How Christianity connects the Black community
When enslaved Africans arrived in America, many brought their cultural and religious traditions with them. As the plantation complex developed, Africans were continually indoctrinated into English customs, one of those being the practice of Christianity.
Enslaved Black Americans started to use the Bible as a sort of spoken word, reciting the shorthand of stories from the text that they were prohibited from reading. As larger and larger numbers of slaves began converting to Christianity, many clergymen eventually began to defend the institution of slavery, citing verses in Ephesians and Colossians that read, “slaves, obey your earthly master.”
However, some believe there is no correlation between the practice of Christianity and the “passiveness” of enslaved Africans. Henry Louis Gates Jr. is a literary critic and director of Hutchins Center for African and African American Research at Harvard University. His book, “The Black Church: This is Our Story, This is Our Song,” details the Black Church’s role in African American activism.
“The Black Church has a long and noble history in relation to Black political action, dating back at least to the late 18th century. The failure of enslaved African Americans to overthrow the institution of slavery, as their Haitian sisters and brothers
UTEP alumn
Yazmyne Hallback serves as the Worship Leader for The Rock Faith Center.
by Iziah Moreno/The Prospector
songs included directions for secret gathering or escape.
Eventually, Christianity became a cornerstone for the Civil Rights Movement and Black churches began to serve as centers of organization, civic activity, community service and intercultural celebration.
“Without the role of the Black Church, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 — signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, with [Martin Luther] King Jr. by his side, and future congressman John Lewis, himself an ordained Baptist minister, present in 1965 — would never have been enacted when they were. There is no question that the Black Church is a parent of the civil rights movement, and today’s Black Lives Matter movement is one of its heirs,” Gates wrote.
Mount Zion Baptist Church was founded in El Paso in 1918, in the midst of the segregation that shaped much of El Paso’s housing and population patterns today. The historically Black church is located on Wyoming Ave. Since its founding over a century ago, other predominantly Black churches have emerged in the city.
Yazmyne Hallback, UTEP alumni and member of the historically black Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., serves as the Worship Leader for The Rock Faith Center. The church, located in east El Paso, is pastored by her parents.
STAFF REPORTER THE PROSPECTOR
AUSTIN
Photo
More than seven out of 10 African Americans identify as Christians, which has evolved from what it used to be. Photo by Iziah Moreno/ The Prospector
Opinion
Avery Escamilla-Wendell, editor-in-chief
A huge thank you to the journey
Progress and growth aren’t always easy to recognize in the moment. They are hidden in the late nights doing homework, the silent moments of doubt and the small victories that remind me why I started in the first place. As I look back on my journey thus far, I realize how much I’ve changed, how much I’ve learned and how much I have persevered in my life.
Throughout my high school years, I considered myself fortunate to know what career I wanted to pursue. I never stressed about ‘what is it that I want to do for the rest of my life?’ I should’ve knocked on wood because little did I know I would experience this stress and confusion when I got to college. But for me, the question poses a different meaning now. I know I have fallen in love with communications and telling stories through whatever form of media I can, so now when I wonder ‘what is it that
I want to do for the rest of my life?’
I know of the many opportunities and possibilities there are, and I want to continue to dream big no matter what circumstances I am faced with.
Of course, I wouldn’t have pushed myself so hard if it weren’t for those who have supported me along the way–mentors who believed in me, friends who reminded me of my worth, and colleagues who challenged me to be better.
I want to thank my high school yearbook teacher Justin Stene, for nurturing my skills and encouraging me to keep pursuing this profession, and my college professor Kathleen Gannon for teaching me the importance of journalism and that we, UTEP students, can make an impact.
Thank you to my mom and dad, for telling me that I can pursue whatever I desire if I just work hard enough, and for encouraging me to continue prioritizing my education as it is a privilege to do so. And to Isaac, for supporting me through
the stress and staying up with me during late nights of work–your patience and kind words mean more than I can say.
Most importantly, I want to thank myself, for every time I doubted myself but kept going anyway. For every challenge I faced but refused to quit and for choosing to continue to learn and grow.
Being a journalist is a path full of challenges, learning about others, yourself and putting your work out for criticism time and time again. But it is a career path so vital to the world. I want to be a part of the amazing story tellers who allow their readers to feel the emotion of those I write about with integrity and compassion.
Stepping into the role of web and copy editor, is another step forward in my journey. I don’t know what lies ahead and I’m still learning every day, but I know one thing for sure–I’m so proud of myself and I know the best is yet to come.
Palma is web/copy editor and may be reached at empalma@miners.utep.edu.
A love letter from me to El Paso
It’s only been a few months since my last introduction piece, but I’m back again–and it probably won’t be the last time. This time, though, I have the honor of writing as the arts and culture editor.
This February commemorates my one-year anniversary of joining the team, and while it seems like such a short amount of time, so much has changed for me.
I’ve made some great friends; I’ve worked with video and audio stories for the first time, and I’ve come to understand that I was meant to walk this path.
I’ll admit, I used to be someone eager to leave El Paso as quickly as possible. I thought there weren’t any opportunities for me here, so I decided to go 1,000 miles away to Western Kentucky for my first year of college.
Kentucky proved to be an amazing experience, but it ultimately became a reason for me to come home. People seem to talk about how small and boring El Paso is, but they don’t realize the possibilities that it offers. I learned many things during my time in Kentucky, but one of the most important lessons was that El Paso is more than just a desert with no promise.
I thought I needed to move to a bigger city to succeed as a journalist, but the truth is, this is the best place for me to grow as a beginner journalist. Despite living here my entire life, I have learned more about this city and its community in one year than I had in the previous 19 years.
