers Standings for the first time in his career on Sunday after winning the Saudi Arabian GP at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. He won from P2 on the grid, beating out Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in second place and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in third.
Piastri and Verstappen were involved in an incident on Turn 1 during the opening lap, with Piastri attempting to take the lead from Verstappen, who had started on pole. Verstappen maintained the position by going off track, for which he received a five-second penalty as Piastri asked to be given the position back on the radio.
“I tried my best, obviously the stewards had to get involved, but I thought I was plenty far enough up, and in the end, that’s what got me the race,” Piastri said of the incident. “So yeah, very happy with all the work we’ve been doing with the starts, and that’s what won us the race today.”
“Well, that is f—cking lovely,” said Verstappen on the radio when he was informed of the penalty.
Verstappen led Piastri for 20 laps before McLaren called their driver to boxes after he was unable to overtake Verstappen. Piastri swapped his Medium tires for Hards to complete the remaining 30 laps of the race.
Verstappen was asked over the radio to widen the
distance to the cars behind to compensate for the time lost when he boxed and served the penalty. Still, the Red Bull driver boxed on Lap 22 and came out behind Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, who Piastri overtook on that same lap.
Piastri took the lead in Lap 35 after his teammate Lando Norris boxed for the first time. Verstappen tried to close the gap between them but was unable to pass him for the rest of the race. Piastri crossed the finish line 2.843 seconds ahead of Verstappen, taking his third victory of the season.
“Well done, everyone,” Piastri said on the radio. “A little bit more difficult at the start than I had hoped for, but the car was great. Dirty air not so much, but at least the dirty air was from lapping people.”
Piastri leads the championship with 99 points, followed by Norris with 89 and Verstappen with 87. McLaren leads the Constructors Championship with 188 points, followed by Mercedes with 111 points.
Verstappen refused to entertain questions about the Turn 1 incident and the resulting penalty. “It is what it is,” he said. “I think it’s also better we don’t talk about it because we are anyway not allowed to express our opinions.” He referred to the strict regulations against criticising the FIA, the governing body of F1.
Round 6 of the 2025 season will occur at 3 p.m. May 4 at the Miami International Autodrome.
unnecessary wear-and-tear ahead of the sport’s most important event.
Before McIlory’s win at The Masters, he had been bearing the burden of completing the grand slam through his 11 attempts. During the 2023 tournament, he missed the cut by just two strokes.
“I think it was a combination of a few things, and just after the disappointment of Augusta and how I played there, it was just more for my mental and emotional wellbeing. I just needed to be at home for those few weeks,” McIlory said of the 2023 Masters.
McIlroy needed a strong mindset going into the final round of the Masters if he wanted to win. Grouped with the most controversial LIV Golf Tour player, Bryson DeChambeau, it was more important than ever. This pairing was special, as McIlory sought revenge on DeChambeau from their bout at the 2024 U.S. Open. It was a gut-wrenching loss for McIlory, as he was attempting to obtain his first major in 10 years.
“That was just the game plan all week, and we wanted to get lost in it. We didn’t want to pay attention to what anyone else was scoring, or shooting, or swinging or how far they were hitting it — we just wanted Rory to play his game,” Bob Rotella, McIlroy’s sports psychologist, said on the silent treatment the Tour player was giving DeChambeau during the final round.
McIlroy finally accomplished a life-long dream, becoming the sixth golfer to achieve a grand slam, joining the likes of legendary players such as Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. He did not obtain his masterpiece by coincidence, it was a product of his meticulous preparation that included the strategic decision to skip the renowned Valero Texas Open.
Big-city ambitions face some big- city responsibilities
By Kara Lee Graphics Editor
With the NCAA Men’s Final Four completed in San Antonio, signs increasingly point to the city stepping into its role as a major metropolitan center. The tournament was projected to generate approximately $440 million in economic impact, driven by the arrival of around 100,000 visitors and increased spending across retail, dining and hospitality sectors.
Although San Antonio has previously hosted the Final Four, this prestigious event is typically reserved for larger cities such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Detroit. Its return signals a shift — San Antonio is no longer viewed solely as a regional market but as a growing national destination. A key advantage of hosting is the proximity of stadiums within a walkable downtown area, which enhances the experience for both visitors and event organizers.
