THE PAISANO
agg ression intensifies during walkout on campus
By Hallie Lott Web Editor
Right to Rebel SATX, a youth organization in San Antonio, organized a student walkout at the Sombrilla on Main Campus to protest against the UT San Antonio Police Department’s cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and to bring attention to ICE’s involvement in citizen deaths across the country.
ICE agents have shot and killed three people this year: Alex Pretti, Renee Good and Keith Porter Jr. Furthermore, UTSAPD created a perimeter for ICE agents in a raid on Main Campus in May 2025, which resulted in the detainment of construction workers who were working on a project prior to their arrest.
San Antonio Police Department Chief of Police William McManus has stated that SAPD is required to cooperate with ICE when requested to assist on cases. Students gathered at the Sombrilla at 11 a.m. on Feb. 3. Demonstrators held signs that read messages and insults in opposition to President Donald Trump and ICE. Protest leaders chanted, “Campus PD works with ICE to keep the people down,” and “No justice, no peace! Get ICE off our streets!”
“We are showing [UT San Antonio] what we can do when we agitate, when we get organized, what we can do when we go beyond what the school can and cannot tell us to do because we understand that UTSAPD and the admin that represents them collaborate with ICE,” a protest organizer, who requested to remain anonymous, stated in an interview with The Paisano.
“UT San Antonio is a Hispanic-serving institution, and this [agency] has a direct impact on Hispanics, especially across Texas and across the nation,” frst year mechanical engineering major Simon Alvarez said during the protest.
He called on the university to act, saying, “if UT San Antonio wants to be a frontier for the Hispanic
community, they should care about these ICE raids, and have a negative stance against them.”
The Paisano approached several UT San Antonio offcials observing the demonstration; they declined to comment on record.
The walkout’s organizers led demonstrators around Main Campus, starting at the Sombrilla and heading to the John Peace Library, Student Union, McKinney Humanities and UTSAPD’s headquarters. In front of the headquarters, protesters yelled, “Fuck ICE.” Organizers emphasized to the crowd that “[students] must fght, we must get organized.” Protest leaders then burned the American fag and stomped on the torn-up pieces.
“You are taking a stance for your own freedom and your own rights,” freshman kinesiology major Fiona Padalino stated. “Everyone has a right to peacefully protest, especially in things they believe in.”
Leaders guided the crowd back to the Sombrilla where they encountered Beto O’Rourke and Powered By People volunteers. The organization, which O’Rourke founded and leads, sought to register UT San Antonio students to vote.
After clashing with protest leaders over whether he could speak, O’Rourke addressed the crowd of protesters.
“I am with you, in being against ICE,” O’Rourke said. “I am with you, in making sure that there is no longer ICE in this country because they cannot be trusted to execute the law, to honor the constitution, and not to participate in these abuses, this torture, this kidnapping and these killings.
“We must hold those in power accountable for their position of public trust. We must ensure that we get this country moving on the right track.”
A student who requested to remain anonymous refected on attending the demonstration after it concluded.
“Your voice matters, your vote matters, no matter what it is,” the student said. “The fact that you are using your frst amendment and using it the right way, I think that is what we should all take away from this protest.”
Prof. doubts downtown progress of campus master plan
By Marisela Cruz News Editor
UT San Antonio’s President Taylor Eighmy launched UTSA’s Campus Master Plan initiative in June 2018. The plan, dedicated to development and expansion efforts over the next decade, was approved in 2019. Professor Emeritus of Public Administration Heywood Sanders sat down with The Paisano to analyze the development of the project seven years after its approval.
“I think the simplest description of our current situation is that we’re not on track that the master plan laid out in 2019, and that it’s not quite clear if we will ever get to that kind of dimensions that were talked about then, particularly in a physical form,” Sanders stated.
Detailed within the master plan is an expanded Main Campus area size of 3.3 million square feet. Developments for research and academic places, pedestrian-oriented environment, housing and revenue expansion opportunities are named as principal goals of the project.
UT San Antonio aims to expand the four campuses’ square footage to accommodate 45,000 students for its future growth. Today, UT San Antonio has over 38,000 students enrolled.
Plans to expand the Downtown Campus are detailed in the master plan, with UT San Antonio planning to purchase $7.3 million worth of city land and $5.7 million of county land in 2018.
Sanders, who joined UT San Antonio in 2001, is most familiar with the Downtown Campus plan as it is of the most immediate importance to him.
“I seriously wonder if any of those things will actually be realized,” Sanders detailed. “In 2018, Dr. Eighmy imagined UTSA Downtown Campus in 10 years, 15,000 plus students, 1,000 plus faculty, 1,000 plus staff, four plus colleges, two new schools, two new institutes,
distributed residential experience, comprehensive student experience, development catalyst for the Near West Side and a tractor for corporations.”
“Now, I haven’t seen the numbers on enrollment on the downtown campus of late, but I don’t think it’s anywhere near 15,000 students.”
Sanders explained that student activity at the Downtown Campus has had a “real reduction.” The idea of establishing a pedestrian bridge connecting the Downtown Campus to the West Side of San Antonio was covered by the San Antonio Express-News. Sanders discussed this proposed connection during his interview with The Paisano.
“There was part of the plan some discussion about efforts to better connect and link the campus developments along San Pedro Creek east of the highway to the original Downtown Campus footprint to the west,” Sanders
explained. “That really has not occurred in much of any way. They’re remarkably isolated.”
Refecting on the status of the current state of the Downtown Campus, Sanders explained how a lot of attention is needed for the academic spaces.
“I can go into classrooms and conference rooms there that have exactly the same chairs and tables that were there when those buildings opened,” Sanders detailed. “If we’re actually going to have a plan that’s meaningful, we need to step up a planning process that at the very least goes back and looks at what we’ve done and [what] we haven’t and what we might do now and provide some functional vision for the future.”
UT San Antonio released a New District Planning Report in October 2025, which featured a proposal to complete the development of San Pedro II during 2026.
Beto O’Rourke delivers speech while surrounded by UT San Antonio students during walkout.
Sarah Quintanilla/ The Paisano
Protest leaders burn American fag during campus demonstration.
Aidan Moreno/The Paisano
New University Health Vida clinic opens
By Selasie Gifa-Johnson Staff Writer
For almost a decade, the South Side of San Antonio has documented differences in health care availability across the city. This difference has resulted in a 20-year average life span discrepancy between the residents of the North and South sides of San Antonio. The recently opened University Health Vida clinic on the South Side of San Antonio aims to address those disparities.
The San Antonio Report described the region’s status as a health care desert due to a lack of accessible and comprehensive health care solutions on the South Side of the city. The disparity between the prevalence of health care options between the more affuent North Side and the less affuent South Side of the city has been a persistent issue for almost a decade.
Before the construction of the clinic, VIDA district residents experienced average travel times from 30 minutes to over two hours to hospitals. Compared to the North Side, where travel times to a full-service hospital are between 10 to 25 minutes on average. Additionally, primary and specialty care, as well as diagnostic tools, were considered largely inaccessible to South Side residents.
Although the lack of suffcient health care in the region had been prevalent since 2017, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how a lack of capacity and prevention mechanisms signifcantly worsened outcomes in areas subjected to these issues. As such, the Bexar County Commissioners Court approved $30 million to be allocated from the American Rescue Plan Act in addition to funds raised through bonds. These measures allowed the construction of the clinic to begin in 2023, with the completion of the University Health Vida clinic coming to fruition in January.
