Welcome to The San Antonio Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Little Chef Academy with Maggiano's San Antonio

• Upcoming Drake performance

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

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.”

- Matt Haig

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 iconic tower in San Antonio offers panoramic views of the city and has a rotating restaurant at the top?

A) The Frost Bank Tower

B) The Tower of the Americas

C) The Hemisfair Tower

D) The AT&T Tower

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The name of the historic market square in San Antonio known for its vibrant Mexican marketplace is C) El Mercado.

News

💼 Business

Mission Solar Energy ushers in 'new era' with new company president. (Link)

The Alamo City saw a bigger percentage decrease in airline ticket costs last summer than the U.S. on average. (Link)

Frost Bank’s recent Houston expansions fuel growth companywide. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Astros' Bennett Sousa aims to secure bullpen spot during Spring Training in West Palm Beach, near his hometown. (Link)

🏦 Finance

San Antonio's Migrant Center's funding at risk amid uncertainty over border finance deal. (Link)

San Antonio doctor offering some financial relief for those in Alabama. (Link)

The D10 Councilman has started a conversation to consider implementing a zero-based budgeting approach. (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

🏀 Golden State Warriors at San Antonio Spurs
Frost Bank Center, San Antonio
Monday, Mar. 11th | (More info)

🏀 Houston Rockets at San Antonio Spurs
Frost Bank Center, San Antonio
Tuesday, Mar. 12th | (More info)

🏀 San Antonio Spurs vs. Golden State Warriors
Frost Bank Center, San Antonio
Monday, Mar. 11th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Fey
Aztec Theatre, San Antonio
Sunday, Mar. 17th | (More info)

🎶 Kassa Overall
Echo Bridge, San Antonio
Sunday, Mar. 17th | (More info)

🎶 Jacob Stelly
Sam's Burger Joint, San Antonio
Friday, Mar. 15th | (More info)

🎶 Drake
Frost Bank Center, San Antonio
Friday, Mar. 15th | (More info)

🎶 Pollen and Stratejacket
The Rock Box, San Antonio
Friday, Mar. 15th | (More info)

Family

🍴 Little Chef Academy with Maggiano's San Antonio
17603 Interstate Highway 10, San Antonio
Saturday, Mar. 16th | (More info)

🍝 KIDS (Ages 7 - 9): Handmade Pasta, Sauce and More
4821 Broadway, San Antonio
Wednesday, Mar. 13th | (More info)

🍀 St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl
402 Austin Street, San Antonio
Saturday, Mar. 16th | (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 “A steampunk-themed San Antonio with Victorian architecture” 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

Texas Revolution and the Siege of Bexar (1835)

The Texas Revolution, a pivotal moment in American history, marked the struggle of Texan settlers and Tejanos (Mexicans living in Texas) to break free from Mexican rule. The Siege of Bexar, occurring in late 1835, was a critical military engagement in this conflict, setting the stage for the eventual declaration of Texas independence. Over several weeks, Texan forces, driven by a desire for autonomy and spurred by grievances against the Mexican government's policies under President Antonio López de Santa Anna, laid siege to the Mexican garrison in San Antonio de Bexar. This intense confrontation underscored the escalating tensions and the Texans' determination to assert their rights.

As the siege progressed, the Texan volunteers, though poorly equipped and organized, demonstrated remarkable resilience and tactical ingenuity. Their siege tactics involved cutting off supplies to the Mexican troops stationed at the Alamo and engaging in skirmishes that gradually weakened the enemy's resolve. In early December, after enduring a protracted siege, the Mexican forces, commanded by General Martín Perfecto de Cos, capitulated, surrendering San Antonio to the Texan rebels. This victory was significant, not only for its immediate tactical advantages but also for its morale-boosting effect on the Texan cause.

