87.7 F
San Antonio
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
HEB
Home Blog Page 85

The Real Tea About ‘Alamo Famed’ William B. Travis

Blind Followers of the Dead Still Exist in the Cult of the Alamo

What is the real story about William B. Travis of Alamo fame? Was William Travis a gallant leader or was William Travis mentally unstable? There is some evidence that Travis may have been as whacky as John Wilkes Booth who recited poetry after killing Lincoln. Travis did not possess the moral character that myth has created. In fact, he was prone to stereotypical upper class gentlemen speeches and crazed with his own self-importance. He left a pregnant wife behind in Alabama and soon found himself keeping records of the prostitutes he had been with in San Antonio. It was known at the time that Travis had a severe case of syphilis. If so, this might explain the whacked-out behavior and ballooned gentlemen speeches typical of the “Big Man” plantation syndrome that characterized the diction of wealthy slave plantation owners.

The Death Letter

When Travis penned the “death” (more death than liberty) letter, he was already under orders to leave the old Spanish mission which could not be defended with the small number of untrained men under Travis’ command. Only a handful of Alamo defenders had any military training which explains why approximately one hundred of them never fought inside the walls but ran. There is enough evidence to show that most of the Alamo defenders ran from the walls. Sam Houston was well aware that the flooded old mission (church) of the Alamo was the worst imaginable location to become trapped, from his killing of trapped Creek “Indians” inside an enclosed structure at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend, and so issued the order to abandon the Alamo. We know that Travis refused, but why? Arrogant? Affected by Syphilis, or bi-polar? Maybe all three?

William B. Travis Cannot Be Described as a Hero

The Battle of Horseshoe Bend was fought in 1814, and with this victory Andrew Jackson, one of the most racist presidents in American history, became president. Andrew Jackson would be helped by about 600 “friendly Indians,” and the term “friendly Indians “ meant traitors to their own people. Native people that fought against racist white settlers were called “hostiles.” William B. Travis grew up in this racist atmosphere that included slavery and hatred of Blacks. He was not smart enough to reject white supremacy but was only another foolish follower of hatred. Colonel William B. Travis cannot be described as a hero when he adopted the ideas of racism. He was an ineffective lawyer that often-found ways to sue Mexican authorities to have runaway slaves returned to slavery. These actions were a slap in the face when Mexico had abolished slavery in 1829, and who were not about to return black slaves to their brutal masters.

Blind Followers of the Dead Still Exist in the Cult of the Alamo

William B. Travis was a member of a racist group called the “War Party” A secret fanatical organization. According to research, “War Party members included John A. and William R. Wharton, Branch T. Archer, James Bowie, and William B. Travis. William B. Travis was apparently the most famous of the War Party agitators, and who was the most hated by Mexico. This organization, which was a group of racist extremists who blindly followed dead leaders, would be extended to the Knights of the Golden Circle (KGC) and later to the KKK. The blind followers of the dead still exist in the cult of the Alamo which was all about stealing Mexico’s land and creating a slave empire. We need a reset on William B. Travis for his history is faked in the name of tourism and whitewashing his racist past, a past that is one of the greatest hoaxes ever played upon the American public.

Elon Musk’s Appearance at Donald Trump Rally Mocked: ‘Cringing’

Internet Viciously Memes Elon Musk’s Jumpy Trump Rally Appearance

In a highly publicized event, billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk made a bold appearance at a Donald Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, Tesla, and the owner of X (formerly Twitter), joined the former president on stage, delivering a controversial speech that sparked significant reactions on social media. Donning a black “Make America Great Again” cap, Musk declared that he is “not just MAGA — I am Dark MAGA,” solidifying his endorsement of Trump’s 2024 presidential bid.

Musk’s support for Trump, particularly in a state like Pennsylvania, which has been pivotal in past elections, could have implications for the race between Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris. During his speech, Musk warned that “this will be the last election” if Trump doesn’t win, adding a dire tone to the upcoming vote.

Mockery and Criticism on Social Media

Elon Musk joined Donald Trump on stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, the site of the assassination attempt that killed firefighter Corey Comperatore and injured Trump and others. But this was not a solemn occasion.

As Musk took the stage in an all-black MAGA cap and an “Occupy Mars” t-shirt, he bounced up and down, launching countless memes as the internet mocked him—often on X (formerly Twitter), the social media site Musk purchased for $44 billion in 2022. Recently, Musk revealed that the company’s valuation has plummeted to $19 billion, a staggering $25 billion decline.

