Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Two hotels planned for Hill's Cafe site.

• Babe Ruth jersey sells for $24M.

• A deep-dive into the life of Doyle Bramhall.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” 

–Alan Cohen

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 venue is known for its intimate live music performances and has been a launching pad for many famous musicians?

A) The Continental Club

B) Mohawk

C) Stubbs BBQ

D) The Saxon Pub

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The outdoor sculpture garden featuring contemporary works is C) The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria.

News

💼Business

Two hotels could come to old Hill's Cafe site as redevelopment plans take shape. (link)

Velocis responds as Austin suburbs sue to stop its industrial project. (link)

🏒Sports

Babe Ruth jersey sells at auction for over $24 million. (link)

Oklahoma State to wear QR codes on football helmets to boost NIL funding. (link)

🏦Finance

Austin's nightlife ranked as one of the best in world. (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

⚽ University of Texas Soccer vs San Diego State
707 Clyde Littlefield Dr, Austin, TX
Thursday, Sep 5th | 6:00 pm | (more info)

🏐 Miami Hurricane at Texas Longhorns Womens Volleyball
2101 Speedway, Austin, TX
Saturday, Sep 7th | 6:59 pm | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Caloncho
Empire Control Room, Austin, TX
Thursday, Sep 5th | 8:30 PM | (more info)

🎸 Charley Crockett: $10 Cowboy Tour
Moody Amphitheater, Austin, TX
Friday, Sep 6th | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎪 Red Dot Art Spree 2024
1311 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX
Thursday, Sep 5th | 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 where every building is equipped with solar and wind power” 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

1966 - Whitman shootings occur.

The year 1966 marked a tragic event in the history of the University of Texas at Austin, known as the Whitman shootings. On August 1, 1966, Charles J. Whitman, a 25-year-old Marine veteran and enrolled student, carried out a horrific spree killing that began in the early morning hours. Whitman's murderous spree started with the killing of his mother, Margaret, and his wife, before he took control of the observation deck of the iconic University of Texas Tower. From the observation deck, Whitman indiscriminately fired various weapons onto the campus and its surrounding areas, resulting in one of the worst mass murders in American history.

The shooting spree continued until Whitman was ambushed on the northwest corner of the observation deck by two uniformed Austin Police Department patrol officers. In total, Whitman killed a total of sixteen people and wounded many others before he was shot dead by the police officers. The tragic event shocked the nation and led to increased awareness of the need for improved security measures and response protocols in the face of mass shootings.

The Whitman shootings of 1966 remain a somber reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence and the importance of addressing mental health issues and implementing measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.

Famous People From Austin

Doyle Bramhall (1968-2021) - Blues musician and songwriter

Doyle Bramhall II, a legendary blues musician and songwriter, was a prominent figure in the Austin music scene. His career and life story reflect a journey of musical innovation, collaboration, and influence.

Early Life and Musical Roots

Doyle Bramhall II was born on December 24, 1968, in Texas and spent half of his life in Northern California. Growing up, he was immersed in a musical environment, being the son of the songwriter and drummer Doyle Bramhall. His early exposure to blues and rock music laid the foundation for his future career in the music industry.

Austin Blues Scene and Musical Influences

Bramhall was a key figure in the blues renaissance that took place in Austin in the mid-70s. His connection to Austin's vibrant music scene began during his high school years, where he formed friendships with notable musicians like Jimmy Vaughan. This period of his life played a pivotal role in shaping his musical style and passion for the blues.

Collaborations and Musical Career

Throughout his career, Bramhall collaborated with renowned artists such as Eric Clapton and Roger Waters. His work as a guitarist, producer, and songwriter showcased his versatility and talent in the music industry. His contributions to the blues genre and his distinctive sound earned him recognition as a prominent figure in the music world.

Legacy and Influence

Bramhall's impact on the Austin music scene and the blues genre is enduring. His innovative approach to music, along with his dedication to preserving the blues tradition, solidified his legacy as a trailblazer in the industry. His influence extended beyond his solo career, leaving an indelible mark on the musicians and fans who were inspired by his work.

Remembering Doyle Bramhall II

Doyle Bramhall II passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy as one of Austin's most influential blues musicians and songwriters. His musical contributions continue to inspire future generations and shape the landscape of blues music.

Key Achievements of Doyle Bramhall II:

• Prominent figure in the Austin blues scene, contributing to the city's musical renaissance in the mid-70s.

• Collaborated with iconic musicians such as Eric Clapton and Roger Waters, showcasing his versatility and talent.

• Left an enduring legacy as a trailblazer in the blues genre, influencing musicians and preserving the blues tradition.

Doyle Bramhall II's story is one of musical innovation, collaboration, and influence, leaving an indelible mark on the Austin music scene and the blues genre. His legacy continues to inspire and shape the landscape of blues music.

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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