3.06.18 by The Paisano

6 | Arts & Life

7 | Sports

Get tested before you get it on

Vol. 57, Issue 9

UTSA women’s basketball falls to UAB

Est. 1981

March 6 - March 27, 2018

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SJP members protest the Israel Block Party in front of the Rowdy Roadrunner statue.

Heather Montoya/The Paisano

Students for Justice in Palestine protests ‘Israel Block Party’ By Eric Frisce Contributing Writer Gaige Davila Co-News Editor Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) protested the ‘Israel Block Party’ (IBP) hosted by San Antonio Hillel, a chapter of a national, pro-Israel student group, on March 1. The Israel Block Party featured several booths promoting Jewish culture, highlighting the diversity within Israel and breaking down the structure of the Israeli government at the event. Foods from the region were served as well. SJP protested the event because they believed it whitewashes Palestinian culture and its history. Around 30 students marched from the Paseo, coming up the stairs by the Student Union, carrying a large banner with ‘Free Palestine.’ Other members carried signs that read “End the Occupation,” “Anti-Semitism

is a Crime, Anti-Zionism is a Duty.” The protestors marched past the block party, chanting and circling the open space between the Multidisciplinary Studies building and the Sombrilla, settling at the steps in front of the Roadrunner statue where they continued chanting for over two and a half hours. Joseph Mabry, co-chair of the Israel Block Party, said the purpose of the IBP was to share Jewish culture and to highlight some unknown facts about Israel. His main goal was to show the LGBTQ presence and ethnic diversity in Israel, along with Israel’s shared political values with the United States. Mabry feels it is important for Israel to exist in order to provide a safe land for the Jewish people to live. “Post-Holocaust, in the era of anti-semitism, it is key we have a safe place to call our home,” Mabry said. Mabry said he has also faced direct opposition. “I did a rap at

Campus police officer attempts to block SJP protesters from marching. The group marched to the Roadrunner statue soon after.

Light the Paseo, a Hanukkah rap, and people were yelling ‘Free Palestine’ when I was trying to do a religious observance of Hanukkah.” Chants included criticisms of the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, (“Netanyahu, what do you say? How many kids did you kill today?”). Other chants included “Gaza, Gaza don’t you cry; Palestine will never die,” “Free, free Palestine” and “1-2-3-4, occupation no more.” The protest was mostly non-confrontational. The protesters did not obstruct any passageways. Many students were happy to see free speech in action, talking to both sides and getting a better understanding of the situation. A student walking past the protest took part in a shouting match. “I just went up to the protesting group,” he said. “I was kind of puzzled by why some of them were wearing bandanas and covering their

Heather Montoya/The Paisano

face.” What ensued was a short spat that fizzled out quickly. Along with those who objected to the protest, there were many supporters. One student, who asked to remain anonymous, shared her thoughts. “(Being in Palestine) feels like you’re in prison camps: you’re walled in and cut off from the rest of the country.” A member of the protest, Cailey Garcia, freshman public health major, said she wanted to stand in solidarity with the Palestinians. “When I see struggle somewhere else, that’s similar to here, I want to show solidarity,” Garcia said. SJP founder, Moureen Kaki, instructed her group to be nonconfrontational and ignore those who wanted to argue. When one of her fellow protesters engaged with a shouting student, she reminded them to not engage. Kaki lived in Palestine for a short time and claimed to have encountered several instances of discrimination during her

stay there. Her motivation for protesting the Block Party was her view of the Israel Block Party as a promotion of the Israeli state under the guise of celebrating Jewish culture. “Even though Hillel would like people to believe this event is ‘apolitical,’ nothing about Israel/Palestine is apolitical,” Kaki said. “Their event in particular whitewashes Palestinian history and the ethnic cleansing of Palestine. “(It’s) all part of a larger narrative to erase Palestine, and we, as SJP, refuse to let people go by this event without pointing out the issues.” She wasn’t sure what reception her message would receive at UTSA but felt that young people across the country were moving closer to her position. After a few hours of chanting and occasionally circling the open space, the SJP protesters marched around one last time and left.

A student from the Israel Block Party waves a rainbowcolored flag of Israel in between the booths and protestors.

Heather Montoya/The Paisano

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UTSA UTSA alumna Melinda Bryant named UTSA as a beneficiary in her retirement accounts in order to establish two endowed scholarships, the Melinda H. Bryant Endowed Athletic Scholarship and the Melinda H. Bryant CPA Endowed Scholarship in Accounting. Bryant, who was a non-traditional student and worked part time, remembers the financial struggles that come with attending college and wants to help students like her. Bryant and her husband, Daniel, will be awarding an annual scholarship, the Melinda and Danny Bryant Annual Scholarship in Accounting, for the first time in Fall 2018.

Texas The number of Democrats participating in early voting in the 2018 primaries has increased overall in the 10 counties with the highest number of registered voters. Approximately 650,000 Texans voted early with 370,219 voting in the Democratic primary and 282,928 voting in the Republican primary. In the 2014 early voting, Republicans out voted Democrats 253,019 to 184,489. Democratic turnout for the voting age population increased in all 10 counties except Hidalgo County, which experienced a decrease in Democratic early voters.

U.S. On March 3, a man fatally shot himself along the north fence of the White House. Security-related incidents, involving people attempting to harm or talk to the president have happened before. President Trump was not at the White House when the man shot himself.