Critiques of Musk’s jumping technique highlighted how awkward he looked, and many noted Trump’s visible discomfort when Musk joined him on stage. According to Rolling Stone, Trump reportedly finds Musk “weird,” “boring,” and annoying, with frequent mood swings. Back in 2022, Trump famously referred to Musk as “another bullshit artist,” adding to the curious dynamic between the two men.

Republican Figures Rally Behind Musk

Despite the online mockery, some Republican figures praised Musk’s involvement with Trump’s campaign. With over 200 million followers on X, Musk’s endorsement could wield significant influence over the election’s outcome. Republican strategists pointed to Musk’s support as a boost to Trump’s efforts to engage voters, especially those in swing states like Pennsylvania.

Musk’s speech positioned Trump as a defender of free speech and individual rights, with Musk criticizing the Democratic Party’s policies. “They want to take away your freedom of speech, they want to take away your right to bear arms, they want to take away your right to vote, effectively,” Musk said, pointing to recent debates over voter ID laws and free speech restrictions.

The Butler Rally’s Dark History

The rally in Butler was not just any campaign stop; it took place at a site where Trump survived an assassination attempt in July. During that event, bullets grazed Trump’s right ear, killing one of his supporters, Corey Comperatore, and injuring several others. Saturday’s rally brought members of Comperatore’s family, first responders, and other July rally attendees back to the site.

The rally also saw appearances from key Republican figures, including Ohio Senator JD Vance, Trump’s son Eric Trump, and daughter-in-law Lara Trump, along with Pennsylvania lawmakers and local sheriffs. Their presence, combined with Musk’s endorsement, underscored the importance of Pennsylvania in the final stretch of the campaign.

Musk’s Role in Trump’s Future Administration?

Trump has hinted that Musk could play a significant role in his administration if he is re-elected. Specifically, the former president suggested Musk might lead a government efficiency commission, a move that could further intertwine the tech executive with the political landscape.

Musk has already made substantial financial contributions to Trump’s campaign, creating a super political action committee (PAC) that is focused on get-out-the-vote efforts. His influence could sway undecided voters, particularly those who follow his business ventures or align with his advocacy for free speech on platforms like X.

As the 2024 election draws closer, the partnership between Musk and Trump is likely to remain a topic of intense scrutiny, both for its potential impact on the race and the mockery it has inspired online.

Beyoncé and Levi’s New Ad Campaign Generates $5 Million in Media Exposure in Just 48 Hours

Beyoncé and Levi’s Unveil New Ad Campaign

Beyoncé and Levi’s have officially launched their new ad campaign, marking a highly anticipated collaboration. This partnership comes after the singer gave a nod to the iconic denim brand in her song “Levi’s Jeans” from her latest album, Cowboy Carter, released in March. The campaign was first shared on Beyoncé’s Instagram, generating $1.3 million in Media Impact Value (MIV) within a short time. According to Launchmetrics, the campaign earned $5 million in MIV over a 48-hour period, showcasing its immense reach and influence.

The “Reimagine” Campaign: A Fresh Take on Levi’s Classic Ads

The “Reimagine” campaign features Beyoncé in a modern twist on one of Levi’s classic 1985 commercials, where a man strips down in a laundromat while waiting for his jeans to wash. In this updated version, Beyoncé confidently walks into the laundromat, donning head-to-toe Levi’s denim. The ad echoes her track “Levii’s Jeans,” which she describes as a celebration of the ultimate Americana uniform — denim.

Celebrating Female Empowerment Through Iconic Denim

Beyoncé shared that this collaboration with Levi’s represents more than just fashion. “Denim on denim has often been viewed through a male lens,” she said, emphasizing that this campaign reimagines the classic look from a powerful female perspective. She expressed her excitement in working with Levi’s to create an iconic campaign that honors women’s strength and empowerment.

Levi’s Celebrates Two Icons: Beyoncé and Denim

Levi’s chief marketing officer, Kenny Mitchell, highlighted the significance of this collaboration. “This campaign is celebrating two icons,” he said, referring to both Levi’s enduring legacy and Beyoncé’s influence on culture. The partnership, which blends Levi’s historic impact with Beyoncé’s star power, is a testament to their shared values of authenticity and cultural relevance.

The Crimes of the Indicted White Supremacist Gang The Peckerwoods

San Fernando Valley White Supremacist Gang Indicted: A Step Toward Justice, But Is It Enough?

