THE PAISANO
San antonio ranks third in poverty
Alamo city ranks highest in poverty for Texas among 25 metropolitan cities across US
By Lori ZaragozaContributor
San Antonio has ranked third among metropolitan cities for highest percentage of people in poverty, out of 25 of the nation’s largest cities between 2023-2024, falling below Houston and Detroit according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Of San Antonio residents, 13% live below the poverty line, placing the city above the average of other states.
With poverty comes the demand for assistance programs, such as Haven For Hope and the San Antonio Food Bank. Many people within San Antonio use these programs to support themselves and their families. The San Antonio Food Bank has existed since 1980, serving the diverse area of Southwest Texas. The Paisano spoke with the President and CEO of the San Antonio Food Bank Eric Cooper, who stated that the 29 counties in Texas see over 105,000 people a week.
“We are working as hard as we can to collect donated food from farmers and growers, food manufacturers, wholesalers [and] great grocery retailers. We have the world’s best here at HEB, restaurants, hotels, caterers, hosting food drives,” Cooper said.
HEB is a significant supporter of the San Antonio Food Bank, donating to many events throughout the year as well as helping with their own assistance programs.
“Hunger isn’t necessarily a food issue, that America doesn’t produce enough food to feed people,” he stated. “Hunger is more of an income issue, and that is that the wages don’t cover household expenses and leave money left over for food. Rent eats first.”
He also explained the sizable percentage of people who come to the food bank are mostly Hispanic women. Single mothers who are Hispanic were described to visit most frequently when unexpected life circumstances arose.
“Statistically, it’s four to five times a year,” Cooper revealed. “It’s when the car breaks down, it’s when a child gets sick. Holidays are happening or back to school, those high utility bills of the summer, those are some of the causes that kind of disrupt the household budget and so food banks are this big food subsidy that’s just trying to keep families moving forward.”
People who ask for assistance are those who use it when necessary in their lives; only a percentage of the people who use resources, such as the Food Bank, are homeless.
“When we’re feeding 105,000 people a week, it’s a very small amount that are homeless; most of who we feed are housed. They’re paying rent, they’re working, they’re just not making enough,” he shared.
Haven For Hope is an organization dedicated to helping individuals strive for self-sufficiency and shelter assistance. The Paisano interviewed the Director of Communications, Terri Behling, to discuss how Haven for Hope is mitigating the city’s poverty issue. “We are the largest
homeless shelter in San Antonio, but we’re also a transformational campus,” Behling said. “So we serve close to 9000 individuals each year, and we are serving those who are experiencing homelessness in our community.”
Haven For Hope assists many with housing. Behling states that they see proof of the high poverty rate within their organization. Haven For Hope has many facilities, including an apartment complex with 140 units, a YMCA learning center and medical clinics.
“So what that study [Ranking 3rd in Poverty] would indicate to me is similar to what we’ve seen in the past several years,” she said.
Haven For Hope sees the impact of San Antonio’s high poverty rate in their permanent emergency shelter
capacity, which, according to Behling, is 13,140. She added, “We’re nearly full every day.”
The multiple facilities that Haven For Hope are near their capacity limit daily due to the large number of people who need housing. Behling also commented on how city leaders are attempting to assist with the poverty situation.
“I believe the city of San Antonio and Bexar County leaders, community leaders, elected officials, all have this on their radar and are looking at what potential resources could come online,” she said. “There’s more affordable housing initiatives happening in our community, so it’s really going to take a community effort to address this moving forward.”
Trump administration pushes new immigration policy
Department of Homeland Security announces new naturalization civics test, adds questions
By Henry Holmes Staff Writer
The past year has seen a large shift in immigration law enforcement and rule-making against undocumented immigrants. President Donald Trump’s battle over immigration has taken him across the globe and the country. His impact can be directly felt in El Salvador, the streets of Los Angeles, the U.S.-Mexico border and universities and courts across America. Changing focus, the administration has begun implementing policies to restrict those attempting to legally immigrate to the U.S.
These changes include revamping the civics test, implementing a local passport requirement for diversity immigration, limiting the time certain visa holders can stay and beginning the “Gold Card” program.
The new policies that target the broadest groups of immigrants increase scrutiny on individuals seeking immigration benefits. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services agency has bolstered various programs to expand biometric data collection by 60% and assess immigrants who “promote antisemitic terrorism, antisemitic terrorist organizations and antisemitic ideologies” during their screening process.
The policy alert gives the agency full discretion to determine whether an immigrant holds “anti-American” views. This means that someone who has properly completed the immigration process can be monitored without reason or denied if their views do not align with the USCIS.
On Sept. 18, the Department of Homeland Security announced its new naturalization civics test. Anyone looking to become a U.S. citizen after Oct. 20 will face a test with a new bank of questions. The new test will require prospective citizens to correctly answer 12 out of 20 fill-in-the-blank questions, compared to the previous 6 out of 10. It draws from a bank of 128 questions, instead of 100, that immigrants are expected to study. The new question bank, now lined with stars on the top and bottom, includes questions covering the Founding Fathers and the Federalist Papers.
Students and researchers are also now required to renew their non-immigrant visas every four years. Students and researchers have typically been able to stay in the U.S. for the duration of their activity, job or education. Now,
international students and other migrants in the country for a limited time will have to renew their visas every four years or face deportation. A DHS spokesperson stated the policy will reduce “abuse” where “foreign students and other visa holders remain in the U.S. virtually indefinitely, posing safety risks, costing [an] untold amount of taxpayer
migrants who contribute a “gift” to the U.S. to have their application process expedited. Applicants can give $1 million for themselves or $2 million to sponsor someone else to receive the benefits of the gold card.
Of all of the changes in the past two months, the Gold the only one that will make immigration more accessible. Most other policies implemented by the Trump administration erect barriers to immigration and citizenship with the goal of “ending illegal immigration and prioritizing the admission of aliens who will affirmatively
Haven for Hope and San Antonio Food Bank support those experiencing poverty in San Antonio, 13% live below the poverty line
Noah Schwencke/The Paisano
Student, faculty, legislator oppose free speech firings
By Loreily Mejia Contributor
Following the assasination of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk, students, professors and Texas legislators are reacting to disciplinary action taken against Texans who have made public statements regarding Kirk’s death.
At Texas State University, a student’s enrollment was terminated after he posted a video mocking Kirk’s death. A student at UT San Antonio, who wished to remain anonymous, commented on the recent event.
“I don’t think that any death, at all, should be mocked or celebrated,” a student studying medical humanities said. “Do I think [students] should be removed? No. I think it should be a write-up or maybe a [conversation] about how mockery isn’t right. But for them to be automatically removed from schools like honesty just sucks, because at the end of the day, we’re still young adults. Still changing, growing and learning.”
With the number of students being expelled, professors have also taken notice and have reacted similarly to the students.
“Students have the right to be foolish,” UT San Antonio Professor of Comparative Literature Steven Kellman said. “I don’t necessarily agree with the ideas or actions expressed by any particular student or faculty member. That’s what universities are formed for, an opportunity, a space to
explore new ideas.”
At least six schools have terminated or placed teachers on administrative leave due to comments made on their social media regarding Krik’s death. According to an email sent from the UT San Antonio Office of Legal Affairs, online activity could impact teachers both personally and professionally.
“I have no problem with the policy of not using classrooms to advance political ideas or ideologies,” Kellman said. “What faculty members do on their own time is theirs, and the university should have no control over that.”
With students and professors alike facing repercussions, Texas Legislators are beginning to take notice. UT San Antonio alumni and State Representative Trey Martinez Fischer, who represents the 116th district, weighed in. According to Martinez Fischer, removing students and teachers is not necessarily universal, but instead appears selective.
