Volume 72, Issue 4

THE PAISANO

attorney general sues county for immigration legal assistance

By Amanda Fuentes Contributor

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton fled a lawsuit against Bexar County, the Bexar County Commissioners Court and county offcials. Paxton accused the county of using taxpayer dollars to fund the Immigration Legal Services program, which he alleged was unlawful.

In November of last year, Paxton fled a lawsuit against Harris County after the approval of Item No. 25-6481, which allocated county funds to fve private nonproft organizations that provide legal support to immigrants.

In the Harris County case, Paxton argued that the county was violating the Texas Constitution’s Gift Clause, which states that public funds cannot be gifted to individuals or private organizations without a clear public beneft — claiming that this was a misuse of funds that provided no public purpose.

Paxton appealed the denial of a preliminary injunction. This case is on a litigation track and set for December 2026.

Bexar County faces similar accusations from Paxton proceeding the passage of Item 102, which allocated county funds to American Gateways — a private nonproft organization that, similarly to the Harris County nonprofts, provides legal support to immigrants facing deportation.

Paxton argues that Item No. 102 is a violation of the Texas Constitution’s Gift Clause and that it “serves no public purpose and instead constitutes unconstitutional grants of public funds” in the petition.

The state is now seeking a temporary restraining order, a temporary and permanent injunction to stop the funding under Item No. 102 and a declaration that funds under

Item No. 102 and its related allocations violate the Texas Constitution.

Since the ILS program’s launch in 2024, Bexar County’s immigration legal defense funding has been debated, with county offcials and the relevant nonproft representatives

2025 renewal debate for the funding, those in favor focused on families, children and helping residents navigate immigration court proceedings.

The Paisano requested a statement from Bexar County Commissioner Grant Moody in response to Paxton suing Bexar County for utilizing taxpayer dollars for immigration legal assistance . Moody provided the December, I voted NO for the third time on authorizing the approval and execution of an amendment to an agreement for immigration legal services with American Gateways. Not only is this an egregious waste of taxpayer dollars, but during the discussion at Commissioners Court, it could not be clearly explained whether there are any limitations on who would be eligible to receive these services—including whether violent or repeat offenders could access the funding—which is completely unacceptable,” Moody stated.

“Unfortunately, earlier this month we learned that the Attorney General’s Offce fled a similar suit against Bexar County. The vast majority of San Antonians do not want their tax dollars spent defending violent or repeat offenders from deportation. It is a terrible policy and political malpractice. Now, not only are we wasting taxpayer money on this bad policy, but also on legal fees to defend it.”

All fve county commissioners for San Antonio are being sued in their offcial capacity in this case.

Opportunities, awards, events happening on campus

By Hallie Lott Web Editor

The Student Government Association held its second meeting of the semester, highlighting future events around campus, updates from the UT System Student Advisory Council and awards that the UT San Antonio community can apply for.

UT San Antonio’s UT System Student Advisory Council Co-Chair Aydan Villarreal provided a brief update on what the council discussed and recommended to the UT System Board of Regents this past year to improve student quality of life at UT System campuses.

Representatives focused on furthering students’ competency and mastery of artifcial intelligence for undergraduate and graduate students. The joint councils also emphasized experiential learning and recommended that the Board of Regents provide more opportunities for all degree programs. Villarreal did not clarify what specifc opportunities would be offered.

The main focus for recommendations involved affordability and food insecurity for UT San Antonio’s undergraduates. The council examined the expectation of what affordability should be for college students, and it recommended that the UT System schools survey the college campuses to examine the level of food insecurity occurring at each campus as a frst step to solving the issue.

June Medelez, who was standing in for the vice president, spotlighted the University Life Awards, which recognize outstanding students, student organizations, staff and faculty for their contributions to the quality of student life at UT

San Antonio. Applications opened on Feb. 16 and will close on March 27 at 11:59 p.m. The Awards Ceremony will be on April 30 at 6 p.m.

Associate Dean of Students Jessica Dawson then brought attention to several events set to occur on Main Campus. Sweet Treat Tuesday will take place on Feb. 17 from 3-5 p.m. Students can grab a beignet at the event to prepare for RowdyGras. Sweet Treat Tuesday will be held in the HEB Student Union, Room 1.210.

The San Antonio Rodeo Excursion will take place on Feb. 19. Students can visit the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo by paying a $20 fee that covers transportation, entry and an Earl Keen concert. Check-in at the Convocation Center is at 4 p.m., and the group will leave for the rodeo at 4:30 p.m. The link to purchase tickets is here: https://rb.gy/2tlq39.

The frst Market Fundraiser of the spring semester will occur on Feb. 19 from 2-5 p.m. at the Central Plaza. Registered student organizations will have the opportunity to sell the items they make to other UT San Antonio students at the event.

Dia en la Sombrilla, UT San Antonio’s festa celebration event, will occur on April 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sombrilla. Applications for student organizations to register for a booth are open now until Feb. 19 at 5 p.m. on RowdyLink.

SGA will be hosting a Field Day for student organizations on Feb. 27 at the Rec Field from 1-6 p.m. The next SGA meeting will be on Thursday, Feb. 26, at 5:30 p.m. in the HEB Student Union in the Travis Harris Rooms 2.202-2.212.

Former mayor runs against current county judge

By Marisela Cruz News Editor

The debate for Bexar County Judge, held at the Pearl Stable Hall, showcased former Mayor Ron Nirenberg exchanging views on various topics against current Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai. After eight years of serving as Mayor of San Antonio,, Nirenberg announced his candidacy for Bexar County Judge on Nov. 15 last year. Sakai has occupied the position of County Judge for three years; his current tenure as county judge ends in 2027. The debate highlighted challenges Bexar County faces, such as court management, economic development, jail control, downtown revitalization and Leigh Munsil from the San Antonio Report moderated the hour-long debate. Both candidates provided their opening statements think what’s important to open with is that I’ve been a public servant for over 40 years,” Sakai said.

“My parents and my parents’ family were incarcerated in internment camps during World War II solely because they were Japanese Americans.

And as a result of that experience … I, as a former prosecutor, I, as a former judge and now as county judge, I have taken an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, and I take that seriously.”

Nirenberg followed by describing his goal for the role of county judge. am running for Bexar County judge because I

believe in a brighter future for this community,” Nirenberg said. “The issues that we’re going to be debating today are the same ones that Peter promised to solve three and a half years ago, so I’m running to fx things. I’m running to change things.”

After both candidates explained their personal ambition to run for county judge, the topic of how the county should address road and food safety was discussed.

“What we need to do is develop a plan in collaboration with the 26 other municipalities in this region, as well as the unincorporated developments,” Nirenberg explained. “It is not enough to wait for disaster to happen before we start investing in the resilient infrastructure that we need in this community.”

In response, Sakai highlighted his effort on facing future food issues.

“We invested $21 million in partnership with San Antonio River Authority to put the next-gen fooding warning system into effect,” Sakai emphasized. “We didn’t sit and wait to see what the city of San Antonio was going to do.”

Furthermore, Munsil brought up U.S. immigration policies dividing communities, which she then proceeded to ask both candidates what the Bexar County Judge can do about these issues.

“I have condemned the federal authorities and the way they treat the undocumented immigrants, especially the children,” Sakai explained. “I did that based as a former judge and now county judge. I’ve condemned it as unconstitutional. I have put that dialogue into the record.”

“It’s the Texas Constitution, all those authorities by the District Attorney’s Offce, the sheriff, the county judge, the county commissioner, all defned by statute, and you must follow the law,” Sakai continued.

In response, Nirenberg called out President Donald Trump for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids taking place in San Antonio and across the U.S.

“I believe we should have no part in the militarization of an arm of government that is really only accountable to one person, Donald Trump, and that arm of government is terrorizing residents of communities across the country,” Nirenberg stated. “And so we not only have to make statements, we also have to take action to defend the rights of us.”