SFV Peckerwood
SFV Peckerwoods Gang Member/LA Times

The recent indictment of the San Fernando Valley Peckerwoods, a white supremacist street gang, marks a critical moment in the fight against organized hate-driven crime. Federal authorities, in coordination with local law enforcement, arrested 68 members and associates of the gang, charging them with racketeering, drug trafficking, illegal firearms possession, and COVID-19 benefits fraud. This gang, operating under the vile ideology of white supremacy, has been accused of distributing deadly fentanyl, committing violent crimes, and maintaining alliances with neo-Nazi prison gangs like the Aryan Brotherhood.

A Gang Fueled by Hate and Greed

The Peckerwoods, rooted in the San Fernando Valley, used their white supremacist ideology to terrorize communities. Their hatred wasn’t just ideological; it was financial. Authorities allege that gang members trafficked fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine—poisons that have ravaged neighborhoods, particularly communities of color. As Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated, “This gang’s operations endanger our communities.” In addition to drug trafficking, the Peckerwoods engaged in identity theft and pandemic-related financial fraud, exploiting the system to further their criminal enterprise.

The Crimes of the Peckerwoods

The indictment accuses the gang of not only distributing controlled substances but also committing violent acts to preserve their criminal empire. Members allegedly conducted robberies, maintained illegal firearms, and controlled drug stash houses, poisoning the streets with narcotics while using Nazi symbols and rhetoric to perpetuate their white supremacist values. Their crimes extended beyond hate speech—they used their power to inflict fear, violence, and financial ruin on innocent people.

Federal Response and the Fight Against Extremism

Law enforcement’s massive operation, led by the FBI and DEA, is a decisive blow to this violent group. The collaboration of federal, state, and local agencies underscores the seriousness of the threat posed by these white supremacist gangs. FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis highlighted how the case “strikes at the heart of our collective mission to rid our communities of the corrosive elements that fuel violence and extremism.”

Peckerwoods Indictment

The Big Question: Is This Enough?

While the arrests of the SFV Peckerwoods are a victory in the fight against white supremacy, it leaves us with a critical question: Is this truly the end of such hateful groups, or is it merely a temporary setback? Hate and violence, unfortunately, don’t exist in a vacuum—they are often amplified by leaders who refuse to denounce them. Former President Donald Trump’s infamous statement referring to “fine people on both sides” after the Charlottesville rally continues to echo in political discourse, raising concerns about how much support these groups can still garner.

As we approach future elections, it’s worth reflecting on the power of our vote. If you support politicians who enable or turn a blind eye to these groups, are you complicit in allowing this hate to thrive?

When you head to the polls, will you vote for leaders who stand against hate, or those who make excuses for it?

Harris Blasts Arkansas Governor: “This Is the Same Guy That Is Now Saying That?”

Harris blasts Arkansas governor’s comments about her lack of biological children: “This is the same guy that is now saying that?”

On the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, the vice president spoke about her “modern family” and lifting women up, rather than putting them down for not having kids.

Vice President Kamala Harris hit back at Arkansas GOP Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ comments that Harris “doesn’t have anything keeping her humble” because she doesn’t have children.

“I don’t think she understands that there are a whole lot of women out here who, one, are not aspiring to be humble,” Harris told “Call Her Daddy” podcast host Alex Cooper.

“Two,” the vice president added in the pre-taped interview that aired Sunday, “[There are] a whole lot of women out here who have a lot of love in their life, family in their life and children in their life and I think it’s really important for women to lift each other up.”

“We have our family by blood and then we have our family by love. And I have both,” Harris, who is a stepmother to her husband Doug Emhoff’s two children, told Cooper, adding, “And I consider it to be a real blessing.”

The vice president discussed her relationship with her stepchildren, Cole and Ella Emhoff, who are her husband’s biological children from his first marriage.

“They are my children. And I love those kids to death, and family comes in many forms,” Harris said.

Her remarks come weeks after Huckabee Sanders, who used to serve in former President Donald Trump’s administration, told attendees at a town hall, “My kids keep me humble Unfortunately, Kamala Harris doesn’t have anything keeping her humble.”

A spokesperson for Huckabee Sanders’ office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Ohio Sen. JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, also criticized women on a similar basis, saying in 2021 that Democrats who don’t have biological children are “a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices that they’ve made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable, too.”

In response to Cooper’s question about what message Vance’s comments send to women who cannot conceive or have children naturally, Harris called the senator’s remarks “mean and mean spirited.”

“I think that most Americans want leaders who understand that the measure of their strength isn’t who you beat down. The real measure of strength of a leader is who you lift up,” she added.