World The heirs of Piet Mondrian, who was a pioneering Dutch abstractionist, are staking a claim to his paintings that are currently at the Kaiser Wilhelm Museum in Krefeld. Mondrian’s heirs claim he only lent the paintings to the museum and left them behind when he fled Europe during World War II; however, the city of Krefeld claims Mondrian gifted the paintings. Both sides of the argument plan on examining and researching the history of Mondrian’s collection.

Business In response to President Trump’s plan to impose tariffs on imported aluminum and steel, the European Union has threatened to impose taxes on American goods if the metal tariffs are implemented. Trump seems to still stand by his proposed tariff plan which would impose a 25 percent tariff on steel imports and 10 percent tariff on aluminum imports. Other American trade partners, such as Australia and Canada, are also making retaliation claims.

UTSA professor studying ‘compassion fatigue’ from extended online exposure By Alejandro Lopez Staff Writer Mary McNaughtonCassill, PhD, a professor of psychology in the college of liberal and fine arts, has been researching the general stress of modern life. That includes the constant 24-hour news cycle, the overwhelming flow of information available to us via the internet and the increasing role of social media in our lives. Her research suggests that a majority of college students receive their news from the internet and social media, rather than traditional television or newspapers. McNaughtonCassill says being connected to technology can affect how you view the world. One of the effects of being constantly connected to social media and technology is a condition called “compassion fatigue.” This condition is characterized by individuals who gradually begin to feel less compassion over time. Symptoms include feelings of hopelessness, constant stress and anxiety, nightmares, pervasive negative attitude, decreased productivity and inability to focus. Generally, those who work with helping people or animals in distress experience this state of mind. Being exposed to breaking news, bad news and negativity on social media can lead individuals to develop compassion fatigue thus causing them to have a drastic shift in their personality. McNaughton-Cassill thinks it is important for college students

and millennials to consider how media exposure can adjust the way we look at the world. “I urge students to spend at least some time everyday without any electronic input, and to turn their phones off while they are sleeping,” McNaughton-Cassill said. “It also helps to make sure you don’t have little lights from your phone, computers and chargers near your bed, since they can disrupt your circadian rhythms, which control sleep.” She also thinks it is vital for college students and millennials to make time to spend with their friends and family without being distracted by their phones. Some students have told her that they don’t like the fact that people don’t always commit to plans because they keep checking to see if they will get a better offer. “Prior to cell phones, you had to meet with people in person at specified times, or you couldn’t find each other,” McNaughtonCassill said. Ultimately when it comes down to overcoming compassion fatigue, McNaughton-Cassill suggests finding a balance to technology. “Social media enables us to stay in touch across time and distance, but it is not a substitute for interpersonal interactions,” she said. “Humans are social beings. We like to be with others when we are enjoying ourselves and when we are stressed. Using social media to build and maintain connections is one thing, but it can’t replace real interactions,” McNaughtonCassill concluded.

Mary McNaughton-Cassill.

People on their phones on a New York City street.

Photo courtesy of UT System

Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons

SGA holds debate among potential presidential candidates By Samuel De Leon Co-News Editor The Student Government Association (SGA) is now preparing for its officer rotation as UTSA moves into the final months of the spring semester; at the forefront of this election cycle is the race for SGA president and vice president. Last week, the SGA held its annual presidential and vice-presidential debate to give students the opportunity to hear the platforms and ask questions of the candidates. The presidential candidates for this election are Rafae Ahmed, Michael Barbosa and Brittany Garcia and the vice presidential candidates are Mariah Crippen, Loy Fong and Arianna Pulido. Neither Ahmed nor Fong participated in the debate, but they will still be listed on the ballot. The debate asked questions about what each candidate intended to do, where SGA sits in the administration’s plan and how to make their efforts better known to the students they served. After the moderators asked their questions, they allowed students to question the candidates. Of the six possible candidates, four attended the debate: vice presidential candidates Crippen and Pulido and presidential candidates Barbosa and Garcia. Barbosa is a sophomore cybersecurity major and army veteran who specialized as a human intelligence collector. Barbosa believes his time in the military has prepared him to take on this leadership role because of his ability to train and create leaders. Barbosa wants to focus on the costs students incur, mentioning a transition to open-source textbooks, and he wants to create better transparency between the administration and the student body. “What we really want to do is open up what it really is the student government is doing for the student body and how the student government relationship affects the student body as well,” Barbosa said. “We want students to know what decisions are being made on your behalf and how it affects you, so you can proceed well informed.” Crippen is a sophomore interdisciplinary studies major who currently serves as the SGA treasurer. She listed two objectives she wants to focus on: collaboration between the various student organizations on campus and improving transparency between administration and the student body.

“With over 360 organizations on campus, I feel like we don’t see a lot of collaborative events,” Crippen said. “I want to create conferences where organizations can learn leadership and management skills as well as develop their ability to collaborate with each other.” Garcia is a junior public health major who has served in the SGA for three years. She believes her previous experience as SGA vice president can contribute to her term as SGA president.

