It’s hard to imagine that San Antonio was once the northern tip of New Spain. In the land norte still looked upon in Mexico norteno has the connotation of redneck. The northern tip of New Spain was a place of extremes San Antonio perched between desert swamp and the rocky outcropping of the Great Plains from which water flowed. This violent land was a land of extremes drought, floods, scorching heat and rapid plunges in temperature. A chauvinist could remark great training ground for man learning to deal with a woman a certain number of days a year.

This violent rugged land impacted culture. You had to learn from your mistakes you had to be consistent hard working and smart. The mordita culture was weakened and even the caste system struggled against a land that made it less effective. Amidst all this a sense of humor and the focus on action over deed were means of keeping cool and keeping alive.

Joseph Rios like his father embodies these frontier virtues that have remained intact. Educators particularly in the aviation community reflect attitude is caught not taught. While I have highlighted where family dysfunction can grow through generations. Those of the Christian faith and others cringe at nepotism in both the private and public sectors. Familia can also transfer values and provide an attachment to a proud heritage. To know both is come face to San Antonio’s frontier greatness.

Joseph’s father is quick witted, smart, with a moral compass and like those on the frontier would rather admit error to learn from it then to maintain a false sense of face. If you live in house built by Bob Minjares and had it built, you come face to face with the likable characteristics of Joseph’s father. Those houses are testimonies to quality dedication and humor. Joseph caught these attitudes.

When Yanez called out Cassillas in a comedic action Joseph remained silent. Joseph despite a recent cut hammered Cassillas. It was San Antonio class…..let idiots reveal themselves as self evident let the fists do the talking in the ring. This class responds loyalty of friendship Raul Martinez showing the friendship Joseph inspired sparred with him at San Fernando Gym.

Joseph will be fighting July 23 at SA Event Center. Gates Open 6:30pm. Tickets at a San Antonio institution Knock you Out Barbershop off South Hackberry (get your tickets get your haircut and indulge San Antonio at its most beautiful self) contact phone numbers (210)325-0140, (210)902-8558.