She also asked the vice president about Trump’s comments during a rally in Indiana, Pennsylvania, last month, where he told women that under a future Trump administration, “You will no longer be abandoned, lonely or scared. You will no longer be in danger. You’re not going to be in danger any longer. You will no longer have anxiety from all of the problems today. You will be protected, and I will be your protector.”

“I think that most Americans want leaders who understand that the measure of their strength isn’t who you beat down. The real measure of strength of a leader is who you lift up,” she added.

She also asked the vice president about Trump’s comments during a rally in Indiana, Pennsylvania, last month, where he told women that under a future Trump administration, “You will no longer be abandoned, lonely or scared. You will no longer be in danger. You’re not going to be in danger any longer. You will no longer have anxiety from all of the problems today. You will be protected, and I will be your protector.”

The former president added, “Women, will be happy, healthy, confident and free.”

In response, Harris blasted Trump, blaming him for nominating three Supreme Court Justice who voted to overrule Roe v. Wade.

“They did just as he intended,” Harris said, adding that “there are now 20 states with Trump abortion bans, including bans that make no exceptions for rape or incest … which means that you’re telling a survivor of a crime with a violation of their body, they don’t have a right to make a decision about what happens to their body next.”

“This is the same guy that is now saying that?” Harris asked, referring to Trump’s comments about protecting women. “This is the same guy that said women should be punished for having abortions. This is the same guy who uses the same kind of language he does to describe women? So yeah, there you go.”

A spokesperson for the Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Article by: Alexandra Marquez

Deshaun Watson Walks Off the Field Mid-Game

NFL world reacts after Deshaun Watson quits on the Browns

The Cleveland Browns’ 2024 season hit another low on Sunday in their clash with the Washington Commanders. Entering the game at 1-3, the Browns were hoping to right the ship in the competitive AFC North, but things took a turn for the worse. Down 24-3 and facing a critical 4th-and-goal, head coach Kevin Stefanski made the call to keep the offense on the field to try and close the gap. However, quarterback Deshaun Watson shocked fans and his teammates by walking off the field, ignoring Stefanski’s decision and costing the Browns a chance to turn the game around.

Deshaun Watson Faces Backlash After Defiant Exit

Watson’s decision to leave the field has sparked widespread criticism. Many fans took to social media to vent their frustration, with some questioning Cleveland’s $230 million investment in the controversial quarterback, who has faced off-field issues in the past. Watson’s refusal to follow Stefanski’s lead left his head coach visibly stunned on the sideline, marking a new low in the team’s troubled relationship with the quarterback.

Cleveland Browns’ Future with Watson in Question

As the Browns continue to struggle, the pressure on Watson has intensified. Despite a dismal performance and his controversial walk-off, Stefanski confirmed in a post-game press conference that Watson would remain the team’s starting quarterback. However, many are wondering how much longer Cleveland can endure Watson’s inconsistencies both on and off the field. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as the Browns’ season teeters on the brink.

What Went Wrong? ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ Opens Below Expectations

“Joker: Folie à Deux” Tops Box Office, But Struggles to Meet Expectations

“Joker: Folie à Deux,” the highly anticipated sequel to Todd Phillips’ 2019 hit, debuted at No. 1 at the box office but failed to match the success of its predecessor. Opening with a muted $40 million, less than half of the original’s $96.2 million debut, the film has left industry insiders questioning where it went wrong. Initial tracking predicted a $70 million debut, but lukewarm reviews from the Venice Film Festival and a disappointing 33% Rotten Tomatoes score hampered its momentum.

Despite the star power of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, the film struggled to win over audiences. Opening night polls resulted in a dismal D CinemaScore, and PostTrak exit surveys were similarly harsh, awarding the film just half a star. Industry analysts like Paul Dergarabedian point to the film’s substantial production costs, with a budget reportedly nearing $190 million, as a major factor in its underwhelming performance. In contrast, a smaller-budget film could have weathered a similar debut with more ease.

Mixed Reviews with a Risky Musical Twist Alienate Fans

One of the film’s most polarizing elements is its decision to embrace musical numbers, a stark departure from the original film’s dark, gritty tone. While director Todd Phillips and star Joaquin Phoenix aimed to create something “audacious,” many fans and critics have deemed the musical direction a misstep. Despite the film’s struggles, “Joker: Folie à Deux” has earned $121.1 million globally, with hopes for a boost as it opens in Japan and China in the coming weeks.

