Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• MD Anderson-Blue Cross split impacts 1,600.

• UH guard Milos Uzan perseveres injured.

• A deep dive into the life of Roy Hofheinz.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today."

— Will Rogers

Trivia

What iconic Houston structure is known for its unique waterwall and surrounding gardens?

A) Houston City Hall

B) Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

C) Buffalo Bayou Park

D) Discovery Green

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The largest university in Houston in terms of enrollment is B) University of Houston.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼 Business

Marathon Oil warns of hundreds of Houston layoffs after ConocoPhillips deal closes. (link)

Over 1,600 patients affected by MD Anderson-Blue Cross Blue Shield split. (link)

🏒 Sports

New UH point guard Milos Uzan keeps his broken nose to the grindstone. (link)

Freddie Freeman's historic walk-off grand slam lifts Dodgers to Game 1 win. (link)

🏦 Finance

Houston Housing Authority names interim president, CEO while investigation plays out. (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

 ⚔️ The Battleground
Toyota Center - TX, Houston, TX
Sat • Nov 09, 2024 • Time Varies | (More info)

🏉 Houston Texans vs. Detroit Lions
NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
Sun • Nov 10, 2024 • 7:20 PM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Smithfield
White Oak Music Hall - Upstairs , Houston, TX
Thu • Nov 07, 2024 • 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎸 Dylan Schneider
The Bronze Peacock at House of Blues Houston, Houston, TX
Fri • Nov 08 • 7:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🎭 Cinderella
Brown Theatre-Wortham Center, Houston, TX
Thu • Nov 07, 2024 • 7:30 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 “Houston with buildings that change shape and color” 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

1928: Houston Municipal Airport (now Hobby Airport) opens.

The opening of the Houston Municipal Airport, later known as Hobby Airport, in 1928 marked a significant milestone in Houston's development into a major urban and economic center in the United States. This event signified the city's early recognition of the importance of air travel and its potential to connect Houston more closely with the rest of the country and the world. As one of the first major airports in Texas, Hobby Airport facilitated the growth of commercial aviation in the region, offering new opportunities for business, tourism, and personal travel.

From its inception, Hobby Airport served as a vital hub for air transportation, attracting airlines and increasing passenger and cargo traffic through Houston. Its establishment not only boosted the local economy but also underscored Houston's forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development and urban planning. Over the years, the airport underwent numerous expansions and improvements, reflecting the rapid advances in aviation technology and the growing demand for air travel.

Today, Hobby Airport stands as a testament to Houston's early commitment to embracing innovation and connectivity. Its transformation from a modest municipal airport to a bustling international gateway mirrors the city's own evolution. Hobby Airport's enduring importance to Houston's economy and its role in connecting the city to national and international destinations highlight the visionary decisions made in the late 1920s and the lasting impact of infrastructure development on urban growth.

Famous People From Houston

Roy Hofheinz (1912–1982): Mayor of Houston and promoter of the Astrodome.

Early Life and Political Ascent (1912-1952)

Judge Roy Hofheinz was born in 1912 in Houston, Texas, a city that would be forever transformed by his vision and determination. From an early age, Hofheinz demonstrated a keen intellect and a flair for public speaking, which propelled him into the political arena. His career in public service began in the Texas House of Representatives, where he quickly made a name for himself as a skilled legislator and advocate for municipal reform.

Mayor of Houston and Urban Innovator (1953-1955)

Hofheinz's tenure as Mayor of Houston from 1953 to 1955 was marked by his ambitious approach to urban development and governance. He championed significant improvements to the city's infrastructure, including expansion of the road network and enhancements to public services, laying the groundwork for Houston's growth into a major metropolitan center. His dynamic leadership style and ability to mobilize public and private resources were instrumental in initiating a period of transformative change in Houston.

The Astrodome and Vision for Houston (1960-1965)

Perhaps Hofheinz's most enduring legacy is his role in the creation of the Houston Astrodome, the world's first multi-purpose, domed sports stadium. Dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," the Astrodome was the culmination of Hofheinz's vision for a state-of-the-art entertainment and sports complex that would put Houston on the map. His promotion of the Astrodome reflected a broader ambition to modernize and elevate the city's status, showcasing his flair for innovation and grandiose projects.

Connection to Houston (Throughout Life)

Roy Hofheinz's connection to Houston was profound, with his impact evident in the city's skyline, its cultural institutions, and its reputation as a center for innovation and growth. Through his initiatives as mayor and his later ventures, including the development of the Astrodome, Hofheinz helped shape Houston's identity as a dynamic and forward-looking city. His legacy is intertwined with Houston's history, symbolizing a period of bold aspiration and achievement.

Post-Mayoral Career and Entertainment Ventures (1966-1982)

After his tenure as mayor, Hofheinz continued to influence Houston's development through various entertainment and real estate ventures. He was a pivotal figure in the expansion of the city's cultural and recreational offerings, further contributing to its vibrancy and appeal. Hofheinz's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the city's prosperity were hallmarks of his career, reinforcing his status as one of Houston's most impactful leaders.

Legacy and Influence (1982-Present)

Roy Hofheinz passed away in 1982, but his legacy lives on in Houston and beyond. The Astrodome, despite its current state of disuse, remains a symbol of his innovative vision and enduring impact on the city. Hofheinz's contributions to urban development, entertainment, and the civic landscape of Houston have left an indelible mark, earning him a place of honor in the city's history.

Key Achievements:

• Served as Mayor of Houston, implementing significant urban development projects that spurred the city's growth.

• Spearheaded the construction of the Houston Astrodome, introducing a revolutionary concept in sports and entertainment venues.

• Left a lasting legacy on Houston's cultural, infrastructural, and economic development through his visionary leadership and entrepreneurial endeavors.

Summary:

Roy Hofheinz's journey from a young legislator to a visionary leader who reshaped Houston's landscape is a testament to his dedication to the city's progress and his innovative spirit. Through projects like the Astrodome and his tenure as mayor, Hofheinz played a crucial role in transforming Houston into a bustling metropolis known for its bold ambitions and achievements. His legacy as a promoter of groundbreaking developments and a champion of the city's potential continues to inspire, reflecting his indomitable influence on the heart and soul of Houston.

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

-Yannick Lyons

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