Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Japanese clothing retailer opens new location in Houston

• Houston Rockets game recap

• A deep dive into the life of Lyndon B. Johnson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine."

- Roy T. Bennett

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 famous annual event in Houston is known for its rodeo, concerts, and livestock show?

A) Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

B) Texas State Fair

C) Houston Festival

D) Gulf Coast Rodeo

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia: Houston hosted the Super Bowl for the first time in C) 2004.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼 Business

Uniqlo, a Japanese clothing retailer, is planning its first Texas opening in Houston. (Link)

RodeoHouston continues to uphold its legacy being considered the 'world’s richest rodeo,’ contributing significantly to the local economy. (Link)

Intuitive Machines, a pioneering space company based in Houston, successfully lands a private spacecraft on the moon's surface. (Link)

CERAWeek by S&P Global 2024 in Houston is set to gather energy CEOs, government officials, and experts in business and technology to address the future of energy and environmental innovation. (Link)

🏒 Sports

The Houston Rockets faced the Phoenix Suns in a basketball game. (Link)

Rice Owls Men's Basketball played against the East Carolina Pirates on the same date. (Link)

The Houston Cougars continued a four-game winning streak with their game against the Baylor Bears. (Link)

University of Houston's basketball team clinched a victory, enhancing their NCAA tournament resume. (Link)

Houston Dash announced new signings, bolstering the team's lineup for the upcoming NWSL season. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Houston's real estate market saw a notable uptick in February, with increased sales and higher median prices. (Link)

A major Houston bank announced the expansion of its financial services, aiming to reach underserved communities. (Link)

Houston's city council approved a new budget plan focusing on infrastructure and public services, aiming for sustainable growth. (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

🚣 51st Annual Regatta on Buffalo Bayou
Allen's Landing, Downtown Houston
Monday, March 11 | 7:30 AM to 2:30 | (More Info)

🏟️ Prairie View A&M Panthers at Rice Owls Baseball
Reckling Park, Houston, TX
Tuesday, Mar 5 | 6:30 PM | (More Info)

🏀 San Antonio Spurs at Houston Rockets
Toyota Center, Houston, TX
Tuesday, Mar 5 | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Los Angeles Clippers at Houston Rockets
Toyota Center, Houston, TX
Wednesday, Mar 6 | 6:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 New Kids on The Block at Rodeo Houston
NRG Stadium, Houston
Thursday, March 7th | 6:45 PM | (More Info)

🎸 OV7
Bayou Music Center, Houston
Saturday, March 9th | 8:30 PM | (More Info)

🎶 Jon Pardi at Rodeo Houston
NRG Stadium, Houston
Friday, March 8th | 6:45 PM | (More Info)

🎵 Ashley McBryde at Rodeo Houston
NRG Stadium, Houston
Saturday, March 9th | 6:45 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎡 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
NRG Park, Houston
March 5th - March 13th | Opens Daily at 8:00 AM | (More Info)

🐉 Dragons & Fairies
Houston Botanic Garden, Houston
March 5th - March 13th | 5:30 PM - 8:30 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 “High-tech urban farm towers and green rooftops in Houston” 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

1870: Houston's first public school opens.

In 1870, the opening of Houston's first public school marked a pivotal moment in the city's educational and social development. Before this event, education in Houston was primarily accessible only through private schools, which limited opportunities for many children, especially those from lower-income families. The establishment of the first public school represented a commitment to universal education, signaling a progressive step forward in ensuring that all children, regardless of their economic background, had access to basic education. This foundational move laid the groundwork for a public school system that aimed to educate the city's youth and prepare them for a productive future.

The establishment of Houston's first public school was met with enthusiasm and support from the community, reflecting a collective recognition of the importance of education in fostering social and economic progress. The school opened its doors to students of various ages, offering a curriculum that included reading, writing, arithmetic, and other subjects crucial for personal and intellectual development. This initiative was a significant departure from the informal or home-schooling methods that were common at the time, providing a structured and standardized educational experience for the city's children.

