THE PAISANO
Thousands march in second ‘No Kings’ protest
By Jake Mireles Editor-in-Chief
In the heart of downtown San Antonio, thousands of citizens rallied at Travis Park to protest President Donald Trump’s administration for the second nationwide “No Kings” protest on Saturday, Oct. 18. Organized by 50501 SATX, the protest and subsequent march saw speeches from U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, U.S. Rep. Greg Casar, State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, as well as representatives from local political organizations.
Rep. Castro spoke on the increasing pressure Americans are facing due to inflation and the rising prices of basic consumer goods.
“Under Donald Trump, the price of rent is going up. The price of groceries is going up. The price of childcare is going up. The price of healthcare is going up,” Castro said. “People’s morale, and their hope and their future are going down at the same time.” off of Castro’s message, Rep. Casar deplored a budget proposal by Republicans in Congress that would reopen the federal government following its most recent shutdown. put forward a budget to kick 15 million
people off their healthcare, double healthcare costs for 20 million more. Close our hospitals, jack up prices for everybody else,” Casar said. “He expected democrats to just fold instead of fight and go along with it.
“Instead, we said ‘Hell no.’”
State Rep. Gutierrez took a more vulgar approach to his indictment of the Trump administration, bashing immigration crackdowns and deportation efforts.
“We are here six, seven thousand strong because we love this nation. Because what’s happening in our country right now is a bunch of bullsh—t trash to say the least,” Gutierrez said. “We got a criminal in the White House treating migrants like they’re criminals.
“The truth of the moment is not that this man wants to be a dictator. He is a goddamn dictator. The truth of the moment is that this country always conserves f—cking freedom.”
While the “No Kings” protest was a general indictment of the Trump administration, protestors rallied against a variety of specific policies.
Some protestors, in line with messaging from Democratic politicians at the protest, denounced the administration’s anti-immigrant policies.
“Say it loud, say it clear. Immigrants are welcome here,” protestors chanted during the march.
“Power to the people, no one is illegal,” others exclaimed.
Protestor Andrew Almanza was drawn to the march to express his disdain for the Trump administration’s policies and actions.
“I am a United States veteran. I fought for freedom, and a lot of those freedoms are gonna be taken later. So I fight for that, I continue to fight. My fight never ended,” Almanza said. “I’m done with all this stuff that’s going on right now, and I just wanted to have a voice.”
Protestor Delia Gutierrez, a first-generation citizen, marched to protest the state of the nation, voicing concern over the cost of living and healthcare costs.
“Today I just feel like our country is under a lot of stress.
Our working class people, our military, our healthcare, the healthcare that’s at risk right now. The cost of living in our country, our wages, they just aren’t equitable to what the cost of living is right now,” Gutierrez said. “It’s an America that I don’t recognize. I just feel like every day we’re working and working and working and have nothing to show for it.”
The San Antonio Police Department, bolstered by the San Antonio Park Police, was out in full force, directing the demonstrators along the predetermined route.
Gov. Greg Abbott deployed 5,000 members of the Texas National Guard and 2,000 DPS troopers statewide in anticipation of the protest. Approximately 120 National Guardsmen were stationed at the Alamo. The march encountered little resistance, drawing very few counter-protestors or opposition.
“It’s an America I don’t recognize.”
The march traveled along East Market St., passing Civic Park and the Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center, drawing onlookers from Big Texas Comicon and the San Antonio Beer Festival.
“No Kings,” a nationwide protest movement, drew crowds across dozens of U.S. cities, including New York, Austin, Washington D.C., Chicago, Miami and Los Angeles. In New York, the New York Police Department estimated that around 100,000 protesters assembled for “No Kings.” Protests were not limited to cities in the U.S.; there were marches in Berlin, Madrid, Rome and London. Organizers have claimed the marches remained largely peaceful.
Faculty member concerned over Eighmy’s post on Prop. B
By Alejandra Garza Staff Writer
UT San Antonio President Taylor Eighmy publicly endorsed the proposed Sports and Entertainment district on his X account @PresidentEighmy on Oct. 10.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our San Antonio community. I strongly support the Sports & Entertainment District concept,” Eighmy said in his post.
“I encourage members of our community to be fully informed as they vote on these two propositions (A&B) this November. The data shared here are valuable sources of information. Please continue to be informed and vote!”
A UT San Antonio faculty member raised concern about Eighmy’s public endorsement of Project Marvel.
“The president’s statement appears to violate guidance issued by the university’s own government relations office regarding both employee use of social media and the use of UTSA affiliation to attempt to influence the outcome of an election,” the faculty member stated.
The Political Activities and Institutional Guidelines identifies a section covering the use of social media as faculty at UT San Antonio. Updated on Sept. 23, under the use of social media it states that,“Professional platforms identifying your affiliation with our institution and university warrant extra diligence as it relates to the sharing of personal opinions or reposting of others’ opinions or comments. All social media accounts related to or managed by the institution must adhere to the policy and procedures outlined here and conform to institutional guidelines and professional standards.”
Eighmy’s X account, @PresidentEighmy, does identify him as a UT San Antonio administrator. “6th President of The University of Texas at San Antonio,” is included in the bio, and the account links to Eighmy’s page on the UT San Antonio website. The Political Activities and Institutional Guidelines,
which abides by Chapter 556 of Texas Government Code, states that “employees may not use [their] official authority, position, title or university programs to influence or interfere with an election or for any political purpose.
“If anyone were to violate these provisions, it would result in a termination or [withholding] of salary.”
UT San Antonio holds a stake in the proposed project as the university plans to expand the downtown campus and looks to sell the property housing the demolished Institute for Texan Cultures. In August, the University of Texas Board of Regents offered the City of San Antonio the option to purchase the 14-acre property.
According to San Antonio Express News, Eighmy has voiced his support for the initiative prior to this statement. In a public forum regarding Project Marvel, Eighmy referred to the project as “an important aspect” of a long vision for the future of the UT San Antonio. Eighmy also acknowledged a vision for “young people clamoring to stay here and work here,” expressing that“Project Marvel’s [is] an important aspect of this. Growth in downtown is an important aspect of this. We have to dream big and go big on this.”
The recent support for Project Marvel from the UT San Antonio administrator has sparked concerns from a faculty member. A professor, who wishes to remain anonymous. explained their concerns about the involvement of the university president in election matters.
“It is concerning to see University President Taylor Eighmy do exactly these things in a recent post on X,” the anonymous user said in the email. “Unlike most faculty or staff members who are relatively anonymous, the president of our university has a high public profile, and when he speaks, he knows that his remarks will be interpreted as the position of the university.
“I cannot imagine another UTSA faculty or staff member making such remarks without facing reprimand or other serious consequences.”
50501 SATX organized the ‘No Kings’ demonstration that took place at Travis Park, other organizations included The Party for Socialism and Liberation (center) and the Secular Student Alliance.
UT San Antonio President Taylor Eighmy in Fall 2016.