The new clinic offers a wide range of health care services, including urgent care seven days a week for major and minor illnesses and injuries, along with primary, pediatric and women’s health care with support for chronic illnesses, including diabetes. The clinic maintains a labs for cardiology, radiology, ultrasound tests and an entire foor dedicated to behavioral care for children and adolescents.
The clinic also partners with various charitable organizations such as the San Antonio Food Bank, AVANCE and ChildSafe San Antonio to provide food assistance and social services to the community. Ultimately, the aid provided by the clinic represents a “promise kept,” referring to University Health’s previous commitment to bring comprehensive health care to the South Side of the city.
ICE buys 640,000-square-foot warehouse in San Antonio
By Emma Cavanaugh Distribution Manager
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement confrmed last Wednesday that the agency purchased land and a facility in San Antonio. An ICE spokesperson wrote the agency intends to create detention facilities in the city’s Eastside in a statement to the San Antonio Report. County leaders said they had not received any formal notifcation regarding the plans for a new detention center.
The U.S. made the $66 million purchase, according to documents released by the Bexar County Clerk’s offce, which KSAT confrmed. The facility measures nearly 640,000 square feet and was announced as one of the city’s largest warehouse developments when it was completed in 2022.
The building resides on the East Side of San Antonio at Oakmont 410, with residential neighborhoods and community spaces minutes away, as the San Antonio Report notes. San Antonio City Council District 2 Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez raised concerns over the site’s proximity to schools and parks. ICE responded to the backlash.
“It should not come as news that ICE will be making arrests in states across the U.S. and is actively working to expand detention space,” an ICE spokesperson said.
The benefts provided by the new Vida clinic are not limited to improved healthcare in the region. A 2026 study by the independent Perryman Group research organization has also projected massive increases in economic activity. The study predicts billions of dollars in construction activity, which will create over 26,000 jobs during construction with the hospital and provide 16,000 roles such as nurses, physicians, technicians and administrative staff.
An additional $800 million is expected to be circulated through the induced effect of workers in the area patronizing local businesses. While these numbers are promising, there is no direct evidence that the projected 26,000 construction jobs have actually been created. The two construction companies, Turner Construction and Bryne Construction, participating in the joint venture to build the hospital, employ fewer than the 26,000 jobs in construction projected.
Construction on the Palo Alto hospital is currently being built on the same 65-acre plot that houses the Vida clinic. The hospital is expected to be completed in 2027. This construction will provide 166 inpatient care units to be used as operating rooms, delivery rooms and nurseries for newborns, expanding the capacity for patient care in the Vida area with more robust versions of services provided by the Vida clinic.
State of the City Week of 02/10
By Amanda Fuentes 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 range from the City Council rejecting funding structure to NEISD not complying with the cellphone ban and a discussion of a diversion center.
While the new development raises concerns within the community about its impact, this center’s production is part of a larger nationwide plan from ICE as part of the “One Big Beautiful Act.” WIRED reviewed planning documents from ICE, which propose 254 transportation hubs across the state, one for each Texas county. This system plans to move detainees faster with fewer federal agents on the streets and out of public view.
Additionally, Senate Bill 8 requires Texas sheriffs to cooperate with ICE when
assisting with immigration law.
Local authorities are to apprehend immigrants, then private contractors are expected to deliver them to a local jail or detention sites run by private corporations.
Each county will have its own team of armed contractors from private security frms to perform transportation duties of this perpetual operation, according to Know Your Rights Camp. This plan requests a labor force of over 2,000 contractors who must maintain an 80% readiness rate full-time with vehicles that must respond within 30 minutes.
Newly arrested detainees are to be held in smaller processing sites and then transported to large-scale warehouses near major logistics hubs, which would hold 5,000-10,000 people each.
The newly announced San Antonio site is expected to house up to 1,500 beds. KYRC posted about the implications of privatizing immigration enforcement. “This plan prioritizes control and proft over humanity—turning migration into a business and people into commodities,” KYRC said.
Moreover, Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Calvert condemned the expansion of ICE detention centers. As his precinct includes the newly purchased property, his statement on Wednesday opposed the facility.
“None of this is about immigration. It’s about creating illegal exceptions everywhere. It’s about turning ICE into a secret state police that is permitted to do anything,” Calvert said. “We will fght it, we will dissect those who are fnancially benefting.”
In addition, a city spokesperson released a statement saying the city has no zoning authority over federal government property under state and federal law. County offcials seemed to be caught by surprise, as they were not briefed on any confrmed purchases, as confrmed by Bexar County Commissioner Grant Moody.
Despite ICE’s new $66 million purchase shocking residents on the Eastside of San Antonio, many of the plans remain unknown to the public, according to the San Antonio Report.
halt H-1B visa applications
By Johnpaul Buwule Staff Writer
In a letter to the heads of state agencies, Gov. Greg Abbott mandated a halt to the processing of H-1B visas across state institutions and public universities, as well as directing agencies and universities to create a report on all existing and new H-1B applicants and workers.
Experts worry that the pause will harm specialized workers — such as researchers, professors and engineers — at state institutions and public universities in Texas, stressing that H-1B visa applicants will take their specialties to other states.
H-1B visas are a competitive type of visa program that allows employers to hire foreign nationals to work in the U.S. The program was established under former President George H.W Bush with the signing of the Immigration Act of 1990. Congress determines the number of people who can be admitted for an H-1B visa; caps have been set at 65,000 for regular H-1B visas and 20,000 for applicants with a master’s degree or higher. The federal government has offcial control over the H-1B process; state governments can only control traffc for their own institutions and cannot limit the number of applicants that companies petition for.
The letter called for an overhaul of the H-1B visa program across all public universities and state agencies on Jan. 26. Abbott expressed ethical concerns over worker pay and exploitation, arguing that the H-1B visa program allows employers to hire more foreign nationals than U.S. citizens.
“Bad actors have exploited this program by failing to make good-faith efforts to recruit qualifed U.S. workers before seeking to use foreign labor,” the letter states. “Employers have even fred American workers and replaced them with H-1B employees, often at lower wages.”
Abbott does not elaborate or offer any evidence on the fring of citizens or the exploitation of the H-1B program in the letter.
The National Foundation for American Policy report outlines that 700,000 people in the U.S. had an H-1B status, with Texas having 40,000 H-1B workers out of its 15 million workers in 2025. In 2024, the average salary of a H-1B visa holder in a computer-related industry was $136,000, and 63% of H-1B visa workers earned a master’s degree or higher, indicating that the most sought-after foreign workers overall are skilled.
Furthermore, the H-1B visa is a costly process.
City Council rejects funding for ranch development
In a unanimous vote, the San Antonio City Council denied the proposed development of a municipal utility district tied to Guajalote Ranch. If it were approved, the municipal utility district would have funded around $150 million in infrastructure improvements for the proposed Guajalote Ranch development. This money would have come from property taxes, assessments and bonds. City staff stated that this denial would not halt this development.
Companies can pay up to $34,000 for renewals and $50,000 for permanent residency sponsorship. While government institutions get special exemptions from H-1B fling fees, visa applicants remain a costly endeavour, as companies and government institutions must pay application fees and their H-1B workers a similar wage as those of employees of an equal or akin skill set.
Until Texas has completed its reviews, Texas public universities and state agencies have been prohibited from petitioning for new H-1B visas without the written discretion of the Texas Workforce Commission. However, any pending application or worker with an H-1B visa will not be impacted because the letter only targets future applications. This directive will last until the end of the next legislative session, on May 31, 2027.
NEISD under investigation for cellphone ban policy
The Texas Education Agency is formally investigating the North East Independent School District for its cellphone usage policy. In 2025, state lawmakers passed House Bill 1481, requiring public schools to prohibit the use of cellphones and other personal communication devices during the school day. NEISD defned the “school day” as instructional time, allowing students to use their devices during passing periods and lunch time.