SCOTUS re-examines 14th Amendment’s birthright citizenship

By Johnpaul Buwule Staff Writer

The Supreme Court has agreed to review the constitutionality of birthright citizenship for children of noncitizens, which President Donald Trump has fercely contested since his frst term in 2018.

On Trump’s frst day in offce, he signed Executive Order 14160, which would change the scope of citizenship to exclude children born in the U.S. to parents who are noncitizens or reside in the U.S. on a temporary status.

The Trump administration argues that the 14th Amendment has been misinterpreted to grant birthright citizenship — the legal principle that anyone born on U.S. soil is a citizen — to children born in the U.S. with noncitizen parents. This reasoning justifed the following passage from the executive order.

“The Fourteenth Amendment has always excluded from birthright citizenship persons who were born in the United States but not ‘subject to the jurisdiction thereof,’” the executive order states.

At the center of the debate is “the subject to the jurisdiction thereof” phrase, which the Trump administration argues does not apply to children of noncitizens born in the U.S. During the 19th century, the term jurisdiction was defned as a nation’s sovereignty within its own borders, subjecting all peoples — besides rulers and ambassadors — to the nation’s authority.

For over a century, birthright citizenship has been a core legal principle, granting all who qualify U.S. citizenship because they are under U.S. jurisdiction.

After the Civil War, the 14th Amendment was passed to establish birthright citizenship as a core legal principle and to grant all African Americans citizenship. The amendment states, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” The 14th Amendment was created to offset the Supreme Court case, Dred Scott v. Sanford, in which the Court ruled that the federal courts do not protect Black slaves because they were not citizens.

The 14th Amendment soon expanded to protect not only African Americans but also the children of noncitizens born in the U.S. In the landmark 1889 United States v Wong Kim Ark, the Court rejected arguments that Ark, who was born in California, was not a U.S. citizen because his parents were

By Cameron Carter Contributor

week’s topics range from the unveiling of credit card skimmer locations to Northside Independent School District identifying the student who died after practice.

Frustrations arose in both candidates as Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit against Bexar County was brought up.

“I was sued before by Attorney General Paxton on voter registration because I was protecting the right to vote,” Sakai emphasized. “We’re going to fght. I beat him in court on voter registration, and I’ll beat him again. And that’s because I know the law. I know the Constitution.”

For the same question, Nirenberg refected on his time as mayor when Paxton sued Bexar County over voter registration.

“On the legal services, this is something I was proud that my city council colleagues also supported eight years ago, and we didn’t actually get sued,” Nirenberg said. “We’re doing the same things, and so there are ways that we can work with our community, avoid the legal challenges that you’ve gotten into, and continue to defend the rights of … the members of this community.”

The Nirenberg and Sakai was described as a fery debate by others who observed the event.

Early Feb. 17. The winning candidate for Bexar County Judge will be announced after the March 3 primary. The reigning Democratic nominee will then advance to the November general election to compete with Republican Patrick Von Dohlen.

Chinese. At the time, Justice Horace Gray explained that the 14th Amendment “affrms the ancient and fundamental rule of citizenship by birth within the territory, in the allegiance and under the protection of the country, including all children here born of resident aliens.” The court upheld the earlier legal rationale that the children birthed by noncitizens are subject to U.S. authority.

After Trump signed the executive order on Jan. 20, judges in Washington State, Maryland and Massachusetts quickly froze the order for the entire nation. The Supreme Court weighed in on this case in June 2025 but only focused on universal injunctions — nationwide temporary restraining orders. The Court, in a 6-3 ideological split, ruled in favor of the Trump administration, reserving universal injunctions for the Supreme Court and limiting lower courts’ preliminary injunctions to class action lawsuits or to the individual plaintiff. However, SCOTUS allowed the issue of birthright citizenship to be left for lower courts.

Trump’s executive order has consistently lost legal battles in the lower courts. The American Civil Liberties Union fled a class action lawsuit after the ruling, and the U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire sided with the organization, preventing Trump’s order from going into effect.

The Court has scheduled hearings on birthright citizenship for April 1. If the Trump administration is handed its win, the Court would upend an over 100-year-old legal precedent.

San Antonio Philharmonic Director resigns

The San Antonio Philharmonic’s Jeffrey Kahane has announced his departure as music director, prematurely ending his three-year contract without giving a reason. He has served as the orchestra’s frst director since his appointment in 2024 following the dissolution of the San Antonio Symphony. Previously, Kahane served as music director of the Colorado Symphony from 2005 to 2010, and he is a recognized music director laureate of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra.

Vote in

Texas

gubernatorial election

By Emma Cavanaugh Distribution Manager

Texan voters will decide Republican and Democratic candidates for Governor of Texas during their respective primary elections on March 3.

If needed, a primary runoff will be held on May 26, and then Texas will hold its quadrennial election for governor on Nov. 3 Texas is one of 14 states to have no constitutional term limits for governor. The Texas Constitution specifes that the governor must be at least 30 years old, an American citizen and a resident of Texas for at least fve years. The governor is the chief executive of the state; they oversee state law enforcement, implement state laws, lay out the biennial budget recommendations and lead the state and its military forces during natural or manmade emergencies.

Additionally, the governor appoints the leadership for the Department of Public Safety, the Secretary of State and the commissioner to oversee the Texas Education Agency.

Greg Abbott as the 48th governor of Texas is running as the incumbent seeking a fourth term. His campaign fnance has $105.7 million in cash on hand, with donors — such as Javaid Anwar, Kenneth Fisher, Kelcy Warren and Miriam Adelson — donating at least $1 million each. First elected in 2014, Abbott has been in offce for over a decade. Previously, he was the longest-serving attorney general in state history and served on the Supreme Court of Texas and as a state district judge in Harris County.

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Local credit card skimmer map of 2025 released

The San Antonio Police Department has released information on the 40 credit card skimmers found between Jan. 6, 2025, and Dec. 15, 2025. An interactive map created from the list is available online at KSAT and includes addresses, business names and whether the skimmer was on a gas pump, key pad or ATM. The list includes a Valero gas station located at 5602 UTSA Blvd., less than fve minutes from UT San Antonio’s Main Campus, which had three skimmers recovered in 2025.

Bexar County courthouse breaks ceremony record

Across the steps of the Bexar County Courthouse, a record-setting 154 couples wedded at midnight on Valentine’s Day. Led by County Clerk Lucy Adame-Clark, all couples shared their frst kiss as a married couple in unison, following the annual mass wedding tradition started in 1989. Tejano artist Savannah V. performed for the newlyweds’ frst dance, and the Main Plaza Conservancy hosted a block party. Two more ceremonies followed, at 10 a.m. and noon, accommodating dozens of couples.

OPINION

campus culture dies during commute

When a student imagines their Heaven on Earth, a vivid sensory experience comes to life: the clicking of a car’s ignition, a roaring highway beneath rubber tires and an endless parking lot with too few spaces at their university. Inside the student’s vehicle is their passion, goals for the future and desires for the present, but when it is time to go home, the student takes everything with them, leaving nothing to sustain this academic Garden of Eden. With a majority of students commuting to campus, UT San Antonio lacks the opportunity for a blossoming campus culture.

Despite recent housing additions, UT San Antonio is still largely a commuter campus. Over 85% of enrolled students live off campus in housing unassociated with the university, requiring the school to maintain over 15,000 parking spaces. Since options are so limited, campus culture lives and dies under UT San Antonio’s watch. After all, there is only so

UT San Antonio’s commuter culture overpowers student opportunity for spirited community AmieSchneider/ThePaisano

much the university can do.

On Main Campus, there are over 300 student organizations dedicated to connecting students together based on unifed interests. They fll a multitude of niches, ranging from academics to artisanal soapmaking, but even this leaves gaps between the different student groups. Campus celebrations — such as BestFest and Dia en la Sobrilla — enhance engagement, and frequent sporting events fll the space in between. These support systems attempt to fll the void, but there is only so much they can do. Weekends are dead on campus, and even during the week, students are forced to venture far into the city to fnd entertainment. Given how unwalkable the area surrounding campus is, there are few opportunities to bump into vague acquaintances, explore random areas or stumble into a function without deliberately seeking those experiences. For something simple, such as traveling the mere half mile to H-E-B, pedestrians are accompanied by rushing cars on Highway 1604.