Taylor Zamora/The Paisano
Citizens, State Reps. protest Trump administration policies in nationwide demonstration
Jake Mireles/The Paisano
Voter findings on Props. A, B split from previously collected data
UT San Antonio Center of Public Research and Opinion provided
By Hallie Lott Contributor
Bexar County residents are expected to vote on several propositions on Nov. 4, including Propositions A and B, which have been consistently discussed throughout this past year in San Antonio regarding Project Marvel, a plan to create a downtown sports and entertainment district.
Prop. A is a ballot measure which would provide $191.8 million in funding for a revamped Eastside Coliseum district, solely focused on livestock and rodeo events year-round. County officials say that both the Frost Bank Center and the Freeman Coliseum need repairs and upgrades. If approved, the ballot measure would raise the county’s hotel occupancy tax rate from 1.75% to 2% and extend the rental car tax to fund the renovations.
Prop. B asks voters to approve $311 million in funding to be put towards the construction of a new San Antonio Spurs arena. If approved, Prop. B would also increase the hotel tax rate and would authorize the use of an existing car rental tax to finance the building of a new arena.
UT San Antonio released data on Oct. 15 of polls conducted by the university’s Center for Public Opinion Research which suggested “moderate support” for Prop. A, and “limited support” for Prop. B among voters in Bexar County.
According to the data, 44% of voters support raising the Bexar County venue tax to finance the renovations of the Frost Bank Center and Freeman Coliseum. Among the voters, 41% said they were against Prop. A, and 15% said they were unsure. For Prop. B, 40% of voters were for using a venue tax to fund the construction of a new arena while 46% were against the use of funds. Similar to the previous poll, about 14% were unsure.
Texans will also vote on 17 proposed constitutional amendments on Nov. 4. These amendments range from proposed tax bans and exemptions to changes to the judicial system. Here are a few of the proposed amendments that are being voted on in this election.
Prop. 3 asks voters to amend the constitution to deny bail for people who commit certain sexual or violent felonies. Currently, the Texas constitution allows for judges to deny bail to these people, but does not require it.
“Proving that granting bail won’t ensure that the accused appears in court” and providing “clear and convincing be necessary for lawyers to argue, according to the proposed amendment.
Prop. 8 would prohibit the Texas state legislature from establishing “death taxes” on a decedent’s transfer of an inheritance, estate or property. Texas does not currently have an inheritance tax. This amendment would seek to ban lawmakers from imposing one in the future. This ban would not eliminate other taxes associated with inheritance, like unpaid property taxes.
Prop. 16 asks voters to amend the constitution to clarify that “persons who are not citizens of the United States” cannot vote in Texas. While non-citizens are already prohibited from voting in federal and state elections, this amendment would add
this detail to the Texas state constitution. Early voting will occur from Oct. 20-31, and election day is on Nov. 4. The last day for voter registration in this upcoming election was Oct. 6. For more information regarding the election in Bexar County, visit the League of Women Voters of the San Antonio area 2025 voters’ guide on
Trump admin aims to launch online drugstore with Pfizer
By Jaylee Paredes Staff Writer
President Donald Trump’s administration announced it is launching its own healthcare website, “TrumpRx,” with full support from Pfizer — one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturers. The new website allows Americans to buy their prescription medications at a discounted rate without going through their insurance. The website was unveiled as part of the Trump
“This is American ingenuity outsmarting the system.”
administration’s broader effort to implement a “mostfavored-nation” pricing model for prescription drugs.
“This is a critical step forward [in] our work to improve healthcare in hard-working, low-income Americans, especially low-income Americans will be helped so
By Lori Zaragoza Contributor
greatly,” Trump said.
TrumpRX itself will not sell medications directly, but rather provide a place for links to direct-to-consumer websites from pharmaceuticals.
“This is bypassing middlemen. It increases transparency. In many instances, prices are 80% lower than they are today. No more Canadian detours to purchase drugs more inexpensively at our neighbor. You do it from home. You do it at a click,” Chris Klomp, the director of Medicare and Deputy Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, said. “This is American ingenuity outsmarting the system.”
Pfizer agreed to lower the prices of many of its medications on Medicaid due to a deal with the Trump administration. This deal came as many pharmaceutical companies faced Trump’s deadline to lower prices during his MFN drug pricing campaign. The website would be operated by government officials, but limited information was given on how the website would work.
A post on X from the “Official White House Rapid Response account” said “virtually all drugs” would be available on the website at a discounted price. The biggest discounted drugs would be Eucrisa, Duavee, Zavzpret, Xeljanz and all Pfizer medications. Some of these medications are estimated to be at an 80% discounted rate on the website.
TrumpRx aims to reduce costs of prescribed medications, increase drug price transparency and boost
domestic manufacturing. Speculation about how many insured Americans will not benefit, saying it could disrupt insurance deductibles. When patients are using the TrumpRx website, it is possible cash payments will not count towards their annual deductible.
The website will be open to all U.S. patients. The Trump administration expects to launch this website in early 2026.
State of the City Week of 10/21
By Jasmine Williams Managing Editor
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 a groundbreaking ceremony at The Merc, the Edwards Aquifer reaching record-breaking lows and the potential cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.
New retail at The Merc Merc broke ground on three new retail buildings and 30 acres of recreation and open space on Oct. 15. The Merc is slated to be a 112-acre mixed-use district similar to Pearl in downtown San Antonio. About 200,000 square feet will be dedicated to retail space. The development is located between UTSA Boulevard and West Hausaman Road. It currently consists of the Oxly and Lyric apartment complexes and the Boutique Aloft Hotel. Additional apartments, commercial development and green spaces are part of The Merc’s master plan.
The Edwards Aquifer is 37 feet below average for this time of year, measuring at 624.4’. This is the lowest level recorded since the creation of the Edwards Aquifer Authority in 1993. The aquifer accounts for 48.7% of San Antonio’s water supply. A lack of rainfalls during a typically rainy month is considered the primary cause for the depleted levels. San Antonio Water Systems customers will continue under Stage 3 restrictions, limiting landscape watering to once a week from 5-10 a.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight, depending on one’s address.
SNAP benefits face halting Texas Health and Human Services Commission has announced SNAP benefits will not be issued if government shutdown continues past Oct. 27. Over 3.5 million people in Texas rely on the program for supplemental food assistance every month. The San Antonio Food Bank is preparing to assist SNAP recipients. However, the influx of thousands of furloughed federal employees utilizing its resources may cause the SAFB
Aquifer hits record low
David Franco/The Paisano
US news outlets fight against government
Editorial
MMajor media organizations refuse to sign Pentagon’s press policy
ajor U.S. news outlets refuse to agree to the Pentagon’s new press requirements, which limit access to the Pentagon and government information. The Pentagon’s press policy, led by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, asks media organizations to sign an agreement to follow specific guidelines before gaining access to Pentagon officials and government information.
According to the BBC, journalists are barred from entering the Pentagon unless they report Department of Defense-authorized information.
“Journalists are technically not barred from reporting or publishing stories on the US military using information deemed unclassified,” states the BBC.
However, these journalists could be deemed a safety or security risk if they publish information not approved by the Pentagon, which threatens the press’ integrity and the public’s knowledge. The new policy would also require government clearance before military personnel share any information with the press. This policy marks another troubling attempt by the government to silence free speech, and this time, they are directly attacking the
press. Luckily, news outlets are fighting back.