Named one of the fastest-growing cities in 2023, San Antonio has demonstrated strong signs of post-pandemic recovery and economic momentum. Current projections
estimate the addition of approximately 22,000 new residents annually. At this rate, the city’s population is expected to surpass 1.5 million by 2030.
One of the most significant indicators of continued growth is Project Marvel — a proposed downtown development anchored by a new basketball arena for the San Antonio Spurs, accompanied by a surrounding mixeduse district. This initiative carries the potential to increase citywide revenue, attract talent, generate employment and return the Spurs to downtown. The project could eliminate blackout dates and scheduling conflicts by enabling the hosting of multiple events simultaneously.
Project Marvel also strengthens the incentives for the Spurs to remain in San Antonio, rather than considering relocation to Austin. Investment from the team is essential, while taxpayer contributions should be kept to a minimum. Public funds must prioritize broader infrastructure and community needs.
Developments of this magnitude must include a robust equity framework. Without intentional oversight, such projects may divert attention and funding from pressing challenges across the city. Despite projected economic
benefits, urgent issues such as homelessness, affordable housing and public transportation require greater focus.
Several existing initiatives aim to address housing needs, including the Strategic Housing Implementation Plan and the 2022 Affordable Housing Bond. These programs target the creation and preservation of affordable housing, protection against displacement and support for low-income households. However, additional long-term solutions will be required to meet rising demand. Project Marvel should only move forward if its impact aligns with and enhances these priorities.
Rapid expansion through Project Marvel, without adequate investment in an equity budget, will worsen existing disparities. A thriving city depends on balanced development that integrates economic growth with opportunity. Project Marvel must serve not only as an entertainment destination but also as a tool for equitable progress.
San Antonio’s rise offers considerable potential. The realization of that potential depends on thoughtful leadership and responsible planning.
A detailed view of the 2025 Final Four logo on a Gatorade cooler taken during the University of Florida’s win over the Auburn University in the first round of the tournament.
Sarah Quintanilla/The Paisano
Rylan Renteria/The Paisano
Roadrunners continue rolling against green wave AT HOME
UTSA downs Tulane, remains undefeated in conference series through 5 weeks of
By Rylan Renteria Staff Writer
UTSA baseball took two of three games against Tulane University 13-5, 5-3, 25-7 and secured a conference series win over the weekend at Roadrunner Field.
The Roadrunners (30-10, 12-3 AAC) picked up their fourth straight win in the opening game. The Green Wave (24-17, 8-7 AAC), powered by high-scoring middle innings, evened the series in game two. In the rubber match, despite missing one of their premiere hitters, the ‘Runners put together their best hitting performance of the season to secure the series win.
Game one
UTSA jumped out to a 6-1 lead in the second frame of game one. Tulane cut its deficit down to just two runs in the top of the fifth, before the ‘Runners registered a sixrun sixth inning.
Freshman infielder Jordan Ballin scored the first run of the sixth after reaching home off a wild pitch from Tulane pitcher Julius Ejike-Charles. After Ejike-Charles walked senior infielder Garrett Gruell, senior infielder James Taussig cleared the bases with an RBI triple down the right field line. Junior infielder Ty Hodge delivered the final blow of the inning with an RBI double through the left side of the diamond, scoring junior outfielder Drew Detlefsen and Taussig.
Junior pitcher Zach Royse secured his fifth win of the season after allowing four runs on seven hits across six innings.
“Zach Royse was really good,” coach Pat Hallmark said after the game. “Tonight was a good night to hit, and Zach didn’t back down at all.”
Game two
Hallmark threw two of his three best pitchers on the mound on Saturday, but Tulane had its way against both in the middle innings.
Senior pitcher Braylon Owens got the start on the bump and held the Green Wave scoreless for the first three innings. He ran into trouble in the fourth and
AAC play
fifth frames, allowing three runs before sophomore stopper Robert Orloski came in for relief. Orloski fared better than Owens, but he still surrendered two runs, which ended up being the difference in the game. UTSA finished Saturday two of nine from the plate with runners in scoring position.
Game three
Seven different Roadrunners registered hits en route to the team setting a new seasonhigh in runs scored. UTSA found its way on the scoreboard in seven of the nine innings played, but the real damage was done in the bottom of the second, where the team hit a home run cycle; the ‘Runners notched a solo, two-run, threerun home run as well as a grand slam. Senior infielder Norris McClure had two home runs in the inning, and sophomore utility Diego Diaz launched the grand slam — both finished with eight RBIs.
