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Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Tourism district funded by hotel fees nears approval.

• Shooter's mother contacted Apalachee High School.

• A deep-dive into the life of Walter Hyatt.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If people are doubting how far you can go, go so far that you can’t hear them anymore.” 

—Michele Ruiz

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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 museum is dedicated to modern and contemporary art and offers rotating exhibitions of renowned artists?

A) The Blanton Museum of Art

B) The Contemporary Austin

C) Mexic-Arte Museum

D) Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual food and wine festival that showcases local chefs and wineries is A) Austin Food + Wine Festival.

News

💼Business

New citywide tourism district, funded through hotel room fees, nears industry approval. (link)

South Korean EV supplier Futronic USA aims to tap industry hotbed with Buda location. (link)

🏒Sports

Apalachee High School accused shooter's mother called the school, Washington. (link)

Waffle House CEO Walt Ehmer dies at the age of 58. (link)

🏦Finance

One of nation's biggest retailers is said to be eyeing a Bastrop location. (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

Music & Concerts

🎤 Wild Rivers with Jade Bird
Scoot Inn, Austin, TX
Monday, Sep 16th | 6:30 PM | (more info)

🎵 Upsahl
The Parish Room - TX, Austin, TX
Tuesday, Sep 17th | 8:30 PM | (more info)

🎸 Pleasure P
Antone's Nightclub, Austin, TX
Wednesday, Sep 18th | 9:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎪 Mixed Media Workshop
1209 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX
Monday, Sep 16th | 6:30 pm | (more info)

🖌️ Art From the Streets: 40 Community Artists
710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX
Wednesday, Sep 18th | 10:00 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 an elaborate network of rooftop gardens and patios” 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

1970 - Armadillo World Headquarters music venue active.

In 1970, the Armadillo World Headquarters emerged as a legendary music venue in Austin, Texas, and quickly became a cultural hub for the city's burgeoning music scene. Founded by a group of music enthusiasts, the venue was known for its eclectic lineup of performers, ranging from rock and blues to country and folk. The Armadillo World Headquarters provided a platform for both local and national artists, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community of music lovers. With its laid-back atmosphere and commitment to showcasing diverse musical genres, the venue played a pivotal role in shaping Austin's reputation as the "Live Music Capital of the World."

During its active years, the Armadillo World Headquarters hosted iconic performances by renowned musicians such as Willie Nelson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and ZZ Top, solidifying its status as a landmark in music history. The venue's unique blend of music, art, and counterculture ethos attracted a diverse audience, creating a space where people from all walks of life could come together to celebrate the power of live music. The Armadillo World Headquarters left an indelible mark on Austin's cultural landscape, influencing subsequent generations of musicians and contributing to the city's rich musical heritage.

Although the Armadillo World Headquarters closed its doors in 1980, its legacy continues to resonate in Austin's music scene. The venue's impact on the city's cultural identity is still felt today, as it paved the way for the thriving music culture that defines Austin. The Armadillo World Headquarters remains a symbol of artistic freedom, creativity, and the unifying power of music, leaving an enduring imprint on the heart and soul of Austin, Texas.

Famous People From Austin

Walter Hyatt (1949–1996) - Musician, member of Uncle Walt's Band

Walter Hyatt, a talented singer and songwriter, was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, on October 25, 1949. He grew up in the family cabin on the outskirts of town and later became a prominent figure in the Austin music scene.

Uncle Walt's Band and Move to Austin

Walter Hyatt, along with David Ball and Champ Hood, formed Uncle Walt's Band, which became one of the most popular acts in late '70s/early '80s Austin, Texas. Their exceptional songwriting, playing, and singing garnered them local fans and the attention of Texas luminaries.

Musical Career and Lyle Lovett's Production (1970s-1990)

After the band folded, Lyle Lovett produced Walter's major label 1990 debut album "King Tears." This marked a significant milestone in Hyatt's musical career, showcasing his talent and earning him recognition in the music industry.

Tragic Passing and Legacy (1996)

Tragically, Walter Hyatt passed away in a plane crash in 1996, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional musical contributions and a lasting impact on the Austin music community. His untimely death was deeply felt by those who knew and admired his work.

Austin Music Memorial Induction (2011)

In 2011, Walter Hyatt was posthumously inducted into the Austin Music Memorial, a testament to his enduring influence and significance in the Austin music scene.

Mighty Fine: An Austin City Limits Tribute to Walter Hyatt

The release of "Mighty Fine: An Austin City Limits Tribute to Walter Hyatt" in 2021 served as a poignant tribute to his musical legacy. The album featured performances by various artists, honoring Hyatt's contributions to the Austin music community.

Key Achievements of Walter Hyatt:

• Co-founding Uncle Walt's Band, a popular act in the Austin music scene.

• Lyle Lovett producing his major label debut album "King Tears."

• Posthumous induction into the Austin Music Memorial in 2011.

• Honored with a tribute album, "Mighty Fine: An Austin City Limits Tribute to Walter Hyatt."

• Remembered for his exceptional songwriting, playing, and singing, leaving a lasting impact on the Austin music community.

Walter Hyatt's musical journey, from co-founding Uncle Walt's Band to his posthumous recognition, reflects his enduring influence and significance in the Austin music scene. His legacy continues to inspire and resonate with music enthusiasts and artists alike.

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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