Mental health authorities suggest diversion center
Many individuals in Bexar County’s jail continue to struggle with untreated mental illness and substance use. Local offcials are discussing a different approach to keep people from becoming entrenched in the justice system. According to Sheriff Javier Salazar, the jail has become a de facto mental health provider for hundreds of people who do not need to be incarcerated. Councilwoman Teri Castillo fled a Request that proposed a joint city-county ad hoc committee to explore the proposal.
Marisela Cruz/The Paisano
University Health Vida clinic at 3611 Jaguar Parkway.
Editorial
When the leaders of Right to Rebel SATX were deciding how to respond to the atrocities happening around them, they had a few options: They could provide information to students or unify their peers to push for change by voting and protesting. Instead, to correct an oppressive system, their disastrously dull idea was to encourage others to give away their power and burn bridges with the people trying to help them. Even armchair activists likely dismiss such self-destructive strategies, but Right to Rebel is struggling with the concept.
Right to Rebel is a self-described “[revolutionary] youth organization” that frequently organizes protests on UT San Antonio’s Main Campus to push back against injustices in its community. Their last protest, taking place on Feb. 3, was nearly a success. Hundreds of students joined together — holding signs, chanting and burning fags — to protest alleged cooperation between the UT San Antonio Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, as well as the brutal executions in Minneapolis.
What most protesters did not know was that the day prior, Beto O’Rourke’s organization, Powered By People, had reached out to Right to Rebel, informing them that O’Rourke would be on campus that day. Powered By
OPINION
People initially offered to either show support for the protest or delay their arrival, but ultimately opted to arrive later at Right to Rebel’s request.
Once O’Rourke arrived, Right to Rebel marched the protest back to the Sombrilla and deliberately picked a fght with him — a man simply trying to register voters. The protest organizers chastised him through megaphones, attempted to dissuade onlookers from voting and heavily
insinuated the need for a more violent approach to protesting. Eventually, the crowd rightfully turned on their organizers and allowed O’Rourke to speak.
At that point, not only had Right to Rebel lost its grip on the crowd, but it had lost its grip on reality.
Violence is a last resort — a fnal effort for selfpreservation. It is for those who have been beaten down to the point that the only thing between them and their extinction is their own strength. In any other scenario, violence perpetuates the oppression it seeks to unroot; it is a lazy alternative for the person who is unable to convince anyone else that they have a good idea.
Looking back through history, violence and division were not what enabled civil rights and liberties — it was unity. It was not the U.S. Civil War’s death toll that changed a belligerently racist South but the slow drum of civil disobedience. Groups such as the Black Panther Party did not advocate violence but rather self-defense and community, while leaders like Elaine Brown and Martin Luther King Jr. inched legislation towards equality.
Willingly giving up the right to vote and the dream those leaders and countless others never lived is nothing short of moronic. While there are too many problems in this world to even list, the number of solutions is equally grand.
Rather than fght in the streets, gather; rather than shout down allies, unify; and rather than point a pitchfork, vote.
Den disappoints with potential AI wallpaper
By Samuel Rencher Contributor
UT San Antonio recently partnered with Denny’s to provide students with a new spot to eat on Main Campus. The Den is effectively a smaller Denny’s, with a sized-down menu and an attempt to keep the same homestyle feel that Denny’s is known for. Note the word “attempt.” The entire vibe of the place is thrown out the door by a wallpaper that looks to have been made with artifcial intelligence.
The Paisano reached out to UT San Antonio Dining to confrm the piece’s origin, but did not receive a response.
The wallpaper is a scene of the Paseo, observed from the stairs between the Multidisciplinary Studies and McKinney Humanities buildings. The most obvious problem is a lamppost that displays UT San Antonio’s roadrunner logo, only instead of being a roadrunner, it is more like a rhombus with an open hatch. The logo is completely butchered, not looking stylized but more like an AI’s shoddy attempt at guessworking its way through things — the only thing AI can do.
There are lots of other issues, though
seeing them requires closer examination.
The same pole also has a cylindrical top, even though the poles are meant to have cubic tops, like the pole in front does. It very much looks as though an AI got confused with the dimensions of the pole since it was in front of the dark underside of the bridge.
Several things can be said about the impacts of generative AI, namely the devastating effects on communities that house AI centers, but those points are not the concern of this article. Rather, the primary concern is that a university may have used AI.
The point of college is not just to
CAP spits on UT system
Commentary
By Emma Cavanaugh
Distribution Manager
UT San Antonio attempted to further legitimize itself as an independent, prized university with its recent merger with UT Health Science Center at San Antonio. After becoming the third-largest public research university in Texas, one would expect the university to respect itself and fnally say goodbye to the Coordinated Admission Program. Yet, the institution still falls short, making it appear an inferior school with the aid of CAP.
CAP is UT Austin’s way of providing a second chance, offered to select students who were not accepted the frst go-around but still show promise. After completing one year at a satellite school with 30 transferable hours, a math course and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2, students are assured admission into UT Austin’s College of Liberal Arts.
Ultimately, CAP harms UT San Antonio and destroys the chance for school pride. With a crowd full of wannabe UT Austin students praying for days when they will be wearing burnt orange, the rest of the UT San Antonio students cannot build community.
The university has no reason not to be esteemed. UT San Antonio has astounding academic records. It is classifed as a tier-one research institution, one of the top 12% best health sciences universities worldwide, top 100 best universities in the nation, best dental school in Texas and 31st in best undergraduate nursing programs. Furthermore, the UTSA Department of Intercollegiate Athletics offers 17 sports at the NCAA Division I level as a member of the American Conference.
Yet still, the university lowers itself as a stepping stone for its UT Austin. Since everyone is waiting around to be transferred, it is close to impossible to create a population that is proud to be roadrunners.
Graduation rates at UT San Antonio are unsatisfactory, with a 32% rate. Conversely, UT has a graduation rate of 73%. CAP is responsible for this difference. Institutions with large numbers of CAP students are forced to see a negative impact on traditional 4-year graduation rates because these students will not graduate from the institution they originally enrolled in. Many of UT San Antonio’s incoming freshman students end up transferring by their sophomore year, destroying retention rates. CAP ruins UT San Antonio’s chance to be a university worth writing home about.
CAP fosters low student engagement since much of the freshman population is only waiting around to get to the university they actually desire. UT San Antonio is not being treated like a permanent destination, and these transfer students lack commitment to the campus. If most of the students do not want to get involved, then no one will.
Students have longed for the end of CAP. For over a decade, there have been rotating conversations about phasing out CAP at UT San Antonio. In 2015, UT San Antonio aimed to eliminate CAP by 2017, unfortunately, they are dragging their feet. UT San Antonio’s reputation is continuously being harmed by CAP hindering its chance at independent success. Being a roadrunner is something to be desired, and the university should start treating it as such.
graduate and be done with it. For many students, college is a time to rack up their resumé with as much experience as they need and can reasonably get. There are tons of students who would have jumped at the opportunity to make something for the school. Even if not for their resume, but for fun or personal growth, the university made that opportunity completely unavailable.
UT San Antonio should not do anything without seeking student involvement, much less possibly do something that entirely excludes it altogether. Plus, generative AI is explicitly anti-critical thinking and education. It has potentially both denied an opportunity to students and shown everyone that, despite being a university, it will not shy away from using tools that are anti-education. Two ‘runners with one stone.
If UT San Antonio really had used AI, it would be downright shameful and embarrassing. With so many students who could have used the opportunity, the university should take a look in the mirror and ask themselves — not ChatGPT — if this is really something they want to start potentially doing.