“We want students to know what decisions are being made on your behalf and how it affects you, so you can be well informed.” - Michael Barbosa, SGA presidential candidate Garcia wants to focus her efforts on the diversity of UTSA and inclusion on campus. She noted the importance of representing a truly diverse university if UTSA is going to

promote itself as a diverse university. “Our university likes to take pride in saying ‘we are diverse’ when we go reach out to other schools,” Garcia said. “But what does our degree show from it, and what does our curriculum show for that.” Pulido is a freshman politics and law and economics major who is serving as the freshman senator. She wants to focus on making the university a “home away from home” for UTSA’s students. During the debate, she acknowledged the subprime graduation and retention rates but believes the solution to the issue relies on making the university home to its students. “I feel making roadrunners feel at home, by making organizations to suit their interest or in general by helping them with their classes, will definitely be an objective I focus on as vice president,” Pullido said. “We really need to foster excellence with our students here at UTSA.” Primary elections will be held through RowdyLink on Tuesday, March 6 and Wednesday, March 7. UTSA students are asked to participate by choosing the candidate they feel will best serve them in the upcoming school year.

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The Paisano Isaac Serna | Editor-in-Chief Editor@paisano-online.com Ethan Pham | Managing Editor Manager@paisano-online.com Kenyatta Battle | Editor-in-Chief’s Assistant

News Gaige Davila | Co-News Editor News@paisano-online.com Samual De Leon | Co-News Editor News@paisano-online.com Heather Montoya | Assistant News Editor

Arts & Life Enrique Bonilla | Arts & Life Editor Arts@paisano-online.com Katrina Clements | Assistant Arts & Life Editor

editor@paisano-online.com | 3 Photo Chase Otero | Photography Editor Photo@paisano-online.com Ricky Galindo | Assistant Photography Editor

Online Kat Joseph | Multimedia Editor Multimedia@paisano-online.com

Advisory Board

Staff

Sports Frank Leal | Sports Editor Sports@paisano-online.com Connor Zimmerlee | Assistant Sports Editor

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Jenelle Duff | Advertising Liason Ads@paisano-online.com Kristy Olson | Social Media Coordinator Amanda Avalos | Marketing Staff Ray Hagimoto | Marketing Staff The Paisano is published by the Paisano Educational Trust, a non-profit, tax exempt, educational organization. The Paisano is operated by members of the Student Newspaper Association, a registered student organization. The Paisano is NOT sponsored, financed or endorsed by UTSA. New issues are published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters, excluding holidays and exam periods. The Paisano is distributed on all three UTSA campuses — Main, Downtown and the Institute of Texan Cultures. Additionally, Paisano publications are distributed at a variety of off-campus locations, including Tri-point and a variety of apartment complexes near the UTSA Main Campus. All revenues are generated through advertising and donations. Advertising inquiries and donations should be directed to: 14526 Roadrunner Way Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78249 Phone: (210)-690-9301 © 2018, The Paisano The University of Texas at San Antonio’s Handbook of Operating Procedures states in 5.03 that: The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) will not exercise control over the format or content of Student Publications, but will regulate distribution on campus. Student Publications will be free of censorship and advance approval of copy, and their editors and managers are solely responsible for editorial and content policies and decisions. Editors and managers of Student Publications will not be subject to arbitrary suspension/expulsion or removal from their positions within a Registered or Sponsored Student Organization (Student Organization) by the University because of student, faculty, administrative, or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. Student Organizations that distribute Student Publications are afforded the same rights and privileges as Student Organizations that do not distribute Student Publications.

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opinion Spring break like a ‘Runner Editorial Students will leave their university behind during spring break, but they will still have an opportunity to represent the ‘Runners with the same character we strive for on campus. The general public has a low opinion of spring breakers; coverage of the mess and trouble that many students leave on beaches at the top spring break locations, such as South Padre, TX or Ft. Lauderdale, FL, gives the public every reason to be unimpressed. We believe UTSA students are different and will prove so by respecting their travel destinations.

By doing so, the students will exemplify UTSA’s, on the rise, reputation. ‘Runners will earn admiration by partying hard, but with self-control. Last year, photos of beaches covered in garbage post-spring break made the rounds in the major news cycle. USA Today reported a direct correlation with a rise in garbage on the beach with spring break. Project Know pinpointed the top spring break destination by exploring social media through hashtags, such as #springbreak. Their research found Florida cities to be the most popular, but that doesn’t leave Texas out. Florida, in response to the influx of waste on the beach, un-

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rolled a campaign to keep their beaches clean. The campaign is similar to Texas’ famous phrase “Don’t Mess With Texas,” but the city didn’t put all the responsibility of keeping the beaches clean on the vacationers. Gulf Shores implemented a litter ordinance in 2016 that addressed the issue and warned people to clean up after themselves or face litter fines up to $500. The city also placed trash cans and recycle bins every 200 feet on the beach and changes those cans twice a day. In Texas, different campaigns have been tested and implemented. Port Isabel-South Padre had piloted the “Cash for Trash” program in 2010. The program

has been an on-and-off program that is back in effect this year. The “Cash for Trash” is a program where a patron pays a beach user entry fee of $5.00 but then will be charged an additional $5.00 for a trash bag deposit on every vehicle entering. When students exit that day, they will be refunded $5.00 in return for their receipt and their county issued bag full of trash. The refund is only issued on that same day, if the bag is full and returned before 7 p.m. These programs have received mixed reviews on their effectiveness. Students question the practicality of assigning one bag to be filled and kept in their car throughout break for a later

return. Counties nonetheless feel it’s worthwhile enough to bring it back. Ultimately, these programs wouldn’t be necessary if spring breakers had a higher regard for our environment and their own reputation. Luckily for UTSA, we aren’t branded with the reckless party school label, like our neighbor Texas State. We are confident UTSA will maintain a strong reputation this spring break. We party, but we’re not the slobs who can’t hold their own.

