Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Musk seeks X office space in Austin.

• Phillies, Orioles exchange Hays, Domínguez in trade.

• A deep-dive into the life of Charlie Sexton.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it."

- Harper Lee

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 neighborhood is known for its outdoor art galleries, mural-covered streets, and a diverse food scene?

A) Travis Heights

B) Hyde Park

C) East Austin

D) Clarksville

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The historic building known for its distinctive architecture and housing the Texas Legislature is A) The Texas Capitol.

News

💼Business

Elon Musk searches for X office space in Austin. (link)

Austin City Hall explores creation of a public bank. (link)

🏒Sports

Phillies, Orioles swap Austin Hays, Seranthony Domínguez as part of rare deadline trade between contenders. (link)

NBA and Amazon ink $76B deal, paving way for Sonics' return to Seattle. (link)

🏦Finance

American Airlines cuts another nonstop route from Austin airport. (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

⚾ NAGA Austin 2 Grappling Championship
4300 Westbank Dr, West Lake Hills, TX
Saturday, Aug 10th | 7:00 am | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Drake White
Scoot Inn, Austin, TX
Thursday, Aug 8th | 6:30 PM | (more info)

🎸 Bay Ledges
Antone's Nightclub, Austin, TX
Friday, Aug 9th | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🛠️ Sebastian Maniscalco: It Ain't Right Tour
Moody Center ATX, Austin, TX
Friday, Aug 9th | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Family

⚾ Bat City Sports Card Show
4211 Todd Ln, Austin, TX
Saturday, Aug 10th | 9:00 am | (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 “Austin with interactive, educational playgrounds for all ages” 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

1956 - Ballet Academy founded.

In 1956, the Ballet Academy was founded in Austin, marking a significant milestone in the city's cultural and artistic landscape. Established with the vision of nurturing and training aspiring dancers, the academy quickly became a hub for ballet enthusiasts and professionals alike. With a focus on classical ballet techniques and artistic expression, the academy provided a platform for students to develop their skills and passion for dance. Over the years, the Ballet Academy has played a pivotal role in shaping the local dance community and has contributed to the vibrant arts scene in Austin.

Since its inception, the Ballet Academy has been dedicated to upholding the traditions of ballet while also embracing innovation and creativity. The founding of the academy brought together renowned instructors and talented students, fostering an environment of mentorship and artistic growth. As a result, the academy has produced numerous accomplished dancers who have gone on to perform on prestigious stages and contribute to the global dance community. The impact of the Ballet Academy's founding in 1956 continues to resonate through the city, inspiring generations of dancers and enriching the cultural fabric of Austin.

Today, the Ballet Academy stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of dance in Austin. Its founding in 1956 laid the groundwork for a thriving dance community that continues to flourish, attracting individuals from all walks of life who share a passion for ballet. The academy's commitment to excellence, artistry, and inclusivity has solidified its place as a cornerstone of the performing arts in Austin, leaving an indelible mark on the city's cultural heritage.

Famous People From Austin

Charlie Sexton - Guitarist and singer-songwriter

Charlie Sexton, an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter, has had a multifaceted career that spans several decades. Raised in Austin, Texas, Sexton's musical journey began in the mid-1980s, and he has since become well-known for his work with renowned artists and bands.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1980s)

Charlie Sexton, born on August 11, 1968, in San Antonio, Texas, showed an early passion for music and began his career as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter in the mid-1980s. His upbringing in Austin, a city known for its vibrant music scene, played a significant role in shaping his musical influences and aspirations.

Debut Album and Musical Collaborations (1985-1995)

Sexton made his debut with the album "Pictures for Pleasure" in 1985, showcasing his talent as a versatile musician. Throughout the 1990s, he collaborated with various artists and bands, including forming the Charlie Sexton Sextet and co-founding the Arc Angels, further establishing his reputation as a skilled guitarist and songwriter.

Work with Bob Dylan and Music Production (1990s-2000s)

Sexton's career reached new heights when he joined Bob Dylan's band as a guitarist, gaining widespread recognition for his contributions to Dylan's music. Additionally, he ventured into music production, showcasing his diverse skill set and passion for creating and shaping musical soundscapes.

Film and Documentary Appearances (2014-2018)

In the 2014 film "Boyhood," directed by Richard Linklater, Sexton had a notable part, adding another dimension to his artistic endeavors. He also appeared in the documentary film "Carmine Street Guitars" and portrayed Townes Van Zandt in the movie "Blaze," demonstrating his versatility as a musician and performer.

Recent Tours and Collaborations (2018-Present)

In recent years, Sexton has continued to captivate audiences with his musical prowess, joining Elvis Costello & The Imposters on tour and showcasing his guitar skills and stage presence in live performances across the United States. His contributions to the music industry remain influential and enduring.

Legacy and Impact

Charlie Sexton's career has been marked by his dedication to music, his ability to collaborate with diverse artists, and his role in shaping the sound of contemporary music. His connection to Austin, Texas, has been a driving force in his artistic journey, and his contributions to the music scene continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Key Achievements of Charlie Sexton:

• Debut album "Pictures for Pleasure" released in 1985, showcasing his musical talent and versatility.

• Collaboration with Bob Dylan as a guitarist, gaining widespread recognition for his contributions to Dylan's music.

• Portrayal of Townes Van Zandt in the movie "Blaze," demonstrating his versatility as a musician and performer.

• Ongoing tours and collaborations with Elvis Costello & The Imposters, showcasing his guitar skills and stage presence.

Charlie Sexton's story is one of artistic evolution, musical collaboration, and a lasting impact on the music industry. His journey from Austin to the global stage reflects his enduring influence and dedication to his craft.

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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