CEO of Black Girls Mean Business, Free Nationwide Virtual Summer Business School

Rachel Holmes Jumped Out of Her Comfort Zone Starting Her Own Business By The Age of 20

According to certified financial planner and CNBC Contributor, Lazetta Braxton, now is a great time for African Americans to create their own business. Braxton, co-founder and co-CEO of 2050 Wealth Partners, says aspiring young Black entrepreneurs should get out of their comfort zone, expand their network, participate in pitch competitions to win funding, hire people that understand the numbers, and most importantly, always be passionate about their business.

Rachel Holmes is a good example, and: she’s a woman, she is young, Black, and has been a business owner before the age of 20.

CEO of Black Girls Mean Business, Free Nationwide Virtual Summer Business School

In addition to managing school, a social life, and competing as an artistic swimmer, Rachel Holmes, 18, is the CEO of Black Girls Mean Business, a free nationwide virtual summer business program for Black high school girls. The program offers six Zoom workshops to help improve business and career skills, expand a network, and prepare girls for life after high school.

“Black women face an incredible amount of discrimination in business coming from both racism and sexism. They are generally underestimated, denying them the respect, positions, and funding they deserve. I wanted to provide equity to help girls overcome these obstacles. By giving them the tools, they need to be successful early on and empowering them, I hope to see more representation in executive positions and entrepreneurship,” she said.

Holmes says being a Black entrepreneur at a young age is not only setting her up for success, but others as well. “It can be daunting at times knowing that you will face barriers and knowing that people are watching what you do. But it’s amazing knowing I can make a difference and set an example. Representation matters!” she said.

Holmes: “Don’t be afraid of setbacks”

“Use them as opportunities to improve next time. Ask for help, even if you think you don’t need it. You got this! People will support what you are doing, you just have to have the courage to get started,” she said.

How ‘Love Is Blind’ Selects Its Singles: Behind the Casting Curtain

How ‘Love Is Blind’ Casts Its Singles: Inside the Casting Process

The hit Netflix reality show Love Is Blind has captivated audiences for seven seasons, with the latest dropping on October 2. From whirlwind romances to dramatic breakups, fans can’t get enough of the emotional rollercoaster that unfolds in the pods. But have you ever wondered how the singles on the show are selected? Here’s an inside look at the casting process.

The Search for Singles Begins with Cold Calls and Social Media

According to Donna Driscoll, the casting director at Love Is Blind’s production company Kinetic Content, the process begins with choosing the filming location. Once a city is selected (season seven took place in Washington D.C.), Donna and her team spread the word through cold calls, social media outreach, and connections with local businesses and churches to find potential candidates. Thousands of singles express interest in participating, but only a few make it through the rigorous selection process.

Narrowing the Pool: Phone and Zoom Interviews

After generating interest, the team conducts phone interviews with about 2,000 people. From there, they narrow the pool down to 300-400 candidates for Zoom conversations. During these chats, applicants are asked about their personal growth, healing from past relationships, and their understanding of love. Compatibility is key, and participants also complete a detailed questionnaire with 300 questions, alongside a background check and psychological evaluation, to ensure they’re ready for the unique journey ahead.

Final Selection: Who Makes It Into the Pods?

Out of thousands of hopefuls, only around 60-70 people are selected to move forward in the casting process, with 29 singles ultimately featured in season seven. Donna Driscoll and her team carefully choose individuals who are genuinely seeking love and have the emotional maturity to navigate the show’s intense, unconventional format.

With two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Casting for a Reality Program, it’s clear the Love Is Blind casting team knows how to pick compelling personalities.

Malia Obama’s Bold Look Shakes Up Onlookers

Malia Obama recently stepped out in Los Angeles, and her outfit quickly became the talk of the fashion world. Known for keeping a low profile, Malia and her sister Sasha don’t often make public appearances, but when they do, their style always turns heads.

This time, Malia was seen enjoying brunch with a Greek journalist, but it was her outfit that stole the spotlight. Fashion lovers can’t stop buzzing about her look—an orange baby tee layered over a button-down shirt, paired with a gray pleated skirt from DUNST. But what really caught everyone’s attention were her black patent leather boots from 1017 Alyx 9SM X ROA, giving her outfit an edgy finish.

The boots have become a fan favorite since she was first spotted wearing them during a hike earlier this year. “Her hiking boots really take the whole ‘outdoor chic’ thing to a new level!” one fan raved on social media.

While it’s not clear when we’ll see Malia and Sasha make another stylish appearance, one thing is certain—Malia’s fashion choices continue to captivate.