Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Houston tops in building permits

• Upcoming Houston Astros game

• A deep dive into the life of Dominique de Menil

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The unexamined life is not worth living."

- Socrates

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!

What is the name of Houston's Major League Soccer team?

A) Houston Dynamo

B) Houston Strikers

C) Houston United

D) Houston FC

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The Port of Houston was officially opened in B) 1914.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼 Business

Houston area led nation in residential building permits last year. (link)

LyondellBasell plans $61M build out for new U.S. HQ in Houston. (link)

Noble 33 sets opening date for Houston's Toca Madera restaurant next to new hotel. (link)

US airlines sue over federal fee-disclosure rules. (link)

🏒 Sports

Stefon Diggs traded to Houston Texans: Fantasy football impact. (link)

Cristian Javier injury: Astros pitcher hits IL with neck discomfort as Houston loses another rotation member. (link)

Astros executive Reggie Jackson explains why Houston didn't sign Blake Snell: 'We don't play that game'. (link)

🏦 Finance

Report about charter schools founded by Houston ISD superintendent Mike Miles prompts calls for investigation. (link)

Rice University breaks ground on $54M business school building. (link)

MidFirst Bank to Acquire Houston Banking Locations of Amerant Bank. (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. Los Angeles Angels
Minute Maid Park, Houston, TX
Tuesday, May 21st | 7:10 PM | (More info)

⚾ Misfits Boxing
NRG Arena, Houston, TX
Saturday, May 25th | 6:00 PM | (More info)

⚾ Houston Roughnecks vs. Michigan Panthers
Rice Stadium, Houston, TX
Sunday, May 26th | 1:30 PM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Cheekface
White Oak Music Hall - Upstairs , Houston, TX
Tuesday, May 21st | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎵 Black Veil Brides
Warehouse Live Midtown, Houston, TX
Tuesday, May 21st | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎷Chris Isaak
House of Blues Houston, Houston, TX
Tuesday, May 21st | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎸 Avi Kaplan
Heights Theater, Houston, TX
Tuesday, May 21st | 8:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🌸 Jurassic World: The Exhibition
Katy Mills, Houston, TX
Wed • May 22nd | time varies | (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 illuminated entirely by bioluminescent plants and structures” 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

1965: The Astrodome, the world's first domed stadium, opens.

The opening of the Astrodome in 1965 heralded a new era in sports and entertainment, introducing the world to the first fully air-conditioned, enclosed, domed stadium. Located in Houston, Texas, the Astrodome was dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World" for its innovative design and engineering marvels. It provided a year-round, weatherproof venue for a variety of events, including baseball, football, rodeos, and concerts. The Astrodome's construction was a bold initiative that showcased Houston's ambition and ingenuity, symbolizing the city's status as a forward-thinking metropolis willing to push the boundaries of architectural and engineering possibilities.

The impact of the Astrodome extended beyond its architectural achievements. It revolutionized the sports and entertainment industry, setting new standards for stadium design and spectator experience. The dome's success spurred the construction of similar facilities around the world, changing the landscape of public arenas. Moreover, the Astrodome played a vital role in the cultural and social life of Houston, hosting iconic events and gatherings that brought the community together.

Despite its eventual decline and the debates over its preservation, the Astrodome remains an iconic symbol of Houston's innovative spirit and its contributions to sports and entertainment. Its legacy continues to influence stadium design and the way people experience large-scale events, underscoring the lasting impact of this architectural pioneer.

Famous People From Houston

Dominique de Menil (1908–1997): Art collector and philanthropist.

Dominique de Menil (1908–1997)

Early Life and Introduction to Art (1908-1941)

Dominique de Menil, born Dominique Schlumberger in Paris, France, in 1908, embarked on a journey that would lead her to become one of the most influential art collectors and philanthropists of the 20th century. Her marriage to Jean de Menil in 1931 fused two lives already deeply engaged with art and culture. The de Menils initially amassed a collection that reflected their wide-ranging interests, from medieval and Byzantine art to works by modern masters.

Move to Houston and Cultural Philanthropy (1941-1970)

The de Menils relocated to Houston, Texas, in the 1940s, where Jean pursued opportunities in the oil industry. This move marked the beginning of the couple's profound impact on the cultural landscape of Houston. Their passion for art and philanthropy soon translated into significant contributions to the city's artistic and educational institutions. The de Menils were instrumental in establishing the University of St. Thomas's art department and bringing renowned architect Philip Johnson to design the campus, showcasing their commitment to integrating art and education.

The Menil Collection and Rothko Chapel (1971-1997)

Dominique de Menil's visionary projects in Houston culminated in the creation of the Menil Collection and the Rothko Chapel. Opened to the public in 1987, the Menil Collection houses an extraordinary array of artworks personally acquired by the de Menils, spanning from antiquity to the contemporary era. The Rothko Chapel, conceived as a non-denominational sacred space, features murals by Mark Rothko and stands as a testament to Dominique's dedication to art's spiritual and transformative power.

Legacy and Influence in Houston's Development (1997-Present)

Dominique de Menil passed away in 1997, but her legacy in Houston and the broader art world endures. Her visionary approach to collecting, displaying, and supporting the arts has left an indelible mark on the city. The Menil Collection and Rothko Chapel continue to attract visitors from around the globe, serving as cornerstones of Houston's cultural identity. Dominique's belief in the accessibility of art for all and her commitment to social justice through cultural engagement have inspired subsequent generations of collectors, philanthropists, and art lovers.

Key Achievements:

• Assembled, with Jean de Menil, one of the most important private art collections in the world, encompassing over 17,000 works.

• Founded the Menil Collection, a museum that offers free admission, aligning with her philosophy that art should be accessible to all.

• Established the Rothko Chapel, a landmark of art and spirituality, reflecting her commitment to the interconnection of art, faith, and human rights.

Summary:

Dominique de Menil's transformation of Houston's cultural landscape through her unparalleled contributions to the arts has made her a pivotal figure in the city's history. Her legacy, characterized by the integration of art into public life and her advocacy for social justice, continues to influence Houston's identity as a vibrant center for cultural and artistic exploration. Through the Menil Collection, Rothko Chapel, and numerous other initiatives, Dominique de Menil ensured that her passion for art and humanity would have a lasting impact on the city she called home.

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-Matthew Larsen

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