ABC News, CBS News, CNN, Fox News Media and NBC News released a joint statement rejecting the policy, saying the new requirements would “restrict journalists’ ability to keep the nation and the
Gender wage gap snaps back like rubber band
Commentary
By Natalia Vázquez Felgueres
After reaching a historic low in 2023, the gender wage gap in the U.S. is widening once again. For the second year in a row, the U.S. Census Bureau reported a decline in women’s earnings relative to men’s — from 82.7% in 2023 to 80.9% in 2024. In other words, women earned roughly 81 cents for every dollar earned by men last year. Over the past two decades, this figure had shifted slightly upwards, but what once seemed like slow and steady progress has begun to snap back. This shift reveals how fragile equality remains when the system was never built to hold the stretch.
a “fatherhood bonus” with an increase in pay and perceived reliability once they have children. This inequality enforces how deeply gender-based these expectations remain in modern society.
Even though college-educated women in the labor force outnumber collegeeducated men by 50.7%, earnings remain disproportionate. The gender wage gap is like a rubber band: Gen-Z women may see the stretch in experiencing a much narrower pay gap than earlier generations — earning 92% of what their male counterparts make — but the snap of reality, motherhood, widens the gap. At around age 30, when women advance in the ranks or decide to have children, the motherhood penalty catches up.
This penalty remains one of the most archaic yet persistent drivers of inequality in the workforce. Defined as “the phenomenon by which women’s pay decreases once they become mothers,” it is rarely temporary. Women’s earnings hardly recover, often worsening with inflation, turning family formation into both a punishment and an economic setback. This is not the result of little ambition, but of structural barriers: unpaid leave, unaffordable childcare and outdated workplace expectations assuming that caregiving is a woman’s default role.
A 2021 Duke University Press study identified parenthood as a “key contributor to inequality.” In contrast, men experience
A poignant cultural response to this has been the online romanticization of the “tradwife” and “stay-at-home girlfriend” trends, idealizing a return to traditional domesticity. These aesthetics often frame dependence as empowerment, offering an illusion of choice in a system that limits the economic freedom of women. When financial inequality persists across generations, nostalgia for submission begins to look less like preference and more like adaptation.
The reality is the rubber band stretches even thinner for non-white women. In 2023, for every dollar earned by a white man, Hispanic women earned just 51 cents, Black women 64 cents, Native American women 52 cents and Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women as low as 50 cents. The system strains under its own inequity and tightens around those it was never designed to hold. Real progress demands structural reform: expanding parental leave, enforcing pay transparency and investing in affordable childcare to keep the rubber band from snapping.
Learn more or take action through the National Women’s Law Center and the National Partnership for Women & Families.
world informed of important national security issues. The policy is without precedent and threatens core journalistic protections.” Only One America News has agreed to sign the agreement. Other right-leaning news outlets, and surprisingly the controversial outlet, Fox News, have refused to sign off on the policy. Last Wednesday, dozens of journalists packed their things and exited the Pentagon together. This protest marks the beginning of the fight for free speech, and major news outlets are setting an admirable example for what every news outlet should be doing: remaining loyal to truthful reporting, journalistic integrity and press freedom. President Donald Trump claims “The press is very dishonest.” Hegseth believes it to be disruptive and the Trump administration claims these changes are necessary. The people know the truth; the government is trying to conceal its actions and motivations, silence Americans and enforce the nation’s compliance with its wishes. This policy does not come as a shock, as the First Amendment is constantly in danger under the current administration, but the resistance begins — the American people will have no censorship, no tyranny and no kings.
Divide, conquer: dialogue over districts
Commentary
By Audrey Villar Web Editor
Voting equality is an essential pillar of racial justice, being hard-won and maintained. After the passing of the 15th Amendment in 1869, which banned race-based voter discrimination, African Americans were still kept from participating in elections. Methods of voter suppression, such as requiring certain lineage or reading capabilities, barred many minorities from their right to vote. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed to protect the rights of all citizens to cast a ballot, but recent Supreme Court decisions threaten this security. In this tumultuous time, the government’s disregard for American voices endangers minorities’ rights.
A SCOTUS hearing on Oct. 15 discussed racial gerrymandering in Louisiana that started in 2020. The state created a congressional voting map that featured only one district out of six with a Black majority, failing to properly represent Louisiana’s Black population, which makes up one-third of the state. The map was found to go against the Voting Rights Act and was preemptively banned from being reused. The state redrew the congressional district maps, outlining two majority Black districts that more accurately reflect Louisiana’s minority population.
White politicians then challenged the new map, arguing that the consideration of race was still in violation of the Voting Rights Act. SCOTUS’ recent meeting debated the merit of the new map. Discussions led to a foul interest among Republican justices in undermining Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which bans all congressional maps that diminish the impact of minority votes. SCOTUS already boasts a 6-3 Republican majority in its seats. These justices often rule against LGBTQ+ rights, immigrant protection and reproductive rights. This is exemplified through overrulings such as Roe v. Wade, on top of ruling against racial equality. By unashamedly supporting white-benefitting racial gerrymandering with the government’s impending failure to preserve the Voting Rights Act, the SCOTUS majority hands the power to white voters who lean right — creating a cyclical relationship in which racism continues to thrive, looming over minorities. In this case, the U.S. faces its own discriminatory past, as the justices seek to gut an important provision of the Voting Rights Act. If the court rules to overturn Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, racial minorities may be forced to travel back in time to when white ballots presided over all. If the justices do not decide to defend the act that represents what the nation stands for — liberty, equality and the voices of all — it fails its duty to stand for and protect Americans’ constitutional rights.
‘¿Eres twitero o presidente?’
By Lyna Arraour Assistant Opinion Editor
On Superbowl Sunday, football fans will have a choice between two “All-American” halftime shows — the NFL’s official performance or its wannabe counterpart. Turning Point USA announced plans to host an alternative “All-American Super Bowl Halftime Show,” a not-sosubtle protest against 2026’s Spanish-speaking headliner, Bad Bunny.
Bad Bunny has been an American citizen since birth — as has every Puerto Rican since 1917. His music celebrates the complexities of Hispanic identity, blending reggaeton, trap and social commentary to capture both the struggle and pride of everyday Puerto Rican life.
When Bad Bunny’s world tour “DeBí TiRAR MáS FOtoS” kicked off with a 30-day residency in San Juan, he spotlit Puerto Rico as a hub of culture, art, creativity and music. The series generated over $380 million for the
island during hurricane season — its lowest tourism period — while funding hurricane shelters, expanding STEM programs, creating 3,600 jobs and promoting local businesses through initiatives like comPRa Local globally.
Director of Latin-Iberia Music at Amazon Music, Rocio Guerrero, said it best, “Benito wanted to take Puerto Rico to the world and bring the world back to Puerto Rico. That’s where the love story started, and the rest is history.”
Given Puerto Rico’s territorial ties to the U.S. since 1898, few things could be more American than uplifting the island. Still, conservatives continue to dismiss both the NFL and Bad Bunny.