Donate time to Women’s History Month Commentary

By Emily Hubbard Staff Writer For decades women have been fighting to end discrimination and gain equal rights. We are strong, independent and worthy. We deserve to be recognized. For the entirety of the month of March, I will be celebrating the women who have shaped our history and continue to make an impact. Through this we will reference the past, and also think about how we can continue to reach equality and justice for women within the community and around the world. Despite

the strength, tenacity and courage women have brought us so far there is still a fight to be fought. To continue the journey, UTSA’s Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA) and Students United for Planned Parenthood (SUPP) are teaming up with their “Serve the People” campaign to provide feminine hygiene products for San Antonio’s homeless community. Turner Adams, an activist for YDSA and SUPP, reminded us that “Women, especially women of color, have been historically disenfranchised by capitalism. The high cost of menstrual hygiene products creates situations where homeless women and trans men have to choose between their next meal or experiencing a safe, hygienic period. By donating time, money or goods to these communities, we can help those in need and connect to and empower those on these fringes of our communities.”

It is important to remember that hygiene is not a want, but a right. Mother nature visits each month, and women do not deserve to have to pay for their bodies’ natural cycle. It is not our choice to have a menstrual cycle each month, but it is our government’s choice to charge us for something inevitable. While we wait for our much deserved economic justice, our community needs to help those women who cannot afford to be charged for their periods. To help continue the fight for women’s rights and contribute to a better San Antonio community, you can donate time, money or products to either YDSA or SUPP during their meetings or tabling. Tabling for YDSA: Tue. and Wed. 10am-2pm Meetings for YDSA: Thu. 7:30 pm, MH 3.01.28 Meetings for SUPP: Wed. 5:30 pm, Mesquite Room

Health over wealth: loving yourself Commentary

By Mackenzie Dyer Staff Writer New York Fashion Week 2018 came and went with a bang in early February. Most people saw artistic pieces sashaying down the catwalk, from billowing dresses to asymmetric ensembles; to me, it wasn’t the eye-catching outfits that were worth conversation. Instead, it was the models: stick-thin, with emaciated limbs, protruding collarbones and a haunted look in their eyes. Sadly, such images are not only typical but praised in the world of fashion. I would know; I used to be one of them. From ages 15 to 19, I worked as a runway and print model. It all began when a friend of mine, who was a successful model, encouraged me to go to her agency. As someone who spent her life craving validation from others, this suggestion that I could become a glamorous model fascinated me. I soon found myself in front of the camera, relishing in the attention that came from receiving praise for being “tiny” and “androgynous,” among other industry buzzwords. Quickly, modeling took over

my life, as did the agency that signed me. They sent me to training and turned me into someone whom I did not know. I realize now that my booker took my rabid willingness to get recognized as permission to mold me into the “perfect product.” However, at the time, when she had my hair chopped off, took over my wardrobe and assigned me a new “model-perfect” personality, I saw these changes as a fresh start. Therefore, I spent high school living a double life going from photo shoots, runway shows and castings, to classes, thespian rehearsals and golf practices. After graduating from high school, I continued my modeling career by taking a gap year to work in New York City. Long story short, I am no longer modeling. Today, I am a full-time college student happily exploring the opportunities within the world of journalism. Never again will I be just a made-up, vacant face on the runway. I want to share my journey from starving model to a woman who is free to chart the course of her future, in hopes that no young person has to feel the way I did regarding appearance. Though I have learned to love myself, inside and out, I still battle to regard the body in my mirror as good enough. When I was modeling, I dieted enough to average a size 00 to fit into designer sample sizes. In contrast, most of my high school friends wore clothing sizes be-

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tween 12 and 14, and I could tell from the way they complimented my body that they were jealous of my “model looks.” But to the fashion industry, I still did not meet the unattainable standard of perfection. Seeing my air-brushed images displayed in magazines, I began to understand that even models don’t look like the images they portray. I saw the truth behind society’s toxic obsession with the unrealistic body sizes and shapes shown in media and understood how this contributes to body dissatisfaction for women and men of all ages. However,

regardless of this realization, surrounded by fabricated people emblazoned on every visible advertising surface, finding satisfaction with my body was a battle that required me to have a realistic perception of a healthy body, and I didn’t have that. Not only did I have to make sure I was thin enough to be seen worthy as a model, but I also had to hand over my body as a piece of property. I often unknowingly put myself in vulnerable positions to satisfy clients. At age 15, during my first runway show for Dallas Fashion Week, a videographer pressured me to take my skirt off for the backstage reel. Luckily, nothing worse happened to me, but I compromised the way I viewed my body and my feelings of selfworth. Unfortunately, this dangerous and traumatizing practice of treating models as commodities is all too common. The #MeToo movement saw many models come forward with stories about being taken advantage of at photo shoots or in meetings behind closed doors at their agencies. I’ve come to understand that behind public appearances, most models struggle to obtain treatment as more than human beings masquerading as clothes hangers. Little did I know, the way the fashion industry treated me would negatively affect more than just me. While trying to achieve my dream of making it into Vogue, depression, anxiety

and an eating disorder entered my life and crushed my relationships with friends and family. At one point, I became so ill from my conditions that I was out of work entirely. However, after regaining strength and relearning how to take care of myself, a client sent me away from a casting because I wasn’t skinny enough. Only then did I finally realize that I am more than the measurement of my waist, hips and thighs. I am happy to report that body positivity in the fashion industry is a growing trend in today’s news with spearheaders such as Ashley Graham, an American plus-size model, and Mia Kang, an internationally acclaimed model and body diversity activist. Though Graham and Kang are currently empowering women of all sizes globally, fashion industry members like them are few and far between. I can only imagine if I had leaders like them to look up to when I was modeling, how different my experience with my body image and mental health would be today. I believe it is imperative to the success of young people that the beauty industry represents models of all sizes, shapes and colors. The women of today, including myself, need to be reminded how mucht they have going for them and that it has nothing to do with how they look.