I’ve grown as a photographer, writer and most importantly, a communicator. Through The Prospector and my classes at UTEP, I have had the privilege of telling the stories of many amazing, talented
and kind individuals. I have written about the mothers of El Paso, the nonprofits that care for the community, the politics that affect our people and so much more.
It’s these people and topics that have taught me what it truly means to be a journalist. They are the reason why I want to continue down this road for the rest of my life.
As the arts and culture editor, I want to commit myself to finding those stories that show how beautiful and one-of-a-kind El Paso is.
If you’re someone who’s anxious to leave this city, I hope that my work– and the work of my colleagues– at the very least encourages you to take a second look at our city.
Arts and culture have a way of uncovering hidden gems and I hope to continue sharing them with you.
Alyda Muela is the arts & culture editor and may be reached at armuela2@miners.utep.edu, on Instagram @ alyrose.photos
Evelyn
A&C EDITOR THE PROSPECTOR
ALYDA MUELA B Y
WEB/COPY EDITOR THE PROSPECTOR
EVELYN PALMA B Y
Tradition of asking ‘Will you be my Valentine?’
Even in long-term relationships or marriage, asking a significant other to be your Valentine can be a meaningful gesture. While some may think it is unnecessary, it helps keep romance alive and exciting.
Small acts of love, like this simple question, can make a partner feel appreciated and strengthen the relationship over time. Plus, a little extra romance on Valentine’s Day never hurts.
Valentine’s Day, rooted in ancient Roman and early Christian traditions, has evolved into a global celebration of love. While new couples often embrace the holiday enthusiastically, those in long-term relationships may question whether asking their partner to be their Valentine is still relevant. This simple gesture can help maintain intimacy and appreciation.
The origins of Valentine’s Day trace back to the Roman festival of Lupercalia, which involved fertility practices and pairing men and women through a lottery system. Over time, it became associated with St. Valentine, who secretly performed marriages in opposition to Roman law. By the Middle Ages, the holiday symbolized romantic love, and exchanging notes, gifts and declarations of affection became a tradition.
Valentine’s Day remains a widely recognized celebration, though its significance can change in longterm relationships. With fewer relationship milestones to celebrate over time, small yet meaningful traditions like asking your partner to be your Valentine can make Valentine’s Day special and help keep romance alive. Unlike anniversaries or engagements commemorating specific events, this gesture is a recurring opportunity to express love and value toward each other.
As relationships grow, daily routines can sometimes replace romantic moments. Asking your partner to be your Valentine is a simple way to stay connected and intensify your relationship. It brings back memories of early dating and makes romance spark from reminiscence.
Beyond nostalgia, maintaining this tradition fosters continued excitement in a relationship. It is a small yet powerful way to communicate love, ensuring that neither partner feels taken for granted. Whether through a grand gesture or a heartfelt question, it provides an intentional moment of gratitude and recognition. Additionally, traditions play an essential role in relationships. Just as anniversaries, date nights, or inside jokes become special over time, continuing to ask this question each year can be a fun and
romantic practice. It allows couples to pause, reflect on their journey together and reaffirm their love. Moreover, the act of asking brings joy and excitement. Anticipation and surprise, whether through a handwritten note, a small gift or an elaborate plan, can make Valentine’s Day feel unique and personal. Even in marriages, where love is deeply rooted and often taken as a given, these small moments of reconnection matter. Life’s demands, like careers, responsibilities and
daily routines, can sometimes overshadow romance. By continuing to ask, “Will you be my Valentine?” Partners can remind each other that love is still an intentional choice worth celebrating.
While significant milestones in a relationship may become less frequent, romance should not fade. Asking your significant other to be your Valentine is a simple yet meaningful way to sustain affection and appreciation. It reinforces the importance of love, no matter how
long a couple has been together. By keeping this tradition alive, couples can ensure that love remains an active, cherished part of their relationship. Take a moment to continue the tradition this Valentine’s Day, it may just make the day even more special.
PHOTOGRAPHER THE PROSPECTOR
SALMAPAOLA BACA B Y
UTEP students prepare for this year’s Valentine’s Day. Photo by Kristian Hernandez/The Prospector
El Paso community comes together in wake of unprecedented political climate
Protestors met under the bridge at Memorial Park in El Paso, Texas on Wednesday, Jan. 29. Words and slogans were written on their signs in English and Spanish, displaying the green, white and red colors of the Mexican flag to show solidarity with immigrants from south of the United States border. Many expressed anger toward Donald Trump’s plans for mass deportation, and support for those affected.
During Trump’s acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention, he said he “promises to launch the largest deportation operation in the history of our country.” Specifically, Latino immigrants whom he refers to as “killers,” “criminals” and “aliens” throughout his speech.
Since his inauguration on Jan. 20, he has signed executive orders to expand immigration detention centers, allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) into sensitive zones such as schools, churches and hospitals and sent 1,500 ICE troops to the southern border on Jan. 23.
ICE officials started immigration enforcement in El Paso as of Thursday, Jan. 30. Media photos were sent to El Paso Matters, but ICE officials have not provided any information on whether this plays a part in Trump’s plan for historic mass deportation.
Brianna Miranda, 22, and Isabella Delgado, 21, organized the “People Over Papers” protest. Information for the protest was posted on Monday, Jan. 26 and screenshots quickly circulated through Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. Both women emphasized a peaceful protest with the end goal of bringing the community together and educating people on current immigration issues
and their effect on the El Paso borderland community.
“We want to make sure people walk away with the knowledge that they need to keep themselves safe, their loved ones safe and know that they are not alone,” Miranda said. El Paso’s population is 81% Latino. Much of the El Paso community has connections to undocumented immigrants, making these issues near and dear to their hearts.
“This country was not only built on the backs of our parents and grandparents, but other communities as well. We’re losing our community, and we cannot allow ourselves to be uneducated,” Miranda said.
could be affected by the recent orders.