Over time, the opening of Houston's first public school catalyzed the growth of the public education system in the city. It prompted the construction of more schools to accommodate the increasing population and the diverse educational needs of Houston's children. As the city grew, so did the demand for educated citizens capable of contributing to its development. The establishment of the public school system in 1870 played a critical role in shaping the educational landscape of Houston, ensuring that education became a cornerstone of the community's values and a driving force for its future prosperity.

Famous People From Houston

Lyndon B. Johnson (1908–1973)

Early Life and Political Foundations (1908-1930)

Lyndon Baines Johnson, born in 1908 in Stonewall, Texas, grew up in a modest, rural setting that instilled in him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary Americans. His early exposure to the political world, through his father's involvement in the Texas legislature, ignited Johnson's interest in public service and politics.

Entry into Politics and Congressional Career (1931-1948)

Johnson's political career began in earnest when he joined the staff of Congressman Richard Kleberg as a legislative secretary. His natural political acumen quickly became apparent, and in 1937, Johnson was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served until 1949. During this time, Johnson developed a reputation as a skilled legislator and advocate for rural electrification and public works projects.

Military Service and Further Political Ascent (1941-1954)

During World War II, Johnson served in the Navy, earning a Silver Star for his service in the South Pacific. After the war, he resumed his political career, being elected to the U.S. Senate in 1948. Johnson's tenure in the Senate was marked by his rapid rise to leadership positions, including serving as Senate Majority Leader, where he demonstrated his mastery of the legislative process.

Vice Presidency and Ascension to the Presidency (1960-1963)

In 1960, Johnson was elected Vice President of the United States as John F. Kennedy's running mate. His vice-presidency was cut short by Kennedy's assassination in 1963, upon which Johnson assumed the presidency. Johnson's assumption of the presidency during a period of national mourning and crisis tested his leadership abilities from the outset.

The Great Society and Civil Rights Legislation (1963-1968)

Johnson's presidency was defined by his ambitious domestic agenda, known as the Great Society, which aimed to eliminate poverty and racial injustice. His administration saw the passage of groundbreaking legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid, fundamentally transforming American society.

Vietnam War and Foreign Policy Challenges (1965-1969)

Johnson's foreign policy was dominated by the Vietnam War, which escalated significantly during his presidency. His commitment to preventing the spread of communism led to increased U.S. military involvement in Vietnam, a decision that proved to be highly controversial and ultimately unpopular.

Decision Not to Seek Re-election and Legacy (1968)

Faced with growing public dissatisfaction with the Vietnam War and challenges within his own party, Johnson announced in 1968 that he would not seek re-election. This decision shocked the nation and marked the beginning of the end of his political career.

Post-Presidency and Reflections (1969-1973)

After leaving office, Johnson retired to his Texas ranch, where he focused on his presidential library and engaged in reflection on his presidency and legacy. Despite the controversy over the Vietnam War, Johnson's contributions to civil rights, social welfare, and American society were significant.

Death and Enduring Influence (1973)

Lyndon B. Johnson passed away in 1973. His death prompted a reevaluation of his presidency, which has come to be viewed more favorably over time, especially his domestic achievements. Johnson's impact on American politics and society, particularly in the areas of civil rights and social welfare, remains profound.

Key Achievements:

• Passed landmark civil rights legislation, significantly advancing the cause of racial equality in America.

• Implemented the Great Society programs, addressing poverty, education, and health care.

• Led the United States during a period of significant social change and upheaval.

• His legislative skills and political acumen left a lasting mark on American political life.

Lyndon B. Johnson's journey from the Texas Hill Country to the White House is a testament to his complex legacy as a leader who navigated the United States through a transformative period in its history. As the 36th President, Johnson's ambitious Great Society programs and his efforts to secure civil rights for all Americans cemented his place as a pivotal figure in the 20th century. Despite the controversies of his presidency, particularly regarding the Vietnam War, Johnson's impact on American society and governance endures, highlighting the enduring power of political vision and action.

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-Matthew Larsen

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