In a whirlwind 48-hour adventure in San Antonio, Texas, David Begnaud explored the city known for its rich history, Tex-Mex cuisine, and the iconic Riverwalk. His first stop was The Alamo, Texas’s most visited landmark, where he learned about the battle that led to Texas becoming its own nation before joining the U.S. in 1845 as the 28th state. He then immersed himself in the local culture by indulging in Tex-Mex cuisine and donning a cowboy hat, joking with a local hat seller that “It’s not the hat. It’s the cowboy.”
Begnaud experienced the taste of authentic Tex-Mex cuisine at Mi Tierra Café, a local staple since 1941, where he enjoyed lunch while being serenaded by a Mariachi band. William Cortez, the great-grandson of the cafe’s founder, shared the restaurant’s long-standing traditions and the expertise of the kitchen staff, who have a combined 150 years of experience. At Pearl Park, Begnaud held a sign that read “I’m looking for a story” and was approached by Denise McCalla, who shared the therapeutic power of family outings for her husband who has Alzheimer’s. She emphasized the importance of maintaining normalcy and spending quality time with loved ones for his well-being.
Begnaud also met Bethany Vazquez, a local business owner, who discussed the challenges and changes in education, particularly the shift to virtual learning during the pandemic. Vazquez, who has experience as a tutor and classroom teacher, highlighted the learning gaps and the struggles faced by students. Katelynn Schlötfeldt shared a heartwarming story of how she met her husband, thanks to a decades-old connection between their mothers who had met in Germany, lost contact, and then reconnected by sheer coincidence after their children started dating. The lesson learned from these encounters was that meeting strangers can lead to memorable and meaningful moments for all involved.
The experience highlighted the diverse stories and connections that can be found in the city of San Antonio. From the historical significance of The Alamo to the vibrant culture of Tex-Mex cuisine and local traditions, Begnaud’s whirlwind adventure showcased the soul of the city. The encounters with individuals like Denise McCalla and Bethany Vazquez emphasized the importance of family, community, and education, revealing the resilience and spirit of the people of San Antonio. These personal stories and connections serve as a reminder of the power of human connection and the impact of sharing our experiences with others.
As Begnaud continues his journey as the lead national correspondent for “CBS Mornings,” he invites viewers to share their own stories with him at DearDavid@cbsnews.com. Through these personal interactions and shared experiences, he aims to uncover the unique and diverse narratives that shape our world and bring us closer together. The 48-hour adventure in San Antonio not only provided Begnaud with a glimpse into the heart of the city but also inspired him to seek out more stories that showcase the resilience, kindness, and interconnectedness of people across the country.
