Dallas Newsletter (July 25th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The Dallas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Virginia Cook, Dallas real estate icon, dies.

  • Upcoming Texas Rangers game

  • A deep dive into the life of Paul Baker.

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."

– Marcus Aurelius

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Trivia

Which famous trail in Dallas is known for its scenic biking and walking paths along the Trinity River?

A) Katy Trail

B) White Rock Lake Trail

C) Santa Fe Trail

D) Trinity Skyline Trail

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The iconic Dallas skyscraper known for its green outline at night is B) Bank of America Plaza.

News

💼Business

Virginia Cook, the Dallas real estate icon, dies at 84. (link)

Dallas, Fort Worth restaurants now eligible for Michelin stars. (link)

🏒Sports

NCAA Approves Comet Sports’ Move To Division II, New Conference. (link)

Milwaukee Brewers designate pitcher Dallas Keuchel for assignment. (link)

🏦Finance

LGE Design Build appoints regional VP for Texas. (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 Rangers vs. Chicago White Sox
Globe Life Field, Arlington, TX
Thursday, Jul 25th | 1:35 PM | (More info)

Cleburne Railroaders vs. Sioux City Explorers
La Moderna Field, Cleburne, TX
Thursday, Jul 25th | 7:05 PM | (More info)

Music

🎤Janet Jackson: Together Again
Dickies Arena, Fort Worth, TX
Thursday, Jul 25th | 8:00 PM | (More info)

🎵CHUU
House of Blues Dallas , Dallas, TX
Friday, Jul 26th | 6:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🎭Family Fun Fridays
8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX
Friday, July 26th | 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 “An eco-city Dallas with lush greenery and no visible 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

1992: Ross Perot runs for President from Dallas.

In 1992, Dallas became the focal point of a unique chapter in American political history when Ross Perot, a billionaire businessman and native of the city, announced his independent candidacy for President of the United States. Perot, known for his forthright speaking style and his success in the tech industry with Electronic Data Systems (EDS), mounted a campaign that was unconventional and grassroots in nature. His decision to run was driven by a desire to address the national debt and reform government, themes that resonated with a significant portion of the American electorate. Operating outside the traditional two-party system, Perot's campaign utilized television infomercials and town hall meetings to directly communicate his message to voters, a strategy that was innovative at the time.

Perot's candidacy was characterized by a focus on fiscal responsibility, opposition to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and advocacy for direct democracy practices, such as town hall meetings and electronic referendums. Despite being a third-party candidate—a position typically seen as a long shot in American politics—Perot's message struck a chord with a wide swath of the American public, leading to significant support in polls and making him a serious contender in the race. His campaign, headquartered in Dallas, brought national attention to the city, showcasing it as a hub of political activity and independent thought.

Though Ross Perot ultimately did not win the presidency, his 1992 campaign had a lasting impact on American politics and on Dallas's image. Garnering nearly 19% of the popular vote, Perot's run remains one of the most successful third-party bids in U.S. history, highlighting the potential for independent candidates to influence the political discourse. His campaign demonstrated the power of grassroots mobilization and the appeal of outsider candidates to voters disillusioned with the conventional political system. For Dallas, Perot's candidacy was a source of local pride and an indication of the city's growing influence in national affairs, further establishing its stature as a place of significant political and economic clout.

Famous People From Dallas

Paul Baker (1911–2009): Influential theatre director and educator.

Early Life and Passion for Theater (1911–1933)

Paul Baker was born in Waxahachie, Texas, in 1911. From a young age, he developed a deep passion for the arts, especially theater. This early interest led him to pursue further education in drama, laying the foundation for his future as a pioneering figure in American theater.

Educational Foundation and Baylor University (1934–1952)

After completing his education, Baker began his teaching career, eventually joining the faculty at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Here, he implemented his innovative ideas on theater education, emphasizing creativity and interdisciplinary studies, which significantly influenced the teaching methods in theater arts.

Dallas Theater Center and Integration of Arts (1953–1968)

In 1959, Baker founded the Dallas Theater Center, an institution that would become central to his vision of integrating various art forms with theater. Under his leadership, the center became renowned for its avant-garde productions and as a space where artists from different disciplines could collaborate, fostering a unique creative community.

Innovative Teaching Methods and Philosophy (1969–1984)

Baker's teaching philosophy, which emphasized an integrated approach to the arts and critical thinking, gained national attention. He developed the "Integrative Arts" program, which encouraged students to explore the connections between theater, art, music, and dance, enriching their educational experience and creative expression.

The Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (1985–1995)

Baker played a key role in the development of the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas. His educational philosophy influenced the school's curriculum, making it one of the most successful and innovative arts education programs in the country.

Recognition and Awards (1996–2005)

Throughout his career, Baker received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to theater education and the arts. His accolades include prestigious honors from arts institutions and educational bodies, acknowledging his impact on theater and arts education nationally.

Legacy and Impact on Future Generations (2006–2009)

Baker's legacy continued to influence educators and artists until his death in 2009 and beyond. His innovative approaches to teaching and theater production left an indelible mark on the arts community, inspiring future generations of theater practitioners and educators.

Paul Baker and Dallas

  • His founding of the Dallas Theater Center established Dallas as a hub for innovative theater and arts education.

  • Baker's work at the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas helped shape the city's reputation for excellence in arts education.

  • His influence in Dallas extended beyond these institutions, impacting the cultural landscape of the city and its community.

Key Achievements:

  • Founded the Dallas Theater Center, integrating various art forms with theater.

  • Developed innovative teaching methods, emphasizing interdisciplinary studies and creativity.

  • Influenced arts education nationally, particularly through his work with the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts.

Paul Baker's contributions to theater and education were profound and far-reaching. His innovative approach to integrating the arts into education has left a lasting legacy, particularly in Dallas, where his work continues to inspire artists and educators. Baker's vision of a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to the arts transformed how theater is taught and appreciated, marking him as a pivotal figure in the development of American theater education.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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