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My Strong Support for Net Neutrality Re “SJP Activism on Op-Ed and off campus”

By Lloyd Doggett U.S. Congressman As a longtime advocate for a free and open internet for all, I have consistently supported net neutrality, which provides a level playing field for small businesses and entrepreneurs to compete, while protecting consumers from exorbitant fees for faster service. I am pleased that Roadrunners have continued to contact me in support of net neutrality and hope to continue hearing from them on other federal issues. With a complete disregard for public opinion, Donald Trump’s Federal Communications

Commission (FCC) Chairman, Ajit Pai, led the repeal of the net neutrality rules, allowing huge businesses to create fast lanes for their customers while competitors’ clients are forced to use the internet equivalent of a dirt road. “Slow lanes” will strangle competition, which could threaten free speech and is bad news for consumers and small businesses. I am sponsoring a congressional resolution to override the FCC’s recent decision. While Republicans can probably block a vote in the House, they now cannot in the Senate. The clock is ticking, we have until April 23rd to pass this resolution before Trump’s FCC drags us backward. We must continue to speak up and remain civically engaged to prevent the Trump Administration’s disastrous decision. I also voted against Republican legislation that repealed in-

ternet privacy rules, allowing the sale of your web searches. Your privacy should not be available to the highest bidder. In the past year, I’ve seen so many young people get involved in our community. One way to broaden your involvement is through internship opportunities. My office has been able to accomplish a great deal thanks to our hardworking and dedicated interns. I have a limited number of internships available in my San Antonio and Washington congressional offices, positions that offer a unique opportunity to engage with and aid constituents and to learn about broader community and national concerns. If you are interested in interning, email me at Lloyd. Doggett@mail.house.gov with your resume, three references, a cover letter and advise when and where you would be interested in working.

A Southern Texas vegan Commentary

By Natalie Hollenbeck Staff Writer I am a part of a minority, and minorities are often faced with judgement and scrutiny. I am a vegan in southern Texas—the land of BBQ, unhealthy foods and habits. I abstain from all meat, dairy, cheese and honey. Naturally, everyone asks the same question. Why? I made this bold choice after a series of digestive issues, environmental reasons, ethical guilt and a desire to turn around my health before any family health issues arose. My doctor expressed concern

that my blood pressure was too high for only being 20-years-old, which also became a huge motivation to make a difference. Emotionally, it hasn’t been an easy road living with my animalproduct loving family. I was spared no shortage of mocking from select friends and family members. A forewarning toward those who’ve made comments towards anyone’s dietary restrictions: we understand your jokes or comments were not meant to hurt, but your words still affect our emotions and psyche. As minorities in southern states, sustaining this diet is made all the more difficult by your comments. My family expressed the typical derogatory jokes, insinuating that vegan foods would taste better “covered in butter” or “dipped in queso.” There was also the forced encouragement by friends and family to “just eat some meat” or “just use normal butter.” Those with other dietary

Degree versus certification Commentary

By Anish Rao Contributing Writer It’s 10 a.m. on a Tuesday. You’re a talent recruiter for Best Buy corporate. You get a call to come into your boss’s office, immediately a million thoughts come into your brain. What could it be? What did I do wrong? Is this the end? Will I be fired? You hesitantly stroll into your boss’s office. You two have a short chat, and he hands you an assignment. Your team is tasked with the job of looking for viable candidates to fill multiple Cyber Security positions. The boss slides you a manila folder with a stack of résumés and yells “get to work.” You start flipping and skimming through résumé after résumé, until finally you have two choices, do you fill the position with someone with a master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree with one security certification? I pose the age old question: which option is worth more in the eyes of the employer, a degree or a certification? I spoke with multiple people in the Cyber Security industry, and they’ve all come to the same conclusion; they’d rather hire the person with a four-year-degree and a certification. Earning a certification takes

time, money and energy. These are the same ingredients required to earn a masters degree, but the catch is the certification shows initiative and sets you apart from the pack. More often than not, people use the same tried old methods to get what they are seeking—it becomes monotonous. Employers are looking for a break from the conventional and are craving something different. Dr. Keith Harrison, the Lead Software Architect at the Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security (CIAS), agreed with me, saying to not pursue a master’s degree. Instead, he’d encourage Cyber employees to get a good security certification, it’s a lot cheaper and usually doesn’t take two years. When you eventually get to the fork in the road, ask yourself, “How can I make myself more valuable?” While the path to a certification can be a difficult one, ultimately it will end up being rewarding. If you are currently a Cyber Security major I would encourage you to forgo pursuing a master’s degree. Instead, get at least one security certification after you complete your bachelor’s. I’d recommend getting the COMPTIA A+ certification as a first steppingstone to obtaining Network+ and Security+ certificates. A+ covers a variety of issues and is essential for IT Operational roles, plus it’s only $211 dollars. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide. After speaking to multiple people in the industry, I know the path I’m going to take when I reach that fork in the road.

