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Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Houston Texans with 5 Top 100 players in 2024

• Upcoming Houston Astros game

• A deep dive into the life of Bill Hicks

• And more…

Quote of the Week

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

- Friedrich Nietzsche

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Trivia

What is the name of the famous Houston art installation featuring concrete structures created by John and Dominique de Menil?

A) Rothko Chapel

B) The Menil Collection

C) Houston Sculpture Garden

D) The Orange Show

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The Astrodome, the first domed sports stadium, opened in Houston in C) 1965.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼 Business

Gordon Food Service continues Houston expansion with 9th local grocery store, more coming. (link)

ZT Automotive hires CFO, other new executives following Alabama acquisition. (link)

🏒 Sports

Houston Texans Place Five On CBS Sports' Top-100 Players of 2024. (link)

Houston Astros Star Named Top-Six 'Most Overrated' in Baseball by Peers. (link)

🏦 Finance

GenOn leaders launch new power investment firm. (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 Astros vs. Colorado Rockies
Minute Maid Park, Houston, TX
Tuesday, Jun 25th | 7:10 PM | (More info)

⚽ Houston Dynamo vs. Charlotte FC
Shell Energy Stadium, Houston, TX
Saturday, Jun 29th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 MOTHER MOTHER & CAVETOWN
713 Music Hall, Houston, TX
Tuesday, Jun 25th | 6:30 PM | (More info)

🎸 Steve Earle
Heights Theater, Houston, TX
Thursday, Jun 27th | 8:00 PM | (More info)

Family

👮 Saturday Kids’ Day Out
Arts Alive! Inc., Houston, TX
Saturday, Jun 29th | 3-6 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 celebrating a futuristic international festival” 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

1990: The Houston Rockets win their first NBA Championship.

In 1990, the Houston Rockets achieved a monumental milestone by winning their first NBA Championship. This victory marked a significant moment in the city's sports history, bringing immense pride and excitement to Houston's basketball fans. Led by star center Hakeem Olajuwon, the Rockets showcased exceptional skill, teamwork, and determination throughout the season and playoffs.

The Rockets' journey to the championship was filled with intense games and memorable moments. Their victory was solidified in the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks, a series that went down to the wire. The decisive Game 7 saw the Rockets emerge victorious, securing their place in history as NBA champions. Hakeem Olajuwon, with his outstanding performance, was named Finals MVP, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

The championship win had a lasting impact on the city of Houston, igniting a passion for basketball and inspiring a new generation of fans and players. The Rockets' success brought the community together, celebrating the team's achievement with parades and festivities. It also set the stage for future successes, as the Rockets would go on to win another championship in 1995, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in the NBA.

Famous People From Houston

Bill Hicks (1961–1994): Comedian and social critic.

Bill Hicks (1961–1994)

Early Life and Introduction to Comedy (1961-1978)

William Melvin "Bill" Hicks was born on December 16, 1961, in Valdosta, Georgia. Shortly thereafter, his family moved to Houston, Texas, where Hicks would spend most of his formative years. From a young age, Hicks exhibited a keen sense of humor and a deep interest in comedy. By the time he was a teenager, Hicks was performing stand-up routines for his classmates and friends, drawing inspiration from comedy legends such as Richard Pryor and George Carlin.

Early Career and Local Success (1978-1982)

Hicks began his professional comedy career while still in high school, performing at Houston's Comedy Workshop, a well-known venue for aspiring comedians. His sharp wit and fearless approach to tackling controversial topics quickly garnered attention. Hicks's early success in Houston laid the foundation for his burgeoning career, allowing him to hone his craft and develop a unique comedic voice that would later define his legacy.

Rise to National Prominence (1983-1988)

In the early 1980s, Hicks moved to Los Angeles to further pursue his career in comedy. He appeared on several television shows, including "Late Night with David Letterman" and "The Tonight Show," bringing his provocative humor to a broader audience. Despite facing some resistance from mainstream media due to his contentious material, Hicks's reputation as a fearless social critic and comedian continued to grow. His return performances in Houston were met with enthusiastic reception, solidifying his connection to his hometown.

Exploration of Social and Political Themes (1989-1992)

Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Hicks's comedy evolved to include incisive critiques of social, political, and cultural issues. His performances tackled topics such as consumerism, media manipulation, and the absurdities of modern life. Hicks's ability to blend humor with thought-provoking commentary resonated with audiences, earning him a devoted following. He frequently performed in Houston, where his unfiltered approach was particularly appreciated by local fans.

International Success and Cult Following (1992-1994)

Hicks's influence extended beyond the United States as he gained a significant following in the United Kingdom and Europe. His performances at international comedy festivals and his television special "Revelations" in the UK cemented his status as a global comedy icon. Despite his growing international success, Hicks maintained strong ties to Houston, often returning to perform and connect with his hometown audience.

Battle with Cancer and Legacy (1993-1994)

In 1993, Hicks was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he continued to perform and produce material until his health deteriorated. He passed away on February 26, 1994, at the age of 32. Hicks's untimely death was a significant loss to the comedy world, but his legacy endures through his recorded performances and the impact he had on comedy as an art form.

Connection to Houston and Community Impact (Throughout Life)

Houston played a pivotal role in Hicks's life and career. The city's vibrant comedy scene provided the backdrop for his early development as a comedian. His performances in Houston not only helped shape his career but also solidified his bond with the local community. Hicks's influence is still felt in Houston's comedy scene today, where he is remembered as a pioneering figure who pushed the boundaries of stand-up comedy.

Key Achievements:

• Developed a unique comedic voice that combined humor with social and political critique.

• Achieved national and international success, influencing a generation of comedians and social critics.

• Maintained a strong connection to Houston, where he began his career and frequently performed.

Summary:

Bill Hicks's journey from a young comedian in Houston to an internationally acclaimed social critic and comedic icon is a testament to his talent, courage, and unwavering commitment to his craft. His incisive commentary on societal issues and his fearless approach to comedy have left an enduring legacy. In Houston, where his career began and flourished, Hicks is remembered as a trailblazer whose influence continues to inspire and resonate with comedians and audiences alike.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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