Welcome to The San Antonio Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Two San Antonio schools appeal new district alignments

• Upcoming San Antonio FC match

• A deep-dive into the life of John Salmon "Rip" Ford

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine."

- Roy T. Bennett

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 historic market square in San Antonio known for its vibrant Mexican marketplace?

A) The Pearl

B) La Villita

C) El Mercado

D) Market Square

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The San Antonio Museum renowned for its extensive collection of Latin American, Asian, and Ancient Mediterranean Art is C) The San Antonio Museum of Art.

News

💼 Business

The FAA awarded San Antonio airport and Port SA millions for new terminals to enhance transportation infrastructure. (Link)

Susann Kazunas was named leader of Toyota's San Antonio plant, succeeding Kevin Voelkel after his promotion. (Link)

Condor executives' San Antonio visit preps for a new direct flight to Frankfurt, expected to enhance global links. (Link)

🏒 Sports

After UIL announced new district alignments for South Texas high schools, two schools have since appealed the decision​​. (Link)

The San Antonio Brahmas released their UFL season schedule, featuring several home games at the Alamodome​​. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Cruising Kitchens, a San Antonio mobile kitchen company, partnered with an Austin bank to offer $100 million in customer financing and insurance. (Link)

San Antonio reported a taxpayer surplus of $900 and received a "B" grade for financial health from Truth in Accounting. (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

🤼 WWE Raw
Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, TX
Monday, Mar. 4th | (More info)

🏀 Rice Owls at UTSA Roadrunners Women's Basketball
UTSA Convocation Center, San Antonio, TX
Tuesday, Mar. 5th | (More info)

⚽ Loudoun United FC at San Antonio FC
Toyota Field, San Antonio, TX
Saturday, Mar. 9th | (More info)

🏀 Temple Owls at UTSA Roadrunners Men's Basketball
UTSA Convocation Center, San Antonio, TX
Sunday, Mar. 10th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Brian Setzer
Tobin Center, San Antonio, TX, US
Wednesday, Mar. 6th | (More info)

🎸 Brian Setzer's Rockabilly Riot
H-E-B Performance Hall, San Antonio, TX, US
Wednesday, Mar. 6th | (More info)

🎹 Dream Machine
The Mix San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, US
Thursday, Mar. 7th | (More info)

🎶 Dale Hollow
Paper Tiger, San Antonio, TX, US
Sunday, Mar. 10th | (More info)

🎤 Autumnal and Frail Talk
Brick at Blue Star Arts Complex, San Antonio, TX, US
Sunday, Mar. 10th | (More info)

Family

🔭 STEAM Sunday: Moon Moves
Broadway, San Antonio, TX
Sunday, Mar. 10th | (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 within a giant biodome” 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

The Battle of Medina in 1813 was Texas' bloodiest, where Republicans fought and lost to Spanish Royalists.

The Battle of Medina, fought on August 18, 1813, stands as the bloodiest battle in Texas history, marking a significant yet often overlooked moment in the fight for Mexican independence from Spanish rule. This ferocious conflict took place south of San Antonio, near the Medina River, where the Republican Army of the North, comprised of Mexican revolutionaries and their Tejano and Anglo-American allies, clashed with the Spanish Royalist forces determined to quell the burgeoning independence movement. The Republicans, inspired by the early successes of the Mexican War of Independence, sought to establish a free territory in Texas, separate from Spanish authoritarian control.

Despite their enthusiasm and initial victories, the Republican Army was vastly outmatched in terms of military strategy, discipline, and resources. The Royalist forces, led by General José Joaquín de Arredondo, were seasoned and ruthless, employing tactics that capitalized on the rebels' lack of cohesion and experience. The battle was brutal and decisive, with the Royalists systematically decimating the Republican forces through a combination of superior firepower, cavalry charges, and tactical maneuvers. The aftermath was gruesome, with estimates of the Republican casualties ranging into the thousands, far exceeding those of the Royalist troops. The defeat effectively crushed the first serious attempt at independence in Texas, sending shockwaves through the region and instilling a climate of fear and repression.

The Battle of Medina, though a devastating loss for the proponents of independence, planted the seeds of resistance that would eventually lead to the successful liberation of Mexico from Spanish rule. Its legacy is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who fought for freedom against overwhelming odds. The battle's significance extends beyond the immediate military and political consequences, serving as a poignant reminder of the complexities and sacrifices inherent in the struggle for self-determination and the shaping of Texas' identity.