Throughout the protest, many offered resources and mutual aid to
“We can’t keep thinking of ourselves as individuals anymore,” Delgado said. “We don’t have that luxury anymore. We have to think of the collective because if we only work towards our individual futures, we’ll have no future.”
Juliana Alcala, 20, and Liberty Garcia, 22,
participated on the Jan. 29 protest. Alcala’s family has been directly affected by deportation before.
“When I was in middle school my parents were deported,” Alcala said. “It’s the first time I really experienced the reality of immigration and how separating families really changes lives. It’s really important for us to
speak up on it. For other kids and for other people.”
The protest had a significant turn from many protesters sharing strength and tears. As current orders strike fear into the hearts of the large Latino community in El Paso, many share stories to remember where they came from and what they’re fighting for.
“My father’s an immigrant, my brother’s an immigrant— everybody on a whole side of my family is an immigrant,” Garcia said. “They [gave me] a privileged life I didn’t know I had until I saw the way a lot of [immigrants] are living. Everybody deserves a chance, and it should be made easier.”
Congressmen Tony Gonzales who represents parts of Fort Bliss and parts of East El Paso stated that “President Trump is taking much-needed steps to restore law and order through executive action. Brighter days are ahead for our nation, the days of lawlessness in our country are over.”
Mass deportations are to continue across the United States according to the White House.
Jesie Garcia is a staff reporter and may be reached at jlgarcia36@miners.utep.edu or on Instagram @ empanaditawrites.
Protesters hold signs reading “No one is illegal on stolen land” during a Jan. 29 rally. Photo by SalmaPaola Baca/The Prospector
Protesters gather with signs in support of immigrant rights on Jan. 29. Photo by SalmaPaola Baca/The Prospector
Protesters chant slogans at Memorial Park. Photo by SalmaPaola Baca/The Prospector
REPORTER THE PROSPECTOR
JESIE GARCIA B Y
Sharing love to pets in need of a safe home
Valetine’s Day is a way to show love to your significant others, friends or anyone special in your life, however, sharing the same amount of love to a furry little friend is equally as meaningful.
El Paso Animal Services provide animals with a safe environment while trying to get the community involved in adopting them so that the animals can find a safe and loving home.
El Paso Animal Services’ dedicates its employees to “Deliver ‘excEPtional’ services to support a high quality of life for our pets, ensuring their five freedoms.”
According to their website, El Paso Animal Services have five freedoms, which protect the vitality of pets in their care.
“Freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury or disease, freedom to express normal behavior and freedom from fear and distress.”
Julie Newbold, public affairs coordinator at El Paso Animal Services explains how animals enter the shelter every day causing spacing issues at the shelters.
“As far as space goes, it really has to do with the number of animals that we receive on an annual basis,”
Newbold said. “We get over 23,000 animals entering our shelter every single year.”
The shelter receives about 50 to 70 animals daily which can make pets being adopted more difficult since there are so many coming in daily across the city.
“Since we are the only open intake
shelter for the entire county, that’s where our biggest challenges are,” Newbold said. “There is of course a lot of other rescues that help us out locally and nationally that pull from us.”
When it comes to adopting an animal from the shelter, the adoptee must be over 18 years
of age and have a valid photo identification card. From there, a worker will show the adoptee several animals in the shelter ranging in sizes.
The shelter hosts several outreach events across the city and are most popularly known as the mobile
adoption centers.
“It’s always been a good way to go out there into the community because [there are] a lot of people that don’t know about us, [or] about other rescues,” Newbold said. “I know me, growing up here in El Paso, I didn’t really know anything about adoption and kind of [how] big a problem it was, the animal crisis, not just in our community but nationwide.”
The cats and dogs who have been spayed, neutered, microchipped and vaccinated, are able to be adopted immediately. According to Newbold, there are currently 800 cats and dogs currently within their immediate care.
The shelter also involves the El Paso community by asking for volunteers to help around the facility. They have programs for children as young as eight years old.
Animals are valued companions and are an important part of many people’s lives. Many cats and dogs are waiting to be in a loving home.
There are several shelter locations across El Paso including 5001 Fred Wilson Ave., 5625 Confetti Dr. and 9068 Socorro Rd. So, on Valentine’s Day, share the love to a new furry friend .
Avery Escamilla-Wendell is the editor-in-chief at The Prospector and may be reached at amescamilla@miners. utep.edu or on Instagram @by_avery_escamilla.
El Paso Animal Services provides animals in their care with a safe temporary environment, with a goal of getting all the animals adopted. Photo by Iziah Moreno/The Prospector
An overview of President Trump’s early executive orders
Organization (WHO),
President Donald Trump launched his presidency with a wave of executive orders, reshaping policies on immigration, climate, health care, the economy and diversity programs.
From immigration restrictions to efforts to boost the U.S. economy, here are some of the notable executive orders.
Initial Rescissions of Harmful Executive Orders and Actions
This order rescinds 78 executive orders signed by former President Joe Biden. By rescinding these orders, the new aim is to remove the previous administration’s “injection” of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within the federal government and tackle climate extremism withn the U.S.
Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing
This order directs the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the Attorney General and the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to remove any DEI programs in the federal government and provide a list of all DEI or “environmental justice” positions, committees, services, activities, budgets and expenditures.
Withdrawing the United States from the World Health
This order begins the process of the U.S. withdrawing from WHO, citing its mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, other global health crisis, the inappropriate influence other members have on the organization and the unfair high payments from the U.S. compared to other members.
Protecting the American People Against Invasion
With this order, President Trump called for the immediate removal of migrants who are not U.S. citizens. This order directs federal agencies to enforce removal orders and extends the presence of the Department of Homeland Security in all 50 states. It also calls for the construction of detention facilities for those awaiting deportation.
Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship
This order denies citizenship to certain U.S. born children whose parents are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents as President Trump asserts that the 14th Amendment does not cover these children as they do not fall under U.S. jurisdiction.
Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program
This order froze the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) on Jan. 27. This would only allow refugees who demonstrate they can assimilate into the U.S. to be admitted through a joint decision
between the secretary of state and secretary of homeland security.
Every 90 days the resumption of the USRAP will be considered.
Securing Our Border
The executive order suggests a coordinated state and federal effort to deter and prevent future immigration at the southern border. It also instructs federal agencies to construct a physical barrier, send law enforcement to the border and pursue criminal charges against migrants who enter the country illegally.
Putting America First in International Environmental
Agreements
This order withdraws the United States from the Paris Climate Accord and continues with President Trump’s plans from his first administration and the previous administration’s U.S. International Climate Finance plan.
President Trump Imposes Tariffs on Imports from Canada, Mexico, and China
According to a fact sheet released by the White House, due to the threat posed by the influx of immigration and drugs, including fentanyl into the U.S., President Trump will be implementing a
25% additional tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico and 10% additional tariff on imports from China until the crisis is alleviated. As of now, there is an official pause on tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods until March. While executive orders allow a president to direct federal agencies without congressional approval, they must still adhere to constitutional limitations and can be challenged in court or reversed by future administrations.
Ximena Cordero is the audience and engagement editor and may be reached at
El Paso sees nearly $356 billion in annual trade from its points of entries like the Ysleta International Bridge.
Photo Courtesy GetArchive/Creative Commons
Arts & Culture
Alyda Muela, editor
‘It’s Complicated,’ Modern Romance in the Digital Age
it as a reflection of the shifting culture that embraces openmindedness and exploration.
In the past decade, a few terms categorizing relationships between young people have emerged such as: ‘talking’, ‘sneaky links’, ‘situationships’ or ‘casi algos’ (almost something). The increasing ambiguity surrounding modern relationships marks a stark contrast to traditional dating practices, that placed heavy emphasis on chivalry and courting.
The complexity of romance in Generation Z is heavily shaped by social media and digital influence. In today’s tech-based society, many relationships start and end through a phone. While access to a broader pool of romantic interests heightens potential for opportunity, some believe it also promotes unfaithfulness and lack of commitment.
Brandon Lopez, sophomore at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), provides some insight into how technology affects the way Gen Z navigates
stories has become synonymous with flirting, posting significant others is now mandatory, and interacting with others’ content has morphed into a form of infidelity.
As the parameters of a relationship change with each app update, more and more young people opt
the other person. It’s a promise to care for someone on a deeper level; you’re putting yourself on the line to see where things could go,” Vasquez said.
Student views on Gen Z’s preference for a more technological style of dating vary. To many, it’s harmful for the development of relationships, but others applaud
have in their school, in their city, or in their state. [These people] are in some ways more attractive than their significant other, and that could cause a lot of insecurity for the person that you‘re dating,” Lopez said.
Social media’s influence has changed the way that most young people interact romantically. Liking
something with no feelings, but as humans this is difficult. I think it’s entirely impossible to get to know someone without developing some sort of care for them. Casual to me is something both people know is short term and something that in the end will most likely hurt both parties. ‘Official’ is exclusivity and constant effort to see and love
Because young people are inundated with what seems like endless “options,” many find themselves distracted by social media, dating apps, and other forms of electronic connection. However, technology also provides opportunity for young adults to find each other in ways they otherwise wouldn’t have.
“Everything‘s more online. We have dating apps that people use, and we have people just meeting by chance on Instagram or Snapchat. I do think that plays a big role in the way people meet, and how passionate you are towards [one] another,” Lopez said.
The role that technology and social media play in modern relationships isn’t inherently positive or negative; rather, just like past generations’ relationships, depends on the perspective of the two individuals involved.
Leah Austin is a staff reporter at The Prospector and may be reached at lsaustin@miners.utep.edu
Watch the swipe, generational safeguards on the modern date
As February rolls around and lovers prepare for the big day, others may take to their devices in search of romance. In a world where swiping left or right can lead to love, popular dating apps like Tinder, Hinge and Bumble have made it quicker and easier for people to connect.
While these apps allow a person to virtually meet a multitude of people without ever having to get out of bed, they also raise safety concerns and generational debates over online relationships.
Young adults ages 18 to 29, or Generation Z, are the primary users of dating apps while Generation X is now the last age group to have experienced dating with zero online influence. Esther Concha, a 56-year-old, says she understands why many young adults turn to
dating apps but believes safety should be a top priority.
“I think because we have such an online preference, like, we do everything online, socially, it’s almost like a comfort zone,”
Concha said. “I know when I was growing up, I had to really pump myself up to go to a nightclub and once I was there, it was fine, but I think with your generation [Gen Z] it’s a little bit harder.”
Before the digital age, Concha says traditional dating consisted of meeting friends of friends and slowly building a relationship through face-to-face interactions. She believes online dating can hinder a person’s ability to decipher the other’s intentions.
“I would rather just meet a person face to face, that way through my own intuition I could determine whether this person is nice or not,” Concha said. “You have to follow your instincts, and I think you do that very well when you meet somebody face-to-face, person-toperson, versus online.”
Concha admits to having used Match.com in her late 20s to early 30s, but says she immediately logged off the website due to fears and concerns about her safety.
“I realized it was kind of scary for me. I wasn’t too sure who was on
After kicking off the first few weeks of the semester, we are finally entering the month of love, February–where one specific day falls in the back of everyone’s minds. UTEP students provided their best ideas and recommendations for Valentine’s Day, from low-budget to fancy dinner places, this is the recap of their top El Paso spots to make the perfect Valentine’s Day date.