Abbott striking CAIR
Commentary
By Alexander Sormani Contributor
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott sent a letter to Attorney General Ken Paxton urging him to remove the non-proft status and block the Council on American-Islamic Relations from operating in the state of Texas. CAIR is a civil rights group that aims to “enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.”Abbott recently declared CAIR as a terrorist organization, during November last year, claiming that they were “attempting to undermine Texas law” through intimidation, harassment and other violent means.
This abhorrent behavior from Abbott is the direct result of Islamophobia in the U.S. It stems from racial stereotyping and bigotry, and it is entirely inappropriate.
Islamophobia has its roots in the late 70s, as Ruhollah Khomeini rose to power during the Muslim revolution in Iran. When he became the supreme leader, his Anti-American sentiments became associated with Islam, compounding the Middle East into the monolith seen in U.S. propaganda.
Hate and fear were bolstered again during the “War on Terror” and the 9/11
attacks carried out by Al-Qaeda. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, hate crimes among Muslims and Islamic communities rose 1617% from 2000 to 2001 and are still the target of scrutiny today.
Texas is home to 313,200 Muslims. It is the ffth most Muslim-populated state in the country, with a growing Islamic community. These individuals are constituents of Abbott, the same as any Texan. His disregard for the Islamic community and participation in Islamic hate are disheartening and disturbing. CAIR has been continuously attacked by the governor despite its righteous fght for civil rights and opposition to violence. Abbott, in a comment with CBS, claimed that Paxton is ready and willing to do what they must “to safeguard Texas and Texans from organizations that have historical connections to terrorism,” but CAIR has never had associations with terrorism or terrorist groups. According to their website, CAIR is entirely funded by Americans and “less than one percent of donations to CAIR come from individuals based abroad, mostly Canada.” Additionally, they “unequivocally condemn all acts of terrorism, whether carried out by al-Qa’ida, the Real IRA, FARC, Hamas, ETA, or any other group.” CAIR is a civil rights group like any other, intended to make people feel safe in their homes and to end bigotry in the U.S. Abbott’s behavior could have dangerous outcomes for Muslims in America. The Muslim community should not have to fght this alone. Stand against Abbott’s hateful remarks toward the Islamic community; stand with CAIR in their fght for civil rights for Americans.
Commentary
Carlos Craig/The Paisano
Nikki Pattridge /The Paisano
OPINION
Competition without opposition
Commentary
By Hallie Lott Web Editor
With districts, candidates and propositions changing every year, it is important to know “What’s on the ballot” in a given election cycle. This section will go over notable races and issues until the spring primary on March 3. This print covers the races for the Texas Supreme Court, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and the Fourth Court of Appeals.
Texas Supreme Court
The Texas Supreme Court, which is the state’s primary court concerning civil cases, has three seats open, along with the Chief Justice spot.
For Chief Justice, two Democrats, Cory Carlyle and Maggie Ellis, face the lone Republican incumbent, Jimmy Blacklock. Blacklock was appointed as a justice to the Supreme Court in 2018 by Gov. Greg Abbott and was then appointed to be Chief Justice in 2025. Carlyle served the Fifth Court of Appeals from 2019 to 2024. Ellis is currently serving the Third Court of Appeals, as the frst openly LGBTQ woman elected to a Texas appellate court. If elected, Ellis would be the frst female Chief Justice for the Texas Supreme Court and would provide groundbreaking experience — a solid choice for the position.
Place 7 features two Democrats, Gordon Goodman and Kristen Hawkins,
challenging unopposed incumbent Republican Kyle Hawkins. Goodman served on the First Court of Appeals and has worked on professional advisory committees. Hawkins currently serves on the 11th District Court. She provides a wealth of experience as a judge and is well qualifed to be the next judge for Place 7, unlike Goodman.
Texas Court of Criminal Appeals
The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals is the highest criminal court in Texas. All nine seats are currently held by Republicans, but three are up for election this November.
For Place 3, Democrat Okey Anyiam is running unopposed against four Republican challengers, including Alison Fox. Fox is a standout Republican candidate for all the wrong reasons: Believing that faith and justice go “handin-hand.” The last person Texans need in
TEA, Abbott silence students
By McKenzie Siller Staff Writer
The Texas Education Agency released “guidance” regarding student walkouts in schools on Feb. 3. It is one thing to want to keep students safe and educated; it is another to try to keep them silent.
Amendment in particular protects American citizens’ right to free speech and free assembly.
deciding cases of life and death is someone who preaches her faith on the job. Anyiam, the uncontested Democrat, does not have a campaign website, which is concerning. One would expect a candidate to at least make a website for potential voters to learn information.
Texas Fourth Court of Appeals
The Fourth Court of Appeals handles both civil and criminal cases, and is the frst level of Appellate Courts for the region encompassing San Antonio.
Two Democrats, Antonia Arteaga and Velia Meza, are challenging lone Republican Bert Richardson for Chief Justice. Arteaga currently presides over the 57th District Court, while Meza actively serves on the 4th court. For her, it is a small stepping stone; others in the race are less qualifed.
Many of the races, like Place 4 of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, are uncontested for both parties — which is unacceptable. Candidates should be compelled to take action and make an effort to reach out to voters when challenged. Competition improves elections; without it, candidates fall short of expectations.
These races are not high-profle, barely drawing media attention compared to other races. But these are elected positions that determine the legality of big-topic issues, such as privacy issues, the death penalty and prisons. Who Texans elect in these races today directly affects their lives tomorrow.
Ken Paxton fights Constitution
Commentary
By Sanjiv Raja Contributor
The Paisano
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The guidance was in response to Gov. Greg Abbott posting on X that he had Education Commissioner Mike Morath investigate a school walkout. The post highlighted the Austin Independent School District’s walkouts in protest of the recent ICE killings, such as investigated and disciplined, including losing their teaching license.” Despite what the TEA might think, these guidelines will not help the young scholars.
In the past, student protests have been a national discussion. A Supreme Court case, Tinker v. Des Moines, addressed this issue in 1969. Students sued Mary Beth Tinker High School for suspending them after wearing black armbands in protest of the Vietnam War.
The Supreme Court ruled that the First Amendment applied in the academic setting as well, declaring that schools cannot prohibit protests due to the discomfort of the person
“TEA, whether or not ill-intentioned, is hurting the students of schools across Texas.”
Threatening students with marked absences and teachers with losing their teaching license should not be the response to exercising free speech and a right to assembly. These guidelines to keep students safe and the teachers employed are also stripping them of their First Amendment rights — a right that was guaranteed by our founding fathers, among others they wrote. The First
These students are speaking out against an unjust ruler, just like the Founding Fathers did with King George III. Students are making a stand against the wrongful detainment, deportation and treatment of the nation’s citizens. They are repeating the history of the former soldiers of freedom.
The state’s guidelines are not protecting the students; they are a Trojan horse — a way to hide the fact that they keep students from being a thorn in the side of corrupt politicians.
The only learning that TEA is providing these kids with is persecution for taking peaceful action.
TEA, whether or not illintentioned, is hurting the students of schools across Texas, showing them that any attempt to speak out will result in them being gagged and shoved back at their desks. TEA is taking away the students’ right to free speech.
In the hypocritical fashion of the Republican Party, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton keeps trying to abolish the constitutional rights of both county organizations and average Americans.
On Feb. 4, Paxton chose to challenge the American legal process, claiming Bexar County’s allocation of about half a million dollars to its Immigration Legal Services program is a violation of the Texas Constitution’s “gift clause,” which prohibits public funds from being granted to private entities without having a public beneft.