“I’m a proponent of protecting freedom of speech. I am a proponent of letting ideas flourish on college campuses,” Martinez Fischer said. “But if there are those who subscribe to the view that they believe their judgment is better than others, well then, they need to apply this judgment equally. Not just enforce it when the politics suits them.”
With the rise of repercussions in Texas universities, readers can stay up to date on Paisano-online.com.
DREAM addresses SB 769, campus accessibility
Read article at paisano-online.com
By Marisela Cruz News Editor
Week of 9/23
By Natalia Vázquez Felgueres
Contributor
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’s topics cover the arrest of a San Antonio Fire Department firefighter, Chris Brown at the Alamodome and a man arrested for throwing rocks by the Pearl.
SAFD firefighter arrested after striking 15-year-old relative Geoffrey Stebbings, a firefighter with the SAFD, was arrested on Sept. 20 with assault
City Council implements Fiscal Year 2026 budget
By Jake Mireles Editor-in-Chief
The San Antonio City Council has adopted its new budget for Fiscal Year 2026. This budget focuses on providing funding to alleviate issues with homelessness, housing affordability, animal care as well as city employee compensation. Additionally, this budget establishes the new Capital Delivery Department and provides funding to both the San Antonio Police Department and the San Antonio Fire Department to train and hire more personnel.
The FY26 budget for the City of San Antonio is $4 billion, an increase from the previous $3.89 billion budget from FY25. The city has allocated $1.69 billion to the General Fund, which covers operating expenses for first responders, city health services and other basic services. This is a 1.6% increase in funding from FY25.
Notably, the City of San Antonio has faced a budget shortfall of $174 million. This budget aims to remedy this issue by decreasing governmental spending by approximately $111 million and shifting some operating expenses to San Antonio’s Capital Improvement Budget. This decreased spending led to the elimination of 67 positions in the city government; however, those affected by these eliminations have been moved to positions with existing vacancies. The city is also looking to increase revenue by increasing targeted fees and fines.
Homelessness
In this fiscal year’s budget, the San Antonio City Council has invested increased funds into aiding the homeless population and reducing the homelessness rate in the Alamo City. A $4.8 million infusion has been allocated to extend the operation of the city’s lowbarrier shelter services. These services were originally funded by the Federal Government.
Additionally, the city has allocated funding for an expected increase in encampment abatements. 1,300 abatements have been projected for FY26.
Affordable housing
Funding to address the housing
affordability crisis has also been allocated in this budget, with $30.4 million from the city’s General Fund and funding from additional grants going towards the Strategic Housing Implementation Plan, which launched in 2020. This plan aims to have 28,094 affordable housing units built in San Antonio by 2031. This budget will see approximately 13,100 of these units built — almost 47% — in FY26, according to projections by City Manager Erick Walsh.
Capital Delivery Department
The new Capital Delivery Department has been established in the FY26 budget. Formed by using existing staff from the San Antonio Public Works Department, the Capital Delivery Department will focus on completing large-scale infrastructure projects. The department has been allocated $250 million, all from the Capital Improvement Fund, which includes $122.4 million to complete 1,464 infrastructure projects. Additionally, $17 million has been allocated for 21 new miles of sidewalk and 11 miles of sidewalk repair. Public Works will now focus on maintaining existing infrastructure.
First responders
Increased funding has been provided to SAPD and SAFD to hire 53 new police officers and 12 new firefighters, respectively. Additionally, 65 vacancies from the San Antonio Park Police and San Antonio Airport Police will be reallocated to SAPD. The 12 new SAFD firefighters will staff two new medical units at the Alamo City’s busiest substations. Of the new SAPD officers, 28 will staff the new South Flores Substation and 25 will staff proactive patrols across the city.
In FY26, SAPD will operate with a total of 2,893 officers, and SAFD will operate with 1,800 firefighters.
City employee raises
Lastly, the city has allocated additional funding to increase city employee compensation. This funding will see a 2% raise across the board for all city employees. Additionally, SAPD employees will receive a 4% raise, and SAFD employees will see an 8% raise.
charges for causing bodily injury to a young family member. SAPD says Stebbings, a longtime Fire Engineer assigned to the Arson Division, and the victim were reportedly in a vehicle when a verbal altercation took place, and he “struck [the girl] with an open hand on her arm.” Police were called after a neighbor saw the 15-year-old leave the car while holding her arm. Stebbings has since been released on bond and placed on Administrative Duty while the investigation remains ongoing.
Chris Brown brings ‘Breezy Bowl XX’ to Alamodome in sold-out show
Two-time Grammy winner Chris Brown returned to San Antonio for the first time in five years for his ‘Breezy Bowl XX Stadium World Tour’ on Saturday.
Joined by fellow R&B and hip-hop artists Jhené Aiko and Bryson Tiller, Brown performed a mix of old and new songs from his catalog, showcasing his signature blend of dance and vocals that had over 45,000 San Antonio fans up and on their feet. The concert’s success also caused heavy traffic and congestion in the downtown area due to its large turnout.
Man throwing rocks by Pearl arrested naked by I-35 after damaging multiple vehicles
A 28-year-old man, now identified as Victor Hernandez Jr., was reported to be chucking rocks and large pieces of concrete at passing cars on Broadway and Alamo Street on Sept. 25. After damaging multiple cars, a San Antonio Police Department officer attempted to intervene. Hernandez then began taking off his clothes in the middle of the street and ran off. Police located Hernandez by I-35, who was charged with criminal mischief, attempting to take an officer’s weapons and evading arrest. Investigations later revealed he had caused felony-level damage to six vehicles. Reports say he was medically cleared at the scene before police took him into custody and booked him at a Bexar County jail.
Miles Jones/The Paisano
San Antonio adopted its new budget for the 2026 Fiscal Year on Sept. 18, 2025
OPINION
Trump threatens to hold American jobs hostage
Editorial
Republicans and Democrats are going head-to-head once again in a battle over government funding. In a memo sent to federal agencies on Sept. 24, the Office of Management and Budget threatened mass federal firings during a potential government shutdown. Government employees who work for programs not legally required face the risk of termination. In the event of a shutdown, jobs that do not align with President Donald Trump’s priorities will be eliminated.
All government functions deemed non-essential, including select welfare programs, food inspections, national park operations and student loan disbursements, are suspended until an agreement is reached. Departments related to these services would be the target of mass layoffs.
The deadline for both parties to agree on
The administration uses federal employees as a bargaining chip for their agenda
funding is midnight on Sept. 30; otherwise, the U.S. will see a funding lapse on Oct. 1. In the past, government shutdowns have been handled much less aggressively, with temporary furloughs that returned employees to work once the government was back up and funding was in place. However, with the OMB threatening permanent firings — the U.S. is seeing another intimidation tactic by Trump and his administration against those who disagree with the Republican Party. This fight intensified because the end of the fiscal year is on Sept. 30, and funding disagreements between Republicans and Democrats must be resolved by the end of tonight. Politico states, “The House passed a stopgap spending measure to
Welcome to America’s new ‘Golden Age’
Commentary
By Lina Arraour Contributor
President Donald Trump declared that the U.S. has “entered the Golden Age of America” at the United Nations General Assembly. What ensued was not a vision for peace or progress, but a 57-minute tirade that mocked the very institution he was standing in.
World leaders are given 15 minutes to speak, but Trump spent nearly an hour insulting the UN’s contribution, belittling its member countries and even spinning bizarre conspiracy theories. His grievances ranged from urging a boycott of Russian oil and gas to a supposedly “sabotaged” escalator and teleprompter that he demanded an investigation into.
against Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity nationwide continue to rage. On Saturday, Trump deployed “full force” troops to Portland, Oregon, to protect ICE facilities from what he called “domestic terrorism.”