The Siege of Bexar was more than just a prelude to the legendary Battle of the Alamo; it was a testament to the Texans' resolve and a critical turning point in their quest for independence. It demonstrated the feasibility of victory against the more established Mexican military and galvanized the Texan forces for the struggles that lay ahead. Ultimately, the siege laid the groundwork for the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836, marking a decisive step toward the creation of the Republic of Texas and altering the course of North American history.

Famous People From San Antonio

José Antonio Menchaca (1797-1879)

Early Life in San Antonio (1800–1818):

José Antonio Menchaca was born in 1800 in Spanish-controlled San Antonio, Texas. As a member of one of the early Spanish families in Texas, Menchaca's upbringing was deeply rooted in the cultural and social life of San Antonio, a frontier town characterized by its multicultural inhabitants. His early years were spent in the burgeoning community, where he was exposed to the complexities of life on the frontier, including the tensions between the Spanish, Mexican, and Texan influences that shaped the region.

Formative Years and Military Beginnings (1818–1835):

As Menchaca grew, he became increasingly involved in the military affairs of the region, a common path for young men of his background in the early 19th century. His formative years were marked by service in local militia units, where he developed a keen understanding of military tactics and leadership. These experiences prepared him for the significant role he would later play in Texas's struggle for independence.

The Texas Revolution and the Battle of San Jacinto (1835–1836)

Menchaca's military career took a pivotal turn during the Texas Revolution. He emerged as a key figure in the fight against Mexican forces, notably participating in the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836. This decisive battle, which ultimately secured Texas's independence from Mexico, highlighted Menchaca's bravery and strategic acumen.

Menchaca's Role in the Republic of Texas (1836–1845):

Following Texas's independence, Menchaca continued to serve the Republic of Texas in various capacities. His knowledge of the land and its people made him an invaluable asset in the new government's efforts to stabilize and govern the region. Menchaca's contributions during this period were instrumental in the establishment of Texas's sovereignty.

San Antonio's Civic Leader (1845–1850):

With the annexation of Texas into the United States in 1845, Menchaca transitioned from military to civic leadership in San Antonio. He took an active role in local government, focusing on issues critical to the community's growth and well-being. His efforts in public service were characterized by a commitment to justice and the improvement of living conditions for all San Antonians.

Menchaca's Later Military Engagements (1850–1860):

Even as he dedicated himself to civic duties, Menchaca remained closely tied to military affairs. He played a part in local militia activities and the defense of Texas against various threats, leveraging his extensive experience to train and lead the next generation of soldiers. His leadership during this period underscored his ongoing commitment to Texas's security.

Personal Life and Legacy (1860–1879):

Away from the public eye, Menchaca was a family man, deeply involved in the life of his community and church. His personal life was marked by the same principles that guided his public service: integrity, dedication, and a profound sense of responsibility to his fellow citizens. Menchaca passed away in 1879, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership that continued to inspire future generations.

Menchaca's Connection to San Antonio:

Throughout his life, José Antonio Menchaca remained deeply connected to San Antonio, both as his home and the focal point of his professional and personal endeavors. His contributions to the city's development, from its defense during the Texas Revolution to his later civic engagement, were pivotal. Menchaca's life and work were integral to the shaping of San Antonio's identity, reflecting the complex history and diverse culture of the city.

Key Achievements:

• Played a critical role in the Texas Revolution, notably at the Battle of San Jacinto.

• Served the Republic of Texas in various military and civic capacities.

• Contributed significantly to the civic development of San Antonio, focusing on justice and community welfare.

• Mentored and trained new generations of soldiers, ensuring the continued defense and security of Texas.

José Antonio Menchaca was a distinguished figure in Texas history, known for his contributions to the state's fight for independence and its early years as a republic. His leadership in both military and civic spheres made a lasting impact on the development of San Antonio and the broader Texas community. Menchaca's legacy is a testament to the role of dedicated individuals in shaping the course of history, embodying the spirit of service, leadership, and commitment to community that defines Texas to this day.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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