“I’ve never heard of him,” President Donald Trump said earlier this month. “I don’t know why they’re doing it. It’s crazy.” Considering the U.S.’ 66.4 million Hispanic residents, Trump’s lackluster playlist and deprived cultural awareness do not reflect the
of
Contributor
views
the public.
The numbers speak for themselves: Bad Bunny was the third most-Spotify streamed artist in the world in 2024, surpassed only by Taylor Swift and The Weeknd. Whether critics like it or not, the future of American culture already speaks more than one language. Bad Bunny emulates the very principles TPUSA claims to champion in its own show: faith, family and freedom — and nothing is more American than that.
File Photo/The Paisano
Trump tries to diminish democracy
Commentary
Emma Cavanaugh Staff Writer
President Donald Trump’s latest effort to divide and conquer America involved 200 National Guard members. In retaliation to the continued protests held in Portland, Oregon, outside the South Portland Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, Trump
they are being held hostage by leftist agitators. Yet, when actually looking at Portland, there were generally small
and peaceful protests gathering nightly outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building to taunt agents. Trump argued that protesters are impeding federal immigration officials from carrying out their orders. His fragile ego and cold, fascist heart have him insistent that an objection to his big, beautiful regime must be stopped — immediately. So obviously, the next step is deploying armed forces to intimidate the couple of dozen protesters. is doing what he does best — humiliating his political opposition. Since Trump announced his crackdown, the number of protesters has expanded.
Trump’s failed effort to deploy the National Guard to Portland exposes his disregard for democracy and his authoritarian streak, but Immergut’s ruling to block the move is a rare moment of accountability in an era when Trump’s power too often goes unchecked.
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek said in a press release, “President Trump’s actions are an effort to occupy and incite cities and states that don’t share his politics, and I believe that we should expect him to continue to push the limits of his authority. The President can expect Oregon to stand up to him at every turn.”
Immergut warned against the president normalizing the use of military forces in domestic civil affairs. The
ruling came after Oregon and California challenged the deployment of 200 men to Portland. So far, Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have federalized and deployed 200 Oregon Guard troops, up to 300 California Guard troops and 400 Texas Guard troops. This is an egregious abuse of power. Trump holds no humility and will gladly attempt to turn America into a dictatorship given any chance.
Additionally, Immergut extended the block of Guard deployment to Portland from any state for two weeks. The state of Oregon and the city of Portland argue Trump violated several laws and the 10th Amendment in his attempt to deploy troops despite their objections. Another decision from the three judges on the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco could soon completely nullify Immergut’s orders and the state’s case. This controversy raises questions over the balance of state and federal power and the extent of presidential power over the U.S. military.
It is up to Americans to continue pushing against the MAGA regime and not allow the U.S. government to terrorize the people they are meant to serve. Kotek said in a press release, “This is not just about Oregon or a handful of states anymore—it’s about the integrity of our democracy.” Portland has become a spotlight for the battle over who controls the nation – the people or a tyrannical president. Every act of resistance matters.
Government restricts ICE oversight
By Johnpaul Buwule Staff Writer
Amidst the government shutdown, inspectors who oversee the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centers have stopped working. At the same time, ICE continues its operations during the shutdown. ICE’s Office of Detention Oversight falls under the Department of Homeland Security. Because of the Big Beautiful Bill, ICE secured $150 billion that has helped the agency stay afloat; meanwhile, many federal workers have been laid off or furloughed due to the shutdown. While ICE has acquired funding to continue its function, the agency has taken advantage of the government shutdown and targeted offices viewed as hurdles in ICE’s crackdown on immigration.
ICE has the funds and resources necessary to continue operations, even for its oversight agency. However, the agency has shuttered the key office that keeps ICE in check and provides public transparency for the conditions of detention centers.
This has been the deadliest year for immigrants in detention facilities, with ICE’s inspectors tracking over 150 lapses in self-harm incidents and death counts that have reached new highs in the last two decades. The brutal conditions immigrants are kept in deteriorate their health, and
ICE’s response is to target offices holding the agency accountable.
The louver over this office is a display of the Trump administration’s clear lack of concern for immigrants. Instead of apportioning part of the hundred billion dollars in funding to the inspection office, the administration has capitalized on the shutdown to furlough inspectors to achieve political ends.
As DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin stated, “We hope Democrats will open up the government swiftly so that this office can resume its work.”
ICE has chosen to disband ODO because playing political football with the lives of immigrants would offer them more leverage in the eyes of the American public. It is committed to hunting down
and detaining migrants, but not to preserving undocumented migrants’ humanity. ICE’s detainee population is upwards of 61,000, with immigrants living in overcrowded facilities with limited access to beds, showers and medical support — which are sometimes unavailable. Without proper oversight, ICE detention facilities go unchecked, while migrants suffer in silence in facilities that already overlook their well-being.
As the volume of detainees increases, the need for oversight has become essential. The government shutdown has laid the grounds for the degradation of immigrants to continue, except this time, ICE will bear no oversight in migrants’ consistent dehumanization.
Trump’s plans for ICE to constantly surveil social media
Commentary
By Edmond Cartagena Contributor
Government surveillance of Americans has been prominent since the passage of the Patriot Act over two decades ago. This controversial law was meant to prevent terrorism by allowing the U.S. government to expand its surveillance abilities, thus stripping Americans of their right to privacy. This invasive law, however, has become much more tyrannical under President Donald Trump’s administration. Under his authority, Immigration and Customs Enforcement plans to hire contractors to surveil social media sites 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
ICE’s initiative abuses the Patriot Act, allowing surveillance companies to spy on Americans. Although the Patriot Act was established to reduce terrorism, it is now being used as a weapon against the American people. Since this law can be used to collect information
about people without a warrant, the Trump administration is allowed to track down immigrants legally, regardless of how immoral it is. This plan by ICE reflects despotism rather than democracy.
Within Trump’s surveillance agenda, ICE will now monitor major social media sites such as Instagram, X and TikTok around the clock. Americans have always used social media to exercise their First Amendment rights, but this aggressive
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going to shy away from their constitutional freedom of speech. If people are too scared to express themselves, they simply will not.
This use of the Patriot Act also infringes on the rights listed in the Fourth Amendment, which states that the American people are protected from unreasonable searches and seizures. The Patriot Act has been infamously controversial due to this amendment, concern was balanced since this act was used in the past to prevent terrorism. However, that does not seem to be the case anymore. The government is now using the Patriot Act to assist with a massive deportation effort that will strip families apart while killing America’s productivity level. Sadly, this extreme violation of rights will eliminate the little remaining trust that the American people have in their government.
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ARTS & LIFE
Luminaria’s culture filled exposition
OcTUBAfest: Low brass spotlighted
By Aidan Gonzalez Contributor
The School of Music at UT San Antonio features the low brass section with OcTUBAfest. The event showcases the broad range and depth of the tuba and euphonium. This festival allows students and faculty to annually enjoy performances in the Main Campus Recital Hall from Oct. 15-17.