In the same assembly, Trump continued to warn UN member countries that they would “go to hell” for not fighting back against the “number one issue: uncontrolled migration.” Meanwhile, under this administration, 59,207 migrants have been detained, $45 billion was funnelled into the expansion of ICE centers and H-1B visas — a lifeline to many skilled workers — are now nearly impossible to obtain.
float federal operations through Nov. 21, but Democrats in the Senate have refused to advance it, demanding that Republicans come to the table to negotiate a bipartisan package that could include an extension of expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies.”
The right wing’s communication — or lack thereof — shows complete disregard for the government, federal employees and the American people. Getting Trump to meet with the Democratic leaders was a battle of its own. Last week, Trump canceled the meeting set to occur with Democratic leaders in the Oval Office and went to Truth Social to say, “After reviewing the details of the unserious and ridiculous demands being made by
Trump’s
the Minority Radical Left Democrats in return for their Votes to keep our thriving Country open, I have decided that no meeting with their Congressional Leaders could possibly be productive.”
The meeting instead took place on Sept. 29, ending in no resolution. Although the left claims that Trump was “really listening,” no agreement has been made. Trump, who claims to prioritize his people, is using the nation’s future as leverage to win his fight.
The Trump administration’s threat of permanent terminations and unnecessary delay of an official discussion already puts the government and the nation in disarray — mass firings would be incredibly destructive. Whether the fight is for free speech, government funding or better social safety nets, the administration’s intimidation tactics must be stopped.
team takes
Tylenol to tussle
Commentary
By Audrey Villar Staff Writer
President Donald Trump’s speech, directed toward pregnant individuals, addressed his administration finding a link between acetaminophen — colloquially referred to as Tylenol — and autism on Sept. 22. In his announcement, Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, stated that Tylenol should not be taken by pregnant women, as it can lead to the development of autism in their children, as well as giving the drug to children. However, the Trump administration’s stance has tentative evidence and contributes to harmful rhetoric about autism as well as women’s health.
claim that autism rates are rising fails to account for improvements in healthcare and understanding of the condition that have led to increased diagnoses.
Furthermore, constantly referring to autism as something that must be stopped, instead of focusing efforts to assist those who are autistic, dismisses a whole population of Americans and labels them as an inferior group with a condition that should be prevented, when they should be accepted for their differences.
“His speech was the emptiest of them all: bluster with no solutions, bravado without accountability and a medley of self-congratulation built on halftruths and fantasies.”
Most dangerous, however, was his boasting of “ending” seven conflicts, including those in Congo, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Iran. Not only are these claims false — they are reckless. Since the signing of the U.S.-brokered peace deal between Congo and Rwanda this spring, hundreds of civilians have died. Ethiopian officials have flatly denied Trump’s supposed funding of the Nile River’s megadam against Egypt. In Iran, Trump’s meddling has prompted Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to warn that American actions could “set fire” to the Middle East. If this is Trump’s idea of ending war, the world should be terrified of his idea of starting a war.
His diatribe did not end abroad. While boasting great American success, protests
Immigrants are not America’s downfall, but its backbone. Second responders to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in 2001 were undocumented immigrants who rebuilt the nation’s dignity through the rubble. Today, despite the noise, they continue to sustain industries, from healthcare to agriculture, even as Trump vilifies them on a global stage.
Trump accused the UN of being an organization of “empty words.” But his speech was the emptiest of them all: bluster with no solutions, bravado without accountability and a medley of self-congratulation built on half-truths and fantasies.
This is not the golden age of America. It is an age of spectacle, where real crises are reduced to punchlines and conspiracy theories. If this is how the U.S. decides to show up on the world stage, everyone has the right to question whether America is still capable of serious leadership.
Most women use Tylenol at some point during their pregnancies. Many other drugs have been proven to be harmful for various reasons. However, evidence to support Tylenol being linked to autism is hardly concrete. Varying studies show contradicting results, with studies that support Trump’s standpoint showing only an association between Tylenol and autism — not direct causation.
In addition to the dodgy evidence
In his announcement, Trump addressed pregnant women directly, saying that Tylenol should only be taken if “you feel you can’t tough it out.” For years, false rhetoric that women are dramatic about their pain has been far too prevalent. Their pain is too often dismissed, with little research being done to help them, as opposed to research regarding men’s health. Suggesting that a pain medication that is considered “safe” for women is now unacceptable to take due to weak evidence and saying that women should simply “tough it out” is outrageous.
Trump’s lack of knowledge on health issues is dangerous. A man who cannot even pronounce “acetaminophen” should not be telling women in pain that it will lead to “tragic” autism in their children. Instead, he should step aside and listen to the opinions of qualified medical professionals rather than on “experts” like Kennedy, who makes false claims on vaccines and COVID-19.
Camp Mystic’s unwarranted reopening
Commentary
By Edmond Cartagena Contributor
Tragedy struck at Camp Mystic this summer when torrential rainfall poured over the riverside campsite. The floods claimed the lives of 27 young girls, traumatizing all who survived. Among those 27 was Cile Steward, whose body has not yet been recovered.
Despite the fact that Cile’s body has not been found, Camp Mystic plans to reopen in the summer of 2026. The parents of the 27 girls who died this past July obviously disapprove of this sudden reopening. CiCi Steward, Cile’s mother, spoke out against the reopening of this camp more than anyone.
While reading an open letter to the
Texas Senate, CiCi stated, “In addition to the families that are here today that lost their children, there are hundreds of other campers that were affected by [the flooding] that survived.” Cici’s advocating letter was heartbreaking to say the least. The fact that she was forced to speak on behalf of her deceased 8-year-old daughter is enough to bring tears to anyone.
The letter read by CiCi supported SB1, also known as the Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act. This act ensures that campsites are not built on floodplains and that they hold annual emergency training sessions.
A law like this would improve the safety of future campers, allowing parents to feel secure enough to send their kids to camp again. Despite the passing of this bill, Cile’s parents are not content with the camp’s decision to reopen the summer
after a massive tragedy swept through the same area. This decision reflects the heartless values of Camp Mystic’s owners and how they may only be reopening their establishment for monetary gain.
To disrespect the parents of the deceased further, the camp plans to create a memorial for the girls who lost their lives, although this memorial was not approved by the families. These families have hardly had time to grieve, and as Cile’s mother said in her open letter, “You are preparing to invite children to swim in the very river that may still hold our daughter’s body when [Camp Mystic plans] to ‘reopen [their] gates.’”
The pain felt by Cici and other parents of the lost campers will endure. They will never get the chance to see their children grow. Camp Mystic’s plan to
reopen dishonors the lives lost on July 4, regardless of any plans of redemption the camp owners may have.
Alicia Martinez/The Paisano
Jimmy Kimmel’s controversial return
By Emma Cavanaugh Contributor
ABC has caved to political pressure, suspending late-night show host Jimmy Kimmel for deviating from the approved MAGA script. Predictably, conservatives were made irate over the “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Sept. 15 episode, when Kimmel satirically pointed the finger at rightwingers for the horrific murder of Charlie Kirk. Kimmel was shunned by affiliates for his “ill-timed and insensitive” commentary, jeopardizing the state of his show. His suspension was a sign of the times: the end of free speech.
In Kimmel’s controversial monologue, he stated, “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.” Kimmel claimed Trump did not care about Kirk’s death, further promoting that the attention towards Kirk’s passing was all to “score
This angered many on the right, including Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, Brendan Carr. Carr has unabashedly leveraged the agency’s power to silence liberal bias in broadcasts, threatening to withhold licenses if they do not serve public interest. In a stunning
abuse of power, Carr smeared Kimmel’s satire as “the sickest conduct possible,” and weaponized the FCC, threatening to revoke ABC affiliates’ licenses as punishment. Republicans should not be reinforcing the idea of selected speech.
