Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Texas Longhorns basketball recap

• Austin FC new road uniforms

• A deep-dive into the life of Ann Richards

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If you can’t yet do great things, do small things in a great way.”

―Napoleon Hill

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!

In which Austin location can you find the largest urban bat colony in North America?

A) Zilker Metropolitan Park

B) The Texas Capitol

C) Congress Avenue Bridge

D) McKinney Falls State Park

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The university located in Austin is C) University of Texas at Austin.

News

💼 Business

Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas aims to double production capacity by late 2024. (link)

Bumble, the Austin-based social networking app, reports a 20% increase in users. (link)

🏒 Sports

Texas Longhorns basketball team faced a significant defeat against the Iowa State Cyclones. (link)

Six Texas Longhorns players were projected by ESPN to be selected in the first and second rounds of the NFL Draft. (link)

Austin FC unveiled their "Armadillo" secondary kit, a tribute to a legendary Austin music venue, to be worn as the team's road uniform in 2024. (link)

Eleven Texas Longhorns players received invitations to the NFL Scouting Combine, marking a record high for the program. (link)

🏦 Finance

The City of Austin announces a partnership with FinTech startups to improve municipal payment systems. (link)

Austin's Chamber of Commerce reveals a new initiative to support local startups with financial literacy programs. (link)

Amplify Credit Union, based in Austin, is offering a blockchain-based loan approval system to speed up processing times. (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

🎾 ATX Open
Westwood Country Club, Austin
February 26 - March 3 | (More info)

🏀 Texas Longhorns Mens Basketball vs. Oklahoma State Cowboys Mens Basketball
Moddy Center ATX, Austin TX
Saturday, March 2 | (More info)

🏀 Texas Longhorns Women’s Basketball vs. Oklahoma State Cowboys Women’s Basketball
Moddy Center ATX, Austin TX
Saturday, March 2 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Kill Tony
Fat Man Stage, Austin
Monday, Feb 26, 2024 | (More info)

🎸 Blue Monday with Johnny Burgin
Antone's, Austin
Monday, Feb 26, 2024 | (More info)

🎵 Olivia Rodrigo & Chappell Roan
Moody Center ATX, Austin
Wednesday, Feb 28, 2024 | (More info)

Family

🎉 Youth Art Month: Dream in Art
Congress Ave Austin, TX
February 27, 2024 | (More info)

🎭 Neill-Cochran House Museum
San Gabriel Street Austin, TX
February 28, 2024 | (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 within a giant biodome” 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

1933 - Barton Springs Pool opens.

In 1933, a beloved Austin landmark was born with the opening of Barton Springs Pool. This natural spring-fed pool quickly became a treasured oasis for locals and visitors alike, offering a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. The pool's crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery and limestone bluffs, provided a picturesque setting for relaxation and recreation. From its early days to the present, Barton Springs Pool has remained a symbol of community, leisure, and natural beauty, making it an iconic destination in the heart of Austin.

The opening of Barton Springs Pool in 1933 marked a significant moment in Austin's history, as it solidified the city's reputation as a place where nature and urban life harmoniously coexist. Over the years, the pool has become a gathering place for people of all ages, attracting swimmers, sunbathers, picnickers, and nature enthusiasts. Its enduring popularity has made it a cultural touchstone for the city, and it continues to be a source of pride for Austinites who cherish its timeless appeal.

Today, Barton Springs Pool stands as a testament to Austin's commitment to preserving its natural resources and providing a space for communal enjoyment. Its historical significance, coupled with its enduring allure, cements its status as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a quintessential Austin experience. Whether it's a leisurely swim, a family outing, or a moment of tranquility in the midst of the city, Barton Springs Pool remains an integral part of Austin's identity and a cherished gem for generations to come.

Famous People From Austin

Ann Richards (1933 - 2006)

Early Life and Education (1933-1950s)

Dorothy Ann Willis Richards was born on September 1, 1933, in Lakeview, Texas. She grew up in a politically active family and attended Waco High School. After graduating, she moved to Austin, where she earned a teaching certificate from the University of Texas.

Entry into Politics and Public Service (1960s-1980s)

Richards' entry into politics began with her work as a campaign volunteer and organizer. She served as a county commissioner and later as the state treasurer of Texas. Her dedication to public service and her ability to connect with people from all walks of life set the stage for her future political career.

Governorship and Political Legacy (1991-1995)

In 1991, Ann Richards made history as the second female governor of Texas. Her tenure was marked by a commitment to education, healthcare, and social justice. She gained national attention for her keynote speech at the 1988 Democratic National Convention, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in American politics.

Life and Legacy (Post-1995)

After her term as governor, Ann Richards continued to be an influential voice in public policy and advocacy. She remained dedicated to causes she was passionate about, including women's rights, education, and social equality. Her legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for change continues to inspire future generations.

Connection to Austin

Ann Richards' connection to Austin was significant, as it was where she pursued her education and began her political career. Her impact on the city is commemorated through various initiatives and projects that honor her contributions to the community.

Key Achievements of Ann Richards:

• Became the 45th governor of Texas, making history as the second female governor of the state.

• Advocated for education, healthcare, and social justice during her tenure as governor.

• Gained national attention for her keynote speech at the 1988 Democratic National Convention.

• Continued to be an influential voice in public policy and advocacy post-governorship.

• Remembered as a trailblazer and advocate for women in politics and social equality.

Ann Richards' story is one of resilience, leadership, and dedication to public service. Her impact on Texas and American politics remains significant and enduring.

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

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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