The tuba and euphonium studio, known as the Boom Squad, put on the show for three evenings of musical variety celebrating the power of low brass. Under the direction of UT San Antonio’s School of Music faculty, the Boom Squad spends a lot of time preparing ensemble pieces, solos and creative arrangements to showcase the skill and expressiveness of the performers. The audience, composed of students, families and members of the San Antonio community, is treated to a program that blends classical works and seasonal tunes, which tie into the festival’s fall and Halloween themes
The concert is an important tradition in the UT San Antonio School of Music. It gives student musicians an opportunity to demonstrate their progress with learning complex pieces and performing.
This year’s OcTUBAfest featured a mix of amusing, sorrowful and happy performances. Students played solos and group pieces that showed how the tuba and euphonium can seep into audience member’s hearts.
The most memorable moment of the night came from UT San Antonio music student Jay Gomez, who performed a piece called “Song for Ina.” Gomez dedicated the song to his late friend. When he stepped on stage, the audience grew quiet. As he played, the hall filled with a morose yet gleeful tone. His notes were soft and reflective at times before transforming to be powerful and moving.
OcTUBAfest brings students, teachers and the San Antonio community together. Family members cheer on their students, professors support their classes and visitors leave with a new appreciation for these instruments.
New and experienced students comprise the Boom Squad, and they work closely to prepare for the concert. They help each other learn songs, fix mistakes and get comfortable performing on stage. That teamwork shows during the performance when their sounds blend and their confidence shines.
Each student had their moment to shine, but the concert built up to one big, unexpected finale — a crescendo of sorts. For the final piece, the entire Boom Squad performed Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” The deep brass sound gave the song a spooky, powerful twist that fit perfectly with the Halloween theme. The performance was amazing; hearing the hit song played with only tuba and euphonium was an astounding experience. It left members of the crowd surprised and smiling. With the fade of the final note, the audience applauded and the performers bowed proudly. OcTUBAfest proved to be more than a concert. It was a celebration of hard work and creativity that connected everyone at UT San Antonio.
By Natalia Loera Contributor
Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival held an art exposition ranging from film projections to poetry and sculptures while featuring a variety of talented San Antonio artists on Oct. 18.
The event’s video exhibits a rotation of different films made by independent creators, such as Ryan Begay, Seme Jatib, Erik Bosse and Emilie Duval. San Antonio vendors brought artisan goods, such as crocheted plushies, leather bags and clothing items like dresses and blouses. Food vendors lined the streets, preparing fresh gorditas, churros and aguas frescas.
Cofee’s “Subtle Beauty of Nature” captivated the public with bright colors. The main featured a dry-clay hummingbird inside, flying around a dangerous-looking flower with a long tongue. The tongue waits to attack the hummingbird. The creator explains the themes of beauty and danger. However, the artist adds that the viewer must ponder these themes.
Instrumental music by FKJ’s “Just Piano” inspired this piece. The music played in the background of the exposition, adding an ambiance of calm to the art. Cofee’s Instagram, @art_by_cofee, displays more of his colorful art.
Another vibrant exposition displayed skulls aligned with bright fluorescent colors and black light. Various artists contributed to the exhibit’s skulls.
“Amor y Luto” by Vince Apollo depicts a man and woman holding a rose
into colors. After some experimentation, he had several words painted onto a canvas, in which the audience could stick to a propped wall and light up the painting with lights. The interactive show made this exposition absorbing. More paintings and other custom art can be seen in GachoBad’s Instagram.
The event had a lineup of over 10 artists. One of the most fascinating being 34k — a talented artist who provided soulful rock to the event along with great charm and enthusiasm. The musician played songs from her latest release, “Crazy With a K.” Other music genres were also heard on the stage, such as Tejano for a Flaco Jimenez Tribute and pop played by Texas native Moniq. It was exciting seeing rising artists exhibit their art with love and enthusiasm for their culture. The event happens annually in downtown San Antonio, rotating various artists and giving them an opportunity to showcase their creations. More information about the event can be found on their linktree, including artist applications to donations and updates. As San Antonio continues to grow, creativity grows with it.
‘Black Phone 2’ reconnects
By McKenzie Siller Staff Writer
When Gwen, played by Madeleine McGraw, becomes haunted with dreams of brutal murders at winter camp Alpine Lake. She petitions the help of her brother Finney played by Mason Thames, who is still shaken by being kidnapped by the Grabber, a bloodthirsty serial killer played by Ethan Hawke. Together, the siblings travel to the winter camp and attempt the rectification of the three boys’ deaths.
The Grabber’s costume design combined with Hawke’s actorial choices portray a gut-wrenching, overwrought masked executioner. His mask, for instance, is interchangeable throughout the whole movie, keeping the integrity of the character’s mental state. This is a big part of the Grabber’s identity. It represents his broken psyche — with each combination is a new personality. Every time the viewers see him with a new mask, he becomes increasingly furious. The killer’s lack of facial expressions leaves the viewers relying on body language for clues into his intentions, which Hawke portrays brilliantly. He stands tall and walks with his body straight up, seeming sure of himself. At the same time, he is slow to an eerie pace, leaving the viewer unsure of when he will strike.
Scott Derrickson furthers the uneasiness by separating Gwen’s dreams and the reality of the movie through the implementation of a grainy, retro, Super 8mm film aesthetic, making it look like a home video movie and as if the viewer is the one filming. Seeing, and almost living the events of the killings, instills a sense of hopelessness into the viewer. It is incredible that with these camera effects Derrickson was able to make already violent and adrenaline-surging scenes even more unsettling.
The movie also expands on Gwen’s powers. As Gwen sleeps, she envisions the past and astral projects herself into the present. She ventures out her body and explores. She can interact with the living and the spirits of the little boys and the Grabber. In turn, they can interact with her. Despite being an astral projection, the experiences translate to her body in the real world. This is not the only thing the movie expands on though.
In addition, the writers beautifully showcase how the Grabber has influenced Finney’s mind and life. He fears that he will never be free from his trauma. He refuses to talk about the events in the basement, and instead finds solace in the calming effects of a self-medicated joint and the release of a schoolyard fight, inadvertently
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turning into his father. Putting this in allows the character to feel more realistic because coming back from a series of horror unscathed is unfeasible. The writers do not outright say this to the audience, they show it through his actions, making his story more forcible. Intern makes the character’s emotions build until he is too exhausted he crashes. Healthy no but it causes Finney to finally admit the problems he has been plagued with.
The writers balance comedy, romance and horror, allowing viewers quick breaks from the mutilation and the supernatural to laugh at a joke. The events and witty commentaries from characters blend well, which is admirable. They do not interrupt any important scenes and allow the main focus to be saving the three spirits and defeating the Grabber.
“Black Phone 2” is the horror movie to watch. Not only did it meet expectations, it far exceeded them, integrating elements from the original and expanding them to fit the new movie while adding elements to keep it fresh, cutting off with a heart wrenching ending.
“Amor y Luto” by Vincent Apollo tells of two souls.
Kaylee Williams/The Paisano
Statues, AI, spice
By Matthew Ybarra Contributor
In the latter half of the fall semester, students awaken from their fall break slumbers to face the rest of the term head-on. They can be found pretending the San Antonio weather feels like fall by consuming pumpkin spice-flavored anything, reflecting on assignments that pushed them to the limit, contemplating what the next statue on campus should be and if AI is an artist.