In the face of this controversy, Kimmel’s return was welcomed with a viewership of over 6 million during airtime, and he amassed 22 million views on YouTube, despite conservative channels boycotting the program. Sinclair and Nexstar preempted Kimmel, making the show unavailable to approximately a quarter of the U.S. audience.
During Kimmel’s Sept. 23 return episode, critics on the right immediately dismissed his monologue as a non-apology because no level of remorse will satisfy the conservative-manufactured outrage.
“It was never my intention to make light of the murder,” Kimmel said. “I don’t think the murderer who shot Charlie Kirk represents anyone. This was a sick person who believed violence was a solution, and it isn’t it, ever,” Kimmel said.
Carr is working on expanding the FCC’s reach far beyond its mandate to regulate TV, targeting programs he finds personally disagreeable. Conversely, Kimmel doubled down, “our government cannot be allowed to control what we do and do not say on TV. We have to stand up to it.” Meanwhile, Carr openly bragged about continuing the agency’s work to empower local TV stations to reject the shows they disagree with, continuing to urge censorship to a disturbing level.
If this does not wake America up, nothing will. Since Carr’s tirade to dismantle and disparage free speech, Trump rushed to post on Truth Social commending Carr as he is, “Smart, Tough, and a True American Patriot. He is supported by MAGA.” In other words, censorship is rewarded as long as it protects Trump’s fragile ego. Carr
has gained relevance in the conservative sphere by criticizing the “outsourcing [of] censorship to the government,” claiming it “isn’t just a bad idea, it’s a violation of the First Amendment.”
Clearly, the idea of free speech does not apply when it questions Trump’s judgement, at least after he applauds one’s participation in fascist behavior. So much for the right’s “free speech” principles.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer claimed Kimmel’s removal was a “test of democracy.” Trump wants anyone he “doesn’t agree with he wants to shut up,” Schumer added. “That’s a dagger to the heart of America.”
Trump’s tendency to hypersensitivity has been a continued stress for Disney, as now he says he is going to “test ABC out on this.”
“Let’s see how we do. Last time I went after them, they gave me $16 million,” said Trump in reference to the network settling his lawsuit over comments made by anchor George Stephanopoulos. The looming threat to free speech has continued to be perpetuated by Trump.
Sinclair and Nexstar, which together own 70 ABC affiliates across the U.S., announced they would air Kimmel again.
Sinclair rushed out a flimsy excuse, insisting that the companies’ preemption “was independent of any government interaction or influence.” This claim has questionable credibility, given Sinclair’s history of conservative politics.
Although broadcasts are complying and airing Kimmel again, his imminent removal has marked a pivotal point in what freedom of speech means to Americans now. The damage is done; Trump and his allies have made it clear that if speech offends them, silence is just retribution. If Republicans continue, free speech will be strangled under the guise of “public interest.”
Department of Homeland Security violates IP for propaganda
Commentary
By Jasmine Williams Managing Editor
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security committed not one, but two blatant intellectual property violations on its social media. Clips of right-leaning podcaster Theo Von and footage from the children’s anime “Pokémon” were used in DHS posts without any prior permission or communication to their respective creators. A bit of due diligence would have prevented this embarrassing display, but it seems President Donald Trump and his administration are too dimwitted to care when it comes to spreading propaganda.
Simply being an immigrant inside the U.S. without proper documentation is not a crime; it is a civil offense akin to parking violations, littering or walking an unleashed dog where it is not permitted. To get around this, misdemeanor “illegal entry” and felony “illegal re-entry” laws have been created to criminalize immigration violations. The DHS does not care to distinguish between those who commit civil offenses versus criminal offenses; instead, it cherry picks undocumented immigrants who have committed violent crimes and uses them as justification for demonizing all undocumented immigrants — its “Gotta
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By Henry Holmes Staff Writer
Everyone needs a friend in their life— someone to laugh with and a shoulder to cry on in the best and worst times. While some pick a family friend, coworker, classmate or that person they are not exactly sure how they met to fill that role, most, if not all, meaningful friendships come from shared interests and hobbies.
Catch ‘Em All” post using “Pokémon” IP is a prime example.
After displaying a montage of homes being blown up and suspected undocumented immigrants being apprehended, a slideshow of the “Worst of the Worst” was displayed on edited “Pokémon” cards; those people committed violent criminal offenses. This is a deliberate attempt to promote militaristic levels of force from law enforcement against civilians under the guise of protecting citizens from violent criminals. However, the DHS never discloses that undocumented immigrants are 47% less likely to be convicted of a crime than native-born U.S. citizens. Information from the DHS that is this biased and onesided is pure propaganda.
The DHS leaves their audience illinformed, angry and afraid with their inflammatory posts. Under a “Pokémon” card-themed post, depicting one of the “Worst of the Worst” immigrants who have been convicted of crimes, whitesupremacist sentiments have flourished. SNazzyTravvy on X replied, “Not even close to long enough any Latino should [be] receiving much extended sentences compared to Americans!!!!!” TruthNoticer on X begged, “Do inner city blacks please! No group poses a bigger threat to the USA! NONE! They are #1 biggest threat. Please
HELP!!!!!!!!”
Von opted to distance himself from the sentiments shared by the DHS its followers by on X. He wanted nothing to do with the “hopecore” style edit created by the federal department.
“Yooo DHS i didnt approve to be used in this. I know you know my address so send a check,” Von stated. In another response, he said, “And please take this down and please keep me out of your ‘banger’ deportation videos. When it comes to immigration my thoughts and heart are alot more nuanced than this video allows. Bye!”
The DHS serves to secure the U.S. from the threats it faces, but it has become a threat to everyone inside the U.S. under the Trump administration. The DHS has targeted a minority of people to scapegoat as the root of all evil, created IPviolating propaganda to promote violent apprehensions and groomed Americans into believing white-supremacist ideology. It seems anything goes when it comes to advancing the right’s ideology.
The Editorial is the official opinion of The Paisano editorial board. Commentaries are the opinion of the individual writer.
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a joyful Trump and Epstein holding hands appeared on Washington, D.C.’s National Mall, behind the U.S. Capitol. In a move mirroring Trump’s recent attacks on free speech, the National Park Service wrongfully and swiftly removed the statue.
featured two hands meeting to create a heart. It would normally be a touching notion if it were not a U.S. president and convicted pedophile joining hand-inhand, in more ways than one. Continue reading at paisanoonline.com Commentary
For President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, that shared interest was pedophilia and the degradation of women. Early last week, a bronze statue depicting
The 12-foot-tall statue, titled “Best Friends Forever,” was created by an anonymous group called the Secret Handshake. A plaque between the two men read, “In Honor of Friendship Month, we celebrate the long-lasting bond between President Donald J. Trump and his ‘closest friend,’ Jeffrey Epstein,” and
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.
Noor-E-Saher Ahmed/The Paisano
Assistant Editors
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ARTS & LIFE
Enter Skoglund’s enchanting paradise
By Valentina Quintanilla Graphic Artist
Foraging through the ornate gardens surrounding the McNay Art Museum, spectators can find an entrance to the immersive experience of Sandy Skoglund’s Enchanting Nature exhibition.
The quiet path into the exhibition can slowly but steadily turn into a luring symphony, attracting the viewers with curiosity about what may be behind the labyrinthlike path to the main pieces of the creative world that Sandy Skoglund brings to The McNay. The entrance showcases “Joy,” a red foxlike piece, opening the fantastic storybook kingdom where creativity rules all the crafts and pieces blessed by Skoglund. “Destiny,” a blue polyester and resinmade dog, with its mute bark, leads the way to the next pieces to be perceived. The repetitive animals displayed in Skoglund’s pieces emphasize nature’s resilience, as Skoglund states, “The cats, the fish, the trees –are all survivors.”
