Welcome to The San Antonio Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Spurs wrap up preseason with loss to Houston Rockets.

• Upcoming Field Guide concert

  A deep-dive into the life of William Edward Burleson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"It is never too late to be what you might have been."

— George Eliot

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Trivia

What is the name of the NBA team based in San Antonio?

A) San Antonio Spurs

B) San Antonio Raiders

C) San Antonio Mavericks

D) San Antonio Heat

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The iconic tower in San Antonio that offers panoramic views of the city and has a rotating restaurant at the top is B) The Tower of the Americas.

💼 Business

Oxbow Development Group's Southtown project clears first hurdle. (Link)

Lennar files more permits over time period than all other builders combined. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Former Spur, NBA champion Aron Baynes announces his retirement. (Link)

Spurs wrap up preseason with loss to Houston Rockets. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Dual threat executive: Bryan Ehrlich juggles construction and NFL agency success. (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

🏀 Houston Rockets at San Antonio Spurs
Frost Bank Center, San Antonio
Saturday, Oct. 26th | (More info)

🏐 South Florida Bulls at UTSA Roadrunners Women's Volleyball
UTSA Convocation Center, San Antonio
Sunday, Oct. 27th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Field Guide
Paper Tiger, San Antonio
Sunday, Oct. 27th | (More info)

🎤 Becky G
Boeing Center at Tech Port, San Antonio
Thursday, Oct. 24th | (More info)

Family

🎉 Turkic Festival
4337 Vance Jackson Rd., San Antonio
Saturday, Oct. 26th | (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 “High-tech urban farm towers and green rooftops in San Antonio” 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 Fall of the Alamo (1836): A pivotal event during the Texas Revolution, later symbolizing the struggle for independence.

The Fall of the Alamo in 1836 is one of the most iconic and defining moments in the Texas Revolution, symbolizing the fierce struggle for independence from Mexico. This pivotal event unfolded over a 13-day siege, culminating on March 6, when Mexican forces under General Antonio López de Santa Anna stormed the Alamo Mission near San Antonio de Bexar (modern-day San Antonio, Texas). Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Texan defenders, including legendary figures such as James Bowie, William B. Travis, and Davy Crockett, mounted a valiant defense, fighting to the last man against overwhelming Mexican forces.

The battle's outcome was a devastating loss for the Texan forces, with all of the Alamo's defenders killed. However, the sacrifice of these men became a rallying cry for the rest of Texas, encapsulated in the battle cry Remember the Alamo! This phrase galvanized Texan forces and supporters, fueling the determination and resolve needed to continue the fight for independence. The bravery and defiance displayed at the Alamo came to embody the spirit of the Texas Revolution, inspiring generations and becoming a symbol of resistance against tyranny.

The Fall of the Alamo, while a tactical victory for Santa Anna and his army, ultimately proved a strategic error, as it ignited a fierce resolve among Texans to seek retribution and fight for their independence with renewed vigor. Just over a month later, the Texan army, led by General Sam Houston, would decisively defeat Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto, securing Texas's independence from Mexico. The legacy of the Alamo remains a cornerstone of Texan identity and American heritage, symbolizing the sacrifice and unyielding spirit of those who fight for freedom and justice.

Famous People From San Antonio

Edward Burleson - Texas General, Vice President of the Republic of Texas.

Edward Burleson was born on December 15, 1798, in Buncombe County, North Carolina. Growing up in a family with a strong military tradition, Burleson was drawn to military service from a young age. He moved with his family to Tennessee, where he received a basic education before enlisting to fight in the War of 1812, marking the beginning of a long and distinguished military career that would see him serve in various conflicts and play a significant role in the early history of Texas.

From Tennessee to Texas: A New Frontier (1814–1835)

After his service in the War of 1812, Burleson returned to Tennessee, where he engaged in farming and local politics. However, the lure of new opportunities in Texas, then a part of Mexico, led him to move his family to the Mexican territory in 1830. Settling near present-day Bastrop, Burleson quickly became a respected member of the community, known for his leadership qualities and military experience.

The Texas Revolution: Leadership and Valor (1835–1836)

As tensions between Texan settlers and the Mexican government escalated, Burleson emerged as a key military leader in the Texas Revolution. He played a significant role in the early stages of the conflict, including the Siege of Bexar in 1835, where his leadership helped Texan forces capture San Antonio from Mexican troops. This victory was crucial in boosting the morale of the Texan army and setting the stage for the independence struggle.

The Battle of San Jacinto and Independence (1836)

Burleson's military acumen was further demonstrated at the Battle of San Jacinto, the decisive conflict of the Texas Revolution. As a senior officer, his strategic insights and courage on the battlefield contributed to the stunning victory over General Santa Anna's forces, securing Texas's independence from Mexico. This triumph established Burleson as one of the heroes of the Texas Revolution.

Service in the Republic of Texas Army (1836–1846)

Following Texas's independence, Burleson continued to serve in the Republic of Texas Army, eventually rising to the rank of Vice President of the Republic under President Sam Houston. His leadership during this period was instrumental in maintaining the fragile stability of the nascent republic, navigating the challenges of defending its borders and establishing a functioning government.

Edward Burleson's Connection to San Antonio (1836–1846)

Burleson's connection to San Antonio was cemented during the Texas Revolution, particularly through his involvement in the Siege of Bexar. His leadership in this critical battle and subsequent military engagements in the area demonstrated his commitment to the defense and development of San Antonio as a key Texan city. Throughout his career, Burleson maintained strong ties to San Antonio, contributing to its growth and security.

Political Career and Vice Presidency (1846–1851)

Transitioning from military to political life, Burleson was elected Vice President of the Republic of Texas in 1841, serving under President Sam Houston. His tenure was marked by efforts to address the financial difficulties facing the young republic and to negotiate peace with Native American tribes. Burleson's political acumen and dedication to Texas's welfare made him a respected leader during this pivotal time in the state's history.

Return to Military Service and Final Years (1851–1858)

Even after his political career, Burleson could not stay away from military service for long. He played a key role in several Indian campaigns, protecting settlers and maintaining peace on the frontier. In his final years, Burleson continued to be involved in Texas politics and community affairs until his death on December 26, 1858, leaving a legacy of service and leadership.

Legacy and Memory (1858–Present)

Edward Burleson's contributions to Texas history have been commemorated in various ways, reflecting his impact on the state's development. His leadership in the Texas Revolution, service in the Republic of Texas, and subsequent political and military roles have made him a figure of enduring significance in Texan history.

Key Achievements:

• Played a pivotal role in the Siege of Bexar and the Battle of San Jacinto during the Texas Revolution.

• Served as Vice President of the Republic of Texas.

• Contributed significantly to the military defense of the Texas frontier against Native American tribes.

• Left a lasting impact on the development and security of San Antonio through his leadership and military service.

Edward Burleson's life was characterized by his unwavering commitment to the service of Texas, from his early days as a military leader in the Texas Revolution to his tenure as Vice President of the Republic of Texas and beyond. His strategic genius at the Siege of Bexar and the Battle of San Jacinto, coupled with his leadership in both military and political spheres, secured his place as one of Texas's most respected figures. Burleson's legacy, especially his contributions to the growth and security of San Antonio, remains a testament to his dedication to the state and its people.

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-Yannick Lyons

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