restrictions, including vegetarians, pescatarians or those with specific allergies can relate to these scenarios. These types of statements from those closest to us do hurt, no matter how harmless they may seem in the eye of the speaker. Southerners are notorious for being firm on their beliefs—especially with food. Down south, food often includes mashed potatoes drenched in butter and cheese, battered and fried meats and the occasional fried dessert. I used to consume and cook these foods regularly, but after a change in my beliefs, I found myself in a wave of judgement for my “radical” choices. A statement that has followed me around is, “but you used to eat like this all the time.” I may have, but people change. When a group of friends or family members offer to take you out to dinner, your dietary needs are often kept out of the conversation. They may be simply forgetting this, or choosing

Letter to the Editor By Joseph Mabry Guest Writer Sharing balanced narratives about both sides of the IsraeliPalestinian conflict is key to informing Paisano readers about the facts of this complex issue. This article portrays Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East, as a “military technocratic state,” which grossly mischaracterizes the nation. In Israel, every citizen Jewish or not enjoys the right to participate and vote within the democracy, creating the diverse plurality that governs the nation. These shared democratic values are key reasons that Israel has such close ties to the United States. The article describes military strikes Israel carried out in Gaza, without adding context of the

to ignore it. Our diets can inhibit us from ordering typical food at a restaurant, since most restaurant foods often revolve around meat or cheese. The way an individual eats is often seen in a one-dimensional view, as though all people eat the same way. This can harm the mind of those with dietary restrictions, brainwashing them to believe they are the individual in the wrong. Everyone recognizes the exact moment they make unhealthy food choices, and the tormenting thought that they should be making healthier choices. Yet, instead of changing their current eating habits and educating themselves on what their current diet is doing to their health, they mock those who’ve achieved a healthier standard of eating. When confronted with education on how their diet effects their body, they often completely dismiss the facts. Many individuals do not want to confront the reality of how their food is

rocket attacks and abduction of three Israeli boys by Hamas, the terrorist organization that governs Gaza, which precipitated Operation Protective Edge by the Israeli Defense Force (IDF). This article fails to properly reflect the complexity of the situation surrounding Ahed Tamimi as well. The video clearly depicts a young woman attacking a pair of IDF soldiers who stay calm and do not respond during the altercation. She clearly does assault the two soldiers, and holding her accountable for her actions is justifiable. I hope this additional point of view adds to the “nuanced perspective” that both members of the Israeli and Palestinian communities can provide and helps create more balanced journalism on our campus and in our society.

sourced, its impact on the environment and most importantly how it affects their health. I may sound like a crazy millennial, complaining about a small issue that is on no one’s radar, yet it is a concern that often occupies my mind. If nothing is ever said or discussed, then no change will ever take place. I am not some radical hippie, out on some insane vendetta. I’m offering a different perspective on how you can view the diet of vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians and others with allergies or restrictions. We would much rather be understood than mocked for our personal choices. The next time you encounter someone who differs from the standard western diet, refrain from hurtful jokes or comments and offer to learn about their reasoning for their unique diet. Offer your ears a fresh perspective and leave your firm beliefs at the door.

African culture brought to the silver screen Commentary

By Ryan Nobles Contributing Writer Black Panther has been one of the most anticipated movies of the year, and the movie lived up to the hype. The thrilling Marvel movie created a buzz because of the black culture demonstrated throughout the film. To me, Black Panther promotes black culture and excellence that has propelled the black renaissance we see thriving today. There are many subcultures of Africa featured in the film which

represent black culture across the world. Many unique aspects of African culture were said to be the inspiration behind the producers vision of Black Panther. The all women army “Dora Milaje warriors” were inspired by the Ahosi of Dahomeya, a real army of women. The army was created in the 19th century by King Houegbadja. These women specialized in fighting against men in combat. They were generally recruited as young girls and trained over time. They lived in the royal palace under the king and were not able to marry or have children. These fierce queens were brought back to life in Marvel’s movie and were an inspiration to black women across the U.S. and beyond. Another aspect of African culture presented in Black Panther were the wardrobe choices.

Many different types of African clothing appeared in the film, such as dashkiis and traditional jewelry worn by the people of Africa. One piece of jewelry that stood out was the lip ring one of the characters in the film had on. The lip ring is present in many cultures of Africa. In Ethiopia, the bigger the lip plate, the more social status or economic power you have in the tribe. Other styles of dress were seen throughout the city of Wakanda, which expressed the fashion trends of today’s pop culture. Some of the trends shown can be see today in black fashion across America. Overall Black Panther was more than a superhero movie. It stayed true to African culture and expressed the richness of black culture.

Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons

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6 | arts@paisano-online.com

Arts & Life Ciudad, a crecer: Get tested before you get it on Column

San Antonio’s STD and pregnancy rates draws attention to poor sex education. Katrina Clements Arts & Life Assistant Editor

Enrique Bonilla/The Paisano

In Bexar county 2015 was a record year for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV infections.

enerally, during their teen and college years, people are having the most sex with new partners. Although this is the time when people should be the most concerned with practicing safe sex to avoid STDs and pregnancy, sex education has been lacking. Texas sex education is focused on abstinence, which is controversial, as teenagers are often experimenting and figuring out their sexuality at that age. With these poor sex education curriculums, students are only briefly informed on human anatomy, STDs and pregnancy.