Frames hang on the walls, displaying pictures of rooms, each swarmed by a specific object, usually plants
or animals, that reiterate Skoglund’s style of repetition and vibrant colors.
Each frame displays a different scenery. “The Wild Inside” from Skoglund´s series “The Outtakes” portrays a restaurant filled with a reddish-grey color. An almost taupe color that depicts the scene as grim is then contrasted by the bright red of the wandering foxes, filling the room with their curious nature. The people in Skoglund’s pieces seem to take no mind in the events taking place, as if this were an ordinary event within their lives.
Skoglund’s work displays the juxtaposition of human culture and the environment, resulting in a conflict over which one dominates the landscape. Her fever-dream-like panorama scratches a part in the human mind that can be associated with a childhood storybook. When temptation can no longer be held back, a sudden glimpse of what lies behind the walls of the exhibition’s entrance leaves the viewer agape.
“Fresh Hybrid,” a scenery displaying felt-made humans walking around grass-like pipe cleaners, and humanlegged trees with chickens as leaves, showcases the line between humans and nature, which, in this piece, appears to be blurred. A conjoined species of the elements that were once fighting to govern have now become one.
The piece leaves curiosity in one’s eyes as they wonder once more what lies behind the exhibition’s walls. Striding onto the next display, the viewer is welcomed with a gloomy environment. “Radioactive Cats” (1980) displays grey brushstrokes surrounding the space, resembling a New York interior, and cats flock the room with their neon green color and distinctive feline behavior. Invoking a comparison to the dogs and wolves of Chernobyl, who, despite the nuclear disaster, thrive as an evolved species in a new environment.
Lastly, the Enchanting Nature exhibition farewells with its last act, “Revenge of the Goldfish.” Dr. Seuss meets Wallace and Gromit in this nostalgic setting, which Skoglund invites viewers to relish in her last think piece showcased at The McNay. The implication of an invasive species, swarming around a setting in which they do not belong, ponders human intervention. “Revenge of
the Goldfish” truly is a dream-like masterpiece, which explores the relationship between humans and nature. Sandy Skoglund hands the key to her secret garden, The Enchanting Nature, to The McNay Art Museum in her immersive world of colors and repetition. Skoglund’s ability to manipulate different mediums within her work — such as photography, ceramics and felt — allows viewers to see her ideas in new perspectives.
The exhibition truly displays a storytelling realm that artistically portrays the relationship between humans and the world surrounding them. This display is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The otherworldly exhibit will be on display until Feb. 1, 2026, at The McNay Art Museum, located at 6000 N New Braunfels Ave. General admission is $23, and student admission, with a valid college ID, is $18. Thursdays from 4-9 p.m. are free to the general public, as well as the first Sunday of every month from 12-5 p.m.
The museum remains open throughout the week with the exception of Mondays and Tuesdays. To learn more about The McNay Art Museum and upcoming events, visit their Instagram @mcnayart.
Listeners blown away by Wind Symphony Orchestra
By Sarah Quintanilla
Editor
Singular roses were in the hands of the large crowd that impatiently anticipated the first Wind Symphony Orchestra performance of the semester. Music stands and instruments waited patiently for the performers who were preparing for “Baila El Mundo.” The performance kickstarts the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month in the UT San Antonio music department.
Applause erupted as the performers found their seats and tuned their instruments. A man with a black suit and a happy demeanor walked on stage, and without saying a word, he signaled to commence a chirpy and jovial piece titled “Dance Celebrations” by Tomohiro Tatebe. The piece felt adventurous, as if one were on an epic quest. The xylophone sparkled through the piece as the trombones, flutes, clarinets and tubas gave an excellent melody in unison, mesmerizing the crowd.
The conductor introduced himself as Director of Bands Ron Ellis, who speedily talked about the program, cracked a couple of jokes and thanked the audience for their attendance. Ellis encouraged people to clap between movements, which is non-
quietly, and the hall was dead silent until a big cymbal crash gave entrance to the other wind instruments to join the dramatic, medieval-like piece. Trombones and flutes contrasted impeccably in this piece, with French horns adding drama.
harpsichord introduced in the second movement in a Renaissance fashion.
Flutes, bassoons and oboes dominated the piece until percussion jumpscared the audience with loud cymbals interjecting every couple of notes. Everyone stared intensely, not knowing what was going to happen next. Ellis was having the time of his life, wrapping up the piece with exaggerated movements and a huge grin on his face.
xylophone started the third movement with an almost-humorous, vibrant melody as flutes and clarinets gave a dashing performance. The fourth movement commenced with trumpets and French horns, transporting the audience to a cinematic realm with lakes and prairies. As the piece continued, the bassoons had a solo and different instrument groups started to stand up to have a spotlight and add depth to the piece. It grew intense as Ellis swung the baton fiercely. Applause roared through the
hall as the break started, followed by excited tumult for the next piece titled “La Fiesta Mexicana” by H. Owen Reed.
“I thought the program was like one of the most exciting programs that I’ve seen this ensemble do. I have a lot of friends in this ensemble and so watching them perform and get to really like jam out is really cool.” said Ellie McClain, a music education major attending.
The first movement, titled “Prelude and Aztec Dance” was exceptionally intense — yet delicate and slow — led by French horns and bassoon appearances over the complicated church bells. Quietly, two trumpets, a trombone, a tuba and a clarinet walked on the stage and positioned themselves on the top left corner of the hall. The audience was turning their heads as the performance became an immersive show for a minute.
Clarinets went all out as the piece ludicrously intensified. Then the second movement, “Mass,” was contrasted as a slow and tedious piece that the audience did not pay much attention to, until trombones saved the day by picking up the pace in “Carnival,” the last movement. Clarinets and flutes took over as the people started to tap their feet to the rhythm. Ellis turned to the crowd with a triumphant expression, as if to say, “I told you so” to the lively melody that ended in applause.
“I was a bit nervous. This is my first time in Wind Symphony, so the pieces were — we don’t typically play two 20-minute pieces, so this is a very extensive concert with a lot of repertoire, so a little worried about the technical aspects, but it was a lot of fun to play,” Ethan Mendiola, a music composition major playing clarinet in the ensemble, shared.
“La Chancla” by Dennis Llinas was the highlight of the night. Ellis turned around and signaled the audience to clap to the rhythm. The percussion section had the most fun with the dynamic and syncopated piece. Interjections from the trumpets and the unison from the French horns, sparks of flute, clarinets and saxophone solos paired with the trombones made everyone want to stand up and dance on the spot. Immediately as the piece ended, the audience exploded in applause, giving a thunderous standing ovation for almost three minutes.
“I’m really happy to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month here with some music on the back half of the program,” Ellis said. “It’s so nice to have people come out for a concert like this on campus, and we’re really thankful to have people like you here to kinda talk about it, so thanks, I appreciate it.”
Families and friends of the performers were more than happy to celebrate the first performance of the Wind Symphony
Graphic
Elise Galvan/The Paisano
Director of Bands Ron Ellis takes lead as the Wind Symphony Orchestra performs for the first time this semester.
Brennen Ledlow/The Paisano
ARTS & LIFE
Lesbians link up
By Jasmine Williams Managing Editor
Slowly but surely, masculine and feminine lesbians from near and far collected under the shade of the Flawn Sciences building. The air was thick, not with tension, but with yearning and eye contact intense enough to bring the strongest super stud to her knees.
Angel Chapa and Madelin Morgan casually stroll to the center of the crowd. Together, the couple form Blackstar Texas — a queer event coordinating organization. On Sunday, Sept. 28, Blackstar Texas made history while hosting the City of San Antonio’s first-ever Performative Lesbian Competition. Twenty minutes past 3 p.m., the competition kicks off with at least 150 lesbians in attendance, ready to perform.