Intentionally skipping over the fact that the Constitution guarantees a fair trial, Paxton’s assault on those who try to make the immigration process less trivial clearly refects his hatred towards the marginalized. The purpose of due process being offered to both the “guilty” and the innocent is to identify their legal status on American soil; to argue in favor of fair trials only for a selected few is outrageous, but also within the context of international human rights. Paxton’s latest suit is a broader attack on the American working class. People who live, work and pay taxes are left defenseless against vampires like the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to prey on.
In Texas, millions of working-class families are of mixed citizenship status; policies that make it harder for them to
access the legal system only help those whose goal is to tear these families apart. Normalizing the denial of publicly funded legal assistance creates a status quo that can be used to oppress any Texan who is poor, politically disfavored or caught in the web of the U.S. legal system. If counties are punished for helping their constituents through immigration courts, then they can be punished for standing up for tenants, protesters and trade unionists. Attacks like these erode the judicial system’s guarantee of due process and direct power towards a surveillance police state.
The money that the county puts aside goes towards organizations that help people navigate a cruel and bewildering immigration system. There is no recorded case of these programs “shielding criminals,” like Paxton alleges. If making sure that people understand their rights, meet court deadlines and receive a fair trial is not a “public beneft,” then neither is any public defender’s offce or court-appointed attorney in Texas. To argue against such programs is to argue against the very essence of the U.S. judicial system.
Meanwhile, Paxton champions himself as a defender of law and order, while weaponizing the law against the less fortunate, for his own political gain. Paxton’s legal career has never been about justice; he just plays into the bigger plan that the current presidential administration has for individual legal rights — to disregard them
Te Paisano is published by the Paisano Educational Trust, a non-proft, tax exempt, educational organization. Te Paisano is operated by members of the Student Newspaper Association, a registered student
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)
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ARTS & LIFE Paisanograms
havingToMakenna,I’veloved youasmybestfriendIforthepast10years,and aheadcan’twaitforwhatlies forusinthenext10years,10times over -Jasmine
Mylove,mylife
Thank you for changing my life, Karis. I love you
Sarah,youaresoamazing andthecoolestpersonIhave everknown!Youareoutgoing andthepersonifcationof creativity.I’malwaysso proudofcallingyou
Jasmine,TomywifeIhopeuget litthisValentines Day-Cat
CalebIrwin,youare precious -Henry Happy Valentine’s Day!Havethebesttime celebratingwithlotsoffowers, Sendinghearts,andchocolates! goodyoulotsofloveand -Sarahvibes!Campos
Tomy love,B—You arethereasonIkeepgoing, andmybiggestsupporterever. Iadmireyousomuchand youareoneofthemostkind andlovingsoulsinthis universe.I’malwaysso gratefulofyour existence.
Audreyyou’reso insidesosobeautifulonthe kindnessandout.Your infectious!istruly Love you:)
Asar! You are the funniest person I know and you always understand my jokes. Your power to clock in the tea of a situation as well as your wise guidance to life will get you far in life. I’m always so happy of being your friend.
Thanksfor beingoneofthebest roommatesbackat Chisholm.Iamnotgoingtomissthat peaking AC.
friendsiamgratefulformythatihavemade thissemester!they havemadelifeso enjoyable:)
Love on the bird: Doc’s advice
By Emma Cavanaugh Distribution Manager
Roadrunners are desperate for advice in the romance department. Luckily for them, “The Love Doctor” knows just the remedy to get these love birds fying again.
Q: How do I get a man to come back over even though I scare him?
A: The best thing one can hope for is that their man fears them. Instilling fear is a great way to ensure dominance, which is necessary if one wants to score a wellbehaved boy. Fear is not something one should shy away from — instead, embrace it for the gift that it is. There should be no problem ordering this man around; it appears the author of this question has no idea that they are already at the end of the rainbow.
How should I politely tell someone that I do not like them because they are arrogant, annoying, and a pick-me after dating them for 3 years?
Customarily, after dating someone for three years, it is important to make sure the breakup is vulnerable, sincere and genuine — but it would be advisable not to put too much effort because the author of this question’s partner sounds like a drag. It would be wise to visit ediblearrangement.com for this breakup. This will be the easiest let down for someone this hard to be around while still offering a kind gesture
— an ode to the three years cherished, or maybe better described, endured.
Q: I am madly in love with my professor, and I always throw hints, but he isn’t reciprocating it. I always show up to his offce hours, and he still doesn’t get the hint. Should I keep going at it or stop? My mind tells me to keep going; he is my soulmate.
A: Unrequited love is a sure-fre way to delusion, but with a professor — that is a new level of unwell. In this instance, the author of this question is hallucinatory and then some. If they do not gain consciousness and recognize their insanity, they will never notice that they are a grade “A” predator. Denial is a river in Egypt, and this author is an open human resources case.
Q: How can I be emotionally available? I’m talking to like 10 guys and feel nothing for them, only for my ex.
A: The author of this question needs to do something other than consume themselves with men. In no world should a person be so focused on boys that they can talk to 10 at a time. Go outside, read a book, make a friend — do something other than gawk at a man. The least interesting thing about one’s life should be who one is dating. Try investing in the future, baby. University is for planning ahead — not getting stuck, worried about making some guy curious. If the author of this question wants to become emotionally available, they need to check out of the dating scene for a while.
Have a question and want it answered by “The Love Doctor?” Submit at https://bit.ly/3OuMhmD.
Student Art Society inspires
By Audrey Villar Arts & Life Editor
Quiet whispers slowly grew bolder as tables converged and baby friendships formed in the face of a new craft.
UT San Antonio’s Student Art Society has emerged victorious from many trials to cultivate relationships through an appeal to student interest and simple crafts that provoke memories of one’s childhood. meeting on Feb. 3 began with President Rafaela Rohdis inviting new members to scan the QR code and add music to the playlist, already making those new to the organization feel at home. She then jumped into an introduction of the day’s activity: Perler beads. A brief explanation of the craft was followed by her invitation to the room to convene at the large tables and make previously silent room flled with noise as chairs scraped and introductions were made, all the while Rohdis distributed the beads in a variety of containers to the tables. A lack of materials was no problem in the face of creativity, as Rohdis was able to scrounge up enough containers to meet the demand of the large turnout. Friendships began to form as the rather shy crowd began to bond over the activity.
“We want [the club] to be a very social, comfortable, low-pressure environment for people of all majors
to interact,” Rohdis explained. “I’ve seen so many friendships be formed from people that came to the meeting alone, didn’t know anyone, and then made friends here. And it really makes me happy when people are socializing and laughing and having fun. That really is the aim. And I feel like this academic year, like last semester and this semester, we have really succeeded in that.”
The club’s special ability to cultivate friendships is a strong appeal to new UT San Antonio students. That is why frst-timer Taylor Espinosa chose to attend a meeting.
“I was looking at [Student Art Society’s] Instagram. The vibe seemed cool. I liked it. It seemed chill. Didn’t seem like there was a lot of pressure,” Espinosa said.
The good that the club does for the UT San Antonio creative community is only possible thanks to the efforts of the current offcers. The road has not been easy, with leadership and participation issues threatening the organization’s survival. Rohdis detailed struggles with offcer retention, club status and student turnout. Offcers from previous years did not register the club as offcial, so the Student Art Society was not receiving funds from the university before Rohdis and her fellow offcers took over.
“We were just super ambitious. We had new ideas. We were like, we’re gonna make this club work,” Rohdis exclaimed.
