Welcome to The San Antonio Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• San Antonio's top political donors in the 2024 race.

• Upcoming SAI Tennis Tournament

• A deep-dive into the life of Charles Bellinger

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step."

— Lao Tzu

Trivia

What annual San Antonio event is known for its ten days of rodeo competitions, concerts, a carnival, and livestock show?

A) Fiesta San Antonio

B) The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo

C) The Texas State Fair

D) The San Antonio Festival

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The San Antonio park famous for its large underground network of caves and offers guided cave tours is C) Natural Bridge Caverns.

💼 Business

Texas recommends $4.9M in tax credits for Far North Side affordable project. (Link)

San Antonio's top political donors in the 2024 race. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Cowboys QB Dak Prescott out at least 1 game as team evaluates hamstring injury. (Link)

Interim Spurs head coach Johnson on Popovich’s health: ‘He’s in good spirits. (Link)

🏦 Finance

FedEx didn’t deliver and a hungry UTSA feasted. (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

🎾 SAI Tennis Tournament
Freeman Coliseum, San Antonio
Friday, Nov. 8th | (More info)

🏈 Lamar Cardinals at Incarnate Word Cardinals Football
Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium, San Antonio
Saturday, Nov. 9th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Trash Boat
The Rock Box, San Antonio
Friday, Nov. 8th | (More info)

🎤 Juvenile
The Espee, San Antonio
Saturday, Nov. 9th | (More info)

Family

👶 Free Kids Event: Kids Quest
327 N.W. Loop 410, San Antonio
Saturday, Nov. 9th | (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 buildings that change shape and color” 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

Mexican-American War Impact (1846-1848): San Antonio served as a service supplier for U.S. forces.

The Mexican-American War of 1846-1848 had a profound impact on San Antonio, particularly as a service supplier for U.S. forces. The conflict resulted in the cession of large portions of former Mexican territory to the United States, as well as the payment of reparations totaling $15 million. San Antonio played a significant role in the war, and its history and culture were forever changed by the conflict. The city's involvement in the war brought new ideas and perspectives, contributing to the diverse city it is today.

San Antonio's connection to the Mexican-American War is deeply rooted in history and culture. The legacy of the Alamo, a pivotal battle cry during the war, is a testament to the city's role in the conflict. The battle cry of remember the Alamo became popular during the Mexican-American War of 1846-1848, and San Antonio's historical significance in the war is a part of its enduring legacy. The impact of the war on San Antonio's history and culture continues to shape the city and its people, reflecting the lasting influence of this significant historical event.

The Mexican-American War left an indelible mark on San Antonio, shaping its identity and contributing to its rich cultural heritage. The city's involvement in the conflict and its role as a service supplier for U.S. forces underscore the enduring impact of the war on San Antonio's history and culture. Today, San Antonio stands as a testament to the resilience and diversity that emerged from the Mexican-American War, reflecting the city's enduring connection to this pivotal moment in history.

Famous People From San Antonio

Charles Bellinger - Influential African American businessman and politician.

Charles Bellinger, also known as the Black Mayor of San Antonio, was an influential African American businessman and political leader. His legacy as the richest Black man in Texas and his significant impact on the political and entrepreneurial landscape of San Antonio are testaments to his remarkable life.

Charles Bellinger's Early Life and Business Ventures

Charles Bellinger was born in Caldwell County, Texas, on April 15, 1875. From a young age, he displayed an entrepreneurial spirit, working on a farm before moving to Lockhart and eventually opening a saloon in San Antonio in 1906. His business acumen and reputation as a gambler contributed to his rise as a prominent figure in the local business community.

Political Involvement and Community Leadership

Bellinger became actively involved in city politics in 1918, organizing black voters and advocating for better schools and playgrounds in African American neighborhoods. He also co-founded the San Antonio Register, a significant contribution to the African American community. His influence in local politics and his commitment to community development solidified his position as a respected leader in San Antonio.

Valmo Charles Bellinger: Continuing the Legacy

Valmo Charles Bellinger, the son of Charles Bellinger, followed in his father's footsteps as an African-American newspaper publisher, community leader, and political boss in San Antonio. His dedication to upholding his father's legacy and his own contributions to the community further enriched the Bellinger family's impact on the city.

Restoration of Bellinger's Estate

The mansion that once belonged to Charles Bellinger, located in the Denver Heights neighborhood, has been restored and is now owned by the Greater Corinth Baptist Church. This restoration serves as a reminder of Bellinger's influence and the preservation of his historical significance in San Antonio.

Key Achievements of Charles Bellinger:

• Considered the richest Black man in Texas.

• Prominent figure in San Antonio's political and entrepreneurial landscape.

• Co-founder of the San Antonio Register, advocating for African American communities.

• Influential leader in local politics, organizing black voters and advocating for community development.

• Restoration of his estate, preserving his historical significance in San Antonio.

Charles Bellinger's story is one of resilience, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. His impact on San Antonio, both in business and politics, continues to be remembered and celebrated, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

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

Poll