Welcome to The San Antonio Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• History on the establishment of San Antonio

• Upcoming Spurs home games

• A deep-dive into the life of José Antonio Navarro

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how."

– Friedrich Nietzsche

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!

What is the name of the famous mission in San Antonio where a pivotal battle for Texas's independence took place?

A) Mission San José

B) The Alamo

C) Mission Concepción

D) Mission Espada

News

💼 Business

San Antonio-based Rackspace Technology announced a new partnership with a major cloud services provider, aiming to expand its global market reach. (link)

A local San Antonio startup specializing in AI technology secured significant funding from a renowned venture capital firm. (link)

The City of San Antonio allocated $15M for small business support in the 2024 budget. (link)

🏒 Sports

The San Antonio Spurs faced a tough match against the Houston Rockets, with Dejounte Murray leading the team with 25 points. (link)

UTSA's basketball team clinched a victory over their conference rival, marking their third consecutive win. (link)

San Antonio FC announced the signing of a promising forward from the international transfer market. (link)

🏦 Finance

San Antonio was admitted as a member of the prestigious Délice Network, joining an international gastronomy network. (link)

January 24: Valero Energy Corporation reported strong fourth-quarter earnings, with significant returns to shareholders. (link)

The City of San Antonio proposed a 9% larger budget for 2024, focusing on public safety, animal control, and other community services. (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

🏀 San Antonio Spurs vs. Washington Wizards
AT&T Center
Monday, Jan 29, 2024 | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 North Texas Mean Green Basketball
University Of Texas At San Antonio Convocation Center
Wednesday, Jan 31, 2024 | 6:30 PM | (More Info)

🏀 San Antonio Spurs vs. Orlando Magic
AT&T Center
Wednesday, Jan 31, 2024 | 7:00​​ PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Tim Ripper Owens
Paper Tiger
Saturday, Feb 3rd | (More Info)

🎹 Dionne Warwick
Majestic Theatre
Wednesday, Jan 31 | (More Info)

🎷 Mania - The ABBA Tribute
Charline McCombs Empire Theatre
Thursday, Feb 1 | (More Info)

Family

🎤 Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone In Concert
Majestic Theatre
Saturday, Feb 3 | (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 as a giant eco-friendly treehouse community” 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

Establishment of San Antonio (1718)

In the year 1718, the landscape of what is now modern-day San Antonio underwent a pivotal transformation when a contingent of Spanish explorers and missionaries decided to establish a settlement in the area. Their endeavor marked the official founding of San Antonio, setting the stage for what would become one of the most culturally rich and historically significant cities in the United States. The original group, led by Father Antonio de Olivares, included Franciscan missionaries, along with families who were eager to start a new life in the vast and untamed lands of the New World.

The site for the settlement was strategically chosen near the San Antonio River, known then as the Yanaguana, a name given by the indigenous Payaya people. This river provided a reliable water source, crucial for the survival and development of the early settlement. The Spaniards, with a vision of expanding their colonial empire and spreading Christianity, established the Mission San Antonio de Valero, later famously known as The Alamo. This mission was one of five that were constructed in the area and played a vital role in the community's religious and social life.

Over the centuries, San Antonio grew from this modest missionary settlement to become a pivotal city in the history of Texas. It became a melting pot of cultures, where Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and Anglo-American influences intermingled, each leaving their indelible mark on the city's identity. The establishment of San Antonio in 1718 laid the foundational stone for a city that would witness pivotal moments in history, from the heroic battles for Texas independence to the emergence of a vibrant, multicultural urban center. Today, San Antonio stands as a testament to its rich past, attracting millions of visitors each year to its historic sites, cultural festivals, and scenic river walks.

Famous People From San Antonio

José Antonio Navarro (1795–1871)

Early Life and Family Background (1795-1815)

José Antonio Navarro was born in 1795 in San Antonio, Texas, then part of the Spanish Empire. Born into a prominent family, Navarro was exposed to politics and commerce from a young age. His early life in San Antonio, a cultural melting pot, shaped his identity and future stance as a statesman and advocate for Tejano rights.

Involvement in Early Texas Politics (1816-1835)

As a young man, Navarro quickly became involved in the political sphere. He served in various political positions under both Spanish and Mexican rule, demonstrating a keen understanding of the complex political landscape of the region. Navarro's early political career was marked by his advocacy for the rights of Tejanos (Texans of Hispanic heritage).

The Texas Revolution and the Signatory of Independence (1836)

Navarro played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, a movement for independence from Mexico. He was one of only two native-born Texans to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence. His participation in the revolution and subsequent political activities highlighted his commitment to Texas and its people.

Service in the Republic of Texas (1837-1845)

After Texas won its independence, Navarro continued to serve the Republic of Texas in various capacities, including as a congressman and senator. He was instrumental in drafting the Constitution of the Republic of Texas and played a key role in shaping the new nation's legislative framework.

Annexation and Service in the State of Texas (1846-1861)

With the annexation of Texas by the United States in 1845, Navarro's political career transitioned to the state level. He served as a state senator and was a strong advocate for property rights and fair legal representation for all Texans, regardless of heritage.

Civil War and Later Years (1861-1871)

During the Civil War, Navarro was a Union sympathizer, a stance that reflected his commitment to the principles of the Constitution and his opposition to secession. Despite the turbulent times, he continued to be an influential figure in his community and a respected elder statesman.

Ranching, Business, and Personal Life

Apart from his political career, Navarro was also successful in ranching and business. He was a savvy businessman and rancher, with extensive landholdings. His personal life was marked by a deep commitment to his family and his community in San Antonio.

Death and Legacy (1871)

José Antonio Navarro passed away in 1871 in San Antonio, Texas. His death marked the end of a life dedicated to the service of Texas and its people. Navarro is remembered as a leading figure in the state's early history, a champion of Tejano rights, and a foundational figure in the shaping of Texas.

Key Achievements:

• Signatory of the Texas Declaration of Independence and a key figure in the Texas Revolution.

• Served as a congressman and senator in the Republic of Texas, contributing to the formation of its constitution.

• Advocated for the rights of Tejanos and was a prominent statesman during the annexation of Texas and beyond.

• His legacy as a defender of civil liberties and a promoter of fair governance continues to be honored in Texas.

José Antonio Navarro's life is a testament to his enduring commitment to Texas, from the days of the Spanish Empire through the turbulent times of the Texas Revolution and into statehood under the United States. His contributions as a statesman, revolutionary, and advocate for civil rights have cemented his place as a pivotal figure in Texas history. Navarro's dedication to public service and his community in San Antonio continues to inspire, embodying the spirit of resilience and integrity.

Connect With Me

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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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