Due to this, these students often enter college without the proper knowledge on sex. According to the Rivard Report, as of 2016 in Bexar county the teen birth rate was two to four times the national rate in 15 zip codes. San Antonio teen pregnancy is higher than average, but has been on the decline for the past eight years. Teen pregnancy has been prevalent for years, but today, awareness has increased due to political movements highlighting women’s rights. Teen pregnancy is prominent in lower income areas, as access to birth control is more limited, because of the lack of funds as medicaid programs do not cover contraceptives.

All photos by Chase Otero/ The Paisano

Organizations such as Planned Parenthood and others promote affordable birth control and health services, as well as host marches to support women and their fight for access to these products and services. While prescription birth control can prevent pregnancy, improve menstrual cycles, improve acne and balance hormones, it can not prevent STDs. Teens with poor sex education can often forget that STDs are more highly concentrated within the young adult age group. Medical Director of Metro Health Dr. Junda Woo said that “for women there are biological reasons that the cervix is more magnetic for infections.” As an OBGYN she said that young women are physically more vulnerable to infection as “the cells on the cervix change as we grow older, and they are more exposed in the areas where chlamydia and gonorrhea go to when women are younger.” According to Metro Health research, from 2014 to 2015 San Antonio STD rates passed state averages as HIV increased eight percent, chlamydia by 15 percent and gonorrhea by 22 percent. The 1980s AIDS epidemic led to people of that generation being very aware and educated on the causes and prevention of STDs. People in San Antonio living with AIDS today are mostly in the 45 and over age bracket according to 2016 Metro Health data.

AIDS develops when someone is infected with HIV and is not controlling it with prescription drugs. The Fast Track City Initiative is a process of linking organizations together in an effort to end AIDS for their 2030 goal. Although the HIV virus will remain present, there are treatments to keep the infection controlled in the people who have it. “The technology is within reach, but it’s getting past the stigma, the human and relational aspects of why HIV turns into AIDS. Right now in San Antonio there is a vast amount of ignorance and discrimination against people who have HIV,” Woo said. There is a misconception that people with HIV can transmit disease through hugging, kissing, eating off the same plate and other household contact. In 2017, the Kaiser Family Foundation conducted a national survey of young adults on HIV and AIDS that found a third of respondents incorrectly believe that HIV/AIDS can be spread through plates, glasses and toilets and more than half of respondents said they would be uncomfortable living with someone with HIV or AIDS. Thirteen percent of these respondents were unaware of PrEP, the safe and effective daily pill that

can be taken every day to prevent HIV. This miseducation leads to discrimination and fear being instilled in the lives of people diagnosed with HIV, leaving them more reluctant to reach out for help. Public health deals with social determinants of health as “there is so much that goes into health other than the time you spend at the doctor’s office,” Woo said. “The questions needing to be asked are ‘do I feel empowered enough to talk about condoms with my partner?’ and in unfortunate cases ‘am I having to have sex because I need housing?’ or ‘am I having to have sex because I am

in a relationship that is unhealthy?’” Woo said. The initiative for safe sex and STD prevention starts with becoming aware and educated on why it is necessary, as well as communicating with your doctors, peers and partners to spread knowledge. The UTSA Student Health Center provides STD testing and free condoms for students, and testing is also available in numerous clinics around the city. If you are actively having sex with new partners, make sure to go about it safely, and don’t be afraid to ask when the last time your partner has been tested.

The Weekend MARCH A Night with Bernie Sanders / Free 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Trinity University Vermont Sen. and former Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders will join

the populist group Our Revolution Texas for a speaking event. Ranger Creek Crawfish Boil / $10 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling

Chow down on some crawfish and wash it down with your favorite Ranger Creek pint or cocktail. Brake Light Clinic / Free 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Southwest Workers Union

Got a broken light? Know someone who does? Join SA DSA to receive a free light installation. Heatwave III / $50 7 p.m. - 2 a.m. daily Paper Tiger Third installation of the local SXSW spill-

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over fest including Cro-mags, Broncho, Drab Majesty, Sports & many more. To feature your event in “The Weekend” email the arts editor at arts@paisano-online.com

Ma rc h 6 - M a rc h 27, 2018

sports@paisano-online.com | 7

Sports UTSA women’s basketball falls to UAB Roadrunners come up short on Senior Night By Zach Truesdale Staff Writer

n March 3, UTSA Women’s Basketball hosted the UAB Blazers in the Convocation Center to finish off their season. The Roadrunners fell short to the Blazers by a score of 74-64. The final home game also served as “Senior Night.” The three seniors for the 2017-18 squad are guard Crystal Chidomere (#4), guard Carlie Heineman (#31) and center Billie Marlow (#40). Emotions have been running high leading up to the seniors final home game. “It’s been great; the love has been amazing and everything has been great,” Chidomere said. With family, friends and fans all in attendance, the Roadrunners made the best of their last game in the Convocation Center. Heineman called it a “mixed bag of emotions.” Before the game began, the UTSA seniors were honored alongside their families and each senior received their own framed jersey. Chidomere was also honored with a game ball before the game for breaking 1,000 career points. On breaking the impressive mark, Chidomere recalled the moment: “It was definitely a great feeling. . . huge for me as far as personal accomplishments.” Head Coach Kristen Holt said the team is “happy with progress [made over the course of the season]. We’ve definitely improved, and it’s paid off here towards the

