Welcome to The San Antonio Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• VIA names new CEO to lead historic transit push.

• Upcoming UTSA Roadrunners Football match

• A deep-dive into the life of Emma Tenayuca

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it."

— Henry David Thoreau

Trivia

What is the name of the historic San Antonio hotel known for its grandeur and being the site of several important political events?

A) The Driskill

B) The Menger Hotel

C) The Hotel Emma

D) The St. Anthony Hotel

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The San Antonio district known for its historical significance, unique architecture, and artisan community is B) La Villita Historic Arts Village.

💼 Business

Two of SA's largest locally owned accounting firms merge. (Link)

VIA names new CEO to lead historic transit push. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Wembanyama's 34 points, 14 rebounds, Paul's double-double lead Spurs past Kings 116-96. (Link)

Jerry Jones says Cowboys QB Dak Prescott will have season-ending surgery on torn hamstring. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Orphaned oil and gas wells in Texas could cost taxpayers $100M. (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

🏀 Texas Lutheran Bulldogs at Incarnate Word Cardinals Women's Basketball
McDermott Convocation Center, San Antonio
Thursday, Nov. 14th | (More info)

🏈 North Texas Mean Green at UTSA Roadrunners Football
Alamodome, San Antonio
Friday, Nov. 15th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 A Beacon School
Paper Tiger, San Antonio
Thursday, Nov. 14th | (More info)

🎶 Jack White
Paper Tiger, San Antonio
Friday, Nov. 15th | (More info)

Family

🔮 Free Tarot Meetup
2318 San Pedro Avenue, Suite #1, San Antonio
Thursday, Nov. 14th | (More info)

Image of the Wee

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

This week, I typed in “Urban landscape of San Antonio with advanced public transport systems” 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

Coming of the Railroads (1877): The first railroad reached San Antonio, changing its economic and cultural landscape.

In 1877, the arrival of the first railroad in San Antonio marked a pivotal moment in the city's history, ushering in a new era of economic and cultural transformation. The introduction of the railroad system revolutionized the way goods and people were transported, connecting San Antonio to distant markets and opening up opportunities for trade and commerce. This development played a significant role in shaping the city's economic landscape, leading to increased industrialization and urban growth.

The impact of the railroads extended beyond the realm of commerce, influencing the cultural fabric of San Antonio. The accessibility and convenience of rail travel facilitated the movement of people, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and diversity within the city. As a result, San Antonio experienced an influx of new ideas, traditions, and perspectives, contributing to the rich tapestry of its cultural heritage. The railroad's influence on the city's social dynamics and demographic composition was profound, laying the groundwork for a more interconnected and dynamic community.

The legacy of the coming of the railroads in 1877 continues to resonate in San Antonio's identity, serving as a testament to the city's resilience and adaptability in the face of change. The railroad's enduring impact on the city's economic vitality and cultural vibrancy underscores its significance as a transformative milestone in San Antonio's history, shaping the city into the dynamic and diverse metropolis it is today.

Famous People From San Antonio

Emma Tenayuca - Labor leader, union organizer, and educator.

Emma Tenayuca, a fearless Mexican American labor activist, was born in San Antonio, Texas, in 1916. Her life's work as a labor leader, union organizer, and educator left an indelible mark on the civil rights movement and the working class.

Emma's Early Years and Political Awakening (1916-1934)

Emma Beatrice Tenayuca was born on December 21, 1916, in San Antonio, Texas, the oldest of eleven children. Raised by her maternal grandparents, Emma was encouraged to take an interest in politics from a young age. Her grandparents, both registered voters, engaged in political debates at home, influencing Emma's awareness of the world around her.

Labor Activism and the Pecan Shellers' Strike (1935-1938)

At the age of 18, Emma Tenayuca joined the Finch Cigar Company strike, marking the beginning of her labor organizing activities. Her most notable contribution came in 1938 when she led the San Antonio Pecan Shellers' Strike, earning her the nickname La Pasionaria de Texas (The Passionate One). Her fearless leadership and dedication to the working class made a lasting impact on labor rights in San Antonio.

Educational Pursuits and Community Engagement (1939-1950)

Following her involvement in labor activism, Emma Tenayuca pursued higher education, attending San Francisco State University and the University of Texas at Austin. She continued to be involved in community organizing and education, advocating for the rights of the working poor and marginalized communities.

Political Engagement and Civil Rights Advocacy (1951-1960)

During the 1950s, Emma Tenayuca's commitment to civil rights and social justice led her to join the Communist Party. She remained dedicated to advocating for labor rights, racial equality, and the empowerment of Mexican American communities, becoming a prominent figure in the civil rights movement.

Return to San Antonio and Educational Leadership (1961-1999)

In the late 1960s, Emma Tenayuca returned to San Antonio and pursued a master's degree in education from Our Lady of the Lake University. She dedicated her later years to teaching and educational leadership, leaving a legacy of empowering future generations through knowledge and activism.

Legacy and Impact

Emma Tenayuca's legacy as a labor leader, union organizer, and educator continues to resonate in San Antonio and beyond. Her fearless advocacy for labor rights, civil rights, and educational empowerment has inspired generations of activists and community leaders.

Key Achievements of Emma Tenayuca:

• Fearless leadership in the San Antonio Pecan Shellers' Strike, earning her the nickname La Pasionaria de Texas.

• Dedication to advocating for labor rights, racial equality, and the empowerment of Mexican American communities.

• Legacy of educational leadership and community empowerment through teaching and activism.

Emma Tenayuca's life story is one of unwavering dedication to social justice, labor rights, and educational empowerment. Her impact on San Antonio and the civil rights movement remains a testament to her enduring legacy.

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.

-Yannick Lyons

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