“I’ve never seen, much less on one of our clubs, two guys with eight RBIs,” Hallmark said. “It was kind of an odd day in a good way. With that wind blowing out we can be a dangerous team.”
Despite the loss, Orloski had the best overall performance on the mound. He allowed two runs on five
hits and tossed five strikeouts across 4.2 innings. McClure had the best plate performance on Saturday with a team leading four hits and tying for the lead in RBIs with eight and was named the American Athletic Conference Player of the Week for his efforts.
UTSA will next face the University of Memphis. Game one is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday at Roadrunner Field.
How UTSA transfers have fared since departing from San Antonio
By Rylan Renteria Staff Writer
Life as a Group of Five program in the NIL era of college athletics is a constant fight for survival. When a smaller university like UTSA begins to compete with schools that have billions of dollars in resources and decades of tradition, larger programs look to lure away that talent. Every program within UTSA Athletics has lost key contributors in recent years, but is the grass always greener on the other side? The results are a mixed bag.
Zakhari Franklin, football
When Franklin entered the transfer portal following the conclusion of the 2022 campaign, he left as the program record holder in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns. He played an integral role in UTSA winning back-to-back Conference-USA championships in 2021 and 2022 before eventually taking his talents to the SEC. Franklin caught four passes for 38 yards and one touchdown in 2023 for the University of Mississippi and re-entered the transfer portal the following offseason. Franklin landed at the University of Illinois, where he enjoyed a bounce-back season for the Fighting Illini, posting 55 catches for 652 yards and four touchdowns.
Ruger Riojas, baseball
Riojas served as the Roadrunners’ “stopper” from 2023 to 2024. In his two seasons at UTSA, he collected 15 wins, maintained a 3.68 ERA on the mound and left the program following the team’s collapse in the 2024 American Athletic Conference tournament. Riojas didn’t go far though, heading up I-35 to join the University of Texas at Austin. His transition to the University of Texas at Austin has been mostly seamless; he has a 7-1 win-loss record and has posted a 3.33 ERA in 13 appearances in 2025. Ironically, UTSA is the only team to beat Riojas so far this season.
Jordan Ivy-Curry, men’s basketball
The La Marque, Texas native played his first two seasons with the Roadrunners before transferring to the University of the Pacific in 2022. Ivy-Curry returned to UTSA in 2023 and enjoyed a breakout season, averaging 17.1 points per game. Following the firing of former UTSA men’s basketball coach Steve Henson, Ivy-Curry entered the portal once again, This time, he joined the University of Central Florida. His scoring average saw a slight decrease, dropping to 13.1 points per game, but he still aided the Knights in reaching 20 wins in 2025.
Madi Hayes, softball
In her freshman campaign, Hayes finished top-six in batting average and hits for the Roadrunners. UTSA totaled just 15 wins in 2024, and Hayes left the Alamo City for the University of Kansas. Hayes has two hits and one RBI in 25 appearances for the Jayhawks.
Tomás Pinho, men’s tennis
Pinho tallied 21 wins in singles and 19 in doubles during his time at UTSA. He finished his final season with the ‘Runners ranked No.78 in the ITA doubles ranking. In his first season with Texas A&M, Pinho has yet to secure a win in doubles.
Whether it’s financially motivated or opportunitybased, it’s hard to judge a player for doing what they deem is best for their career. After all, some of the Roadrunners’ elite talent was acquired through the transfer portal: women’s basketball forward Jordyn Jenkins, football’s starting quarterback Owen McCown and baseball’s star outfielder Mason Lytle began their collegiate careers elsewhere. The portal giveth, and the portal taketh away. What matters most is the university’s ability to adapt and continue to replenish, season after season — a feat that most programs at UTSA Athletics have accomplished over the past four years of the NIL era.
Top to bottom, left to right: guard Jordan Ivy-Curry (2024), pitcher Ruger Riojas (2024), UTSA outfielder Madi Hayes (2024) and wide receiver Zakhari Franklin (2022).
Rylan Renteria/The Paisano
Dustin Vickers/The Paisano