UTSA cheerleaders and players sing the school song postgame on senior night.

end of the season.” The Roadrunners entered the game riding a three-game winning streak. In the first half, the Roadrunners were swarming UAB defensively, holding them to a 31 percent field goal percentage (11-35), while the ‘Runners were shooting 48 percent (13-27) from the field. The Roadrunners also put up six blocks and three steals in the first half. For the second half, UAB got their scoring together and gained the lead in the third quarter, 53-46. In the fourth quarter, the Roadrunners kept fighting, and there were times when it seemed

a comeback could happen, but the Blazers kept hitting their shots and free throws to keep UTSA at bay. The final score was 74-64 with the Blazers on top. Chidomere finished the game with 18 points, while Guard Barbara Benson finished the game with a double-double, putting up 19 points and 10 rebounds. Though the last home game has passed, the Roadrunners still have the Conference USA tournament on Wednesday to keep their schedule and championship dreams alive. The Roadrunners have to put this loss behind them and be ready to compete.

“We’re gonna take this loss, learn from it and be ready on Wednesday,” Heineman said. “We’re going to get after it and go get it. UAB is first in our conference, and we gave them a good game,” Chidomere added. Sophomore Forward Marie Benson said the team is working to “come out more aggressive.” After a disappointing season, the team has shown some resurgence in their last five games and is trying to carry its momentum into Wednesday. “They need to get out there and play hard for 40 minutes,” said Holt. “That’s gonna be the big thing we have to do. We’re

Zach Truesdale/The Paisano

gonna have to execute well. At this time of the year it’s all about execution.” Holt likes the idea of the Roadrunners being the underdog and embraces being a lower seed headed into the tournament. “We believe we can do well. When you’re a lower seed you really have nothing to lose.” The Roadrunners hope to sneak through and make some noise. The Conference-USA Championship will begin March 7 and the first game starts at 11 a.m. The Roadrunners will play the Florida Atlantic Owls at 1:30 p.m.

Athlete of the week: Austin Karrer

Karrer drives to the hoop with two defenders on his tail.

By Kenyatta Battle Editor-in-Chiefs Assistant

Senior Austin Karrer of the UTSA men’s basketball team has been a key contributor to the Roadrunners on and off the court since he first arrived at UTSA. On the court, he has played in over 80 games and stepped up

when he’s needed most. Whether it be rebounding, scoring or playing defense, Karrer has always produced. Off the court, Karrer is a CUSA Academic Medal Recipient and been named to the Conference Commissioner Honor Roll three times. Karrer has played basketball his entire life, and he has been able to dunk since the eighth grade. For Karrer, basketball is

Jeff Huehn/UTSA Athletics

a part of his family’s tradition, and he adores the game. “I just fell in love with it. I have been playing for a while. Growing up, basketball was a part of my family. Both of my brothers played. My oldest brother coached me, and my parents were a big part in it. I started playing well, and I thought I could keep doing it for a little while, and I was fortunate to get an offer here, then the story was written,” Karrer said.

Karrer went to Canyon High School in New Braunfels, where he said he had a great coaching staff that helped him get into UTSA and experience a winning culture. Karrer averaged 10.9 points per game and led the team with 49 three-pointers in his junior year. His fondest moments playing basketball were at Canyon. “In high school, I had a great coach in Brad Lacy. He helped me land here. I also got a chance to go to the playoffs every year, so that was a fun experience. The best memory I had from playing high school basketball is hitting a buzzer beater against our rival team, and we kind of stormed the court with our team and staff, that was a pretty cool moment. That moment is surreal; when it happens, you just celebrate with your teammates, and later it finally sets in that it happened, but it does not feel real at the time,” Karrer said. After graduating from high school, Karrer said he came to UTSA because he wanted to be close to his family so they can see him play. Since New Braunfels is not far from San Antonio, Karrer said it was an easy decision. Karrer also said he was highly sought after coming out of high school, and once he made the decision to come to UTSA, the staff made the team feel like a family. Besides basketball, Karrer loves football. One of his hobbies is playing fantasy football. If he had the first pick in a fantasy draft, he said he would

likely pick Todd Gurley. Karrer is currently a senior and a history major at UTSA. One day he’d like to become a teacher or coach and be a part of athletic administration. Upon graduation, Karrer intends to pursue his masters degree. Karrer shared his pride in his current school, but has not decided on his masters program. “I’ve grown really close to this school. I have been here for four years, so getting to put that Roadrunner on my jersey before every game, suit up and just play with these guys is awesome,” Karrer said. “This is like a second family, so definitely that bond that I have made with these guys and just playing my heart out every night and getting to do it in front of people and doing what I love and having the support of the university behind me is really special to me.” Karrer is grateful for what the sport of basketball has done for his life. “It gave me free education, so I can’t say enough about what’s that done for me. It’s giving my family the opportunity to meet new people and come see me play sports. It’s giving me another family. I love doing it and there’s nowhere else I would rather spend my time.” Since Karrer is a senior, he will soon play his final game. He has played for UTSA all four years, but he said this has been his best year with the team, and he hopes they can compete in the conference tournament and beyond.

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8 | sports@paisano-online.com

UTSAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marcus Davenport impresses at NFL combine

Davenport answers questions after a win.

James Ayala/The Paisano

Davenport on the field for a postgame interview.

Chase Otero/The Paisano

Graphic by Ricky Galindo/The Paisano