The student body is split and isolated into its various small groups, thoroughly diluting any semblance of campus culture. Even as the university administration continues to publish plans for housing, these new dorms cannot glue together a sense of community if the surrounding area continues to be hospitable for cars only.

UT San Antonio ensures that when students and faculty are on campus, they are welcome — but when Rowdy leaves, he takes the party supplies with him. UT San Antonio’s commuter culture creates a sense of disconnect around campus, rather than the Roadrunner Spirit administration aims to instill. In a more interconnected UT San Antonio, division would not be its unifying factor.

Paxton vs. Cornyn: MAGA voters favor extremism

By Samuel Rencher Contributor

Texas’ senate primaries are fast approaching, and the Republican Party is scrambling after the Democratic win in the special election in Senate District 9. Republicans desperately need good representatives now that voters are getting sick of President Donald Trump. Their choices are currently split between Attorney General Ken Paxton and the incumbent Senator John Cornyn. It does not look good for the Republicans, though; after Cornyn spoke against Trump’s capabilities, Make America Great Again voters chose to abandon him for Paxton, who is a Trump purist. In other words, he is the exact type of person that sane Texans are getting sick of, and the exact type of candidate that lost District 9.

Incumbent Cornyn has held offce since 2002, so he is seemingly popular with Republicans, but recent polling shows that only 31% of Republican voters plan to support him. Paxton leads with 38%. Additionally, Cornyn sits at only 61% favorability among Republicans, which is particularly concerning when considering that Republican Rep. Wesley Hunt — who

only polled a prospective 17% of the vote — has 70% favorability. Paxton, meanwhile, boasts a 72% favorability. Cornyn is a classic Republican. He supports stricter immigration and border policies, expanding aid for low-income students and keeping the energy business — specifcally oil — competitive. He looks like a decent Republican man, not quite MAGA — but that seems to be why he is falling behind in polls. He supported The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act in 2022, a bill that expanded on “red fag” laws for gun buyers. Although such support makes him look reasonable, it got him in hot water with

staunch, pro-gun Republicans. He also told reporters that he thought, “Trump’s time has passed him by,” upsetting MAGA Republican voters. While he is now trying to repair his relations with the group by asking Trump for an endorsement, it looks like he might be too late.

Paxton is taking every inch he can get from Cornyn and shoving it in his face. He wrote on his policy website that there are “too often RINO Republicans willing to help [Democrats],” a clear swing at Cornyn after Trump called him a RINO, or “Republican in name only.”

Paxton is taking full advantage of Cornyn’s not-quite-MAGA position and

Vouch for public schools

By Hallie Lott Web Editor

The Texas state legislature passed Senate Bill 2, allocating $1 billion in funding to create the Texas Education Freedom Accounts Program. This program includes vouchers that provide families who apply to the program with around $10,500 per child to put toward homeschooling or sending their children to private schools. Texas taxpayers would supply this money. Families should advocate for more funding, along with better teachers, services and resources to improve their local public schools rather than using the money to fund their kids’ private schooling.

Arguing that Texas public schools are unsafe and not up to standards preferred by parents, conservative politicians and organizations have pushed for the funding, known as “vouchers,” to force public schools to start performing better under the added competition of private and homeschooling options for Texas children’s education.

These funds do not come from concerned politicians seeking to provide better education for Texas children. These policies are pushed by billionaires who support school choice, such as Jeff Yass, who is from Pennsylvania and donated millions to Abbott to unseat Texas House lawmakers who were against school vouchers. Billionaires, who have nothing to gain or lose from this legislation, support these policies. These vouchers are not in effect because of genuine care for

Texas children’s education but because of moneyed interest.

Furthermore, Republican leaders state that the TEFA program awards around $10,000 per recipient, less than the amount of money schools receive per student, which is about $15,000. They insist that school vouchers do not harm public schools, as they clearly receive more money per student than vouchers give families.

However, the Texas Tribune found that after adjusting the payment per student for infation, the actual amount was $12,140 dollars. This is a decline from 2021, when the original amount was $13,893 before infation, and $12,413 after infation adjustments.

So, while billionaires push for Texans’ taxpayer dollars to pay for private schools and homeschooling ventures, Texas public schools suffer from declining funds, which heavily rely on attendance. Instead of going along with this billionaire-backed program, middle and lower-class families need to fght for local public schools. Instead of accepting that public schools are failing, parents must take it upon themselves to improve the public schools their kids are zoned to attend.

Failure to advocate for a community only weakens the community. Billionaires want to destroy public education. Parents should not let billionaires who suffer no consequences from their decisions impact Texas children’s lives.

is going all in on appealing to Trump’s supporters. It is at a point where he does not have any actual political beliefs that exist outside of Trump. That is not meant to be some kind of poking, leftist commentary — literally every single issue listed on his website pledges his allegiance to Trump. He wishes to “carry the torch for Trump’s agenda,” fght for the American people “just like President Trump” and “help President Trump deport the criminal illegal aliens.” He plans to “stand with President Trump” to defend gun rights, fght abortion and transgender people and advocate for America First policies “alongside President Trump.” He wants to work to create jobs with “President Trump’s economic agenda.” In short, whatever is popular with MAGA is popular with him, and it is clearly a working strategy since he is leading in Republican polls.

Cornyn is being abandoned by his voters because he is not Trump enough, and although taking the mantle of “Trump Lover” is working to get Paxton a solid Republican voter base, it is also setting him up to be the sore loser in another potential Democratic wave come November.

Sakai, Nirenberg spoil campaign plans

By Itzy Ruiz Sepulveda Contributor

With the upcoming spring primary on March 30, the long-awaited, fery debate between Democrats Peter Sakai and Ron Nirenberg took place in San Antonio. Big emphasis on “fery” because these candidates kept throwing shade and speaking over one another the whole time. The incumbent Sakai and Nirenberg, former San Antonio mayor, are fghting to win the Democratic nomination to face off against Republican Patrick Von Dohlen in the November election for the Bexar County Judge election.

Bexar County Judge is not an actual judge, rather a governmental body created by the state to focus on overseeing elections, managing the justice system, handling infrastructure and supervising law enforcement. In this race, both candidates are highly experienced and claim to have done a lot for the city of San Antonio. Yet, it seems they spent most of the debate attacking each other.

Very few plans were actually presented to the crowd, and Sakai appeared confused about what he was bringing to the table.

One of the major discussions between the candidates was about the divisive Project Marvel. Both candidates played a role in supporting this project when it frst got introduced. However, Sakai has now shifted his support for Project Marvel and claims that he does not know what the

project is about. That was not the only time he changed his mind. During a discussion over the jail system in San Antonio, Sakai claimed the issue at hand was the criminal justice system. A few moments later, he mentioned a “regional jail” yet did not go into details about what that meant.

As for Nirenberg, his approach was all about seeing this position as a job. In other words, it is like a CEO position that involves a lot of leadership. Nirenberg’s focus is to work together with the community and address major challenges. Throughout his speech, Sakai verbally attacked Nirenberg and emphasized the fact that the former San Antonio mayor has no legal background. Although true, Nirenberg previously served on the city council and served as mayor for two full terms. Nirenberg also attacked Sakai, stating that he relies too much on his expertise as a judge to make decisions instead of his leadership skills. Despite the constant bickering between both candidates, Sakai and Nirenberg showcased that they both have the experience to take on the role of county judge. The great showdown demonstrated to the city of San Antonio what each Democratic candidate brings to the table if elected. Aside from their broad goals, candidates should have expanded on the plans they have for Bexar County. Experience and vision were on full display, but voters are still waiting to hear how those promises will turn into actions.

