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Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Cherry Bekaert solidifies Houston market growth.

• Valdez finds rhythm at crucial time.

• A deep dive into the life of Eva Jessye.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop."

– Confucius

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Trivia

In which Houston neighborhood is the famous Menil Collection located?

A) Montrose

B) The Heights

C) River Oaks

D) Museum District

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The Houston university well-known for its law and business schools is A) University of Houston.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼Business

Cherry Bekaert’s Houston acquisition provides anchor for growth in local market. (link)

Cigar and cocktail lounge headed to Harlow District development near La Griglia. (link)

🏒Sports

Astros insider: Framber Valdez finding a 'rhythm' at an important time. (link)

Framber Valdez falls one out shy of 2nd no-hitter in Astros' win over Rangers. (link)

🏦Finance

Michael Suffredini steps down as Axiom Space CEO, transitions to board. (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

⚽ Monday Night Flag Football
1111 W 13th St, Houston, TX
Monday, Aug 12th | 6:30 pm | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 $UICIDEBOY$ w/ Denzel Curry
Toyota Center - TX, Houston, TX
Tuesday, Aug 13th | 6:30 PM | (More info)

🎸Def Leppard w/ Journey
Minute Maid Park, Houston, TX
Wednesday, Aug 14th | 6:00 PM | (More info)

⚡Division Minuscula & Jumbo - US Tour 2024
House of Blues Houston, Houston, TX
Wednesday, Aug 14th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

Family

️🍅 Family Story Time
Jacinto City Branch Library, Houston, TX
Thursday, August 15th | 11:15 AM | (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 where architecture is inspired by different musical genres” 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

1982: The opening of the Texas Medical Center.

In 1982, the Texas Medical Center (TMC) in Houston opened its doors, establishing itself as the largest medical complex in the world. The TMC was envisioned as a premier center for patient care, research, and education, bringing together a multitude of healthcare institutions and schools. Its opening marked a significant milestone in the advancement of medical science and healthcare delivery in Houston and beyond.

The Texas Medical Center spans over 2.1 square miles and includes renowned institutions such as Baylor College of Medicine, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Texas Children's Hospital. The collaboration among these institutions fosters innovation and excellence in medical research and treatment. The TMC's facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, enabling cutting-edge research and advanced patient care.

Since its opening, the Texas Medical Center has played a pivotal role in medical breakthroughs and has attracted top medical professionals and researchers from around the globe. It has become a leading destination for patients seeking specialized and comprehensive care. The TMC's impact on Houston is profound, contributing to the city's economy, enhancing its global reputation in healthcare, and improving the quality of life for millions of patients and their families.

Famous People From Houston

Eva Jessye (1895–1992): First black woman to be an international choral conductor.

Early Life and Education (1895–1919)

Eva Jessye was born on January 20, 1895, in Coffeyville, Kansas. From a young age, Jessye displayed a remarkable talent for music, particularly singing. Encouraged by her family, she pursued her passion for music and attended Western University in Quindaro, Kansas, where she studied under noted musicians. After graduating, she continued her education at Langston University in Oklahoma. Her early experiences and education laid the foundation for her pioneering career in music.

Pioneering Career in Choral Music (1920–1930)

In the 1920s, Jessye moved to New York City, where she formed the Eva Jessye Choir, which became the first internationally recognized black choral group. The choir quickly gained acclaim for its performances of spirituals, gospel music, and other African American musical traditions. Jessye's work with the choir broke new ground in the field of choral music, showcasing the richness and depth of African American cultural heritage. Her dedication to preserving and promoting black music earned her recognition and respect within the music community.

Connection to Houston (1931–1940)

Eva Jessye's connection to Houston began in the early 1930s when she and her choir performed at various events and venues in the city. Her visits to Houston were significant in fostering a deeper appreciation for African American music within the local community. Jessye's performances in Houston were well-received and helped to elevate the city's cultural scene. Her influence extended beyond music, as she also engaged with local musicians and educators, contributing to the growth of Houston's musical landscape.

Collaboration with George Gershwin and "Porgy and Bess" (1935–1942)

One of Jessye's most notable achievements was her collaboration with composer George Gershwin on the opera "Porgy and Bess." In 1935, Jessye was appointed as the choral director for the production, and her choir was featured prominently. Her contributions to the opera were instrumental in its success, as she brought authenticity and depth to the portrayal of African American life and culture. "Porgy and Bess" became a landmark in American opera, and Jessye's role in its creation solidified her reputation as a pioneering choral conductor.

Teaching and Mentorship (1943–1960)

In the 1940s and 1950s, Eva Jessye dedicated much of her time to teaching and mentoring young musicians. She held positions at several educational institutions, including Morgan State University and Central State University. Jessye's commitment to education and her ability to inspire and nurture talent left a lasting impact on her students. She was a passionate advocate for music education, particularly within the African American community, and her efforts helped to pave the way for future generations of musicians.

Later Career and Continued Influence (1961–1992)

Jessye continued to conduct and perform well into her later years. She remained active in the music community, participating in festivals, workshops, and performances across the United States. Jessye's enduring influence was recognized through numerous awards and honors, including honorary doctorates and the National Association of Negro Musicians' Distinguished Service Award. Her legacy as a trailblazer in choral music and a champion of African American cultural heritage continued to inspire and resonate.

Legacy and Recognition (1992–Present)

Eva Jessye passed away on February 21, 1992, but her legacy lives on through her groundbreaking contributions to choral music and her dedication to preserving African American musical traditions. Her work with the Eva Jessye Choir and her role in "Porgy and Bess" remain significant milestones in American music history. Jessye's commitment to education and her influence on future generations of musicians are celebrated through various tributes, including the Eva Jessye Collection at the University of Michigan.

Key Achievements:

• Formed the first internationally recognized black choral group, the Eva Jessye Choir.

• Served as the choral director for George Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess," contributing to its success.

• Dedicated her life to teaching and mentoring young musicians, leaving a lasting impact on music education.

Summary:

Eva Jessye's journey from a young girl in Kansas to a pioneering choral conductor reflects her extraordinary talent and dedication to music. Her connection to Houston through her performances and engagement with the local community helped to elevate the city's cultural scene. Jessye's legacy as a trailblazer in choral music and her contributions to preserving African American musical traditions continue to inspire and influence, ensuring her place as a significant figure in American music history.

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-Matthew Larsen

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