PICNIC WITH CRAFTS
Starting off with something simple, low-budget and creative. Grab a few snacks, and an activity for a park picnic date! According to El Paso’s Parks and Recreation Department, the city oversees over 280 parks. By using the “parkfinder” option on their website, you can find any park within a good distance, with pictures to cultivate the perfect scenic spot. All one needs after that is some snacks and a crafty activity. Things like painting, drawing, writing, even reading together can make it even more special.
THE FOUNTAINS AT FARAH & CIELO VISTA MALL
This may be familiar to many, as a popular spot in the city. But the Fountains at Farah is a shopping complex, outdoor mall located right beside Cielo Vista Mall. Where one can experience the outdoors while still enjoying some food and shopping.
“The first one that comes to mind is the Fountains at Farah, just because you can walk around a lot, there is a lot to do. There is a lot of different restaurants [and] a lot of activities.” UTEP student, Miguel Padilla said.
With stores like Barnes and Noble, All That Music and Video, Five Below, TJ-Maxx/Homegoods, and food options like, the Melting Pot, La Madeline, Kona Grill, MooYah and Canes. Perhaps booking an appointment at Red Door Escape Room or Woodhouse Day Spa then grabbing a sweet treat at Menchies or Kung-Fu Tea is the perfect fulfilling night.
Cielo Vista Mall is also one of the most well-known shopping spots in the city. Visit stores like Build a Bear, Hot-Topic and Hollister then enjoy some Boba Tea Company or Auntie Anne’s for a shopping date.
SCENIC DRIVE
See El Paso’s best view by experiencing Scenic Drive this Valentine’s Day. The site is only accessible by car, turning onto Rim
see V-DAY on page 8
In today’s age, the internet has reshaped the way of traditional relationships. Photo by Kristian Hernandez/The Prospector
In the modern age of online speed dating, concerns for dating safety are higher than ever. Photo by Athan Sano/The Prospector
REPORTER THE PROSPECTOR
LEAH AUSTIN B Y
V-DAY from page 7
Road from either Mesa Street or Alabama Street, this view awes every eye it meets as it overlooks both El Paso and Juarez.
NEAR UTEP
It is not surprising that several recommendations were places near UTEP. Many places are used to seeing the young adult demographic, but the call to new customers trying new foreign flavors grows and grows.
Some were recommended:
AMAR- a Peruvian Mexican kitchen, located on 3100 N Mesa St., has the best of both worlds with menu items as “una nikkei” or “aquachiles enamorados.”
Kaedama- located on 204 Boston Ave., has a variety of menu items, most famously known for their ramen, where one can enjoy a bowl while taking in the atmosphere.
For those whose pallets are itching for new flavors, more local eats by UTEP include, Kinleys House Coffee & Tea, Weirdough’s Bakery, Ke Flauta and more.
SOME EXTRAS
There are hundreds of thousands of spots around the city that are just waiting for the presence of lovers. Get to know a date over frozen yogurt. “Something fun to do would be to go to Yogoberry. They have pomegranate and strawberry [flavors] for Valentine’s Day,” UTEP student, Solana Navarro said.
More recommendations read, Cattleman’s Steakhouse- for somewhere a little more fancy. Or the classic, movie/dinner combo.
From foreign cuisine to a park bench, there are tons of spots around El Paso best for Valentine’s Day. Take these student’s advice but do remember, it is not the activity one does, or place they go to…but the person they decide to share that special day with.
Have fun and enjoy. Happy Valentine’s, Miners!
Vianah Vasquez is a contributor and may be reached at vcvasquez2@miners.utep.edu
UTEP professors bridge the gap at La Fe Preparatory School
University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Chicano studies has played a major role at La Fe Preparatory School in Segundo Barrio. A role that has seemingly unlocked the potential for first generation students to continue their education.
University of Texas at El Paso Chicano Studies professor, Adrian
semester working with La Fe’s fifth graders to help them develop their English language and thinking skills through podcasting.
The teachers of La Fe said to Aragones that students don’t speak English, because they don’t want to, not because they can’t. Students just feel ashamed that they may be speaking English incorrectly.
As a first-generation student himself, Aragones said he wants to help the students find a connection between their education and
previously an educator at La Fe and all his own children were once students there. He has a special connection to the school community and wants to give back.
The project started off as just brainstorming, until Aragones was inspired by his own experiences with podcasting.
“We’re going to do all these points in between. We’re going to have [the students] think about a topic they want to talk about, how to research, how to write it and how to put their notes into it. In essence, let’s treat them like college students. Let’s show them ‘You’re smart. So, what now?’ This is all [the opportunities] it could lead
exercises like writing assignments about subjects that interest them.
Then students translate their work from one language to another. “We use metaphors like ‘superpowers.’ We rely on traditional Spanish English sayings,” Aragones said. “El que habla dos idiomas vale por dos personas … and so they started seeing themselves in this.”
After just weeks of the project launching, positive results were already
“[The vice principal] said it’s part of what the teachers here are doing … but also the fact that
from the outside and the kids think ‘[The outsiders] made me feel like I can do it, and they don’t care if I mess up’,” Aragones said.
Carolina Cardoza-Herrera comes from a similar background as students at La Fe. She is now double majoring in political science and multimedia journalism at UTEP and is an assistant to Aragones on this project.
“I asked the kids why they don’t like reading, writing or speaking in English,” Cardoza said. “They have mentioned that they’ve been made fun of ... once we’ve gained the trust of the kids, they feel more comfortable with us.”
The students found a connection with Cardoza. They act as a mirror to each other.
“I’m there for the kids. I help them out each and every step of the way,” Cardoza said. “I try to create a good atmosphere for them to learn English. I know it’s hard. I went through that myself.”