OPINION

Crime dropping, arrogance rising

Commentary

By Selbi Ernepesova Contributor

Despite persistent rhetoric from President Donald Trump’s administration that crime has been high and rising for the past few years, recently released data refutes their fallacious narrative. According to the Council on Criminal Justice, violent crime has declined. Homicide rates have reached their lowest levels across 40 U.S. cities, including San Antonio. Violence across the country has been falling for several years after spiking during the pandemic. Data shows the homicide rate decreased by roughly 13% in 2024 and continued to drop into 2025. During this same period, drug offenses rose by approximately 7%.

This report prompted the Trump administration to publish an article taking full credit for the decline, stating that years of soft crime policies under former President Joe Biden “plunged the nation’s biggest cities into anarchy” and “Trump took offce on a promise to restore public safety and delivered.” Ironically, the crime spike occurred during Trump’s frst term, while the decline they claim to have “delivered” was underway during the Biden administration.

The data does not show that the Trump administration is responsible for these decreases; in fact, their policies may be making things worse by diverting essential Federal

Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Department of Justice resources away from crime task forces, to manage mass deportation, while slashing federal grants for violence intervention.

The analysis includes several Texas cities such as Austin, Dallas, El Paso, Fort Worth and San Antonio. The homicide rate declined in these cities except for El Paso, where it rose 1%. San Antonio saw a 19% decline in its homicide rate and an overall decline in other categories by 13%. According to a report from the Major Cities Chiefs Association, violent crime rates dropped for homicide, robbery and aggravated assault in San Antonio, but increased in rape crimes.

Locally, the San Antonio Police Department has seen success with “hot spot” policing, which uses data to place patrols in areas prone to violence. This strategy led to a 22% decrease in violent crime in targeted areas last year. San Antonio and Texas must continue prioritizing evidence-based initiatives. Additionally, the city’s move toward mental health centers allows people in crisis to receive treatment instead of jail time. This is crucial for addressing the root causes of crimes.

According to a separate report by the Council on Criminal Justice, the decline likely resulted from factors such as systemic reforms concerning policing, incarceration, mental health and frearm regulations.

One signifcant factor was the American Rescue Plan Act, which provided funding to Community Violence Intervention. These policies increased youth support and public safety by focusing on those at high risk for committing offenses.

America’s greatness is best refected in a government that makes tangible steps to ensure its people are healthy and safe.

Honor ineptitude on Presidents Day

Commentary By Kassandra Jaime Contributor

Presidents Day originally celebrated George Washington, the frst president of the U.S., whose triumphant legacy has shaped the country. Americans gather around the nation today with parades, parties and banners to celebrate each impactful president thatled this nation.

There are many ways to describe Trump, including unprofessional, divisive and an abuser of power. A president who holds himself to such a low standard is beneath Americans’ integrity, defeating their purpose for celebrating Presidents Day.

Trump has shown zero interest in the American people, explaining his low approval rating of 47% in his frst term and a 36% rating during his second term. If grossly low ratings did not already demonstrate his divisiveness, Trump’s media conduct would leave Washington in shock.

Trump has used the media to ridicule America through videos generated by artifcial intelligence. He posted AI photos of himself launching feces from a fghter jet during No Kings Day protests and a racist AI depiction of former President Barack Obama and former frst lady Michelle Obama’s faces plastered on ape bodies. In addition to his child-like behaviors, Trump’s appearances in the Epstein fles continue to surface, showcasing Trump’s inappropriate acquaintances. To celebrate a convicted felon on Presidents Day is to make a mockery of past U.S. presidents who respected the law and the dignity of the U.S.

Trump continues to alienate free speech in a country of democracy. His abhorrent conduct infuses distrust as he attacks American journalists, politicians and anyone who opposes his views — from calling The New York Times and Washington Post “FAKE NEWS” to verbally abusing a female reporter, scolding“Quiet piggy” after being asked a question.

While civilians felt uncertain about their healthcare, Trump utilized a government shutdown to punish Democrats. A president deserving of a national holiday does not act with impunity against his nation.

Presidents Day celebrates the accomplishments of each president. Trump’s tyranny has spent citizens’ taxpayer money on terrorist agencies, as seen in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s $85 billion budget.

Trump has also involved the country in foreign affairs that do not pertain to U.S. interests. Just recently, Trump took it upon himself to capture Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, which 56% of Americans believed was an overstep of military intervention. It is impossible to boast about Presidents Day when the current president works solely for his own personal gain.

Trump’s deplorable character, contentious behavior and misuse of authority have infringed on the honorable meaning behind Presidents Day. This year, for Presidents Day, citizens should honor the authenticity of fgures like Washington who made a constructive impact on American society, not those who tear it apart.

Generation Z avoiding relationships

By Elizabed Babaudze Contributor

With the passing of Cupid’s bow and arrow, many have noticed and expressed their disappointment in dwindling dating pool trends. Society has strayed away from the idea of responsibility and emotional labor. Dating apps fll up not only with more people but also more failed talking stages. Whether by choice or circumstance, younger generations have stepped away from the uncertainty of current dating

trends — fearing responsibility, false illusions of option abundance, and refusal to settle.

Dating apps are on the decline due to reported mental exhaustion from the plethora of options and deteriorating mental health. According to Adjust.com, dating app usage decreased by approximately 13% in the last several years. People seek out in-person experiences, which seems to be a positive change. However, this might place additional barriers in a society where social media is a major part of life. Insecure attachment, along with fear of rejection, is prevalent.

Social media and texting culture create an unnatural and insecure base for relationships. People prioritize shallow connections through technology rather than deeper, inperson engagement. The Journal of Assessment and Research in Applied Counselling’s study of digital comparison and emotional acceleration found that modern trends of failing relationships or avoidance of relationships altogether are usually caused by fear of vulnerability. Additionally, the prevalence of online options creates a “grass is greener on the other side” illusion. People obsessively compare their relationships and partners to unrealistic online mirages and fail to enjoy what they have. The combination of these

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factors creates shallow and short-lived relationships.

It appears that women’s expectations are rising. For centuries, women have lowered their standards in relationships either by choice or by force. Some of the most signifcant contributors to this change are women’s decreasing desire to settle, rise in confdence when setting boundaries and prioritizing their well-being. Several studies reported by Newsweek and polls such as the Pew Research Center’s 2023 present a huge gender gap where 63% of men under the age of 30 are single compared to 34% of women. Many blame it on “unrealistic expectations,” but perhaps women just want reciprocity and equality in relationships.

Hot topics such as the recent Vogue article “Is Having a Boyfriend Embarrassing Now?” have further reinforced the push for change. Many more social factors affect women’s lack of enthusiasm in romance, such as the spread of extremist misogynistic ideologies and high assault rates. On the other hand, many men report leaving or avoiding relationships due to unrealistic fnancial expectations. Statistics show women’s choice in partners is more dependent on personal characteristics, according to a report from Hinge.

Although this generation tends to fear responsibility, not all hope is lost. Some statistics may seem discouraging, but they also suggest relationships with consistency, reciprocation and effort are more likely to succeed. Trends are slowly shifting from superfcial online dating apps to valuable in-person connections; sometimes, all it takes is initiation and openness to change.

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 organization. Te Paisano is NOT sponsored, fnanced or endorsed by UT San Antonio. New issues are published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters, excluding holidays and exam periods. Te Paisano is distributed on the UT San Antonio Main Campus. Additionally, Paisano publications are distributed at a variety of of-campus locations, including Tri-point and a variety of apartment complexes near the UT San Antonio Main Campus. All revenues are generated through advertising and donations. Advertising inquiries and donations should be directed to: 14526 Roadrunner Way Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78249 Phone: (210) 690-9301 © 2026 Te Paisano Te University of Texas at San Antonio’s Handbook of Operating Procedures states in 5.03 that: Te University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) will not exercise control over the format or content of Student Publications, but will regulate distribution on campus. Student Publications will be free of censorship and advance approval of copy, and their editors and managers are solely responsible for editorial and content policies and decisions. Editors and managers of Student Publications will not

ARTS & LIFE

Black a r t i s t s PAINT SATX

By Audrey Villar Arts & Life Editor

February has been the U.S.’ offcial Black History Month since 1976, growing in recognition and celebrations with each passing year. The idea originated from Carter G. Woodson’s Negro History Week, which he founded in 1926, making this year the 100th year of formal celebrations in the country. The past century has cultivated many traditions surrounding the month that continue to this day. Black people have been integral to San Antonio, and the Alamo City has certainly risen to the occasion to deliver Black History Month events that do the pioneers of the past and present justice. Here are some artists and art events to lend patronage for the last half of Black History Month and beyond.

