Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• 2024 NAGAAA Cup comes to Houston

• Upcoming ⚾ Houston Astros vs. Atlanta Braves

• A deep dive into the life of Gus Wortham

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Always forgive your enemies, nothing annoys them so much."

- Oscar Wilde

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the name of the major river that runs through Houston? 

A) Colorado River

B) Brazos River

C) San Jacinto River

D) Buffalo Bayou

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia: The Houston Zoo was founded in A) 1922.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼 Business

RUSSO's New York Pizzeria has entered into an agreement to open multiple locations in California, emphasizing their commitment to fresh, family-inspired meals. (Link)

The latest Forbes World Billionaires List reveals that Houston's billionaires have seen their fortunes increase significantly. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Ronel Blanco shines as a standout performer amidst the Houston Astros' challenging season start. (Link)

Ronel Blanco earns the AL Player of the Week title with his impressive pitching for the Houston Astros against the Texas Rangers. (Link)

Keith O'Brien's new biography on Pete Rose reveals intricate details of his life, drawing from extensive interviews, including 27 hours with Rose himself. (Link)

Stefon Diggs is seen wearing Houston Texans gear for the first time following a landmark trade from the Bills. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Janet Yellen's visit to China addressed a range of issues, from overcapacity concerns to TikTok's impact. (Link)

During a fatal shooting in Summerlin, a pregnant lawyer was deliberately spared by the gunman, according to a document. (Link)

Houston's billionaires saw their wealth increase, as indicated by Forbes' 38th annual World Billionaires List. (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

🥍 2024 NAGAAA Cup
Houston, TX
Friday, April 19 - Saturday, April 20 | More Info

🚴 USA BMX Lone Star Nationals
Rockstar Energy Bike Park, 12257 Kuykendahl Rd, Houston
Friday, April 19 - Sunday, April 21 | More Info

⚾ Houston Astros vs. Atlanta Braves
Minute Maid Park, 501 Crawford St, Houston, TX
Monday, April 15, 2024 | 7:10 PM | More Info

⚽ Houston Dynamo FC vs. Austin FC
Shell Energy Stadium, 2200 Texas Avenue, Houston, TX
Saturday, April 20, 2024 | 7:30 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎵 Jesse McCartney Just Seconds Apart
House of Blues - Houston, Houston, TX
Monday, April 15, 2024 | More Info

🎵 Jake Xerxes Fussell
White Oak Music Hall - Upstairs, Houston, TX
Monday, April 15, 2024 | More Info

🎵 Daisychain
Black Magic Social Club, Houston, TX
Monday, April 15, 2024 | More Info

🎵 Our Last Night Broadside and Normandie
Bronze Peacock Room, House of Blues, Houston, TX
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | 6:30 PM | More Info

Family

🎶 Houston Loves Bachata April Edition
The Palladium, Houston, TX
Saturday, April 20, 2024 | 4:00 PM | 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 “Houston with wildlife coridors and roaming animals.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Houston Historical Events

1942: Houston becomes a shipbuilding hub during World War II.

In 1942, as the United States was fully engaged in World War II, Houston emerged as a crucial center for shipbuilding, significantly contributing to the war effort. The city's strategic location along the Gulf Coast and its access to vital resources made it an ideal site for the construction and repair of military vessels. Shipyards like the Todd Houston Shipbuilding Corporation and Brown Shipbuilding Company rapidly expanded, employing tens of thousands of workers to produce destroyers, tankers, and other naval ships essential for the Allied forces. This period marked a transformation in Houston's industrial landscape, with the shipbuilding boom spurring economic growth and drawing a diverse workforce to the city.

The impact of becoming a shipbuilding hub extended beyond the war years, setting the stage for Houston's post-war industrial expansion. The skills, techniques, and infrastructure developed during this period laid the groundwork for the city's later dominance in energy, manufacturing, and technology sectors. The wartime shipbuilding effort also fostered a sense of unity and purpose among Houstonians, who took pride in their contribution to the national war effort.

Houston's role as a shipbuilding hub during World War II is a testament to the city's adaptability and its capacity to mobilize resources for national needs. It highlights a pivotal chapter in Houston's history, where the city's industrial capabilities were leveraged on a massive scale, shaping its economic trajectory and reinforcing its strategic importance to the United States.

Famous People From Houston

Gus Wortham (1891–1976): Insurance executive and philanthropist.

Early Life and Entrance into Business (1891-1914)

Gus Sessions Wortham was born in 1891 in Mexia, Texas, and his journey to becoming one of Houston's most influential figures began with humble origins. Moving to Houston in his youth, Wortham's entrepreneurial spirit quickly became evident. He embarked on a career in insurance at a young age, demonstrating a keen understanding of the industry and a visionary approach to business that would define his career.

Founding of American General Insurance Company (1915-1940)

In 1926, Wortham co-founded the American General Insurance Company, which would grow under his leadership to become one of the largest and most successful insurance companies in the United States. Wortham's innovative strategies in insurance and investments propelled the company's growth, contributing significantly to Houston's burgeoning reputation as a center for business and finance.

Philanthropy and Contributions to Houston (1941-1976)

Gus Wortham's impact on Houston extended far beyond his achievements in the business world. As a philanthropist, he was deeply committed to the city's cultural, educational, and health institutions. Wortham's generous contributions led to the development of key Houston landmarks and institutions, including the Wortham Theater Center, which bears his name. His support for parks, hospitals, and universities played a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life in Houston and ensuring access to education and healthcare for its residents.

Legacy and Influence in Houston's Development (1976-Present)

Wortham passed away in 1976, but his legacy in Houston endures. Through his visionary leadership in business and his philanthropic efforts, Wortham helped shape the city's skyline, culture, and community. He is remembered not only for his contributions to the insurance industry but also for his profound impact on the city's development. Wortham's life and work exemplify the transformative power of philanthropy and business acumen in urban growth and community development.

Connection to Houston (Throughout Life)

Houston was not just Wortham's home; it was the beneficiary of his lifelong dedication to community improvement and economic development. His influence is visible in the city's institutions, public spaces, and the continued success of American General. Wortham's belief in Houston's potential guided his investments and philanthropy, contributing to the city's rise as a vibrant metropolis.

Key Achievements:

Co-founded and led American General Insurance Company to national prominence, showcasing his leadership and business acumen.
Actively engaged in philanthropy, significantly impacting Houston's cultural, educational, and healthcare landscapes.
His legacy includes numerous Houston landmarks and institutions, reflecting his commitment to the city's growth and well-being.

Summary:

Gus Wortham's legacy in Houston is marked by his dual roles as a pioneering business leader and a generous philanthropist. His contributions to the city's insurance industry and his far-reaching philanthropic endeavors have left an indelible mark on Houston's development. Wortham's life work illustrates the profound impact that visionary leadership and a commitment to community can have on shaping the future of a city. Through his efforts, Wortham not only advanced his industry but also played a key role in fostering the cultural and economic vitality that defines Houston today.

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-Matthew Larsen

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