The story of the Student Art Society is one of overcoming adversity, making lemonade from mere seedlings. As club-goers fnished their beadwork and ironed out the designs for the fnal product, it was visible how much love has gone into the organization just to allow the UT San Antonio community to create.
The club meets every Tuesday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in room 3.01.18A in the Arts Building at Main Campus. Club information can be found on their Instagram, @ sas_utsa.
Marisela! Youare ever!!themostwonderfulperson Youinspiremeso muchandI’malwaysso gratefultohaveyou asmybestfriend/ HERMANA!!!
Love, misandry, sports
Bird On The Street Week of 2/10
By Emma Cavanaugh Distribution Manager
Roadrunners are bursting with love this week. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, UT San Antonio students cannot contain their lechery. Blushing cheeks are not hard to fnd on Main Campus, so if one has not scored a Valentine yet, do not fret. Sights for sore eyes are in high demand — keep an ear open for a Roadrunner’s mating call.
This week, The Paisano interviewed junior electrical engineering major Emilano Velazquez, junior political science major Jaina Barry, sophomore fnance major Oliver Santos and junior information systems and technology major Nneka Onwudebe.
Is anyone actually watching the Super Bowl for the sports, or is it just for Bad Bunny?
It must be conceded that UT San Antonio students do not care about American football — at least when Bad Bunny is in the same room. One cannot blame them when Bad Bunny is quite the eye catcher. “Maybe if the Cowboys were playing, but I think they are just watching for Bad Bunny,” Santos said. “For Bad Bunny, I’m going to be honest,” Barry admitted, “I don’t even know what the Super Bowl is.” Onwudebe agreed that the halftime show will be the main attraction. Velazquez said he will be gambling.
What is your ultimate performative male ick?
Roadrunners are fed up with performative males; they express their exhaustion with a shared disdain for men.“Men who drink matcha,” Valesquez meeped, “because it tastes like grass.” “Men who listen to Mitski, Laufey and Lana Del Rey,” Barry snarled. “Men who only wear women’s clothes,” Onwudebe yucked. Although Santos offered that perhaps there is no such thing as a performative male, the self-report is brazen, but one may applaud his bravery if feeling generous.
Who are you casting a love spell on this Valentine’s Day?
Perhaps there will be no need to hover over the cauldron this year, as the magic may already lie between lovers at UT San Antonio. “For my girl,” Velasquez fervored. Santos held a similar sentiment and acknowledged his diva sweetheart. “To all my single baddies at home,” Onwudebe smiled, “I’m with you.” Barry dreams of Cillian Murphy; perhaps her yearning will be fruitful, and the adorned actor will come to UT San Antonio in search of her.
Have you ever been to Krispy Kreme?... Was it crispy?
‘Runners are split. Krispy Kreme proves not to be the most popular spot for birds.“Yes, it was crispy. It was creamy.” Barry recalled.“Yes,” Velasquez admitted, but was unsure of its crispness. Santos and Onwudebe said they have never been, but questioned its crispness.
Have a question and want it answered by UT San Antonio students? Submit at http://bit.ly/4pdDfIP.
gym baddies i love you
To my wife Cat, know that you are adored every day, not just on Valentine’s Day - Jasmine
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Cooper Bryant/ The Paisano
ARTS & LIFE
Stories told in felt: McNay’s Mystic Threads
By Marc Dilazzaro Contributor
Visitors to the Lawson Gallery in McNay Art Museum will be greeted by an immersive and colorful sight as they enter the nostalgic, whimsical and yet poignant world of Angelica Raquel’s exhibition, “Mystic Threads.” Consisting of 18 artworks, the exhibition primarily features fber sculptures, wall hangings of folkloric and personal scenes rendered in textiles, paintings and a simulated freplace where a recording plays of the artist describing her work and intention behind this collection.
Hailing from Laredo, Texas, Raquel evokes the nostalgic feeling of stories shared over a campfre between friends, family memories and recollections of childhood experiences that contribute to making a person who they are today. The exhibit mixes folklore from her hometown, cherished memories of her family and deeply personal experiences.
The frst piece one is likely to notice upon entry is the “Cursed Spirit of Downtown Laredo,” a full-sized dog-man sculpture that seems to slightly change the angle it is facing when one is not looking. This is not the only work directly incorporating folklore. San Antonio residents might recognize the Donkey Lady in “He Followed A Woman Walking Alone at Night,” though this spirit is reframed as a protector of women, only
revealing its true form to men who stalk women at night.
While folklore is present in Raquel’s work, it is just one part of her broader theme of stories and their transmission. One of the most arresting pieces is “Grandpa’s Magic,” a vibrant wallhanging of fabric depicting Raquel’s grandfather performing ear-coning on a man using a large newspaper while children in the foreground look on. The smoke from the burning newspaper curls around the scene to make a frame. Raquel describes this as a vivid memory from her childhood. The piece refects her nostalgia while also depicting a medicinal practice that has been passed down through generations.
The artwork that ties the messages together is a large canine head called “Howl Together,” a piece meant to be a “visual representation of what it means to carry our stories along on our backs, and the connections those stories provide,” according to the artist. What
defnes this work is how it is meant to evolve over the duration of the exhibition. Raquel will be leading needle- felt workshops open to all, and community members participating will get to see the products of their labor added to the back of “Howl Together,” making the piece both dynamic and refective of Raquel’s goal of illustrating how stories and their telling act as a thread connecting people to one another and to their past. Angelica Raquel’s Mystic Threads exhibition will be on display in the Lawson Gallery of the McNay Art Museum until July 5. Art enthusiasts of UT San Antonio can enjoy free general admission if they provide a valid student ID. Free general admission to non-students is offered on Thursdays from 4-9 p.m. and on the frst Sunday of every month from 12-5 p.m., with access to exhibitions such as Mystic Threads costing only $10. An artist-led needle-felting workshop is offered on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Valero Learning Center. Those interested can register on the McNay website.
OCTANE: Musical fuel manufactures momentum
By Neha Nathwani Staff Writer
This album was built for movement — for physical motion and emotional momentum. “OCTANE,” the ffth studio album from American rapper and singer Don Toliver, moves like a late-night drive without a specifc destination. Released on Jan. 30, the 18-track album blends hip-hop, melodic trap and atmospheric R&B into a body of work that feels less concerned with ftting within the limits of genre boundaries and more invested in mood.
Toliver has long existed in the space between rapper and vocalist. His music often prioritizes texture over lyric density, layering vocals like instruments and melodies that stretch beyond traditional rap structure. On “OCTANE,” that instinct is sharpened. The album leans heavily on samples and interpolations, using sonic fragments as fuel while pushing toward something more fuid and emotionally immersive. The result is an album that feels fast but rarely rushed, energetic and also intimate.
The opening track, “E85,” immediately establishes the album’s tone. A bright, high-energy sample introduces Toliver’s elastic delivery. The hook of the song lures the listener in while the recurring idea of love is frst explored with “On the highway and I’m thinking that I love her / On the highway with my signifcant other.” Relationships unfold between highways and late nights. It is a confdent and intentional introduction that pulls listeners into the album’s rhythm almost instantly.
“Body” continues that momentum, built around another dynamic sample and layered production that expands beyond straightforward rap. Toliver’s falsetto becomes a central instrument, drifting above the beat. Throughout the album, his voice functions as an atmospheric element, blurring the line between vocal performance and instrumentals.
“Rendezvous” and “Secondhand” slow the tempo, allowing space for the album’s romantic core to come to the surface. Synth-heavy production on “Secondhand” creates a nostalgic atmosphere. The song’s refrain, questioning how to let someone go while admitting dependency as Toliver sings, “How am I supposed to let you go,” captures one of the album’s strongest emotional threads.