Aragones and Cardoza hope to turn the project into research. Ultimately, they hope to give back to kids like them.
“When you find that connect, regardless of obstacles of whatever the case may be, when you get through it, you’re more committed… you’re in it for the long haul,” Aragones said. “As a teacher now working with a lot of first gen because of where we are, that’s always in the back of my mind… [The students think] ‘How am I supposed to connect to school or how is school supposed to connect to me.’ A lot of us forget where we come from, and when you provide that connect there is a validation in what they’re doing.”
Jesie Garcia is staff reporter and can be reached at jlgarcia36@miners.utep.edu, on Instagram @ empanaditawrites.
someone else is coming in
How cozy games maintain their allure in a fast-paced world
CONTRIBUTOR THE PROSPECTOR
The cozy game genre’s namesake was coined by gamers to group together games that bring comfort, have wholesome characters, joyful color palettes and open-ended objectives that emphasize self-paced game progression.
According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, the attraction to cozy games is natural, and popular amongst young adults and is pivotal to forming healthy coping mechanisms and developing an astute form of self-awareness that translates into improved regulatory positive behavior when confronted with negative emotions. Superficial qualities have inundated the gaming community
with the assumption that it is an inadequate form of gaming–there has been a dismissive stance when discussing cozy games and rendering them as “not actual games” due to their cozy nature, but as a matter of fact, cozy games have been deeply imbued with effective storytelling and cozy charm to explore complex themes.
Members of the student organization at the University of Texas at El Paso
while
STAFF REPORTER THE PROSPECTOR
JESIE GARCIA B Y
(UTEP), Bandit Game Studio, further cement the unique nature of cozy games
JAZMINE GRACIA B Y
see COZY GAMES on page 9
As of January 2025, the Nintendo Switch has over 4,900 games available to its users. Photo by Diego Cruz-Castruita/The Prospector
Adrian Aragones and Carolina Cardoza-Herrera help students at La Fe Prep develop their English language skills through podcasting. Photo by Diego Cruz-Castruita photographer/The Prospector
also approaching it with curiosity as to what constitutes a cozy game and its characteristics.
“If you intend to make a very traditional cozy game, like Stardew Valley, then I think the narrative and the gameplay kind of complement each other to make it cozy. But I feel like it really depends on how you design that gameplay
tasks. I do like that in a way, my brain stops thinking and I can just continue to get the satisfaction of I’m winning but without having to think too much,” Nonami said.
Likewise, an undergraduate student at UTEP, history major Andrea Cazares-Lopez, seeks an outlet away from her studies in the form of pixels. To her, the appeal of a cozy game comes from
for it because I consider Hollow Knight to be somewhat of a cozy game, but its storyline isn’t cozy,” said Jorge Molina, one of Bandit Game Studio’s administrators.
While the term “cozy game” is subject to an influx of definitions and characteristics, a consensus is its ability to provide emotional comfort. President of Bandit Game Studio, Moin Nonami and administrators expressed that while they do have to carve out time to play games at all, when they do choose cozy games it’s for their relaxing qualities.
“I’d lean more towards cozy games that are kind of like repetitive
the long-standing relationship of nostalgia and escapism, particularly associated with “My Sims.”
“My Sims,” a game with the premise of the user, being a renowned builder, are invited by the mayor to improve the conditions of the town after it’s been abandoned by previous sim inhabitants and have the freedom to personalize the town.
“When I was a little kid, that was the first Wii game I got,” Cazares said, ‘‘It’s a really comforting game. I love building and I’m a very creative individual.”
Cazares further accredits “My Sims” as being an outlet for
relaxation when school becomes overwhelming. The ability to turn on her Nintendo Switch to play the game, complete different tasks and be rewarded for it is a nice escape when free time from school is possible.
A study published by Maria Önnberg for the University of Skövde explores the correlation between narrative and comprehensive characteristics of cozy games and how they influence immersion. The ingredients of a cozy game, its music, storytelling, and graphics, all come together and provide an emotional stasis. Cozy games are effective mediums to convey overlapping themes in a digestible format, they are games “that strive to confront the players with grief, loss and loneliness but to also represent the struggles of mental health,” that allows time for self-reflection and “give players space to deal with emotional social maintenance and growth” as Önnberg writes. All create avenues for relatability when creating a wellrounded user immersion.
Upcoming cozy game releases are “Tales of the Shire,” a Lord of the Rings game with a Stardew touch, where you play as a Hobbit enjoying life in the idyllic MiddleEarth, which is set to release on March 25, and “Wanderstop,” where you are Alta, a retired warrior who finds healing in managing a tea shop, expected to release on March 11.
Jazmine
Gracia is a contributor for The Prospector and can be reached atjigracia@miners.utep.edu
Glean is an app offered by CASS that helps students record and transcribe class lectures, take notes and more to guarantee students a successful learning experience.
Students interested in using Glean must be registered with and approved by CASS for this accommodation.
Horse around at The Rodeo Night Market
The Rodeo Night Market took place on Jan. 25 from 6-11 p.m., with local vendors selling vintage items, jewelry and clothing. Some of these items included bottoms from the clothing brand, Ed Hardy, a brand name that was well-known during the early 2000s. Even during the chilly night, shoppers walked around Lowbrow palace buying their new favorite items.
Amongst the many vintage vendors at the night market was 25-year-old business owner Cristina Benitez, who owns a Y2K-inspired clothing business, Crispy Thrift. Benitez sells items she finds in thrift stores, swap meets, estate sales or from traveling around town.
Her items range from street wear, athletic clothes and more.
“I mostly sell second-hand clothing mostly from the 90s up to the 2000s,” Benitez said. “These are popular trends amongst young people and also some memories that older people can relate to.”
As Y2K fashion begins to rise in popularity thanks to social media, Benitez reflects on El Paso’s reputation with the style.
