My Energy (Andrew Lopez): TAMACC E-Newsletter

Friday, May 15, 2026

TAMACC E-Newsletter

Friday, May 15, 2026

Honoring Roy P. Benavidez by Investing in Future Leaders

The inaugural Roy P. Benavidez Scholarship Luncheon, hosted by the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) in partnership with the Roy P. Benavidez family and foundation and Leadership Tejas, was a tremendous success. It brought together community leaders, educators, veterans, students, and business professionals for an inspiring and emotional celebration of leadership, service, and opportunity.

More than simply a luncheon, the event became a powerful call to action focused on education, mentorship, and investing in the next generation of leaders. The mission of the gathering was clear: to help deserving students pursue higher education and leadership opportunities without financial barriers standing in their way.

The overwhelming support from attendees, sponsors, and community partners demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving the legacy of Roy P. Benavidez.

From Spanish Silver to Wall Street:

The History of the Dollar Sign

Few symbols are as recognizable as the dollar sign, but its origins go back centuries before the United States existed. The “$” symbol is widely believed to have evolved from the Spanish dollar, or “piece of eight,” which dominated global trade in the 17th and 18th centuries.

In colonial America, Spanish silver coins were commonly used because British currency was scarce. Merchants often abbreviated the Spanish peso as “Ps,” and over time, the letters overlapped until the modern “$” symbol emerged.

When the United States created its own monetary system in 1792, the U.S. dollar was modeled after the trusted Spanish dollar, and Spanish coins even remained legal tender in America until 1857.

Artificial Intelligence vs. Automation: What Chamber Leaders Should Know

Most chamber of commerce leaders have heard the terms “AI” and “automation” tossed around in board meetings, vendor pitches, and conference keynotes. But here’s the problem: the two concepts get lumped together so often that the practical differences between them are completely lost. A chamber executive who confuses a simple automated email sequence with a machine learning model will make poor purchasing decisions, set the wrong expectations with their board, and miss real opportunities to better serve members.

Understanding the distinction between artificial intelligence and automation is not an academic exercise; it directly affects how your chamber spends limited dollars, trains staff, and positions itself as a credible resource for local businesses. This matters right now because vendors are slapping “AI-powered” labels on products that are really just basic automation with a fresh coat of paint. If you can tell the difference, you’ll save money and make smarter bets. The gap between these two technologies also shapes how your chamber can guide small businesses through their own adoption decisions, which is arguably the bigger opportunity.

Julián Castro Discusses

Latino Business Growth and Opportunity

Last week’s National Small Business Week episode features a candid and forward-looking conversation with Julián Castro on the growing impact of Latino-owned businesses and their role in shaping the future of the American economy.

From his upbringing on San Antonio’s Westside—rooted in civil rights, public service, and community activism—to his leadership as Mayor of San Antonio, U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and presidential candidate, Castro shares personal stories, policy insights, and his vision for expanding opportunity for the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.

LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD HERE