Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Texans reveal 2024 opponents

• The Harlem Globetrotters coming to Houston

• A deep dive into the life of Barbara Jordan

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how."

– Friedrich Nietzsche

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!

Which historic Houston building is known for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture?

A) Julia Ideson Building

B) Houston City Hall

C) Rice University Lovett Hall

D) Christ Church Cathedral

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The Houston park known for its outdoor theater and skyline view is D) Miller Outdoor Theatre.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼 Business

BioHub II, a 45-acre biomanufacturing hub, set to open in Northeast Houston. (link)

Pagewood and Wile Interests initiate East Blocks, a mixed-use redevelopment in EaDo. (link)

The Allen, a $290 million skyscraper with luxury amenities, progresses in Allen Parkway. (link)

The Commons at Hermann Park, a 26-acre innovative development, nears completion. (link)

🏒 Sports

Texans reveal 2024 opponents, including high-profile games against division rivals and the Cowboys. (link)

Astros' Josh Hader discusses team outlook and strategies in a press conference. (link)

Houston climbs to No. 4 in the latest AP Men’s Basketball Poll, continuing a strong season. (link)

🏦 Finance

Houston's $6.2 billion budget focuses on employee raises and drainage projects amidst arbitration bills. (link)

City controller warns of a budget crisis by 2025 unless Houston curtails spending due to structural imbalances. (link)

Rice University sets aside $33 million for a financial aid price-fixing lawsuit settlement. (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

🏀 Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Toyota Center
Monday, Jan. 29th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Houston Rockets vs. New Orleans Pelicans
Toyota Center, Houston
Wednesday, Jan. 31st | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 The Harlem Globetrotters
NRG Arena, Houston
Saturday, Feb. 3rd | 2:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Elyanna
White Oak Music Hall - Downstairs
Monday, Jan. 29th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 We The Kings
White Oak Music Hall - Downstairs
Wednesday, Jan. 31st | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎶 Dylan Scott
House Of Blues - Houston
Thursday, Feb. 1st | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎷 Houston Symphony: Jazz, Love & Gershwin
Jones Hall for the Performing Arts
Friday, Feb. 2nd | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🌳 Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, Houston
Open Daily | 7:00 AM - Dusk | (More Info)

🎨 Houston Children's Museum
Houston Children's Museum, Houston
Open Daily | 10:00 AM - 6:00 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 skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” 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

Houston becomes the temporary capital of the Republic of Texas (1837)

In 1837, just a year after its founding, Houston achieved a significant milestone in its early history by becoming the temporary capital of the Republic of Texas. This decision came at a pivotal time in Texas history, shortly after gaining independence from Mexico in 1836. The selection of Houston as the capital was largely influenced by its founders, August and John Allen, who aggressively marketed the city as a prime location for the new republic's government.

The designation of Houston as the capital brought immediate growth and prestige to the fledgling city. Government buildings were rapidly constructed, including a capitol building where the Texas Congress convened. This period saw an influx of settlers, businessmen, and politicians, turning Houston into a bustling administrative and commercial center. The city's strategic location along Buffalo Bayou made it an ideal hub for trade and governance, reinforcing its status as a significant Texas city.

However, Houston's tenure as the capital was short-lived; the capital was moved to Austin in 1839. Despite this, the period during which Houston served as the capital was crucial in establishing its importance in Texas history. It laid a strong foundation for the city's future growth and development, demonstrating its potential as a center of political, economic, and social activity in the Republic of Texas.

Famous People From Houston

Barbara Jordan (1936–1996)

Early Life and Education (1936-1956)

Barbara Jordan was born in 1936 in Houston, Texas. Her early life in Houston's Fifth Ward, a predominantly African-American neighborhood, was instrumental in shaping her understanding of racial segregation and injustice. Jordan's pursuit of education, marked by exceptional academic achievements, set her on a path towards leadership and advocacy.

Higher Education and Early Career (1956-1966)

Jordan attended Texas Southern University and later Boston University School of Law, distinguishing herself as a brilliant student. After completing her law degree, she returned to Houston to start her legal career. During this period, she became increasingly involved in civil rights activism and local politics.

Entry into Texas Politics (1966-1972)

In 1966, Jordan was elected to the Texas Senate, becoming the first African American state senator since 1883 and the first black woman ever elected to that body. Her tenure in the Texas Senate was marked by effective legislation and advocacy for minority and underserved communities.

U.S. Congress and National Impact (1972-1979)

Jordan's election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1972 was another historic milestone, as she became the first Southern African-American woman elected to Congress. In Congress, she gained national prominence, especially for her eloquent speeches and steadfast commitment to justice and equality.

Key Legislative Achievements (1970s)

In Congress, Jordan worked on several significant pieces of legislation, focusing on civil rights, fair voting practices, and social justice issues. Her legislative achievements reflected her dedication to the ideals of democracy and equality for all citizens.

Leadership in Judiciary and Ethics Committees (1970s)

Jordan served on the House Judiciary Committee and played a pivotal role during the Watergate scandal. Her ethical leadership and powerful rhetoric during the hearings were highly acclaimed and demonstrated her commitment to upholding the Constitution.

Post-Congressional Career and Teaching (1980-1996)

After retiring from Congress, Jordan didn't retreat from public life. She became an esteemed professor at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, where she influenced a new generation of leaders and thinkers.

Legacy and Enduring Influence (Post-1996)

Barbara Jordan passed away in 1996, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer in politics and a champion for civil rights and social justice. Her impact continued to be felt in the realms of politics, education, and civil rights advocacy.

Key Achievements:

• Pioneered as a black woman in Texas and U.S. politics, breaking barriers and setting precedents.

• Championed civil rights legislation and fair voting practices, advocating for the rights of minorities.

• Played a crucial role in the Watergate hearings, upholding the principles of justice and integrity.

• Inspired future generations as a professor and public speaker, leaving a lasting educational legacy.

Barbara Jordan's remarkable career as a politician and civil rights leader was characterized by her eloquent advocacy for justice, equality, and democratic values. As a trailblazer in both Texas and national politics, she broke barriers and set new standards for ethical leadership, leaving an indelible mark on American history.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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