This week, The Paisano interviews sophomore Safa Ali studying engineering in AI, freshman civil engineering major Agustin Serrano, first-year political science major Jason Gutierrez and junior construction science major Ximena Maldonado.
What is the worst assignment you have done?
“You got ALEKS assignments, and you got to go through all the modules. You get one wrong it sets you back like three modules,” Serrano comments.
“Zybooks, those are horrible-horrible. You can never get right with them,” Ali recalls of her semester gripes.
“The research on it took me all night, but that was kind of on me because I did procrastinate,” Gutierrez says.
In contrast, Maldonado reflects on the time she had to construct an HVAC unit.
“I just didn’t have enough training on it, I guess you could say,” Maldonado frustratingly voices.
What statue would you put on campus?
“Messi or Ronaldo,” Serrano declares.
However, after narrowing down his answer, it would definitely be Messi.
Ali decides Spongebob would be a good addition to the UT San Antonio campus, while Maldonado votes for a football statue.
“I do think we should keep a Charlie Kirk statue on campus,” Gutierrez says. “I know that I might get some backlash from that. I think the idea of keeping free speech around, fighting for true justice the American way and going out in that way is truly symbolic.”
Is AI art illegitimate?
In majority agreement, the interviewees believe there is no room for AI-generated art to be considered meritable creations.
“Art is supposed to be based off creativity in your mind, not a computer making it,” Maldonado prefaces.
“Whenever you have that objective part of art that is what gives it value,” Gutierrez adds.
“As long as you source it as AI art, it’s not too illegitimate,” Serrano counters.
What is your least favorite pumpkin spice item?
“Popcorn. It has like a little Buddha on it. Don’t recommend,” Maldonado warns those shopping at HEB.
Similarly, Gutierrez recalls the time he came across pumpkin spice-flavored gummies while shopping, thinking they were appetizing on paper but ultimately being left disappointed.
Serrano, typically a fan of pumpkin spice, recounts when he came across a pumpkin spice flavored bread.
“Usually I like that flavor, but in the bread is kind of gross,” Serrano shares. Ali instead reveals her favorite pumpkin-flavored item.
“McDonald’s pumpkin crème pie. You can’t go wrong with that. It’s great. I might go and buy that now,” Ali says.
Have a question and want it answered by UT San Antonio students? Submit at http://bit.ly/4pdDfIP.
ARTS & LIFE
Finding rhythm at Latin Dance
By Iyanu Muyiwa Contributor
Usually, the Latin Dance Society covers one common dance per session, but this was not a typical evening. This time, it was the Norteño and Huapango dances. The structure differed from the club’s usual schedule, but the energy in the room showed off what the club could be known for — being lively, welcoming and full of movement. It was the same liveliness the LDS brought to every class, showing just how much value it gave to the people who attend.
The instructors for the night were sophomores Salomon Sosa and Roselyn Saldana. The class began with introductions before diving into practice. Everyone lined up and followed Sosa and Saldana’s lead. After each demonstration, the front of the line high-fived their way to the back, keeping energy up and the atmosphere positive. Every pass of a person was met with encouragement It might sound small, but it made a huge difference in the class’s spirited mood.
“You can see all our past videos, all our past posts,” senior club member John Perez said.
“You can see it start from the ground up, and you
see how many people show up to these events. And it is such a great community. It’s very much a welcoming community, how Latin our Latin family is. We just dance and that’s it. And it’s super fun.”
The dance style was taught in groups of four. Once students got the steps down, they shifted to form a circle. By then, everyone had loosened up. The room felt alive. Dancers went all in, switching between group dances and circle formations, feeding off each other’s enthusiasm.
Everyone stayed supportive throughout the hour and a half class. If someone missed steps, their peers would help them catch up. Effort was all that mattered. The class’s vibe was one of the most exceptional experiences one could have.
After class, Sosa and Saldana commented on how they got started in the club.
“My family has a strong background with dancing,” Saldana reflected on her childhood. “I was never that into it, but I would always get asked out to dance and move my feet to the rhythm. Then, about a year ago, my friend invited me to a class, and after that, I really liked the vibe. I just kept coming back.”
Sosa’s story went further back in time.
“I got into dancing maybe when I was five or six. As soon as I could walk, I’ve been dancing,” Sosa recalled of her early dance days. “My mom taught me. In junior high and high school, I used to get hired to do quinceañera choreographies. When I got to UTSA, this club made me want to support people and help them learn dances from the culture.”
The focus on connection and culture is what makes the LDS stand out. For a lot of students, it is more than just learning steps — it is about community and a
much-needed mental break from college’s trials and tribulations.
“Even before I was an officer, I would come to LDS just as a mental relief,” said LDS President Belen Prado. “After a long day of classes, it’s great to just be around friends and dance. It does a lot for my mental health. It’s probably my number one stress relief.”
Vice President Christian Colunga agreed. Like many students juggling demanding coursework, LDS sees dance as more than just a hobby — it is a necessary outlet. For him and others, the group’s practices provide a chance to step away from deadlines and exams, simply enjoying the present with friends who understand the same pressures.
“As an engineering major, it’s a lot of stress,” Colunga noted. “But when you come out to dance in the evenings or go to socials on the weekends, it’s a good way to unwind and just have fun.”
“Don’t overthink it,” Prado offered to students considering joining. “You don’t need a partner or fancy shoes; all you need is good energy. Even if you come alone, you’ll meet great people here.”
The club often collaborates with local dance studios, bars and venues including The Block, where they will host their next event: a Halloween Dance Social on Oct. 29 from 10 p.m. to midnight. Unlike class, socials are more open: no choreography, just music, people and free movement.
Discounts, freebies for students
By Jake Mireles Editor-in-Chief
Being a college student in the U.S. draws a lot of stereotypes. They do not get enough sleep. They consume enough caffeine to kill a horse, and they always seem short on money. While it is a well-known fact that a student ID or an “.edu” email address can offer a gateway to numerous discounts, the savings landscape is always changing. Companies alter pricing, and promotions end; students are left to navigate booming prices while feeling the squeeze from their wallets. Here are four current student discounts and promotions Roadrunners should take advantage of.
Unidays
Unidays is an online service co Online service Unidays compiles and lists student discounts from numerous retail outlets. It includes everything from fast fashion and fast food to technology and beauty products.
Discounts on meal subscription brands like HelloFresh, which offers 55% off a first order and free shipping, stand out. EveryPlate presents a markdown of 75% off a first order as well as free shipping to users.
For a wardrobe refresh, Converse currently has a limited-time “40% off almost everything” offer, and Footlocker offers a 20% discount with an order of $99 or more. American Eagle continues to offer 20% off one’s first purchase.
To register for Unidays, Roadrunners can sign up with a @my.utsa.edu email
address. They will then be prompted to sign into the UT San Antonio login portal using their abc123 and university password.
Spotify Premium and Hulu
With the end of the year approaching, there is no better time than the present to start stacking hours for Spotify Wrapped. If the subscription price concerns
students, Roadrunners are in luck.