The contestants are split between “evil fems” and “performative mascs.” The competition is fierce on both sides as bragging rights and free entry to Blackstar Texas’ upcoming event “Homoween” are on the line. According to Morgan, the top evil fem and performative masc are decided by audience applause.
“There’s no right way to be a lesbian or a queer person, so that’s why we did it based on crowd vote,” Morgan says. “It was amazing that everyone came out and had this community together here. I didn’t even know there were this many lesbians [living] near UTSA.”
The fems are up first. Nerves get the better of them as they hesitate to take the mic and plead their cases to the sapphics surrounding them. After the flurry of fems comes the mascs to the mic. Among them are rock climbers, poets and vintage fashionistas who compare their singlestitch vintage tees to Chapa’s.
In the middle of the performative mascs’ presentations comes a stunning fem in an achromotic fit. A short-sleeved, lace-hemmed V-neck sits over a white long sleeve. A skinny black and white striped scarf drapes over one shoulder while a tighter striped bag hangs off the other. A studded black belt secures black shorts adorned in silver hardware. Black over-the-knee socks with darling little ghosts pair perfectly with well-loved, low–rise Converse.
On top of Jorden “Jack” Guice adorning an outfit like no other, they are mechanically inclined in ways that put roadside assistance to shame. They are one call away
Ice cream, TikTok time, holiday shaming
By Marisela Cruz News Editor
Reactions include how UT San Antonio students would spend the city budget as well as favorite ice cream flavors. With the recent scandal regarding Jimmy Kimmel, students contemplate who they would prefer to have a late night show.
This week, The Paisano interviews senior cybersecurity and information systems major Nicko Kabongo, freshman chemistry major Alex Taylor, freshman politics and law major Tolamise Oladapo, junior computer science major Matthew Davis and sophomore biomedical engineering major Morgan Garcia.
What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
Oladapo contemplated her favorite ice cream flavor amid the controversy with Ben and Jerry’s ice cream; “pecan and cheesecake,” she explains, are her favorites. Kabongo and Taylor prefer classic flavors, such as chocolate and vanilla.
How would you spend the city’s budget?
If it were up to Garcia, she would like to spend the city’s budget at Lululemon. In contrast, Kabongo would spend the budget on San Antonio’s highways.
“Finish up those highways. They have been in construction for the last, for how many years it’s been. They definitely need to speed up the process,” Kabongo explained.
What holiday would you get rid of?
Military members will no longer see celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month, along with many others. Some people would prefer certain holidays be taken away, like Taylor, explaining how she would get rid of Saint Patrick’s day. “I don’t like how I look in green and I hate getting pinched,” Taylor said.
What is your screen time for TikTok?
TikTok is a common app that many people use to doomscroll, students reveal their screen time for the app. Davis confirms his screen time at an alarming seven-and-a-half hours, while others like Oladapo only have 15 minutes.
at any time of day from fixing a flat, changing oil or changing spark plugs. The cherry on top is their manga collection. One mention of yaoi and the beloved green yuri — officially titled, “The Guy She Was Interested in Wasn’t a Guy at All” — and the lesbians were falling head over heels.
Guice is astonished at becoming San Antonio’s number one evil fem and clarifies what it means to hold such a euphoric title.
“I feel like I fulfilled a lifelong goal of mine,” they express. “It feels amazing.”
Guice continues, “[Being an evil fem is] taking the power that you might have as a sort of feminine-aligned person and then turning it on its head so that you can help protect the other people in [the] community.”
San Antonio’s number one performative masc was never a masc to begin with. The morning of the contest, Kelechi “Victoria” Onwubuche dropped her voice, donned a backwards baseball cap, put a little swag in her step and spoke like a player with respect. She spent her entire day playing the part of a performative masc, so it is
no surprise that she outshone her competition.
Victoria graciously reveals the art of being a performative lesbian and what it represents.
“A lot of people, they tried to overperform, and the secret is subtlety,” she said. “What it means is that you are authentically inauthentically yourself. That means that you will respect the women as long as you get some.”
Chapa affirms how significant events like Blackstar Texas’ Performative Lesbian Contest are to the members of the Texas queer community.
“It’s hard to be a queer person here in Texas when you hear so much on the news and on media. But when you come here and you see people in person that love you, and they just met you, something about that feeling is unmatched. You can’t really replace that,” Chapa says. Guice and Victoria take home their respective titles and free entry to Blackstar Texas’ Homoween at Brick at The Bluestar Arts Complex. The queer, Halloween-themed event will take place on Friday, Oct. 17, from 7-11 p.m. There will be a costume party with a $100 gift card for the winner and a live performance by the band Honey Bunny.
Frugal frights for Halloween
By Audrey Villar Staff Writer
As the spooky season approaches, students rush to put together their Halloween costumes. Retail costume stores can get pricey, so students may need to get creative when assembling their ensembles. Here are some options for UT San Antonio students to fashion their Halloween getups on a budget.
Goodwill
Popular thrift chain Goodwill is the go-to option for Halloween accessories; there is a location only 10 minutes away from Main Campus at 12332 IH-10 W. With a seasonal aisle full of Halloween paraphernalia, the second-hand store is the perfect choice for a custom costume. Themed tights, with patterns like ladybug dots and paw prints go for just $5. For the same price, cheetah print elbow-length gloves with claw nails make the perfect accent to an animal costume.
Goodwill’s options go beyond just decoration for appendages. A $2 pointed hat makes the perfect topping to a witch costume. If a hat is not stylish enough, the variety of $7 wigs, from mullets to 70s afros, makes up for it. Temporary hair dye for $4 can give anyone’s hair that pop of color needed to complete a costume.
Facial accessory sets come in many varieties, with one for each type of costume. A $5 clown kit comes with stickers and white paint, and a $9 monster makeup kit is perfect for any scary getup. For flexibility, a $4 horror palette comes with many colors to choose from if one is undecided on their costume. Facial crayons and creams for $1 can aid in doing those smaller details that will bring an entire outfit together.
Do not be intimidated by the pricier costumes that Walmart’s aisles carry. A deeper scan of all the options will reveal some perfect for a tight budget, with $12 capes, robes and ponchos that prove terrific options for eerie ensembles. The same price will buy a wig, which can be adorned with the $2 wig caps. For $20, one can purchase an entire ghost bride, vampire or pirate costume in one bag.
As for facial decor, $2 strip lashes and vampire makeup kits can be the perfect finishing touch for an alluring or creepy getup. For those who prefer to hide their face entirely, $7 goblin and Frankenstein masks are the ideal choice for a low-effort costume.
Walmart
Walmart, sitting in the shopping center right by Goodwill, has some cheaper options if one knows where to look. $5 headband ears are a great addition to any animal costume. For just $4 more, sets come with animal print bowties and tails as well.
Do-it-yourself
Some closet staples already owned by many can be used to fashion an ensemble. A simple black skirt or pants paired with a black top and eyeliner whiskers make the perfect cat costume. Printed patterns, like leopard print or zebra stripes, can be taped on to turn it into any animal imaginable.
Printers can be found in the John Peace Library on Main Campus, where UT San Antonio students have an allotted $12 print credit per semester.
With so many fictional princesses, one can surely be found to fit any color dress found in a closet. Printed accessories can customize it for accuracy, such as for Princess Peach’s blue pendant on the chest or Snow White’s red sleeve accents. A tiara can be fashioned with a paper crown hot-glued to a headband. Matching prince outfits can be made out of white button-up shirts adorned with a belt around the waist and a pair of slacks.
