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Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Smaller lots approved under HOME Phase 2.

• Austin Dillon's win boosts rankings.

• A deep-dive into the life of Henry Faulk.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."

- Marcus Aurelius

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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 Austin event is known for its focus on literature and features readings, discussions, and signings with authors from around the world?

A) Texas Book Festival

B) Austin Literary Festival

C) Writers' League of Texas Agents & Editors Conference

D) Austin Poetry Slam

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The street famous for its coffee shops, boutiques, and mural art is A) South Congress Avenue.

News

💼Business

Bee Cave sues to stop industrial project by Dallas-based firm. (link)

Homeowners and developers can now build on smaller lots under HOME Phase 2. (link)

🏒Sports

NASCAR Power Rankings: Austin Dillon's controversial win vaults him ahead at all costs. (link)

Austin Dillon's Richmond penalty warranted to keep playoffs from lawlessness. (link)

🏦Finance

National real estate developer Portman doubling down on Texas markets, including Austin. (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

🏉 Texas Longhorns Football vs. Colorado State University Rams Football
Darrell K Royal - Memorial Stadium, Austin, TX
Saturday, Aug 31st | time varies | (more info)

🏉 Texas State San Marcos Bobcats Football vs. Lamar University Cardinals Football
UFCU Stadium, San Marcos, TX
Saturday, Aug 31st | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 William Beckmann
Scoot Inn, Austin, TX
Thursday, Aug 29th | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎸 Shxwnfresh
Stubb's Indoors, Austin, TX
Friday, Aug 30th | 10:30 PM | (more info)

Family

🎪 Hideout Kids Family Maestro Improv Show
617 Congress Ave., Austin, TX
Sunday, Sep 1st | 4:00 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 “An architecturally symmetrical Austin” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Austin Historical Events

1963 - Jake Pickle becomes U.S. representative for Texas's 10th congressional district.

In 1963, James Jarrell "Jake" Pickle became the U.S. representative for Texas's 10th congressional district, marking the beginning of a distinguished political career that would span over three decades. As a Democrat, Pickle served the district with dedication and commitment from 1963 to 1995, making a lasting impact on the local community and the nation as a whole. His tenure as a representative was characterized by a strong focus on public service and advocacy for the interests of his constituents, earning him respect and recognition as a prominent figure in Texas politics.

Born in Roscoe, Texas, on October 11, 1913, Jake Pickle's journey into politics began during his time at the University of Texas, where he served as the president of the student body. His early involvement in public service and his deep roots in Texas shaped his passion for representing the people of the 10th congressional district. Throughout his career, Pickle's commitment to his constituents and his advocacy for important issues solidified his reputation as a dedicated and influential leader in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Pickle's legacy as the U.S. representative for Texas's 10th congressional district is a testament to his unwavering dedication to public service and his impact on the political landscape of Texas. His contributions and leadership continue to be remembered and celebrated, leaving a lasting imprint on the history of the district and the state of Texas.

Famous People From Austin

Henry Faulk (1913-1990) - Folklorist and storyteller

John Henry Faulk, a beloved Texas writer, humorist, and civil rights activist, was born in Austin, Texas, on August 21, 1913, and passed away in his hometown on April 9, 1990. His life and work were deeply influenced by his upbringing and education in Austin, shaping him into a prominent folklorist and storyteller.

Early Education and Folklore Studies (1932-1935)

Faulk enrolled at the University of Texas in Austin in 1932, where he became a protégé of influential Texas thinkers such as J. Frank Dobie, Walter Prescott Webb, and Roy Bedichek. His studies in folklore and mentorship under these renowned figures honed his skills as a folklorist, laying the foundation for his future career as a storyteller.

Passion for Civil Rights and Activism (1930s-1940s)

Growing up in Austin, Faulk was deeply influenced by his freethinking Methodist parents, who instilled in him a detestation of racism. This early exposure to social justice issues and civil rights activism shaped Faulk's worldview and inspired his later involvement in advocating for civil rights and free speech.

Radio and Television Career (1950s-1960s)

Faulk gained widespread recognition as a radio and TV personality, hosting the "John Henry Faulk Show" on CBS. His storytelling abilities and wit captivated audiences, earning him comparisons to literary icons like Mark Twain and Will Rogers. Despite the political upheaval of the 1950s, Faulk fearlessly fought against McCarthyism and advanced the cause of civil rights.

Legacy and Later Years (1970s-1990)

In his later years, Faulk continued to make appearances as a homespun character on the popular Hee-Haw television program, further solidifying his status as a beloved storyteller. He remained committed to advocating for free speech and civil rights until his passing on April 9, 1990, leaving behind a legacy of storytelling, activism, and social change.

Key Achievements of John Henry Faulk:

• Earned a master's degree in folklore from the University of Texas, honing his skills as a folklorist.

• Fearlessly fought against McCarthyism and advanced the cause of civil rights through his radio and television career.

• Made numerous appearances as a homespun character on the popular Hee-Haw television program.

• Left behind a legacy of storytelling, activism, and social change, inspiring future generations.

John Henry Faulk's life story is one of overcoming adversity, advocating for civil rights, and leaving a lasting impact on Texas and beyond. His dedication to storytelling and social justice continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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