Black History Month art market

The San Antonio African American Community Archive & Museum will be commemorating Black artists of the area with an art market on Feb. 21. The event, which will last from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at La Villita, will feature “exhibitions which bring the narratives and legacies of the past to life,” in recognition of the work that was done for today’s society. The market will consist of Black artists from around Southwest Texas. Celebrate Black history with free admission to music, vendors and crafts, and support local, Black artists at 218 South Presa.

“New African Masquerades” at SAMA

The San Antonio Museum of Art will be introducing their new exhibit, “New African Masquerades: Artistic Innovations and Collaborations,” on Feb. 28. The display will feature four artists from four different regions of

Africa and “recounts in-depth stories about the lives, motivations, and ideas of each of the four participating masquerade makers,” according to the museum’s website. The exhibit can be enjoyed until July 5.

African American aviator exhibit prepares for take off at airport

By Cruz Delgado Managing Editor

The San Antonio International Airport opened the art exhibit “Reach for the Stars: African American Pioneers in Aviation” on Feb. 9. The exhibit, situated on a back wall in Terminal A near the Southwest counter, incorporates portraits, short biographies and artifacts associated with the Tuskegee Airmen to commemorate Black History Month.

The installation underscores the African American influence on aviatorial excellence inside and outside the cockpit. Among the names featured are Bessie Coleman, Bernard A. Harris and the “Hidden Figures.” The “Hidden Figures” biography provides information on Katharine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn and Mary Jackson — the three mathematicians who

worked on the successful U.S. launch of an astronaut into Earth’s orbit.

A model P-51 Mustang plane and a Tuskegee Airmen action fgure, backpack and uniform complement the biographies. The San Antonio Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. chapter donated these artifacts to the exhibit.

Along with the Tuskegee Airmen memorabilia, the panel displays pottery donated by The Wilson Pottery Foundation. Freedmen Hiram, James and Wallace Wilson founded H. Wilson & Company after the Civil War in Capote, a small town outside of Seguin, Texas, where H. Wilson bought hundreds of acres of land as well as pottery equipment. Historians consider the Potter brothers to be the frst African American businessmen in Texas and their business to be the frst Texas company founded and owned by formerly enslaved people.

H. Wilson’s breakthrough into the business world created a much larger legacy than just his pottery. His fnancial success allowed him to set aside land for a Baptist church, cemetery and school. In the process of creating his business, he transformed Capote, Texas, into a haven for freedmen.

“Reach for the Stars: African American Pioneers in Aviation” provides a brief moment of refection for travellers who decide to take a breath in the high-speed atmosphere of the San Antonio International Airport.

Patrons interested in learning more about H.Wilson’s impact on the Texas community can visit the Wilson Pottery Museum — located at 704 Zorn St. Segun, Texas — Thursday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

J. Cole has not fallen off just yet

By Natalia Loera

After going silent in the midst of the Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake internet feud, J. Cole has returned and released his fnal album on Feb. 6. “The Fall-Off” is packed with marvelous lyrics, symbolism and bass-boosted beats. Cole is recognized for his slam-poetry-ish bars and story-like songs infused with themes of Black experiences, love and success. This new record sticks with the rapper’s usual style with witty, impactful and quick fows in his verses.

The fnest song on the record is “39 Intro.” Cole’s gentle vocals open accompanied by soft strums of an acoustic guitar. The beat transforms into a Tyler The Creator-esque rhythm and features catchy drums and hihats, making this track highly amusing. The melody is captivating, and the rapper’s fow is incomparable. The production and beats are nothing less than exemplary;

the merging of various music styles mixed with the lyrics bring this song up to par. Other songs with similar and potent fow in verses and beats are “Lonely at the Top” and “Bombs in the Ville/Hit the Gas.”

Cole’s storytelling is prominent in the record. Songs such as “I Love Her Again” are a precise representation of the experiences that the rapper paints. The tune tells a tale about the rapper falling in love with a person who has a negatively extensive dating history, or so it seems at frst glance. The story is linear and clear, flled with thorough imagery without losing its rhyme. The woman is a metaphor for hip-hop and the vicissitudes of the genre. This gives room for contrasting perspectives while also possessing historical refection.

“Only You” is flled with what can only be described as art. Poet and MC Eve L. Fontes recites an outro for the track. The conclusion expresses the vulnerability of man and the expectations he carries: “You’re tired, and you’re weak, and you could blow it all tonight / ‘Cause everybody thinks that you’re a man of steel.” This ending elegantly mixes poetry and song closer together, all while adding to the themes of success, fatherhood and relationships.

“The Let Out” is one of the most captivating songs on the album — mixed with Mexican regional guitar and thrilling electric guitar solos. The corrido-like intro is a surprisingly rare mixing of genres. Lyrics in the song, such as “Proceed with caution, thinkin’ they stalkin’ your moves / Pistols be sparkin’, leaving your thoughts on your shoes” are incredible penmanship from Cole — enthralling metaphor without the dispense of rhyme. A faster fowing verse with astonishing harmonies makes this track instrumentally marvelous.

Cole has proven once again that he is worthy of the fame and success he has attained. His verses and symbolism are attentive and profound. Instrumentals are not mushy and repetitive. Each track makes the listening experience stunning.

“Petal Rock Black” by Willow Smith

Willow Smith, an African American musician, scheduled her seventh album for release on Feb. 17.

The genre-hopping artist has spoken out about the discriminatory struggles that people of color face in the music industry.

“I just hope that I can show young Black girls that, despite the fact that people are telling us, ‘We shouldn’t listen to this music. We shouldn’t dress this way. We shouldn’t sing this way.’ — We do it and do it to the fullest!” Smith said. Listen to Smith’s newest album, “Petal Rock Black,” on streaming services to support her.

The String Queens

Kendall Isadore, Dawn Johnson and Elise Sharp make up the all-Black, all-women musical group known as The String Queens. They will be coming to San Antonio to perform musical classics spanning a variety of genres. The group aims “to create musical experiences that inspire diverse audiences to love, hope, feel, and imagine.” Those who wish to see the trio will get the chance on Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. at the Jo Long Theatre for $35.

Jill Scott returns with fervor

By Johnpaul Buwule Staff Writer

Jilly from Philly, or Jill Scott, returns with her highly anticipated album, “To Whom This May Concern,” released on Feb. 13. The aunty-bop album infuses a variety of genres from trip-hop to blues that blend to create an experience that carries a stronger, more powerful voice than her previous works.

While the album stands out in some respects, Scott continues to maintain a warmth in her artistry. Scott refects on her roots and those who paved the way for her, enveloping herself in her neo-soul, funkadelic groove. In “Offdaback,” she sings, “They did it for themselves (Tina), but ultimately (Billie), they did it for us,” to commemorate Black artists who came before her. Her album pulls the listener from all directions, often tugging with no clear direction. From singing about Black fgures who paved the way to rapping about her objective greatness in “Norf Side,” the body of work lacks a coherent theme, but the album’s musicality and swing make up for it.

Throughout, she displays her versatility and proclivity to making different sounds and genres her own. In “Norf Side,” the listener is introduced to Rap Scotty. In “Dope Shit,” the listener gets to peer at Spoken Word Scotty. She then offers a burlesque-infused New Orleans blues song, “Pay U on Tuesday,” singing, “I said I don’t want no more n—- blues.” A line for every woman who has dealt with a trifing, lowdown man. Through each genre switch or fow change, Scott displays her mastery in different styles of art.

