Welcome to The Dallas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Harlem Globetrotters game

• Dallas Open Tennis Tournament this week

• A deep dive into the life of Robert L. Thornton

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

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 building in Dallas is infamous for its connection to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy?

A) Dallas City Hall

B) Reunion Tower

C) The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

D) Dallas Museum of Art

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia

The historic park in Dallas known for the State Fair is C) Fair Park.

News

💼 Business

Steward Health Care announced the closure of a Texas hospital while Pieces initiated a significant launch at Children’s Health, marking impactful movements in the healthcare sector. (link)

Concerns over potential laboratory fraud in North Texas have surfaced, prompting a close examination of regional practices and regulations. (link)

Goldman Sachs sold a significant office property in Plano to a California investment firm, signaling a notable transaction in the real estate sector​​​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

Baylor's men's basketball team's ranking dipped to No.15 in the AP's Top 25 poll after a recent string of games. (link)

Dallas Cowboys confirmed that head coach Mike McCarthy would retain his position despite the team's unexpected performance in the recent season. (link)

The highly anticipated match between the Dallas Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

The Dallas Fed's Texas Manufacturing Outlook Survey indicated a decline in business conditions, marking the 21st consecutive month of contraction. (link)

ISN appointed Brian Callahan as its next CEO, and CyrusOne introduced new executive leadership, signifying noteworthy shifts in the corporate landscape​​. (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

🏀 North Texas Mean Green Basketball
Moody Coliseum, Dallas
Sunday, Feb. 11th | 3:30 AM | (More Info)

🎾 Dallas Open Tennis Tournament
Styslinger/Altex Tennis Complex, Dallas
Wednesday, Feb. 7th | 12:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Harlem Globetrotters Show
American Airlines Center, Dallas
Saturday, Feb. 10th | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Lydia Loveless
Deep Ellum Art Co., Dallas
Tuesday, Feb. 6th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)
🎤 Phora
Club Dada, Dallas
Tuesday, Feb. 6th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎶 Death By Monkey
Ruins, Dallas
Friday, Feb. 9th | (More Info)
🎤 Pearl Gem
House Of Blues, Dallas
Friday, Feb. 9th | (More Info)

Family

🎨 Family Friendly Seize the Clay Workshop
House of Shine
Saturday, Feb. 10th | 1:00 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 “Retro-futuristic 1950s style Dallas with modern technology” 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

Dallas is officially incorporated as a city (1856)

In 1856, fifteen years after its founding by John Neely Bryan, Dallas officially transitioned from a rural settlement to an incorporated city. This formal incorporation was a significant step in the city's development, reflecting its growth and the need for more structured governance. By this time, Dallas had begun to establish itself as a regional center for trade and agriculture, drawing an increasing number of settlers attracted by its potential.

The official incorporation of Dallas as a city allowed for the establishment of a municipal government, which was crucial for urban planning and management. It provided a framework for the city to build infrastructure, enact local laws, and offer essential services to its residents. This change also symbolized a shift from a frontier community to a more organized and governed urban area. The move towards city status was driven by the growing population and economic activities in the region, necessitating a transition to a more formal municipal structure.

Dallas's incorporation in 1856 marked a pivotal moment in its history, setting the stage for its future growth and development. It was a recognition of the progress the city had made since its founding and a necessary step towards managing the challenges and opportunities of urban development. This event laid the foundational legal and administrative structures that would guide Dallas as it grew into a major American city, integral to the economy and culture of Texas and the larger United States.

Famous People From Dallas

Robert L. Thornton (1880–1964)

Early Life and Business Beginnings (1880-1900)

Robert L. Thornton was born in 1880 in Texas. His early life was characterized by a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit, which laid the groundwork for his future success in business. Thornton's initial forays into the business world, starting from humble beginnings, demonstrated his knack for commerce and leadership.

Rise in the Banking Industry (1901-1920)

Thornton made significant strides in the banking industry in the early 20th century. His keen financial acumen and visionary approach to banking helped him climb the ranks, eventually leading to prominent positions in several Dallas-based banks. This period marked his emergence as a key figure in Dallas's financial sector.

Expansion of Business Ventures (1921-1930)

During the 1920s, Thornton expanded his business interests beyond banking. He ventured into various sectors, including real estate and insurance, showcasing his versatility and entrepreneurial drive. His success in these ventures further solidified his status as a prominent Dallas businessman.

The Great Depression and Its Challenges (1931-1940)

The Great Depression presented significant challenges, but Thornton's leadership and business acumen enabled him to navigate these turbulent times effectively. His efforts during this period were not only crucial for his businesses but also for the economic stability of Dallas.

Entry into Politics and Mayoral Tenure (1941-1950)

Thornton's entry into politics was marked by his election as the mayor of Dallas in the 1940s. His tenure as mayor was characterized by efforts to modernize the city and improve public services, leveraging his business experience to enhance civic administration.

Civic Contributions and Public Works (1951-1960)

As mayor, Thornton championed various public works and civic contributions. He was instrumental in the development of key infrastructure projects in Dallas, including roads, parks, and public facilities, which played a significant role in the city's mid-20th-century growth.

Final Years and Reflection on Legacy (1961-1964)

In his final years, Thornton reflected on his impact on Dallas, both as a businessman and a mayor. He remained active in the community, offering guidance and support to various civic and business initiatives.

Death and Posthumous Recognition (1964)

Robert L. Thornton passed away in 1964, leaving behind a legacy as a significant contributor to the economic and civic development of Dallas. His death marked the end of an era for the city, and he was posthumously recognized for his numerous contributions.

Key Achievements:

• Pivotal role in the development of the banking industry in Dallas.

• Successful expansion into various business ventures, contributing to the economic diversity of the city.

• Leadership as the mayor of Dallas, marked by significant civic improvements and modernization efforts.

• Instrumental in navigating Dallas through the challenges of the Great Depression.

Robert L. Thornton's life was marked by significant achievements in both the business world and public service. As a prominent Dallas businessman and mayor, he played a crucial role in shaping the city's economic and civic landscape, leaving an enduring legacy in its development.

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-Matthew Larsen

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