Spotify currently offers a promotion that includes both a Spotify premium subscription and Hulu subscription — with ads — for $5.99 a month and the first month free. To be eligible, students must attend an accredited academic institution and provide their @my.utsa. edu email address.
Amazon Prime Student
Amazon offers an “Amazon Young Adult and Student” subscription plan for anyone attending a two-year or four-year university, or anyone between the ages of 18-24. Eligible members
Help Brennen pick up
receive a six-month free trial, which automatically transfers to a paid membership upon expiration. When the paid membership starts, students can enjoy a discounted rate of $7.49 a month or can elect to make a lump-sum payment of $69 per year. This is about half the rate of a standard Amazon Prime subscription, priced at $14.99 monthly or $139 annually.
Roadrunners will have access to all the standard Amazon Prime perks, including free two-day shipping, access to Amazon Prime Video and unlimited photo storage with Amazon Photos.
VIA-U Pass
UT San Antonio and VIA, San Antonio’s metropolitan bus service, have partnered to offer current students, faculty and staff the VIA U-Pass. The pass gives members access to unlimited free rides on the VIA bus network, including 75 bus routes spanning a large swath of San Antonio and other communities in Bexar County.
Roadrunners looking for an easy commute between Main Campus and Downtown Campus can ride on Route 93, colloquially known as The Roadrunner Express. The route pickup for the Main Campus resides in the bus oval outside the North Paseo Building. To access the U-Pass, Roadrunners can download the VIA “goMobile+” app and create an account with their @ my.utsa.edu email address. The U-Pass will automatically load into the app, and Roadrunners can begin riding to their heart’s content.
Soccer powered by defensive identity
By Iyanu Muyiwa Contributor
Defense is having its moment at UTSA, proving persistence is its own kind of power. For years, the Roadrunners have been recognized for hustle and heart. Now, they’re earning recognition for something harder to measure: the ability to stay in every game — no matter the score, no matter the odds.
If offense wins applause, defense earns respect. The numbers say it clearly: through 14 games in 2025, the Roadrunners allowed just nine goals — a 0.50 goals-against average — while the back line and keeper have combined for 54 saves and an .885 save percentage. In 2024, they allowed 15 goals (0.83 GAA) and made 63 saves. That drop in goals allowed from 15 to seven isn’t luck, it’s growth.
UTSA has scored 16 goals so far in 2025, averaging 1.14 per game. But the most striking number isn’t how much they score, it’s how much they endure. Opponents have taken 174 shots this season, averaging 11.6 shots per game, yet have barely broken through. The Roadrunners have fired 205 shots of their own, keeping the pressure alive every single minute.
Senior goalkeeper Jasmine Kessler has been the anchor, posting a .885 save percentage and a 0.63 GAA. What defines this team isn’t a single player — it’s how they hold the line together. Every clearance, every tackle and every last-minute save reflects a team that refuses to fade from the fight. Their 2-1 win over the University of South Florida on Oct. 9 was the perfect example of how the ‘Runners execute their game plan. South Florida outshot UTSA 22 to 12, but the ‘Runners absorbed every surge and made their chances count. It wasn’t dominance, it was determination. That’s UTSA soccer. In a season where women’s sports everywhere are commanding attention, the Roadrunners are showing what persistence looks like on the pitch. They may not blow teams out, but they make sure no one walks away comfortably. Every opponent earns their win, but most don’t get one.
UTSA isn’t trying to be perfect. They’re trying to be present — to fight through every whistle, sprint and second chance. That’s what makes them worth watching. Because even when they get beat, it’s never without a hard fight.
Roadrunners gear up for Battle of the Birds
By Logan Martinez Staff Writer
UTSA basketball will kick off its season with a home opener against the University of the Incarnate Word on Saturday at the Convocation Center. The matchup will serve as a good opening test for the Roadrunners and will allow head coach Austin Claunch to finally see his new team in action. UTSA is 2-0 alltime against the Cardinals. The team will look to extend its win streak and start the season strong with a victory in the Battle of the Birds. The Roadrunners will aim to keep the Cardinals on their heels for the entirety of the game. Though Claunch has not announced a starting lineup yet, it is safe to assume that the backcourt will consist of the dynamic tandem of Vasean Allette and Jamir Simpson. Allete, a shifty pass-first point guard, will look to get the UTSA offense going early. His ability to dish the rock and get downhill quickly will help open up numerous teammates and create challenges for the Incarnate Word defense. Alongside him will likely be Simpson, an offensive powerhouse. The guard is a quick driver of the basketball and commands attention from opposing defenses. The pair’s ability to score and facilitate will help space the floor, allowing other Roadrunners to take advantage of Incarnate Word’s weak side defense.
Disaster in Denton
Three takeaways from UTSA’s loss to North Texas
UTSA will also likely run a form of motion-based offense, a system that Claunch has become fond of. The ‘Runners will aim to capitalize on different mismatches and defensive switches. Whether it’s scoring from the outside or dumping the ball into the paint for a quick score, UTSA should put together numerous offensive runs.
Incarnate Word has seen major changes since the Roadrunners last defeated them in 2023. Cardinals head coach Shane Heirman typically runs an offense predicated on the three-ball. Incarnate Word continuously runs screen sets and dribble hand-offs, aiming to get its shooters the ball early. If the Roadrunners are to walk out of the Convocation Center with a victory, they will need to fight through screens and switch when necessary. With an average height of 6-foot-6, the team is more than capable of defending the three-point line and pestering shooters before they have their feet set.
The keys to victory will be executing Claunch’s game plan on both sides of the ball. The Roadrunners will need to be poised offensively while maintaining their imposing defensive mentality. If they can score efficiently and win the defensive rebounding battle, the team should have no issues walking out of the Convocation Center with their first victory of the season.
By Rylan Renteria Sports Editor
Senior running back Robert Henry Jr. returned to form in the Roadrunners’ matchup against the University of North Texas with 138 rushing yards and one touchdown. That’s about where the positives from Saturday stop. UTSA football was embarrassed by a bitterrival for the second time this season, both marking shifts in those rivalries. The ‘Runners are heading towards their first losing season under head coach Jeff Traylor, and with a $28 million price tag, that is unacceptable. While familiar sentiments will be harped on, there is plenty to discuss following UTSA’s fourth loss in seven games. Here are three
in staff from outside of his network. He likes the idea of the “Traylor coaching tree.”
That philosophy was fine when former coordinator Will Stein managed the Roadrunners’ offense to consecutive Conference USA titles. That is not the case anymore.
Loepp’s defense has allowed 167 points in four losses.
Burke’s offense has managed just 98 points when he’s not facing Football Championship Subdivision University of the Incarnate Word, Colorado State University — who just fired head coach Jay Norvell — and a perennially-bad Rice University squad. It’s mediocrity all around, and it cannot persist any longer.
Offensive line is an issue
Junior quarterback Owen McCown has struggled this season, and his play has been unacceptably below-average. The Roadrunners’ pass blocking
things can be true. While Henry has capitalized on holes created by good, not great interior line, UTSA has struggled heavily at its tackle positions. Seniors Kamar Missouri and Jaylen Garth place fifth (14) and eighth (10), respectively, in pressures allowed among qualified tackles in the American Conference. Junior Deandre Marshall enjoyed a stellar debut performance against Colorado State, but has steadily declined since. Seven games in, there are no untouched alleys for Traylor to explore.
