Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Houston real estate market sees surge in home sales

• Upcoming Houston Rockets home game

• A deep dive into the life of George H. W. Bush

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Courage is never to let your actions be influenced by your fears.”

— Arthur Koestler

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 Houston university is the largest in terms of enrollment?

A) Rice University

B) University of Houston

C) Texas Southern University

D) Houston Baptist University

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia: The historic district in Houston known for 19th-century architecture is B) The Heights.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼 Business

Frontier Airlines introduces a new seating option targeting business travelers as it continues to expand its operations in Houston. (Link)

Trader Joe's is set to open its first Houston-area store since 2016, marking a significant expansion for the grocery chain. (Link)

Houston-based energy company announces expansion with new offshore drilling project in Gulf of Mexico. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Houston Texans finalize trade deal, acquiring promising running back. (Link)

The Texans secure a major acquisition by signing defensive end Danielle Hunter to a 2-year, $49 million deal, bolstering their defense. (Link)

Despite efforts to attract free agent running back Saquon Barkley, he is reported to be signing with the Eagles, leaving the Texans to explore other options. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Houston real estate market sees surge in home sales, with average prices reaching all-time high. (Link)

Local bank announces merger with regional financial institution, expanding services for Houston customers. (Link)

Oil prices soar following geopolitical tensions, impacting energy sector in Houston. (Link)

Houston-based investment firm launches new fund focused on supporting small businesses in the region. (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 Chicago Bulls
Toyota Center - TX, 1510 Polk Street
Thursday, Mar. 21st | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

⚾ Houston Cougars Baseball vs Kansas State Wildcats
Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, 3100 Cullen Blvd
Friday, Mar. 22nd | 6:30 PM | (More Info)

⚽ Houston Dash vs Racing Louisville FC
Shell Energy Stadium, 2200 Texas Avenue
Saturday, Mar. 23rd | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Jay Sean
Hilton Houston-Americas
March 23rd | (More Info)

🎸 Hell's Heroes VI
White Oak Music Hall
March 21–23 | (More Info)

🎵 Trey Songz with Keyshia Cole, Jaheim
Toyota Center
March 22nd | (More Info)

Family

🐣 Easter Celebration at Woodchase Park
Westchase, Houston, TX
Saturday, March 23rd | (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 architecture inspired by different planets” 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

1901: Discovery of oil at Spindletop near Houston

The discovery of oil at Spindletop, near Houston, Texas, on January 10, 1901, marked a turning point in the history of the United States and catalyzed the nation's transformation into a global industrial power. This event signaled the birth of the modern petroleum industry, as the Spindletop gusher blew with such force that it produced more oil in one day than the rest of the world's oilfields combined at that time. The impact on Houston and the surrounding region was immediate and profound, propelling Texas into the forefront of the oil industry and setting the stage for the city's rapid growth and development.

The oil boom initiated by Spindletop attracted thousands of workers, investors, and entrepreneurs to Houston, transforming it from a modest commercial and agricultural center into a bustling metropolis. The influx of wealth and people spurred the expansion of infrastructure, including railways, roads, and ports, further solidifying Houston's role as a critical hub for the burgeoning oil trade. The discovery also fostered innovation in drilling technology and petroleum engineering, establishing the region as a center of technological advancements in oil extraction and refining.

Over time, the Spindletop discovery reshaped not only the economy of Houston but also the global energy landscape. It led to the establishment of major oil companies, some of which still play a significant role in the industry today. The event marked the beginning of the 20th century's energy revolution, with Houston at its heart, evolving into the "Energy Capital of the World." The legacy of Spindletop endures, underscoring the transformative power of natural resource discoveries on urban development and economic trajectories.

Famous People From Houston

George H. W. Bush (1924–2018)

Early Life and Military Service (1924-1945)

George Herbert Walker Bush was born in 1924 in Milton, Massachusetts, into a family with a strong public service tradition. His early life was marked by privilege but also by the expectations of duty and responsibility. At the age of 18, spurred by the attack on Pearl Harbor, Bush postponed his university studies to enlist in the U.S. Navy, becoming one of the youngest aviators in Navy history. His wartime service, during which he flew numerous combat missions in the Pacific and was shot down by Japanese anti-aircraft fire, earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross for bravery.

Education and Early Political Career (1945-1966)

After World War II, Bush attended Yale University, where he excelled academically and athletically. Upon graduation, he moved his young family to West Texas, entering the oil business and achieving considerable success. Bush's entry into politics began in the early 1960s when he was elected as the Chairman of the Harris County Republican Party, laying the groundwork for his future in public service.

Congressional Service and Ambassadorships (1967-1976)

Bush's political career took off in 1966 when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Texas, marking the beginning of a long and distinguished career in public service. He later served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Chairman of the Republican National Committee during the Watergate scandal, Chief of the U.S. Liaison Office in the People's Republic of China, and Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, showcasing his diplomatic and leadership skills.

Connection to Houston (Throughout Career)

Houston played a pivotal role in George H. W. Bush's life and career. It was in Houston that Bush built his business career, started his family with Barbara Pierce Bush, and embarked on his political journey. The city was not only Bush's home base but also a source of steadfast support throughout his political life, including his tenure as Vice President and President. Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport is named in his honor, cementing his legacy in the city.

Vice Presidency and Presidency (1981-1993)

Bush served as Vice President under Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1989, where he was involved in key domestic and foreign policy decisions. In 1988, he was elected the 41st President of the United States, leading the country through a period of significant global change, including the end of the Cold War, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the Gulf War. His presidency is noted for its foreign policy achievements and for the Americans with Disabilities Act, among other domestic initiatives.

Post-Presidency and Legacy (1993-2018)

After leaving office, Bush remained active in public life, engaging in humanitarian efforts and occasionally speaking out on national issues. He saw his son, George W. Bush, become the 43rd President, marking only the second time in U.S. history that a father and son both held the nation's highest office. Bush's legacy is characterized by his dedication to service, leadership during a transformative era in global politics, and commitment to volunteerism and humanitarian work.

Death and Enduring Influence (2018)

George H. W. Bush passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of public service and leadership. His statesmanship, commitment to bipartisanship, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Americans and people around the world continue to be celebrated. Bush's life and career, deeply connected to Houston and its values of resilience and community support, remain an integral part of the city's history and the nation's collective memory.

Key Achievements:

• Served as the 41st President of the United States, navigating the end of the Cold War and leading the country through the Gulf War.

• Held various significant public service roles, including Vice President, CIA Director, and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.

• His post-presidency years were marked by extensive humanitarian work and public service.

George H. W. Bush's journey from a young Navy aviator to President of the United States is a testament to his commitment to service, leadership, and diplomacy. His deep connections to Houston, where he built his family and career, highlight the city's impact on his life and legacy. Bush's presidency, characterized by significant global and domestic achievements, and his lifelong dedication to public service, have left an indelible mark on American history and the world.

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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