The middle of the album settles into a smoother, more sensual rhythm. “Tiramisu” leans stronger into R&B,
‘The
trading high-energy beats for intimacy, while “ATM” reintroduces movement with a danceable sound built around a cleverly used sample. Toliver excels in this balance, moving between syncopative, entertaining tracks and softer moments without breaking the album’s cohesion. “Long Way To Calabasas” and “Rosary” further emphasize this duality, pairing acoustics and airy synths with grounded trap percussion. The repeated vocal layering at the end of “Rosary” feels almost otherworldly, a beat that pulls the listener even closer into the album.
Not every feature lands equally, though. “All the Signs” begins as a quintessential Toliver track before shifting midway through a Teezo Touchdown feature, momentarily breaking the listening experience, and fattening the song. Still, the following track, “Call Back,” restores the momentum. By this point, the album has settled into a groove; the repetition works in its favor, creating a fowstate for the listener rather than a collection of isolated songs.
The end of the album embraces scale and atmosphere. “Gemstone” and “Opposite” inject kinetic energy, while “TMU” shifts toward sounding like love confessions. “Pleasures mine” opens with sensual and deep vocals, then leans into looping high-pitched sounds, reminiscent of mid-2010s production trends. By the time “Sweet Home” arrives, the album feels fully settled into itself, rhyming patterns fowing naturally rather than forced, ending the project on a refective note.
The biggest faw, however, lies in its structure. Many tracks follow a nearly identical blueprint: a strong, immediately catchy hook, followed by a tighter rap-
focused verse, before shifting back toward the instrumental as the song fades out. The formula works — which may be why it appears so consistently, even in his previous album “HARDSTONE PSYCHO,” but its reliability also becomes predictable. Comparatively, “OCTANE” feels less concerned with scale and more interested in cohesion. This cohesion makes his newest album easy to listen to front-to-back, yet occasionally leaves the listener wanting moments where this structure breaks entirely.
What makes “OCTANE” compelling is Toliver’s ability to build an environment using melody, repetition and production choices to evoke feeling. Toliver doesn’t name specifcs, yet it seems that he constantly alludes to his public relationship with American singer-songwriter Kali Uchis, feeling like a muse for the album. “OCTANE” ultimately showcases Toliver’s strengths.
Moment’ finally snuffs out ‘BRAT’ summer
By Ezequiel Pena Staff Writer
Charli XCX has been making a strong comeback in recent years after the release of her most ambitious and exciting album, “BRAT.” Collecting high praise from audiences and critics alike, some wondered which direction Charli XCX would take her career now that she had defned the start of a new era for herself, maintaining a fun pop sound while bringing a bit more depth for listeners to sink their teeth into. February seems to be the time for Charli to take her career to the cinema with her upcoming soundtrack for Emerald Fennel’s loose adaptation of “Wuthering Heights,” as well as Charli’s brand new flm, “The Moment.”
Written and directed by music video creator Aidan Zamiri, “The Moment” is made in the style of a mockumentary that follows Charli as she and her label attempt to extend the success of “BRAT” through the making of a concert flm. The feature-length collaboration carries the wild tone of their music videos while managing to remain grounded and believable.
The passion put into the work is palpable, and the flm does a fne enough job at commenting on the lack of creativity in music labels and how artists should not put their entire focus into maintaining a superfcial, temporary success. However, the flm also feels like a wallowing mess and comes across as more of a pity party than a genuine confession of an artist’s struggles.
As well-meaning as the flm intends to be, “The Moment” comes across at many points like brain vomit that means much more to Charli XCX than it does to her fans and audience members. It may be entirely possible
that the music industry is truly flled with nothing but pretentious creatives fghting for control in the name of making corporate, family-friendly, money-printing machines. The movie places too much emphasis on this struggle and not enough on why Charli loves music in the frst place.
Based on the flm, Charli XCX is not so much interested in making music as she is in simply being respected and adored. This is an admittedly interesting and vulnerable place to take the flm, but it ultimately does not pay off, leaving the audience feeling underwhelmed at what else the flm could have dived into, such as explaining what drives her to make music beyond the attention and why she decided to go for a different direction in her recent albums.
“The Moment” struggles most in its methods of conveying the story. Two-thirds of the flm follows Charli XCX as she awkwardly deals with people crowding around her. The flm does this realistically but comes across as aimless in its structure. It is not really until the fnal third of the flm that a semblance of a real direction comes forth, but it ends up relying on eyerolling, tired clichés such as the protagonist pushing away her friends to fulfll her selfsh desires.
The flm warrants interest when Charli attempts to explain why she wishes for the “BRAT” era to end. She explains how if she attempts to force its continuation, it may just lose steam and change direction just to please corporate heads. This delivery feels extremely forced due to the lazy clichés used.
The flm also struggles with rapid location changes for what feels like no reason. “The Moment” does this constantly to the point where it becomes a redundant
way to maintain audience interest. While Charli attempts to bring her fans along with her chaotic and hectic lifestyle, it unfortunately ends up making them more disconnected and lost.
“The Moment” is not a bad flm, but it leaves a lot to be desired in terms of how unpolished it felt. It is undeniably an admirable artistic venture that may be just enough for those who want to keep their “BRAT” summer going.
Courtesy/McNay Art Museum
Sarah Quintanilla/The Paisano
Pat Hallmark previews upcoming UTSA baseball campaign
Roadrunners ready to ‘turn the page’ on historic 2025 season in preparation for 2026
By Rylan Renteria Sports Editor
UTSA baseball’s 2025 campaign brought national recognition to the athletics department. The Roadrunners built off an American Athletic Conference regular season championship by earning their frst NCAA tournament win in program history over Kansas State University, before beating The University of Texas at Austin twice to secure the Austin Regional title. The regional title granted UTSA its frst ever Super Regional appearance, and while they were eventually swept by the University of California, Los Angeles, the Roadrunners still secured the frst ever top-10 fnish by an UTSA Athletics program. For head coach Pat Hallmark, it was vindication to the highest degree.
“It was gratifying,” Hallmark said. “I always felt like that could be done here. I think a lot of people don’t think that’s possible at a mid-major. I’m grateful for the players and everyone that contributed to those wins. Here lately, it’s more about turning the page. It’s a new season now.”
Fans’ celebration of the 2025 season was short-lived. Hallmark’s contract expired due to a clerical error made in an amendment. For UTSA fans and players alike, the negotiation period was anxiety inducing. For Hallmark, it was an opportunity to ensure his program would
receive adequate support to keep the Roadrunners in annual title contention.
The fgures Hallmark and the athletics department agreed upon were enough for him to ink a four-year deal to return to the Roadrunners, a move Hallmark later confrmed refected increased support from the department.
“We’re in a better spot,” Hallmark explained. “We hope to keep growing in that regard with revenue sharing and scholarships, but we’re better off than we were a year ago. Winning tends to do that. So grateful for Dr. [Lisa] Campos adding a little bit to the revenue share pool.”
With the athletics department supporting him and his vision, Hallmark was able to retain a majority of his roster — outside of graduating seniors and MLB Draft selections — to chase an additional American Conference title.
UTSA returns sophomore standout infelders Jordan Ballin and Caden Miller, along with upperclassmen contributors such as outfelder Andrew Detlefsen and catcher Andrew Stucky. The Roadrunner rotation also retained star pitcher Robert Orloski and starter Conor Myles.
However, UTSA will likely be without sophomore infelder Nathan Hodge in 2026 after he suffered a “substantial” injury during the offseason according to Hallmark.