Despite thematic obscurity, Scott proves that her art still speaks to the soul. In “Me 4” and “BPOTY,” Scott narrates the struggles of having to navigate the world during fnancially hard times. In “Me 4,” she sings, “They needed money, I lent them money,” and “Now it’s April and I feel sick.” In “BPOTY,” she calls out churches that constantly drain members of their funds, proclaiming, “Biggest pimp of the year.” Scott beautifully constructs a dialogue with her audience through her music, bridging melodies of understanding that recognize a set of her listeners.

Scott begins to transport the listener back to her roots, which lie in a softer, rhythmic fow. “The Math” and “A Universe” carry a Scott who vocalizes in a misty, smooth tone. Their slower progression allows the listener to placidly sink into the singer’s love melody.

Scott’s new album traverses various genres and tempos. Towards the end, Scott’s album sounds like a refective journey, summarizing the new realization she has reached at her age; however, the lack of a concrete theme makes it hard to follow the album’s story. Even without a coherent story, Scott conveys her different personas in this work, offering a funkadelic yet intimate dance album for every aunty to listen to.

Valentina Quintanilla/The Paisano

ARTS & LIFE

Valentine’s Day at Market Square: Celebrating love

By Amanda Fuentes Contributor

This Valentine’s Day, the Historic Market Square buzzed with live music, vendors and love. Permanent restaurants and stores bordered the path of the square that was flled with booths selling original artwork, handmade jewelry and other artisanal creations.

A stage hosting a live band stood near the back of the event, accompanied by a large paper mache bride and groom. Guests stopped to take pictures with the festive couple surrounded by fowers and balloons.

Couples who showed up hungry were in luck, as food and sweet treats were plentiful.

Historic Market Square’s usual restaurants offered a traditional sit-down option, and food vendors sold tacos, corn in a cup, homemade baked goods, packaged chamoy candies and much more.

When walking around in San Antonio, even in mid-February, it is not hard to break a sweat. Fortunately, guests could grab a quick beverage from a number of places. Among the stands that flled the street were vendors selling horchata, agua fresca and alcoholic drinks.

Film, couples, scooters

Bird On The Street Week of 2/17

By Regan Williams Multimedia Editor

February has been incredibly eventful with Valentine’s Day and Black History Month. A lot of exciting movies come out this month — some more original than others. It is also the frst full month into the spring semester, so students are walking to get to class or using something a little more speedy.

This week on Bird on the Street, The Paisano interviewed junior cybersecurity major Jamie Owusu, freshman cybersecurity major Shane Nolan, freshman psychology major Gabbi Ramirez and freshman psychology major Lorena Diaz de Leon.

Is Valentine’s Day a holiday for couples or singles?

Owusu says that the holiday “can be for both” as one can spend Valentine’s Day “with your partner” or “galentines,” a holiday where “you spend it with people you love and care about.” Nolan disagrees as he thinks this holiday is “defnitely for couples.” Ramirez also thinks it can be celebrated for “both,” noting that “Valentine’s Day is about love and you can love someone who is like your best friend, but you can also love someone who is like your partner. It’s just love in general.” Diaz de Leon also agrees, saying it is a holiday “for both” as she celebrates it with her best friend and her boyfriend.

Do you prefer adaptations or original work for flm?

Owusu argues he “prefers original work, I feel like everything nowadays is adaptations or sequel or prequel, and I feel like we need more work like ‘Sinners’ or just original work where it is just pulling from sources that haven’t already been done before.” Nolan disagrees, stating, “if you can adapt to something you can adapt to anything.” Ramirez says “original work” because “adaptations can sometimes take away the original message,” mentioning “Lilo and Stitch” as an example. Diaz de Leon agrees, saying she does not “like watching the same thing over and over again.”

Any procrastinator who waited until Valentine’s Day to buy a gift for a special someone in their life would have a wide array of options to choose from at Historic Market Square. The shops sold purses, belt buckles and clothes. Artists sold original paintings, handmade jewelry and homemade candles.

This event is meaningful to attendees and vendors alike. The Valentine’s Day market allows artists to share their creations with the community, and attendees are able to fnd artisan pieces that support local businesses.

“Putting a handcrafted organic candle into the perfect couple’s houses [is special],” local candle maker Samantha Lujan described as the best part of the event, emphasizing the holiday’s companionship.

The excitement continued inside the market plaza, which had shops in a circular path selling dresses and fower crowns. Jewelry options overfowed, with special sales commemorating the day of love.

The plaza had similar items to the shops outside, but it also included stores that sold home items. A garden shop, Plaza Flowery, sold pots and other garden necessities. A nearby shop sold windchimes and wall decor, including crosses, mirrors and alebrijes that could be hung.

More live music was featured in the plaza, with a guitarist in the center space of the shops. Guests enjoyed food and company at the surrounding seats and tables. Additional desserts could be found in this area, with an

ice cream shop and churros nearby.

The love-centric festival had more than just shopping and eating — couples could enjoy a free Valentine’s Cookie Workshop by signing up for either the 12-1 p.m. or the 2-3 p.m. time slots. Caricature drawings from an artisan booth presented itself as an alternative activity nearby.

Historic Market Square’s Valentine’s Day celebration catered to more than just couples. Families accompanied by pets enjoyed the holiday and celebrated familial love by dancing to music and taking pictures with a cupid and heart mascot. The event also had activities for kids, including a face painting booth.

The colorful buildings of Historic Market Square added to the joyful vibes as friends, couples and families spent the day together.

Guests exited the event with handpicked items to be cherished and free roses, excited to return the following year to celebrate another day of love.

Letters from Urbino: Academia

By Edmond Cartagena Staff Writer

Ciao, studenti di San Antonio!

This week, students from UT San Antonio’s College of Liberal and Fine Arts explored the academic background of both Urbino and Bologna. Urbino’s archive allowed junior linguists to study the lives of Renaissance era Italians, and the streets of Bologna urged them to explore the world’s longest running university. Academic adventures await!

The COLFA group began their weekly lesson with a history lecture by Guido Dall’Olio, an Italian historian who has studied the Roman Inquisition in great detail. His lesson prepared students for a trip to Urbino’s vast archive with documents that have dates stretching back to the high middle ages. An original piece of “Dante’s Inferno” was most intriguing, dating back to the early 13th century. The artifact lies among many more studious writings.

Unearthing Italian history at the Urbino archive made UT San Antonio students eager to learn more about the vast history of Italia. The archival visit equipped COLFA students with plentiful knowledge before their trip to Bologna, colloquially nicknamed “la dotta, la grossa, la rossa.” This directly translates to “the learned, the fat, the red.” This nickname comes from the city’s profound educational history, the people’s love for food and the architecture’s utilization of red bricks throughout the medievalturned-modern streets.

Although Bologna is a much larger city than Urbino, it holds abundant academic and religious charm in its own right. This city houses the ornately carved tomb of San Domenico, a Catholic saint famous for relinquishing his riches to share his teachings with those less fortunate than him. Some of the art on

it refects medieval artistic styles or Renaissance artistry, demonstrating Saint Dominic’s long-lasting legacy. In another part of the city, Basilica di San Petorino stands tall and unfnished. Walking inside the cathedral makes one feel as small as an ant. The grand, gothic architecture is visible through the pointed arches and the stained glass windows. Travelers from around the globe gather in awe as they witness the glory.

