Welcome to The San Antonio Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• San Antonio highlighted for its high job satisfaction

• South Texas volleyball tournament

• A deep-dive into the life of James Bowie

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which river runs through the heart of San Antonio, famous for its picturesque river walk?

A) Rio Grande

B) Colorado River

C) San Antonio River

D) Brazos River

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

The famous mission in San Antonio where a pivotal battle for Texas's independence took place is B) The Alamo.

News

💼 Business

A new McDonald's location is set to open on Potranco Road, expanding the fast-food giant's presence in the area. (link)

The newly appointed CEO of SAGE (San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside) is focusing on an economic reset to stimulate growth and development in East San Antonio. (link)

San Antonio's downtown office market is currently outperforming those of all other major Texas cities, indicating a robust demand and economic activity in the area. (link)

🏒 Sports

UTSA Roadrunner football games have been scheduled for national television broadcasts, highlighting the team's success and broadening its exposure. (link)

Despite investments in improvements, the NCAA has decided not to select San Antonio's Alamodome as a finalist for the 2031 Men's Final Four Basketball Tournament. (link)

🏦 Finance

San Antonio was highlighted for its "metro positivity effect," indicating high job satisfaction among employees compared to those in other metros. (link)

Economic achievements and expectations for continued growth in 2024 includes new facilities by JCB that are expected to create over 1,500 jobs and have a $30 billion economic impact over ten years​​. (link)

Gary Dudley, president of San Antonio-based financial services firm SWBC, is selling his mansion in the Dominion for nearly $3.8 million. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏐 South Texas Power League #3 Volleyball Tournament
Various Locations in San Antonio
Saturday, Feb. 10th & Sunday, Feb. 11th | (More Info)

🏈 Northwest San Antonio - Flag Football - Clinic
Culebra Creek Park
Monday, Feb. 5th | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Morat
Boeing Center at Tech Port
Saturday, Feb. 10th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 The Oak Ridge Boys
Frost Bank Center
Sunday, Feb. 11th | (More Info)

🎷 Mike and the Moonpies
Frost Bank Center
Sunday, Feb. 11th | (More Info)

Family

🎉 Valentines Super Love Jam: Keith Sweat, Next, All-4-One & Baby Bash 
Alamodome
Saturday, Feb. 10th | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

🕺 Valentay - A Taylor Swift Lover Dance Party
The Rock Box
Saturday, Feb. 10th | 9:00 PM | (More Info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “San Antonio with domed buildings” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

San Antonio Historical Events

Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo) (1718)

The Mission San Antonio de Valero, famously known as The Alamo, has a foundational story intertwined with the origins of San Antonio itself, established in 1718. Originally envisioned as a sanctuary and a center for converting local indigenous people to Christianity, the mission was part of a broader strategy by Spanish colonists to consolidate their presence in the region. The structure was one of the first missions established in San Antonio, marking the beginning of a significant religious and cultural transformation in the area. The mission's initial years were marked by the challenges of frontier life, including efforts to cultivate the land, protect the community, and foster relationships with the local indigenous populations.

Throughout the 18th century, the mission grew into a vibrant community. Its compounds were home to the missionaries, local converts, and their families, living in a self-sustained ecosystem with farmlands, cattle, and artisan workshops. However, the secularization policies of the early 19th century led to the repurposing of the mission buildings, with The Alamo becoming a military garrison. Little did anyone know then that these humble mission walls would become the stage for one of the most legendary battles in American history, the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. This pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution saw a small group of Texan defenders, including iconic figures like Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie, stand against a vastly larger Mexican army led by General Antonio López de Santa Anna.

Today, The Alamo stands not just as a former mission or military garrison, but as a symbol of resilience and sacrifice. Its story resonates far beyond Texas, embodying the spirit of determination and the fight for justice and independence. Visitors to San Antonio are drawn to this historic site, now a carefully preserved museum, to pay homage to the heroes of the past and to reflect on the complex layers of history that shaped the region. The Alamo's enduring legacy continues to inspire and educate, making it an essential landmark in the tapestry of American heritage.

Famous People From San Antonio

James Bowie (1796–1836)

Early Life and Frontier Beginnings (1796-1818)

James Bowie was born in 1796 in Logan County, Kentucky. His early life on the American frontier was marked by constant movement and adventure. The Bowie family eventually settled in Louisiana, where James, growing up, became proficient in survival skills, hunting, and land speculation.

Ventures and the Famous Bowie Knife (1819-1827)

In his early adulthood, Bowie became known for his bold ventures, including land speculation and involvement in the slave trade. During this period, he also gained fame for his prowess in hand-to-hand combat, notably in the Sandbar Fight, after which the famous Bowie knife, a symbol of rugged frontier life, was named in his honor.

Move to Texas and Land Speculation (1828-1832)

Bowie moved to Texas, then part of Mexico, seeking new opportunities in land speculation. He assimilated into the Texan life, securing large tracts of land and immersing himself in the political and social affairs of the region.

Marriage and Life in San Antonio (1833-1835)

Bowie married Ursula de Veramendi, the daughter of a prominent Tejano family in San Antonio. During this period, he established himself as a respected member of the community, engaging in various business and social activities in the burgeoning town.

The Texas Revolution and Military Involvement (1835-1836)

As tensions between Texas settlers and the Mexican government escalated, Bowie became actively involved in the Texas Revolution. He participated in crucial battles, including the Siege of Bexar, and was known for his strategic acumen and bravery.

The Battle of the Alamo (February-March 1836)

Bowie's most famous role came during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Despite suffering from illness, he co-commanded the Texan forces in the legendary stand against the Mexican army. His leadership and courage during the siege made him a Texas hero.

Heroic Stand and Legacy (March 6, 1836)

James Bowie's life came to a heroic end on March 6, 1836, when he, along with other Alamo defenders, was killed in the battle. His death, though a profound loss, became a rallying cry for Texan independence and a symbol of sacrifice and bravery.

Posthumous Recognition and Influence (Post-1836)

After his death, James Bowie's legacy grew. He was honored as a Texas hero, and his name became synonymous with unwavering courage and the spirit of the Texas Revolution. The Bowie knife continued to symbolize rugged individualism and frontier survival.

Key Achievements:

• Renowned for his involvement in the Texas Revolution and defense of the Alamo.

• The Bowie knife, a symbol of frontier survival, is named after him.

• His ventures and exploits embodied the adventurous spirit of the American frontier.

• Posthumously recognized as a Texas hero, embodying the state's spirit of independence and bravery.

James Bowie's life, characterized by adventure, combat, and leadership, left a lasting mark on Texas and American history. From his early days on the frontier to his final stand at the Alamo, Bowie embodied the spirit of the era, and his legacy continues to inspire as a symbol of courage, resilience, and the indomitable will to fight for one's beliefs. His contributions to the Texas Revolution and his iconic status as a defender of the Alamo ensure that his name and legacy endure in the annals of American history.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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