Beyond its returning core, UTSA added several players from the transfer portal and high school ranks to fesh out its roster. While full time starters and positions will be determined by trial-anderror throughout the frst month of the season, here are names fans can expect to see hit the diamond next weekend:
Aidan Eschelman, a freshman out of Episcopal High School in Houston,
Texas, will see action at both third base and shortstop this season. While Hallmark expects Eschelman to endure typical true freshman growing pains, he notes, “the tools and mind are there for him to be a very good player.” Ballin and Miller will retain their starting positions, with Miller likely fxed at frst base and Ballin to fex between second, shortstop and third depending on need.
Detlefsen will start in the outfeld, likely alongside freshman Nathan Johnson, Wichita State University transfer Layne Haworth and/or University of Houston transfer Brandon Bishop. Hallmark described Bishop as a “true centerfelder,” while Navarro Junior College transfer Christian Hallmark could see time as well.
Orloski and Myles should start on the mound next weekend as the team determines its third option in the rotation.
Freshman Jake Qualia, senior Mike
DeBattista and junior Kendall Dove are in the mix for that role.
Hallmark knew he wanted to dedicate the early part of the season to determining his team’s identity. With that in mind, he scheduled the Roadrunners a tough frst month of play, facing the likes of Dallas Baptist University, Coastal Carolina University and Ohio State University.
“We hope to win a bunch of those games, but there are some positives that can be had even if you don’t. You’ll know right where you need to work,” he explained. “If you want to do well, you’re going to have to earn it. It’s about fnding out who you are as much as anything.”
Before the Roadrunners can begin preparation on the aforementioned teams, they frst have to face South Dakota State University.
Game one is scheduled for 4 p.m. Friday at Roadrunner Field.
UTSA outlasts Incarnate Word, wins third straight
By Aramis Santiago Staff Writer
SAN ANTONIO — Endurance and poise defned the afternoon for the Roadrunners as UTSA women’s tennis downed the University of the Incarnate Word 4-1, the Roadrunners’ third victory in a row and fourth on the season, on Sunday at the UTSA Tennis Center.
UTSA (4-1) established control by securing the doubles point before singles play turned into a series of endurance battles against Incarnate Word (13). Freshman Laia Tarazona Peyro delivered the afternoon’s most decisive performance with a straight-sets victory that extended the early lead, while junior Akari Tomoyose added another point with a composed and steady win. The match ultimately swung on court two, where freshman Celine Absawi clinched the dual in a rally-heavy contest that tested both stamina and precision.
“We’re pretty resilient and I’m just so proud of them,” head coach Ki Kroll said. “We just keep fghting and keep working and they’re learning a lot too in the process.”
The Roadrunners built their foundation in doubles, where sophomore Natalia Castaneda Guerrero and freshman Giuliana Giardina paired for a 6-3 win to set the tone. Sophomore Aoka Nagasawa and Tomoyose followed with a commanding 6-1 victory that put Incarnate Word on the defensive. Though the Cardinals salvaged the fnal doubles court, UTSA carried momentum into singles with clear energy across the lineup.
Peyro wasted little time widening the gap. Peyro’s straight-sets sweep on court fve was the cleanest performance of the day and gave the Roadrunners breathing
room as other courts stretched into long exchanges. Tomoyose reinforced that advantage on court three with a steady 6-4, 6-2 result that highlighted UTSA’s depth and patience.
The afternoon’s defning moment came from Absawi. Locked in a grinding battle with Cardinals senior Iné Lamprecht, Absawi matched power with control through extended rallies. Each exchange drew louder reactions from teammates and spectators until a fnal netted return sealed the clinch. Her victory capped a performance that refected the growing maturity of a young UTSA roster willing to outlast opponents point by point.
“Celine has a lot of heart, and the one thing you always get is 100% from her,” Kroll said. “She’s learning through the whole process and continues to keep getting better. So this was just another example of her playing a very good girl, and as a freshman, that means a lot when they step up like that.”
Incarnate Word’s lone singles point arrived on court one where senior Estefania Gonzalez defeated Guerrero in straight sets. Two remaining matches were left unfnished once the dual was decided, but the competitive tone across those courts illustrated how competitive the afternoon remained even as UTSA secured the result.
“We try to keep our balls deeper so we can’t be attacked as much, neutralizing that opponent,” Kroll said. “Natalia did a great job against her [Estefania Gonzalez] and unfortunately, it wasn’t her frst match of the day. But she’s doing a great job and moving in the right direction.”
UTSA will next face Houston University at 1 p.m. Friday at the Barbara Wallace Winston Tennis Facility.
Rylan Renteria/The Paisano
By Ana Sofa Corral Contributor
UTSA baseball coach Pat Hallmark in the 2025 American Conference tournament.
UTSA women’s tennis sophomore Ayra Salim shouting against Incarnate Word.
UTSA women’s tennis duo Giuliana Giardina and Natalia Castaneda Guerrero.
Aidan Moreno/The Paisano
UTSA INVITATIONAL
No. 1 TEXAS dominates UTSA in invitational finale
Men’s basketball hits new low point in year 2 under Austin Claunch
By Logan Martinez Staff Writer
After suffering a crushing defeat against the University of North Texas on Saturday, UTSA men’s basketball’s losing streak has now extended to 16 games. The loss mathematically eliminated the Roadrunners from an American Conference Tournament bid, squandering all hope of a miraculous tournament run. UTSA has yet to win a game since November and has fallen to last place in the American Conference standings. Few things, if any, have gone right for head coach Austin Claunch and his team this season.
Despite having a roster with immense talent, poor coaching, a lack of execution and countless miscues have made the season one of the worst in university history. While there are still seven games left on the schedule, it is safe to say this Roadrunner team is one of the worst in school history.
There have been numerous reasons for UTSA’s inability to string together wins this season. The biggest issue, however, lies with Claunch. The second-year coach has continuously implemented poor game plans and has voiced his struggles to
prepare his team for games.
Although his offense heavily relies on players breaking out into the open court, his half-court offensive sets have been abysmal all season. The team shoots 25% from beyond the arc and still insists on attempting nearly 25 threes per game. The basketball aimlessly moves around the perimeter until a player is forced to heave the ball late in the shot clock.
Paint penetration and ball movement have been nonexistent, yet Claunch continues to preach the same three-point centric schemes on the offensive side of the ball. Making substitutions one minute into contests, poorly drawn out plays and an absence of time management have hindered the Roadrunners severely in their current 4-win season.
Though Claunch bears much of the blame, the players are certainly not innocent. At times, players, including senior guard Jamir Simpson and others, exhibit selfsh play and a clear lack of defensive rhythm that have handicapped UTSA in its pursuit of victory. Players continuously get beat off the dribble, and if they do manage to get the on-ball stop, there is almost always someone open under the basket for a team-defating dunk. Defensive support and paint presence
have plagued the ‘Runners the entire season. Defensive stops come few and far between, and possessions often end with UTSA committing a foul, bailing out their opponent. Offensively, players fnd themselves playing a selfsh brand of basketball with ineffcient step-back threes and balldominant possessions that often lead to large scoring droughts. Players look reluctant to make the right play, focused more on getting a highlight than helping
their team score. The culmination of everything has led to the worst UTSA men’s basketball season in recent memory. While previous years have been disappointing, the Roadrunners have always found a way to squeeze out 10 wins. For the frst time since 2015, it is likely that the team will not reach double-digit victories. Whether it is coaching issues, player personnel or simply bad luck, the year has been one that fans cannot wait to forget.
Rylan Renteria/The Paisano
Courtesy/Armin Suljovic
Aidan Moreno/The Paisano