Aside from the renowned religious culture in Bologna, the academic life is equally abundant. Universita di Bologna has been operating since 1088, allowing students access to knowledge for nearly one thousand years. This school was originally named the Alma Mater Studorium, which translates from Latin to “nourishing mother of studies.” This name is why schools all around the world have an alma mater, including UT San Antonio. How renowned university also houses the famous anatomical theatre, where professors from the early modern era would dissect bodies in order to understand human anatomy in depth. It is a beautifully designed place that once advanced pertinent medical knowledge, despite its nauseating history. Without the Bolognesi, the people of Bologna, students would not have access to modern anatomical knowledge. The University of Bologna also houses the massive, two-story library with more than one million books. Being inside the university’s library is surreal. One could easily study in a place like that next week’s itinerary, COLFA will be visiting Rome; so please stay in touch! Follow the adventures of UT San Antonio’s students abroad by following @lettersfromurbino on

That’s all for now, giornata, tutte e tutti!

UPSA prioritizes peaceful parley

By Jasmine Williams Editor-in-Chief

Students of the Undergraduate Political Science Association began to gather in a tucked away, tiny room on the fourth foor of the Multidisciplinary Studies Building. With a dozen or so members attending the 5 p.m. meeting on Feb. 12, the organization’s small size allowed ample opportunity for quick and close connections to form among those in the room.

Junior political science major and president Marco Rodriguez led the meeting. Between scheduling upcoming events and talk of relocating the meeting space to the ground foor, Rodriguez engaged in some friendly banter with the club’s liveliest members.

“I think this is the one of the only spaces that I’ve personally truly felt that is safe,” UPSA Recruitment Coordinator Lauren McCollough revealed. “I do think just because of the open-mindedness that org has, it’s very unique in that it always, 99% of the time, remains civil.”

Their light-hearted, casual nature was a far cry from the verbal dogfght occasionally overheard next door from an alleged speech and debate group.

“We set ourselves apart by specifcally honing in on the education part,” Rodriguez clarifed. “With debate, like you heard them earlier, they were yelling, and you can hear the sweat coming off of them because it’s so intense. We want to kind of move away from that.

“We want to focus on not what you’re arguing, but why you’re thinking the way you do and why other people think that the way they do.”

Rodriguez, an army veteran, likened the squawking next door to overhearing his parents’ arguing, which garnered quite a few laughs from UPSA students. The meeting continued with scheduling upcoming events, including Fight Night.

That event features members and newcomers alike

debating topics of their choosing, like foreign policy, prison reform and women’s issues. However, Fight Night is not some kind of free-for-all like the folks next door; it is a professional, educational and structured event with a swear jar to keep foul language at a minimum.

The fnal item on the agenda was the weekly discussion question: Can people of different political ideologies be in a relationship?

The feeling in the room shifted. The air’s agitation became palpable. Students scooted towards the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting a chance to go head-to-head and say their piece.

When they fnally did, it was just as peaceful and cordial as the entire meeting had been.

“I think every single person in that room is very intellectually curious and empathetic,” McCollough, a junior political science major, said. “Connecting with other people is what we’re meant to do, and I think that that’s really impacted me and it’s made me push myself harder to try to solve some of the issues we talk about.”

There was no debate in which attendees yelled at each other at the top of their lungs. There was genuine discussion about overarching stereotypes among political parties, ethics and confict resolution. UPSA meeting guests elaborately discussed points and refected on different perspectives.

In a time where conversation between people of opposing political beliefs has become increasingly contentious, Rodriguez and UPSA hope to be an exception.

“I wanted to bring people from all different kinds of political ideologies to come into the fold, discuss with one another, because the purpose of our organization, as a nonpartisan political organization, is to encourage people and educate and mentor other people,” Rodriguez shared.

To keep up with UPSA, follow their Instagram @utsa_ upsa.

Men’s tennis falls short of comeback against Tulane University

By Brad Millwater Contributor

SAN ANTONIO — UTSA mounted a hard-fought comeback but ultimately fell 3-4 to Tulane University on Friday at the UTSA Tennis Center.

As all singles matches fnished, it came down to sophomore Enzo Vargas, with the team score tied at 3-3. The Roadrunners fought back from down 0-2 after losing the doubles point and their frst singles match. Vargas took the fnal singles match into the third set tiebreaker, but ultimately lost 4-7, and the Green Wave stormed the court in celebration. A disappointing frst match at home continues the rough start to the season for the Roadrunners, as they are still searching for their frst team win.

“We’ve got a really young group of guys,” coach Sasha Gozun said after the match. “They’ve shown that they are capable of beating good teams, and they fght like crazy. Never count us out.

“It’s going to come down to a few points here and there, and momentum. We turned that match around a few times, but we just came up a little bit short. I’m more excited about what the future holds. Again, freshmen, sophomores: we got three or four years with these guys. So I’m just excited about that.”

It was a disappointing start to the match on Friday. Tulane won the doubles point

handily, then sophomore Ben Chetewy Ungar lost 6-0, 6-0 in the frst singles result. Down 0-2, the Roadrunners fought hard in the remaining fve matches; all fve players took their battles into decisive third sets.

Sophomore Oskar Grzegorzewski started the rally and turned the tide frst, winning the third set convincingly to make the team score 1-2. After freshman Yonatan Sagiv won his match and freshman Timeo Bretin lost, UTSA was down 2-3, with Tulane only needing one more match to take the victory.

Freshman Constantin Radu bested his opponent in the third set 6-2, and the score was tied. All eyes moved to Vargas versus Asaf Friedler. Friedler earned Tulane a gritty road victory and continued the ‘Runners’ winless streak.

Three Roadrunners dropped the frst set in singles, and they came back to tie the set count 1-1 in their respective matches. Grzegorzewski and Sagiv both won their matches from a set down.

“They’re a very resilient group of guys. That’s what we preach in practices,” Gozun remarked. “There’s always going to be a next point, and you just have to forget about the previous one. The grit is there. We just need a little bit of time.”

The Roadrunners face Southern Methodist University on Sunday, Feb. 22 in Dallas, Texas.

from Rowe lifts UTSA past Temple University

Roadrunners lean on experience to pull away from Owls late

By Brad Millwater

SAN ANTONIO — Senior forward Cheyenne Rowe dominated with 26 points and 10 rebounds as UTSA women’s basketball defeated Temple University 5243 on Tuesday night at the Convocation Center.

Drawing close with Temple (10-13, 4-7 AC) until the fourth quarter, UTSA (1211, 7-5 AC) completely took over the game on both ends in the fnal period. The Roadrunners’ ability to create stops, their tenacity on the glass and willingness to push the court overwhelmed the Owls. The Roadrunners found their offensive rhythm when it mattered most and leaned on Rowe and junior forward Idara Udo defensively. Leading by four with six minutes left in the game, the ‘Runners used their tempo to create easy opportunities, embarking on a 6-0 run that pushed their lead to double digits.

“It just kind of got down to who could really buckle down in the second half, get consecutive stops and maybe execute a little better offensively,” coach Karen Aston said after the game.

Early in the game, the ‘Runners’ bigs were crashing the glass and using their gravity inside to get open looks on the perimeter, but they couldn’t convert those chances. After making their frst three-pointer, UTSA went cold from outside, missing their next 14 attempts and ending the game 1-15 from distance. UTSA made up for that lack of success by out-rebounding the Owls 43-29 and

emphasizing pace down the court. UTSA avoided fouling the Owls in the frst quarter, but their scoring ineffciency had them down 17-13 at the frst break.

Up until the halfway point of the second quarter, UTSA struggled to create opportunities on offense — with only one feld goal attempted, and missed, in fve minutes. Then, Rowe turned it on. Rowe went on a solo 6-0 run and made three consecutive jump shots on three attempts.

This highlight run from Rowe gave UTSA a 21-19 lead. The score at the break was 21-21, and Rowe had an impressive 12 points and four rebounds in the frst half.

While the frst half score was indicative of strong defense from both teams, the Roadrunners gave Temple plenty of empty possessions, losing the turnover battle 114.

“We had 11 turnovers at the half, and fnished with 14,” coach Aston remarked. “Taking care of the basketball and giving ourselves an opportunity to get a shot off every possession was really the difference.”