Props for any character can be made with cardboard and a little creativity. Simply sketch and cut out a shape for hand-held accessories, like weapons or a facial mask. Paint markers and printed designs can be used to detail the final touches for any Halloween costume.
Miles Jones/The Paisano Finalists from left to right, Jorden “Jack” Guice, Ky, unknown finalist, Zerrin, Kelechi “Victoria” Onwubuche, Selma.
Vincent Agquiz/The Paisano
Karen Aston previews ‘Runners’ 2025 campaign
By Aramis Santiago Staff Writer
With a little over a month to go before UTSA women’s basketball opens the 2025–26 season on the road against Texas Tech University, the central question about the program is simple and unavoidable: How do the Roadrunners replace three key pieces from a 26-win team while maintaining their identity? The schedule won’t wait for answers. A road-heavy nonconference slate, a leaner American Conference Tournament that cuts out the bottom three teams and a backcourt undergoing a reset will force clarity fast.
UTSA women’s basketball coach Karen Aston didn’t sugarcoat the turnover in guards — but she didn’t flinch either.
“Essentially, we’re starting over in the backcourt, and we understand that,” Aston said. “We brought in some players I think are more than capable. Our transfer from North Texas, Ereauna Hardaway, she’ll provide much-needed experience, knowledge, confidence, all of that from playing in the [American Conference].”
That fit matters because UTSA’s identity flows from organization on one end and control on the other. Hardaway’s ball screen comfort should steady the tempo and give the offense a clear entry point. Just as important, the frontcourt already gives them a sturdy foundation.
“In the frontcourt, Idara [Udo] is the constant from an experience standpoint, and I’d say the same about Cheyenne Rowe,” Aston said. “Those two have played a lot of minutes, so the frontcourt is at least experienced.”
There’s also a fast-emerging variable in freshman guard Adriana Robles, whose timeline has sped up across the fall.
“A young one who’s showing an enormous amount of growth and potential is Adriana Robles,” Aston added. “She’s probably a bit ahead of the curve. I’m pretty pleased at the point-guard position.”
The rotation won’t stop there. UTSA brought in transfer guard Jayda Holiman and expects second-year guards Damara Allen and Mia Hammonds to convert offseason work into minutes.
Whatever changes in usage, the foundation doesn’t move. UTSA’s ceiling still starts with stops and the glass.
“I’d Aston said of defense and rebounding. “There’ll be some question marks offensively, but you can control the defensive side and rebounding.”
Udo’s summer offered a separate storyline. A minor setback slowed the rhythm, but not the importance. If she’s right by January, UTSA’s interior presence holds.
“She’s been slowed a little by a nagging injury,” Aston explained. “She’s a force inside when she’s in there. We’re just going to have to be patient with her playing herself into shape.”
The sophomore class presents an additional swing factor. If last year’s reserves become this year’s rotation, UTSA raises its floor and lowers the nightly pressure on Hardaway.
“All the young players who didn’t get as many minutes as they wanted really got in the gym this spring,” Aston said. “They’ve carried it over all summer.”
A tough start to the season is designed to speed that growth by hardening the younger players getting their first taste of collegiate basketball. Texas State University at home, a road date at University of the Incarnate Word, a visit from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, then Prairie View A&M University and Texas A&M UniversityKingsville in December sandwiched between trips to Baylor University and Columbia University. Aston wanted that stretch because the benefits extend past confidence.
“I’m actually happy it’s as challenging as it is,” she said. “We managed the schedule to try to get a better [NCAA Evaluation Tool] and put ourselves in position that if we don’t win the league, we have a chance for an at-large.”
Aston emphasized that playing at home still matters. Last year’s 13–0 record in the Convocation Center didn’t happen by accident, and the city has a role in guarding that edge.
“Have the same crowds we had last year,” she said. “If we can carry that over, it makes a significant difference. We have a true home-court advantage we hope to continue.”
Conference play raises the bar again, and the stakes are higher than ever. The American’s new bracket trims the bottom three teams from the league tournament,
What will look different about this team is obvious. There won’t be a single closer like Jordyn Jenkins or a veteran tablesetter like Nina De Leon Negrón. What should feel the same is the connective tissue that made last season compelling.
“I hope the personality and the attraction to the fans and community stays the same,” Aston said. “We’re not trying to be last year’s team. This is a new team, a new personality, new roles.”
“We always have the same goals,” Aston said. “We want to win the conference. We want to go to the NCAA Tournament.” Put it together, and the path is clear. If Hardaway stabilizes the ball, Robles holds her poise, Udo rounds into shape and the defense travels, UTSA can live near the top of the American again. It won’t be a replica of last season, but the outline is familiar. For a program whose standard has been raised substantially since the start of Aston’s tenure, competing for an American Conference championship is a realistic perennial expectation. The Roadrunners ran the conference in 2025. And, despite the roster turnover, will contend for the throne once again this
May gifts Roadrunners draw against Charlotte
UTSA avoids home loss by way of penalty kick
By Rylan Renteria Sports Editor
SAN ANTONIO — Through 80 minutes of play, UTSA soccer was heading towards its first loss in American Conference play. However, a foul from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte midfielder Grace Keighley in the 89th minute awarded the Roadrunners a crucial late-game penalty kick.
Senior midfielder Zoë May had her initial shot blocked before connecting with the net on the rebound, giving UTSA a 1-1 draw against the 49ers on Sunday at Park West Athletics Complex.
Charlotte (5-4-1, 1-1-1 AC) outpaced the Roadrunners (6-2-3, 2-0-3 AC) in the first half, taking four more shots, three more corners and snatching an early 1-0 lead. Coach Derek Pittman felt his team wasn’t as sharp as they could have been in the opening half, but an “intense” halftime speech revitalized them. The ‘Runners got their opportunity when they needed it; May stepped up and delivered.
“If anyone is willing to shoulder that responsibility and that role as a captain, as a leader — someone that wants to be remembered for stepping up in critical moments, it’s Zoë May,” Pittman said after the game. “I thought she’s done a phenomenal job of being willing to do that. She can take pens; she wants those big moments. Although the keeper made
a great save on the initial shot, for her to stick with it and bury the rebound is resilient within itself.”
The 49ers struck first in the 29th minute off a goal from forward Megan Bradley. Keighley launched the ball to Bradley from around midfield, where Bradley snuck a shot in between UTSA senior defenders Kameron Kloza and Rylee Miller. The ball slipped past junior goalkeeper Jasmine Kessler for the score.
For the next 40 minutes, both teams played tough, physical defense. Emotions ran high as both teams picked up a combined 27 fouls and four yellow cards in the final 10 minutes.
The fouls proved costly for Charlotte as it provided UTSA the opportunity to tie the game. May — who is no stranger
to clutch penalty kicks — rose to the occasion once again.
“I practice penalty kicks. I believe in myself. So, I just really focus on what I have to do and picture it, then follow through and pass it into the net,” May said of her mentality regarding late-game penalty kicks.
Kloza led in shots with four, while May led in shots on goal with two. Kessler registered five or more saves for the fifth time in 12 games, edging out 49ers goalkeeper Harlee Head by one. UTSA outshot Charlotte 16 to 12 despite the 49ers holding a four shot advantage at the half.
UTSA will head to Houston to take on third place Rice University at 6 p.m. Thursday at
Holloway Field.
Zoë May and Izzy Lane battle for possession of the ball with a Charlotte defender in UTSA soccer’s matchup this past Sunday at Park West Athletics Complex.
Rylan Renteria/The Paisano
Miles Jones/The Paisano
SPORTS
One-man show
By Rylan Renteria Sports Editor
UTSA football is no stranger to electric running backs donning the No. 3. Sincere McCormick was beloved by the city of San Antonio, and in his last season with the Roadrunners, they took the nation by storm. McCormick’s production was so legendary, so groundbreaking, most thought it could never be matched.
