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Welcome to The Dallas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Nonprofit ‘Hub’ incubates South Dallas businesses.

• Mavericks draft Melvin Ajinca 51st.

• A deep dive into the life of Frankie Lymon.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion.”

–Paulo Coelho

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Trivia

Which annual Dallas event is known for showcasing contemporary and modern art?

A) Dallas Art Fair

B) Deep Ellum Arts Festival

C) Texas Contemporary Art Show

D) Dallas Festival of the Arts

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The replica of a famous historical structure in Dallas is from C) Greece.

News

💼Business

Nonprofit ‘Hub’ serves as incubator for South Dallas businesses. (link)

Layne’s Chicken Fingers relocates HQ and other deals of late. (link)

🏒Sports

2024 NBA Draft Grades & Reactions: Dallas Mavericks Select Melvin Ajinca 51st Overall. (link)

🏦Finance

Dallas architecture firm opens Fort Worth office. (link)

Building once home to Audi Fort Worth changes hands. (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

⚾ Stockyards Championship Rodeo
Cowtown Coliseum, Fort Worth, TX
Friday, Aug 2nd | 7:30 PM | (More info)

⚾ Texas Rangers vs. Boston Red Sox
Globe Life Field, Arlington, TX
Friday, Aug 2nd | 7:05 PM | (More info)

Music

🎤 Lucki: Gemini Tour
South Side Ballroom, Dallas, TX
Thursday, Aug 1st | 8:00 PM | (More info)

🎵 Raheem DeVaughn - Featuring Levelle
Bruton Theatre, Dallas, TX
Saturday, Aug 3re | 8:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🎭 FAMILY FUN - Jellyfish
420 E Round Grove Rd Ste 110, Lewisville, TX
Saturday, August 3rd | 7:30 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 “Dallas with interactive, educational playgrounds for all ages.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Dallas Historical Events

1994: Opening of the Dallas Zoo's Wilds of Africa exhibit.

In 1994, the Dallas Zoo unveiled its ambitious Wilds of Africa exhibit, marking a significant milestone in the zoo's history and its commitment to conservation, education, and the innovative display of animals. This groundbreaking exhibit was designed to immerse visitors in the landscapes and wildlife of Africa, spanning several acres and featuring a variety of habitats ranging from the lush forests of the Congo to the expansive savannas. The Wilds of Africa was developed not only as a means to showcase the diverse species of the African continent but also to educate the public on the importance of wildlife conservation and the challenges facing these species in their natural habitats.

The exhibit's design was a departure from traditional zoo enclosures, focusing on creating environments that closely mimic the natural habitats of the animals. This approach allowed for a more authentic experience for visitors and a healthier, more stimulating environment for the animals. One of the exhibit's highlights was the Adventure Safari monorail, which offered guests an elevated tour of the habitats, providing unique views of the animals and insights into their behaviors and ecosystems. The Wilds of Africa exhibit housed a wide range of species, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and cheetahs, among others, making it one of the most comprehensive African wildlife exhibits in the United States.

The opening of the Wilds of Africa at the Dallas Zoo in 1994 was met with acclaim and has since become one of the zoo's most popular attractions. It has played a crucial role in the zoo's ongoing efforts to promote wildlife conservation, offering educational programs and participating in international efforts to preserve endangered species. The exhibit has also enhanced the zoo's role in the community, providing an engaging and informative destination for families, school groups, and wildlife enthusiasts. Over the years, the Wilds of Africa has continued to evolve, incorporating new species and conservation initiatives, and remains a testament to the Dallas Zoo's dedication to creating meaningful connections between people and wildlife.

Famous People From Dallas

Frankie Lymon (1942–1968): Rock and roll/rhythm and blues singer.

Early Life and The Teenagers (1942–1955)

Frankie Lymon was born in Harlem, New York, in 1942, into a musically inclined family. His talent became apparent early on as he sang in local gospel groups. Lymon's breakthrough came when he joined The Teenagers, a group of young musicians who would soon make their mark on the rock and roll scene.

"Why Do Fools Fall in Love" and Rise to Fame (1956)

In 1956, at the age of 13, Lymon and The Teenagers released "Why Do Fools Fall in Love," a song that catapulted them to stardom. Lymon's distinctive soprano voice and charismatic stage presence made him an instant sensation, and the song became a timeless classic, marking a significant moment in the birth of rock and roll.

Solo Career and Continued Success (1957–1960)

Lymon embarked on a solo career, achieving success with songs like "Goody Goody" and "Little Bitty Pretty One." Despite the challenges of transitioning to a solo act, his talent ensured that he remained a prominent figure in the music industry, captivating audiences with his voice and energy.

Struggles and Personal Challenges (1961–1965)

As the music industry evolved, Lymon faced difficulties maintaining his career momentum. Personal struggles, including substance abuse and legal issues, began to overshadow his musical achievements, affecting his personal life and professional standing.

Attempts at a Comeback (1966–1968)

In the mid-1960s, Lymon attempted to revive his career, performing in small venues and working on new music. Despite showing flashes of his former brilliance, his efforts were hampered by his ongoing battles with addiction, making a full comeback elusive.

Legacy and Influence (1968 and Beyond)

Lymon's untimely death in 1968 at the age of 25 ended a career that had burned brightly but all too briefly. However, his impact on the music world was indelible. Lymon is remembered as a pioneer of rock and roll, influencing generations of artists with his style, voice, and performance.

Frankie Lymon and New York City

• Lymon's career began and flourished in New York City, the place of his birth and early life.

• The city's vibrant music scene of the 1950s provided a backdrop for his rise to fame with The Teenagers.

• New York City's diverse cultural landscape influenced Lymon's music and helped shape the sound of early rock and roll.

Key Achievements:

• Lead singer of The Teenagers, releasing the hit song "Why Do Fools Fall in Love."

• Successful transition to a solo career with hits like "Goody Goody."

• Remembered as a pioneering figure in the development of rock and roll and rhythm and blues music.

Frankie Lymon's contribution to music was transformative, blending the soulfulness of rhythm and blues with the energetic spirit of rock and roll. Despite the personal challenges that plagued his short life, Lymon's legacy as a groundbreaking artist remains unassailable. His talent, charisma, and impact on the music industry continue to be celebrated, marking him as one of the early architects of a genre that would dominate global music for decades.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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