Austin Newsletter (October 17th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

In partnership with:

Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Austin builder exporting luxury homes to Nashville.

  • Astros GM Dana Brown, Joe Espada plan path forward.

  • A deep-dive into the life of Barbara Jordan.

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"Freedom is what you do with what's been done to you."

— Jean-Paul Sartre

Sponsored

All Texas News, Quick 5-Minute Reads, Always Free!

  • Quick 5-minute read, all essential Texas news.

  • By Texans, for Texans – authentic and relevant.

  • Always free, with 200,000 daily readers.

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 of these universities is located in Austin?

A) Texas A&M University

B) Baylor University

C) University of Texas at Austin

D) Rice University

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The official slogan that is used to describe Austin's vibrant music scene is C) The Live Music Capital of the World.

News

💼Business

Local builder to export Austin's style of luxury homes to Music City. (link)

Luminary condo tower downtown to begin construction and sales next year. (link)

🏒Sports

Astros GM Dana Brown and Joe Espada, the path forward. (link)

Astros drop Game 1 to Tarik Skubal and Tigers. (link)

🏦Finance

Developers eye SB 2038 in bid to turn former Manor racetrack into industrial park. (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. Georgia Bulldogs Football
Darrell K Royal - Memorial Stadium, Austin, TX
Sat • Oct 19, 2024, Time varies | (more info)

Austin FC vs. Colorado Rapids
Q2 Stadium, Austin, TX
Sat • Oct 19, 2024 • 8:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Wilderado with Ethan Tasch and The Takes
Emo's Austin, Austin, TX
Thu • Oct 17 • 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎸 Nero with Pocket
Emo's Austin, Austin, TX
Fri • Oct 18 • 7:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎪 P1 With Matt And Tommy Live
Emo's Austin, Austin, TX
Sun • Oct 20 • 8:00 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 “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

1900 - Austin's population reaches 22,258.

In the year 1900, Austin's population reached 22,258, marking a significant milestone in the city's growth. This increase in population reflected the city's appeal as a center for commerce, culture, and opportunity. During this time, Austin experienced a period of expansion and development, laying the foundation for the vibrant and diverse community it is known for today.

The growth of Austin's population in 1900 was a testament to the city's allure and potential. As the population continued to rise, Austin evolved into a thriving urban center, attracting people from various backgrounds and contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. This period of growth set the stage for Austin to become the dynamic and inclusive city it is today, with a population that continues to grow and diversify.

The year 1900 marked a pivotal moment in Austin's history, as the city's population surged to 22,258, reflecting the city's emergence as a hub of opportunity and progress. This growth laid the groundwork for Austin's transformation into a vibrant and bustling metropolis, shaping its identity as a place where innovation, diversity, and community thrive.

Famous People From Austin

Barbara Jordan - Lawyer, educator, politician, and civil rights leader

Barbara Jordan: 1936-1996

Barbara Jordan, a prominent figure in Texas politics, was a lawyer, educator, politician, and civil rights leader. Her legacy as a public defender of the U.S. Constitution and a leading African American politician has left an indelible mark on American history.

Early Life and Education

Barbara Charline Jordan was born on February 21, 1936, in Houston, Texas, to Arlyne and Benjamin Jordan. She was the youngest of three children, and her parents played influential roles in her upbringing. Her mother was a public speaker, and her father was the pastor of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church. Jordan's early life in Houston's largely African American Fifth Ward shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for civil rights and social justice.

Political Career and Public Service

Jordan's political career began with her campaign for the Texas House of Representatives in 1962 and 1964. Although unsuccessful, she persevered and won a seat in the Texas Senate in 1966, becoming the first African American state senator in Texas since 1883 and the first black woman to serve in that body. Her tenure in the Texas Senate marked the beginning of her impactful journey as a trailblazing politician and advocate for equality.

Congressional Service and National Recognition

In 1972, Barbara Jordan made history by becoming the first African American woman from a Southern state to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. During her time in Congress, she gained national recognition for her eloquent speeches and unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of the U.S. Constitution. Her powerful oratory skills and dedication to justice solidified her reputation as a formidable leader in American politics.

Teaching and Legacy at the University of Texas at Austin

After retiring from politics, Barbara Jordan joined the faculty at the University of Texas at Austin, where she continued to inspire and educate future generations of leaders. In honor of her contributions, a statue of Barbara Jordan was unveiled at the University of Texas at Austin, where she taught. Her legacy as an educator and mentor continues to shape the academic and social landscape of the university.

Connection to Austin

Barbara Jordan's connection to Austin is deeply rooted in her tenure as a professor at the University of Texas at Austin. Her impact on the university community and her role as a mentor to aspiring leaders have left a lasting impression on the city's academic and political spheres.

Retirement, Health Troubles, and Final Honors

Barbara Jordan's retirement from public office was marked by health challenges, but her enduring influence continued to be recognized through various honors and tributes. Her unwavering commitment to public service and civil rights advocacy earned her the respect and admiration of people across the nation.

Key Achievements of Barbara Jordan:

  • First African American state senator in Texas since 1883 and the first black woman to serve in that body.

  • Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, becoming the first African American woman from a Southern state to achieve this feat.

  • Renowned for her powerful oratory skills and unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of the U.S. Constitution.

  • Honored with a statue at the University of Texas at Austin, where she taught and inspired future leaders.

  • Remembered as a trailblazing politician, civil rights leader, and mentor to aspiring leaders.

Barbara Jordan's life story is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication to justice and equality. Her impact on Texas, the United States, and the University of Texas at Austin remains an enduring testament to her legacy.

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.

-Yannick Lyons

Poll

What did you think of today's newsletter?

We are always looking for feedback. Give us your honest thoughts.

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.