“I feel like more young people are bringing in the Y2K kind of fashion and I hope to see that more around the street,” Benitez said. “I just like the fashion industry and the passion that people put into
CASS IS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS WITH
AIM allows students to access or request accommodations or testing services online 24/7. Use your UTEP credentials to log in to AIM to apply for services, check the status of your requests, or apply to be a notetaker. Faculty can access AIM as well!
CONTRIBUTOR THE PROSPECTOR
DANIELA ORDAZ B Y
COZY GAMES
Animal Crossing New Horizons won “Best Family Game” at the 2020 Game Awards. Diego Cruz-Castruita/The Prospector
A customer at the Rodeo Night Market browses through the selection of vintage football jerseys. Photo by Daniela Ordaz/The Prospector
The social evolution of tween spaces
The in between stage of childhood and teenage years can consist of raging hormones and unchecked emotion, which can turn into an unavoidable obstacle for tweens to get through. However, hanging out with friends and having an adult to turn to is often a saving grace for such a transitional time.
Years ago, the unique age group used to frequent stores like Claire’s, parks and corner stores. Now, it seems the pre-teens have found other spaces to stay connected.
Daniel Dosal, Ph. D, an assistant professor of counseling at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and a former middle school counselor said economics have created a big cultural shift for tweens. Groups of tweens are no longer found in public spaces that give them a chance to interact with each other and the real world, often called third spaces. They are left to the mercy of their technological devices and the World Wide Web.
“Video games, that‘s a third space. That‘s a space where children and preteens, depending on the game that they’re playing, are socializing. They are learning skills,” Dosal said. “Now are they the skills that we can equate to the public world? That can be debated.”
However, kids and parents aren’t always to blame for this shift in activities and spaces.
“If your parents are working full time, they don’t have time to read with you. They don’t have time to [play with you],” Dosal said. “Most people are two-income households. What that means is tweens are left on their own, kind of functioning like many adults, but they‘re not.”
Tweens are not adults.
They can’t drive themselves to their friends, their parents are away, and they need guidance like anyone else. Options are limited, causing them to turn to the World Wide Web.
Jalynn Mosier, 15, freshman in high school and recent tween said her friends struggled with a lack of adult guidance that also made them turn to high screen times for entertainment and help.
“A lot of my friends’ parents work until late. They’re home alone after school. Even their siblings are at work,” Mosier said.
Mosier says that going through those years was a struggle for her.
“The [tween years] definitely had a toll on my mental health,” Mosier said. “Especially since you’re going through [puberty] and everything. It just makes things ten times worse for tweens.”
Tweens say they can’t turn to parents and adults for comfort and advice when they are working all day to make ends meet so the start getting their advice off the internet.
“For girls it’s like beauty standards. For boys, it‘s kind of what‘s been called the ‘red pill’ kind of stuff,” Dosal said. “There’s no parental [supervision].”
Mosier says what her classmates were seeing on the internet brought on new ways that they could be perceived and their selfesteem plummets.
“[The internet] definitely
did affect the way a guy looks at girls, and then the girls start stressing out,” Mosier said.
The shift changes how tweens interact with each other. The constant push of new ideas and new insecurities onto the impressionable mind makes public interaction with each other more difficult as tweens can’t fully comprehend what they are digesting.
“What that creates is disrespectful behavior to each other. [They’re] unable to have conversations and there’s a trend toward physical violence,” Dosal said. “These tweens are getting in fights because of [ideas] they don’t understand.”
However, Dosal believes that being online isn’t all good or all bad. Practicing counselors like himself actively work toward deconstructing the ideas in tween’s minds. Hopefully creating a safer and sound environment for them to participate in, and for them to continue into adulthood with minimal repercussion.
Jesie Garcia is a staff reporter and may be reached at jlgarcia36@miners.utep.edu or on Instagram @ empanaditawrites.
Common ‘tween spaces’ have faded out within recent years, and tweens have moved over to a digitized world. Photo by Diego Cruz-Castruita/The Prospector
Sports
Sofia Sierra, editor
Blood, glory and love: El Paso’s boxing scene
Editor’s Note: This is the first partofathree-partseriescovering boxinginElPaso.
Every punch is one step closer to victory. Every knockout solidifies a fighter’s name. Every hour of training in the gym, filled with sweat, tears and resilience gives boxers the confidence they need to step into the ring and show off the skills they accumulated.
Local fighters are preparing to stand in the ring as a part of the Chuco Classic event on Feb. 15. Among the fighters, several new faces will grace the ring, including 18-year-old, “Poison” Ivy Enriquez. Additionally, it will be a stage for fighters who are looking to cement another win on their records.
Pro fighter Alec McGee will be going on his 15th professional fight on Feb. 15. With an 11-2-1 record, McGee said the confidence built throughout training camps propels
a fighter into potential victory.
“Just having that confidence in yourself and that confidence comes from getting beat up in the gym, it comes from the hours and hours that you put in the gym,” McGee said. “It comes from you waking up not wanting to go [to the gym] and go run like at 5 in the morning, it comes from doing that multiple times and numerous times to build that level of confidence.”
McGee said his childhood shaped the fighter he is today. Due to his Hispanic/Irish blood, kids would pick fights with McGee, which he said led him to being troubled in his youth.
“I got a lighter complexion, so I would want to be with like ‘my kind’ but because I was white, they [the other kids] wouldn’t let me hang out with them, be part of them,” McGee said.
Now, fighting for 18 years, McGee said pursuing boxing professionally turned him into a strong person, both mentally and physically.
“You have to have a clear path, you set out in your head and know that it’s not always going to go [good], but you got to have a plan A, plan B, and plan C, and the number one thing is you got is your reason why,” McGee said. “[My reason why] is I grew up from nothing. I see boxing and [see] my one opportunity to show the world that I am somebody, and that I can be somebody.”
