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Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Michelin Guide selects Houston for restaurant honors.

• Framber Valdez struggles in second inning of loss.

• A deep dive into the life of Barbara Jordan.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use."

— Søren Kierkegaard

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Trivia

What is the name of the famous space center located in Houston?

A) Kennedy Space Center

B) Johnson Space Center

C) Houston Space Center

D) Texas Space Center

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

Houston was officially incorporated in C) 1837.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼Business

Michelin Guide picks Houston for restaurant honors announcement. (link)

River Oaks Theatre readies for grand reopening after multimillion-dollar renovation. (link)

🏒Sports

Astros come up short in wild-card loss to Tigers. (link)

Framber Valdez can't escape trouble in second inning in opening loss. (link)

🏦Finance

Tilman Fertitta tops Houston's richest billionaires for first time. (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

⚾ ALDS: Guardians at Astros Home Game 1 (If Played)
Minute Maid Park, Houston, TX
Wed • Oct 09, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Marty O'Reilly
White Oak Music Hall - Upstairs , Houston, TX
Mon • Oct 07, 2024 • 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎸 Zheani
White Oak Music Hall - Downstairs, Houston, TX
Tue • Oct 08, 2024 • 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎶 Sub-Radio: The Sunrise City Tour
White Oak Music Hall - Downstairs, Houston, TX
Wed • Oct 09, 2024 • 7:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🖌️ Aaron Chen
Punch Line Houston, Houston, TX
Wed • Oct 09 • 7:00 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 skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” 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

1837: Houston becomes the temporary capital of the Republic of Texas.

In 1837, just a year after its founding, Houston achieved a significant milestone in its early history by becoming the temporary capital of the Republic of Texas. This decision came at a pivotal time in Texas history, shortly after gaining independence from Mexico in 1836. The selection of Houston as the capital was largely influenced by its founders, August and John Allen, who aggressively marketed the city as a prime location for the new republic's government.

The designation of Houston as the capital brought immediate growth and prestige to the fledgling city. Government buildings were rapidly constructed, including a capitol building where the Texas Congress convened. This period saw an influx of settlers, businessmen, and politicians, turning Houston into a bustling administrative and commercial center. The city's strategic location along Buffalo Bayou made it an ideal hub for trade and governance, reinforcing its status as a significant Texas city.

However, Houston's tenure as the capital was short-lived; the capital was moved to Austin in 1839. Despite this, the period during which Houston served as the capital was crucial in establishing its importance in Texas history. It laid a strong foundation for the city's future growth and development, demonstrating its potential as a center of political, economic, and social activity in the Republic of Texas.

Famous People From Houston

Barbara Jordan (1936–1996): Politician and civil rights leader.

Early Life and Education (1936-1956)

Barbara Jordan was born in 1936 in Houston, Texas. Her early life in Houston's Fifth Ward, a predominantly African-American neighborhood, was instrumental in shaping her understanding of racial segregation and injustice. Jordan's pursuit of education, marked by exceptional academic achievements, set her on a path towards leadership and advocacy.

Higher Education and Early Career (1956-1966)

Jordan attended Texas Southern University and later Boston University School of Law, distinguishing herself as a brilliant student. After completing her law degree, she returned to Houston to start her legal career. During this period, she became increasingly involved in civil rights activism and local politics.

Entry into Texas Politics (1966-1972)

In 1966, Jordan was elected to the Texas Senate, becoming the first African American state senator since 1883 and the first black woman ever elected to that body. Her tenure in the Texas Senate was marked by effective legislation and advocacy for minority and underserved communities.

U.S. Congress and National Impact (1972-1979)

Jordan's election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1972 was another historic milestone, as she became the first Southern African-American woman elected to Congress. In Congress, she gained national prominence, especially for her eloquent speeches and steadfast commitment to justice and equality.

Key Legislative Achievements (1970s)

In Congress, Jordan worked on several significant pieces of legislation, focusing on civil rights, fair voting practices, and social justice issues. Her legislative achievements reflected her dedication to the ideals of democracy and equality for all citizens.

Leadership in Judiciary and Ethics Committees (1970s)

Jordan served on the House Judiciary Committee and played a pivotal role during the Watergate scandal. Her ethical leadership and powerful rhetoric during the hearings were highly acclaimed and demonstrated her commitment to upholding the Constitution.

Post-Congressional Career and Teaching (1980-1996)

After retiring from Congress, Jordan didn't retreat from public life. She became an esteemed professor at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, where she influenced a new generation of leaders and thinkers.

Legacy and Enduring Influence (Post-1996)

Barbara Jordan passed away in 1996, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer in politics and a champion for civil rights and social justice. Her impact continued to be felt in the realms of politics, education, and civil rights advocacy.

Key Achievements:

• Pioneered as a black woman in Texas and U.S. politics, breaking barriers and setting precedents.

• Championed civil rights legislation and fair voting practices, advocating for the rights of minorities.

• Played a crucial role in the Watergate hearings, upholding the principles of justice and integrity.

• Inspired future generations as a professor and public speaker, leaving a lasting educational legacy.

Summary:

Barbara Jordan's remarkable career as a politician and civil rights leader was characterized by her eloquent advocacy for justice, equality, and democratic values. As a trailblazer in both Texas and national politics, she broke barriers and set new standards for ethical leadership, leaving an indelible mark on American history.

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-Matthew Larsen

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