UTSA picks up first conference win against Charlotte
By Serenity Dawson Contributor
SAN ANTONIO — UTSA
volleyball hosted the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and handed the 49ers a 3-1 loss on Sunday at the Convocation Center. Knotted up at 1-1, the game could’ve gone either way, but intense efforts from sophomore middle blocker Caroline Tredwell handed the competition the shorter straw.
Tredwell started off the first match with three kills and a service ace, contributing heavily to the team’s 25-14 win. Towards the end of the third set, it looked like the victory may just slip from the Roadrunners’ (8-5, 1-1 AC) hands with the Niners (10-4, 1-1 AC) bringing the score to 25-24. However, a last ditch effort on an outof-system ball to the waiting Tredwell found the floor and tied the set at 25-25 heading into duce. Now up to serve for UTSA, Tredwell served backto-back aces finishing the set 27-25.
Securing the Roadrunner victory with the final set, sophomore outside hitter Ally Tribe spearheaded the Roadrunner offense with six kills. Redshirt freshman opposite hitter Gigi Mason and freshman outside Taylor Gaines added four kills each. Graduate student opposite hitter Brooke Elliott also placed herself high on the hitting percentage leaderboard with a percentage just over .400.
By starting off the first set strong and creating a sizable lead, the Roadrunners gave themselves wiggle room for experimental attacks.
Throughout each set, attackers from both teams opted for more tips rather than all out swings on the outside and rightside due to the blocking prowess from both teams.
Thus, fast attacks down the middle, like Tredwell’s, were more successful because they were harder to predict and react to. Powerful slides from Elliott with decisive placements from Gaines, Tribe and Mason created a symphony of offensive plays for UTSA to utilize. In hopes of increasing the back row defense, junior defense specialist Peyton Turner got added into the rotation, not as a libero, but as an additional defensive player to hold the line with fellow defense specialist, freshman Giada Obregan.
Despite her slower attacks in the first and second set, Tribe started swinging heavier in the third and fourth set which added to UTSA’s score.
“I knew that they needed me to swing high and needed me to swing hard,” Tribe expressed in regards to her increase in confidence.
Topping the UTSA hitting percentage charts, Tredwell hit .409, and Elliot followed with .308. Gaines and junior middle blocker Miranda Putnicki both hit over .100. Tribe led the ‘Runners in kills with 12 followed by Gaines’ 11 and Tredwell’s 10. Holding up the defense for the Roadrunners, Obregan put 18 digs on the board.
Through four games, Robert Henry Jr. is out to prove that lightning can, in fact, strike twice in the same
hails from Lumberton, Mississippi, about an hour from where he began his collegiate career at Jones College. Junior College football and Football Bowl Subdivision football, though both Division I, are worlds apart — at least in terms of size. Talent wise, Henry says the nation’s top players reside in the JUCO
“When I was at JUCO, I never had a running back coach. When I came here, I actually got a position coach so I could actually work just on football,” Henry explained. “In JUCO, my position coach was my head coach. I’m in the room with him everyday. It’s kind of different. Then everybody you see on campus, you see them every day. It’s small. Here, you see a whole bunch of new
“Talent wise though, I can say, JUCO probably has the most talent in sports.”
Playing at a Junior College can be a humbling experience. Less resources means more work. That didn’t stop Henry from winning the Walter Jones Award in 2022, cementing him as the top JUCO player in the nation.
“It was big for me, definitely,” he said. “I met Walter Jones and I flew to Orlando to get the trophy. That’s where I met him. So, definitely a pretty big moment. I was the first JUCO player to receive the award, so, you could put that down in the books.”
Jones, a six-time All-Pro and Hall of Fame member with the Seattle Seahawks, came from a Junior College like Henry, and encouraged Henry to maintain contact with him throughout his rise to stardom.
“He told me, whatever I need, to keep in touch. I still have his number to this day,” he said.
Henry’s illustrious career prior to landing at UTSA may lead fans to question how the Roadrunners landed such a coveted player. Henry claims it wouldn’t have happened without the relentless pursuit of coach Jeff Traylor, and his connection to the coaching staff in San Antonio.
“UTSA was one of the schools that was hitting me up every day. And it’s crazy because I actually ignored UTSA for like almost a month. I finally hit them back on signing day morning because I was about to go to [the University of] South Carolina. And I was like, ‘You know what? I think I’m ready to sign.’ And that’s when I signed, that Sunday morning.”
On top of lockering the Gamecocks, Henry says
he chose the Roadrunners over the University of Kentucky and other SEC schools that were vying for his services. For him, it was all about Traylor and his staff.
“I knew I was going to play, if I would’ve went to the SEC or [UTSA]. It was more about the love UTSA was showing. It was more about the coaching staff,” he shared.
Henry arrived at UTSA to a loaded backfield.
Kevorian Barnes was coming off an 851 rushing yard, six touchdown season and the team had just picked up Vanderbilt University running back Rocko Griffin. Henry knew he had his work cut out for him.
“There was no starting position. All of us rotated but seeing those guys, especially Kevorian, being in the system for a little minute, I knew he was going to play more than me off the rip. I had to get in my books early and learn the UTSA offense. I also knew Rocko Griffin was one of the top backs coming out of the SEC. I knew I was going to have to work and eventually, I worked my way to the top,” he explained.
Anytime there’s a room full of players who are hungry to earn playing time, there are chances for fractured relationships and hurt egos. That wasn’t the case for the Roadrunners.
“It was definitely a healthy competition,” Henry said. “Every day, it wasn’t me going against them or them going against me. We were trying to work together and get better everyday with each other. Both of those guys are good dudes.
“Rocko, I would say, is like a preacher at running back. Kevorian was a little more goofier but yeah, I love both of those guys.”
In 2024, Henry emerged as UTSA’s top option. Though, he admitted to having his focus taken away from football. With the help of Traylor, he got his mind and body right for the 2025 campaign.
“I was too worried about what’s going on back home instead of being where my feet were. I think that kind of got me. But, when coach Traylor tells you got an opportunity, you really have to listen and lock in,” he stated.
Henry finished 2024 with 130 carries for 706 yards and seven touchdowns — marks he very well could surpass in two weeks against Temple University. Still, with that success, he did draw interest in the transfer portal. However, he doubled down on his commitment to UTSA and remained a Roadrunner for his final year of eligibility.
In his final year at UTSA, a new challenge arose: a baby boy. Now, on top placing his team and the City of San Antonio on his back, Henry has to balance being a father.
“I’m with him after football all day, and I give him my all. I give him most of my time. But, once I’m back to football, it’s time for football. [One thing I’ve learned] is just don’t ever give up. You might have some nights where your child doesn’t sleep. You just got to be patient,” Henry explained. Leading the nation in rushing yards has garnered Henry a lot of attention from fans and NFL scouts alike. Throughout this season, he’s tried to stay off social media and stick to his practices, yearning for the opportunity to take his talents to the next level.
Regardless of his Mississippi origins, Henry is a Philadelphia Eagles fan. And according to him, Eagles scouts have expressed interest in potentially pairing Henry with Saquon Barkley, a move he’d welcome not solely due to his fandom, but also because he loves himself a good Philly cheesesteak.
The buzz around Henry’s name is only going to get larger. Despite this, his message to his new fans is fairly simple.
“I’m a believer in God. I’m a family dude, and I love football. I just want to play football,” Henry affirmed.
Telling Henry’s story in 2025 is impossible because it’s not finished yet — not even close. Fans are witnessing history and should revel in it. Enjoy it while it lasts, because like all the players that have tried defending Henry this season, blink and you’ll miss him.
By Serenity Dawson Contributor