Famous People From San Antonio

John Salmon "Rip" Ford (1815-1897)

Early Years and Education (1815–1836)

John Salmon Ford, better known as "Rip" Ford, was born on May 26, 1815, in Greenville District, South Carolina. The young Ford moved with his family to Lincoln County, Tennessee, where he grew up in a modest environment, receiving a basic education. Demonstrating an early interest in medicine, Ford pursued medical training under Dr. John T. Happoldt in Shelbyville, Tennessee, laying the groundwork for his initial career as a physician. These formative years were marked by a burgeoning curiosity and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, traits that would define his multifaceted career.

Journey to Texas and Early Career (1836–1845):

In search of opportunities and adventure, Ford moved to Texas in 1836, amid the Texas Revolution. Settling initially in San Augustine, he practiced medicine before moving to Nacogdoches and then to San Antonio, where he began to immerse himself in the local community and its affairs. Ford's early years in Texas were a time of professional growth and exploration, as he balanced his medical practice with increasing involvement in the military and politics.

Involvement in the Texas Republic Military (1845–1850):

Ford's military career began in earnest during the Mexican-American War (1846–1848), where he served as a surgeon in the Texas Rangers, a testament to his versatility and dedication to the Texan cause. His service during this period was marked by a growing reputation as a skilled leader and tactician. The war years also deepened Ford's connections to Texas and its people, setting the stage for his later contributions to the state's military and political life.

Political Ascent and Legislative Contributions (1850–1859):

After the war, Ford transitioned into politics, serving in the Texas State Legislature. His tenure was characterized by a focus on frontier defense, public health, and education, reflecting his diverse interests and expertise. Ford's legislative work laid the foundation for long-term improvements in Texas, showcasing his commitment to the state's development and the welfare of its citizens.

The Texas Ranger and Indian Campaigns (1859–1861):

Ford's reputation as a capable leader was further solidified during his time as a Texas Ranger captain. He led several successful campaigns against Native American tribes, aiming to secure the frontier for Texan settlers. These years were marked by significant challenges and controversies, reflecting the complexities of frontier life and the often harsh realities of expansion and conflict.

Civil War Service and Leadership (1861–1865):

With the outbreak of the Civil War, Ford's allegiance to Texas and the Confederacy led him to play a significant role in the conflict. He served as a colonel in the Confederate Army, commanding the Second Texas Mounted Rifles and participating in key battles and campaigns in the Western Theater. Ford's leadership during the war was characterized by strategic acumen and a deep commitment to his men and the Confederate cause.

Post-War Challenges and Reconciliation (1865–1875):

The end of the Civil War brought new challenges for Ford. Like many of his contemporaries, he faced the daunting task of rebuilding his life and career in a radically changed Texas. Despite these challenges, Ford worked toward reconciliation and the reintegration of the state into the Union, advocating for moderation and cooperation between former adversaries.

Return to Journalism and Historical Documentation
(1875–1897):

In his later years, Ford turned to journalism and historical writing, contributing to the preservation of Texas history through his work as an editor and author. His writings, including his detailed memoirs, offer invaluable insights into the events and personalities of his time, reflecting his deep understanding of Texas and its people.

Final Years and Legacy (1897–1897):

John Salmon "Rip" Ford passed away on November 3, 1897, in San Antonio, leaving behind a legacy as one of Texas's most versatile and influential figures. His final years were spent in reflection and continued engagement with the community he had served in so many capacities throughout his life.

Key Achievements:

• Served as a physician, Texas Ranger, and military leader in various conflicts, including the Mexican-American War and the Civil War.

• Played a significant role in Texas politics as a state legislator, focusing on frontier defense, public health, and education.

• Contributed to the preservation of Texas history through his journalism and historical writings, including detailed memoirs of his experiences.

John Salmon "Rip" Ford's life was marked by service to Texas in a variety of roles, from physician to soldier to legislator and historian. His contributions spanned the critical periods of Texas's development, from its time as a republic through the Civil War and into the late 19th century. Ford's legacy is that of a man deeply committed to the state of Texas, its people, and its history, embodying the spirit of versatility, leadership, and dedication that marked the era in which he lived.

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

Poll