Although she only attempted one shot in the frst half, sophomore guard Mia Hammonds came out of the break with a different mindset and immediately looked to score. Hammonds did so successfully, as she went 4-4 from the feld in the third quarter and fnished with 10 points. Five minutes into the second half, the Roadrunner defense had showcased their strength, holding the Owls to just 3-20 from the feld since the end of the frst quarter. Udo and Rowe’s consistent presence inside suffocated Temple’s bigs, with Udo amassing four blocks and eleven rebounds.

UTSA had nine second chance points to Temple’s four, outscored the Owls on the fast break 10-6 and beat them in the paint 30-20.

Yet another UTSA rally denied by South Florida in home defeat

Roadrunners unable to answer Bulls’ transition offense, shot-making and physicality

By Aramis Santiago Assistant Sports Editor

SAN ANTONIO — Despite controlling the boards and applying steady defensive pressure, UTSA women’s basketball could not overcome effcient shooting and transition offense in a 69-63 loss to the University of South Florida on Saturday at the Convocation Center.

What began as a back-and-forth opening quarter unraveled in the second and third, as South Florida (16-10, 9-4 AC) dictated tempo and capitalized on transition opportunities. Fast-break layups, kick-out threes, mid-range jumpers and physical fnishes inside exposed defensive lapses and stretched the margin to 12 entering the fourth. A late surge trimmed the defcit as UTSA (12-12, 7-6 AC) pieced together stops and timely baskets, but each time the Roadrunners threatened, the Bulls answered with effcient execution to keep them at arm’s length.

“The difference in the game was their ability to get easier shots than what we were able to get,” coach Karen Aston said. “When you play a team like South Florida that transitions the way they do, you can’t take a break and feel sorry for yourself.”

UTSA showed early fght, as junior forward Idara Udo established presence inside, and the Runners’ defense forced tough looks, allowing them to stay level even while shots near the rim refused to fall. Even as South Florida pressured the perimeter and crowded driving lanes, UTSA kept generating chances, but too many point-blank looks rolled off the rim or were altered at the last second.

“One area that we may and should have done a better job was giving the ball to Idara,” Aston said. “She was having a good night tonight, and I’m not sure we did a good enough job getting it inside.”

South Florida fipped the tone in the middle stretch. Guard Katie Davidson began fnding space on the perimeter, and guard Stefanie Ingram repeatedly attacked downhill. Forward L’or Mputu altered shots at the rim, and every UTSA miss seemed to ignite a fast break the other way. A tight contest slowly stretched as South Florida strung together stops, pushed tempo and capitalized on defensive breakdowns that hadn’t been there in the opening quarter. The Roadrunners however, never stopped competing. They controlled the glass, outrebounding South Florida 4536 as Udo posted a double-double. UTSA even generated 19 more shot attempts, but the difference was conversion. The Bulls shot 50% from the feld, while the ‘Runners struggled to make clean looks count, fnishing at 31%.

“When you look at the box score, we got more shot attempts, we beat them on the three-point line, we beat them on the free throw line, we beat them in rebounding and they turned the ball over more than we did,” Aston said. “The difference in the game was them putting the ball in the basket more in transition.” Still, the fnal minutes brought life. Junior guard Ereauna Hardaway sparked momentum with a steal and aggressive fnish that briefy energized the crowd. Allen provided an offensive spark in the fourth, scoring nine points in the period as UTSA clawed within striking distance.

A late opportunity off a steal could have cut the margin to fve with under a minute left, but the layup would not drop. On the other end, South Florida answered calmly yet again, forcing the Roadrunners to chase from behind in the closing seconds.

UTSA will travel to Kansas to take on Wichita State University at 1 p.m. next Saturday at Charles Koch Arena.

utsa baseball open ing weekend

Ranking the 5 best MLB offseasons

By Michael Rios Staff Writer

Now that the Super Bowl has concluded, it is offcially baseball season. Following an epic seven-game World Series battle between the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers, a number of teams looked to improve in the offseason in order to contend with these two juggernauts. Here are the fve teams that have improved the most during the 2025 offseason:

5. Boston Red Sox

When the Red Sox lost third baseman Alex Bregman to the Chicago Cubs, the front offce quickly pivoted to a runprevention approach. The additions of pitchers Ranger Suárez, Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo help build a top-fve rotation in the American League led by Garrett Crochet and Suárez — a nasty one-two punch. Suárez was the best of these signings considering he posted a 3.20 ERA last season. The Red Sox also added infeld depth by trading with St. Louis Cardinals frst baseman Willson Contreras and Milwaukee Brewers third baseman Caleb Durbin. Contreras provides much-needed power after hitting 20 home runs last season while Durbin adds speed, stealing 18 bases in 2025. Losing Bregman was unfortunate for the Red Sox, but they have rebounded well following his departure.

4. Baltimore Orioles

The Orioles fnished 75-87 in 2025 after a season littered with injuries to franchise shortstop Gunnar Henderson and catcher

Adley Rutschman. The team’s front offce spent north of $195 million this offseason in hopes of reaching 90 wins again. The Orioles now have plenty of thump in their lineup with the additions of frst baseman Pete Alonso and Angels outfelder Taylor Ward, who is coming off a career-high 36-home run season. Baltimore also improved their starting rotation by trading for Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane Baz, who remains unproven, but has upside given his arsenal, and signing veterans Chris Bassitt and Zach Efin. In the bullpen, they added closer Ryan Helsley, who looks to bounce back after a dreadful 4.50 ERA season. These signings do have some risk, but the ceiling, paired with a healthy Henderson and Rutschman, is high enough that the O’s could return to the playoffs in October.

3. Los Angeles Dodgers

Just when baseball fans thought they saw the best from the Dodgers, Los Angeles signed two of the best free agents during the offseason. Outfelder Kyle Tucker and closer Edwin Díaz fll much-needed holes for the Dodgers. Outside of Andy Pages and Teoscar Hernández, the Dodgers’ third outfeld spot was a weakness. Tucker provides 20-home run power, a career .358 on-base percentage and solid outfeld defense. Díaz is a top-tier closer who could earn 35-plus saves for the Dodgers, a mark he has only achieved once in his career. The Dodgers also re-signed third baseman Max Muncy, utility Kiké Hernández and pitcher Evan Phillips. What makes the team scarier going into the 2026 season is that shortstop Mookie Betts and frst baseman Freddie Freeman should have a

healthy season ahead of them, something neither franchise legend had last season.

2. Toronto Blue Jays

Losing game seven of the World Series to the Dodgers was heartbreaking for the Blue Jays, but it clearly motivated them to make big moves this offseason. The Jays’ biggest acquisition of the offseason was pitcher Dylan Cease, who agreed to a seven-year $210 million deal. Cease’s pitching style is volatile, but he has made at least 30 starts from 2021-25, so he provides reliability that is rare in today’s game. Pitcher Shane Bieber also opted into his $16 million player option with the team while the Jays signed Korean Baseball Organization pitcher Cody Ponce to a three-year $30 million deal. The team also signed pitcher Tyler Rogers to strengthen its bullpen. They added depth to their lineup with the addition of third baseman Kazuma Okamoto from Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league. Okamoto has hit 30 home runs multiple times throughout his career and should provide an instant impact.

1. New York Mets

After missing the playoffs in 2025, the Mets won the offseason. Pitching fell apart for them down the stretch, so the team traded for Brewers pitchers Tobias Myers and Freddy Peralta, who is coming off a career year where he pitched to a 2.70 ERA. The Mets also acquired New York Yankees closer Devin Williams and his teammate, pitcher Luke Weaver, to help bolster the backend of their bullpen. The biggest additions came on offense as the Mets signed shortstop Bo Bichette, who will now play third base, and second baseman Jorge Polanco, who will play frst base. While the defensive changes are questionable, it should help get these two as many at-bats as possible. The team also traded for second baseman Marcus Semien and outfelder Luis Robert Jr., both are elite defenders whose bats could rebound given their change of scenery. With Spring Training inching closer, these teams will have the opportunity to showcase their revamped batting lineups, starting pitching rotations and bullpens for the baseball world to see.