The main event of Chuco Classic, Dewayne “DJ” Bonds, is another fighter who has been boxing for 18 years. Bonds has a 13-4-1 professional record, with a 61% KO rate.
Preparing for his 19th professional match, Bonds said his biggest support system has been his family.
“Keep your family close, this is a combat sport where you never know what can happen,” Bonds said. “So, you just want to surround yourself with the best people who
love you.”
Throughout his boxing career, Bonds said his most memorable fight showed the lengths to which support can encourage someone.
“My first time I won the belt, I had to go to Mexico, I was in his [the opponent’s] backyard, and I came home with a belt, it was kind of a scary experience going over there and actually beating someone for a title,” Bonds said. “Just getting that title and coming back home and being here from El Paso, somebody had told me I’m like the first African American to win a professional title here, so I feel like that’s an accomplishment.”
With the vast array of accomplishments that McGee and Bonds have in their fighting career, the theme of home and origin, has helped these fighters step into the ring, and show off the hard work they put into training.
Chuco Classic will be held on Feb. 15 hosted by Empire Promotions, at The University of Texas at El Paso Memorial Gym.
Sofia Sierra is the sports editor and may be reached at sdsierra2@miners.utep.edu.
“Poison” Ivy Enriquez gears up for her pro debut training at Champ Camp. Photo by Diego Cruz-Castruita/The Prospector
Caesar Alvarado has been fighting pro since 2022. He will also be participating in the Chuco Classic on Feb. 15 at UTEP’s Memorial Gym. Photo by Diego Cruz-Castruita/The Prospector
Love that made its shot, UTEP’s rifle sisters
been a highlight of the journey and has brought them closer together.
From childhood days spent shooting together to now competing side by side, sisters Amy and Holly Visconti have worked their way through the range and now compete at a collegiate level.
The Visconti sisters are sharing their first season together on the UTEP Rifle team.
Since they were young, shooting has been more than just a sport for the Visconti sisters, it’s transformed into a family tradition and a symbol of love.
“Shooting is common in our family; our dad was our coach, and our older brother shot in college and my dad also shot in college when he was younger,” Amy Visconti said. “My mother also shoots, she got into it afterwards, so it’s been a family thing, our whole family shoots together.”
Their father has been a source of inspiration for the Visconti’s and has helped shape the skill that they have today.
“Our dad being our coach taught us everything we know about shooting, he’s been a big influence for us and been there for us, coaches us and when we come home for the summer, he’s always there motivating us and pushing us,” Amy Visconti said. “We appreciate him and he’s the reason why we’re here.”
Amy Visconti expresses how having her father as her mentor has
“Since my dad has been my coach for so long, I really bonded closer to him through shooting,” Amy Visconti said. “It’s nice to live on his legacy of shooting.”
As the love for the sport deepened, the sisters joined different clubs and school rifle teams to continue to grow.
Holly Visconti was a part of rifle teams throughout her sophomore to senior year in high school, but said most of her experience comes from beforehand, from her local club.
“My sophomore year in high school I was on the Willsboro rifle team, and my junior and senior year we started a team at my local high school, so I was on that team for two years,” Holly Visconti said.
Apart from her younger sister, Amy spent most of her time shooting alone or with family and didn’t
UTEP womens basketball falls to WKU after late run
On Jan. 30, UTEP womens basketball ultimately fell to Western Kentucky University (WKU) in a night of many highlights from both teams despite the loss. Although the Miners fought to the very end, catching up to the Lady Toppers by the fourth, WKU would run away with the win by the second half, 65-59.
Head Coach Keitha Adams spoke to WKU’s ability as a team and her own team’s overall performance.
“Western Kentucky is a good team, they’ve won five games in a row,” Adams said. “We needed to be able to make some plays and get stops down the stretch, but we
didn’t. That rebounding is hurting us, it has for several games. We got ourselves back in at 59-59, but gave up an offensive rebound and let them go up two.”
Many of the highlights came from the Miners, including senior guard Ivane Tensaie who helped lead the Miners with 18 points, with half of those points coming from beyond the arc. Sophomore forwards Luisa Vydrora and Dunja Zecevic scored double digits, with 10 a piece.
Vydrova also made a game high of nine boards and was just one rebound away from making a 10-point and 10 rebound performance. Junior forward Ndack Mbengue was also close to achieving a double double, racking up nine points and eight rebounds.
Junior guard Portia Adams made three assists and senior guard Delma Zita hit a game high of five assists. Zita also swooped in for a team best of two steals. From the start, both teams were at each other’s throats, with the Lady Toppers running the lead at 21-15 by the end of the first period. A clutch move from Portia Adams helped lead the Miners with 6 points. Tensaie was key in helping, pacing the Miners with 10 points in the half, but WKU played out their lead by nine with a score of 33-24. By the end of the second half the Miners were able to secure three steals, five assists, and 13 rebounds.
By the third, the Miners had a newfound pep in their step, leading the scoreboard for a majority of the quarter with the help of eight rebounds from Mbengue. However, by the end of the third quarter WKU played out their lead by nine with a score of 33-24.
Junior guard Portia Adams had three assists and 6 points against the Lady Hiltoppers. Photo by Kristian Hernandez/The Prospector
PHOTO EDITOR THE PROSPECTOR
IZIAH MORENO B Y
Originally from Champlain, NY, Amy and Holly Visconti have made their way from shooting at their at-home family range to shooting together for the first time on UTEP’s rifle team during the 2024-25 season. Photo by Iziah Moreno/The Prospector
Freshman guard Irene Asensio looking over the court on Jan. 30 against Western Kentucky. Photo by Kristian Hernandez/The Prospector