Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Build-to-rent neighborhood boosts Leander housing.

• Texas dominates ULM 51-3 before SEC play.

• A deep-dive into the life of Sam "Lightnin'" Hopkins.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"You cannot swim for new horizons until you have courage to lose sight of the shore."

— William Faulkner

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 display of unique, handcrafted goods and supports local artists and craftsmen?

A) The Austin Flea

B) The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

C) South by Southwest Marketplace

D) Pecan Street Festival

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

Austin landmark which is known for its observation deck offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding hill country is B) Mount Bonnell.

News

💼Business

Austin economic heavyweight Jeff Garvey dies. (link)

New build-to-rent neighborhood aims to inject housing into fast-growing Leander. (link)

🏒Sports

No. 1 Texas keeps rolling behind Manning and Blue, routs ULM 51-3 in last game before SEC play. (link)

Shohei Ohtani starts 50-50 club with 50+ home runs, 50+ stolen bases. (link)

🏦Finance

South African restaurant Nando's Peri-Peri prepares for first Austin opening while eyeing expansion. (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 Womens Volleyball vs. South Carolina Gamecocks Womens Volleyball
Gregory Gym, Austin, TX
Wed • Oct 02 • 6:30 PM | (more info)

🏀 North Central Austin - Basketball - After School
3309 Kerbey Ln, Austin, TX
Wed • Oct 02 • Time varies | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Gel
Empire Control Room, Austin, TX
Mon • Sep 30 • 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎵 Citizen Soldier
Come and Take It Live, Austin, TX
Wed • Oct 02 • 6:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🖌️ Fun & Slutty with Jonathan Van Ness
Emo's Austin, Austin, TX
Mon • Sep 30 • 6:00 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 “High-tech Austin with a focus on robotics and automation” 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

1976 - Austin City Limits television music program begins.

In 1976, the iconic television music program "Austin City Limits" began, marking the start of a cultural phenomenon that has left an undeniable mark on the music industry. Founded by PBS affiliate KLRN-TV (later KLRU-TV) in Austin, the show features concert performances showcasing distinctive styles of music from around the world. Over the years, "Austin City Limits" has become the longest-running music program on American television, captivating audiences with its diverse lineup of talented artists and bands.

The show's inaugural episode, which aired as part of a PBS pledge drive, featured Willie Nelson as its very first performer, setting the stage for decades of unforgettable musical performances. In addition to its television program, "Austin City Limits" inspired the creation of the Austin City Limits Music Festival, an annual live music festival at Zilker Park. The festival has become one of the country's premier music events, attracting top headliners and celebrating the rich tapestry of musical genres represented on the television show.

As "Austin City Limits" continues to thrive, it remains a testament to the power of music and the enduring legacy of a program that has shaped the cultural landscape of Austin and beyond. With its rich history and ongoing impact, "Austin City Limits" stands as a symbol of artistic expression and a platform for musicians to share their craft with the world.

Famous People From Austin

Sam "Lightnin'" Hopkins - Blues musician

Sam "Lightnin'" Hopkins: 1911-1982

Sam "Lightnin'" Hopkins, a legendary blues singer and guitarist, was born in Centerville, Texas, on March 15, 1911. His life and music reflect a journey of resilience, creativity, and influence in the world of blues.

Early Life and Musical Roots

Sam Hopkins was born into the blues life on March 15, 1911, in Centerville, Texas, a small farm town north of Houston. His father, a musician, died when Sam was very young, and the family moved to Leona, Texas, where he grew up. At the age of eight, he met legendary bluesman Blind Lemon Jefferson, which sparked his passion for music.

Rise to Prominence

After being released, Lightnin' Hopkins became a sought-after performer in America's burgeoning folk music scene. His unique brand of country blues gained popularity in America and Europe, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the blues genre.

Connection to Austin

Hopkins had a significant connection to Austin, Texas, where he performed and left a lasting impact on the local blues scene. His influence on the Austin music community continues to be celebrated and remembered to this day.

Legacy and Recognition

Sam "Lightnin'" Hopkins was an American country blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist, known for his soulful and expressive music. In 2010, Rolling Stone magazine ranked him No. 71 on its list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time, solidifying his legacy as a musical icon.

Key Achievements of Sam "Lightnin'" Hopkins:

• Pioneered a unique brand of country blues that gained popularity in America and Europe.

• Influenced the Austin music community and left a lasting impact on the local blues scene.

• Ranked No. 71 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time.

Sam "Lightnin'" Hopkins' story is one of resilience, creativity, and influence in the world of blues. His legacy continues to inspire and shape the blues genre, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

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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