San Antonio will never buy into an underwhelming product
The City of San Antonio is a tough city to play sports in. The San Antonio Spurs won five NBA championships, and the city is still hesitant to invest in a new stadium for them. The UFL San Antonio Brahmas lasted just two years in San Antonio before being discontinued earlier this month. If donors weren’t sold on Traylor’s team after they won two C-USA titles, they definitely aren’t investing after back-to-back, six or seven win seasons. While there are still plenty of games left, the ‘Runners’ 3-4 start is far more damaging that most are willing to admit. UTSA will host Tulane University on Oct. 30 in what looks like the last chance for the team to generate any-sort of hype to
Rylan Renteria/The Paisano
UTSA men’s basketball sophomore forward Baboucarr Njie. UTSA football sophomore wide receiver David Amador II is tackled by a North Texas defender.
Milton Flores/Courtesy
UT S A blown o ut by north texa s
Roadrunner offense reverts to mediocrity, Mean Green capitalize
By Rylan Renteria Sports Editor
UTSA football soared for the first time this season in a dominant win over Rice University. The Roadrunners played angry, physical football against the Owls, and looked like a team that was prepared to run the table, echoing their 2023 conference title push. Momentum garnered was short lived for the ‘Runners, as they plummeted back
to earth against the University of North Texas, suffering a 55-17 loss on Saturday at DATCU Stadium.
The Roadrunners (3-4, 1-2 AC) opened up the game with a picture-perfect drive that resulted in an early score. UTSA managed one more touchdown before the Mean Green (6-1, 2-1 AC) eventually ran away with the lead. The Roadrunners were outgained in nearly every metric, both offensively and defensively. The ‘Runners are now 3-7 on the road in conference play since joining the American Conference in 2023.
“They whipped our tail. They kicked our ass, to be honest with you, and it was mostly self-inflicted,” Traylor said after
the game. “We played like dog crap, and we deserve the way we feel right now.”
Senior running back Robert Henry Jr. took UTSA’s first offensive snap 72 yards into the Mean Green red zone. Shortly after, junior quarterback Owen McCown connected with junior tight end Houston Thomas for a 3-yard score.
North Texas proceeded to score on its next three possessions, establishing a 17-7 lead.
UTSA cut its deficit back down to three with a three play, 50-yard drive that saw contributions from freshman running back Will Henderson III and Thomas, before Henry scored from three yards out.
Henry registered his fifth game of the
season surpassing 100 rushing yards, and his first since the ‘Runners’ win over Colorado State University.
The Roadrunners were outscored 31-3 in the second half, and let the rival Mean Green — who had not beaten UTSA since 2021 — run up the score in a pivotal conference matchup.
North Texas outgained UTSA in total yards 584 to 332, passing yards 314 to 118, rushing yards 270 to 214 and first downs 33 to 14. McCown finished the game 12 for 21 with 87 passing yards and one touchdown.
UTSA will face Tulane University at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30 at the Alamodome.
Roadrunners sweep Pirates, end three-game skid
Tredwell, Gaines and Elliott lead UTSA to conference victory
By Michael Rios Staff Writer
SAN ANTONIO — UTSA volleyball
swept East Carolina University 3-0 on Sunday at the Convocation Center.
The Roadrunners (11-8, 4-4 AC) won the sets 25-14, 25-19, 25-19. In the first set, UTSA quickly claimed the upper hand on East Carolina (10-9, 2-6 AC) and was able to maintain a rhythm throughout the set. In set two, the ‘Runners battled through adversity by climbing out of a 11-6 hole to win 25-19. Up 2-0, UTSA clinched the sweep after a back-and-forth battle toward the end of set three.
“Great day today. Great crowd at the Convo,” coach Carol Price-Torok said.
“ECU is doing some great stuff. I know the girls did phenomenal offensively of spreading the ball out and making sure we were distributing the ball. Ultimately that’s what led to our success.”
UTSA looked strong in the first set, embarking on an early 9-4 run. Four kills from graduate opposite hitter Brooke Elliott, freshman outside hitter Taylor Gaines and sophomore outside hitter Ally Tribe — along with two service aces from sophomore middle blocker Caroline Tredwell and Gaines — gave the Roadrunners the advantage and forced the Pirates to call a timeout. East Carolina scored five times coming out of its timeout, but the ‘Runners stayed disciplined and extended the lead to 17-9. The Pirates came out of their second timeout more aggressive, scoring five times, but were unable to keep up with the Roadrunners.
UTSA carried its momentum into the second set. East Carolina took advantage of an attack error from Gaines with three consecutive kills from Sydney Buchanan to take a 6-4. The Pirates scored four more times after a kill from Gaines and extended their lead 10-5. After a timeout, the Roadrunners displayed their resilience.
Kills from Elliott, Tribe, freshman opposite hitter Gigi Mason and a service ace from freshman defensive specialist Giada Obregon allowed the ‘Runners to tie the game. The end of the second set was intense, with East Carolina and UTSA matching each other offensively, but the Roadrunners eventually came out on top.
“The players just continuing to focus and trusting the matchups and what we were doing,” Price-Torok said when asked what she attributes to the team’s resilience. “We really wanted to rely heavily on our right side and middle [players] today and we did that. I think that stuff really matters when we’re putting together a gameplan that people can execute.”
The Roadrunners entered the third set looking sharp, jumping out to an 8-4 lead. The Pirates responded quickly with kills from Carlia Northcross and Aulie Huff. East Carolina added three more points due to a bad set from sophomore setter Megan Hawkins and two attack errors from Tribe. Coming out of a timeout taken by the Pirates, a back-and-forth contest with multiple kills and service errors from both teams lead to an East Carolina advantage. Down the stretch, UTSA continued to put pressure on East Carolina by making great plays on the backline that led to kills from Tribe, Tredwell and Elliott to stay in front. Tribe spiked the ball in the Pirates’ territory to win the set and complete the conference sweep.
“At the end of the day, conference is hard,” Price-Torok said of the win. “I think the biggest thing is we can get really heady about losses and obviously Friday we weren’t happy and a little frustrated in how we were playing, so it was great to see them answer back today. [They] just need to continue to trust themselves and what we’re doing. That momentum, we just have to continue to carry it forward.”
Tredwell, Gaines and Elliott led the team with 11 kills, while Tribe and Mason had nine and five, respectively. UTSA gave away five service errors compared to East Carolina’s three, and the Roadrunners had 11 errors while the Pirates had 15.
UTSA will next play Rice University at 6 p.m. Friday at Tudor Fieldhouse.
UTSA senior running back Robert Henry Jr. out sprints North Texas defenders during his 72-yard run on the opening play of the team’s matchup in Denton, Texas.
Top to bottom: Ally Tribe celebrates, volleyball huddles, coach Price-Torok smiles.
Milton Flores/Courtesy
Aarien Foster/The Paisano