Welcome to The Dallas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Isaiah Rashad Concert

• Cotton Bowl may host pro team.

• A deep dive into the life of J. Erik Jonsson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

 "The unexamined life is not worth living."

- Socrates

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 Dallas park is known for its large sculpture of a Pegasus?

A) Klyde Warren Park

B) Pioneer Plaza

C) Fair Park

D) Lee Park

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The famous Dallas event on November 22, 1963, was B) The assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

News

💼 Business

Global bank executives talk trends, opportunities and challenges in Africa. (link)

Dallas' Pie Tap Pizza could open first Houston location. (link)

Airline credit-card reward programs in regulators' crosshairs. (link)

Eatzi's CEO has an appetite to saturate the Texas market. (link)

🏒 Sports

Mavericks vs. Thunder score, highlights, takeaways: OKC surges late to even series in Game 4 win over Mavs. (link)

Dallas’ Cotton Bowl Stadium could become home for pro sports team. (link)

Doncic Questionable Again Amid Injuries, Averages 27.7 PPG in Playoffs (link)

Ezekiel Elliott changes jersey number: 'I just kind of look at it as a different era'. (link)

🏦 Finance

The NAMA Show 2024 Brings the Future of Convenience Service to Dallas. (link)

Urban Logistics Realty sells 31-acre Denton business park. (link)

‘Worse than COVID’: 41% fewer Texas students completed FAFSA this year. (link)

Dallas-based Steward Health Care files for bankruptcy, working on loan from landlord. (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

⚾ Frisco Roughriders vs. Midland RockHounds
Riders Field, Frisco, TX
Tuesday, May 21th | 11:05 AM | (More info)

⛳ Charles Schwab Challenge
Colonial Country Club, Fort Worth, TX
Wednesday, May 22th | time varies | (More info)

🐎Stockyards Championship Rodeo
Cowtown Coliseum, Fort Worth, TX
Thursday, May 23th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

⚾ Frisco Roughriders vs. Midland RockHounds
Riders Field, Frisco, TX
Friday, May 24th | 7:05 PM | (More info)

Music

🎤 Lady London
The Cambridge Room at House Of Blues, Dallas, TX
Tuesday, May 21th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎵 Black Veil Brides
The Factory in Deep Ellum, Dallas, TX
Wednesday, May 22th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎷Isaiah Rashad: Cilvia Demo 10 Year Anniversary Tour
House of Blues Dallas , Dallas, TX
Wednesday, May 22th | 8:00 PM | (More info)

🎸 Yot Club
The Cambridge Room at House Of Blues, Dallas, TX
Thursday, May 23th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

Family

🖼️ Hamilton
Winspear Opera House Dallas, TX
Thursday, May 23th | 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 streets with interactive, responsive surfaces” 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

1957: Integration of Dallas public schools begins.

In 1957, Dallas embarked on a pivotal chapter in its history with the beginning of the integration of its public schools, a move that came three years after the landmark Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. The process of integrating Dallas schools was a significant step towards dismantling the entrenched system of racial segregation that had prevailed in the South. Despite the Supreme Court's clear directive, the journey towards integration in Dallas was met with resistance and challenges, reflecting the broader tensions and struggles of the Civil Rights Movement across the United States. The initial steps towards desegregation in Dallas were cautious and slow, often characterized by token gestures that did little to disrupt the status quo.

However, the effort to integrate schools in Dallas gradually gained momentum, driven by the determination of African American families, civil rights activists, and supportive members of the community who sought to ensure equal educational opportunities for all children. Legal battles, peaceful protests, and negotiations played a crucial role in pushing for meaningful integration. Over time, these efforts led to the dismantling of barriers that had kept black and white students separate, fostering a more inclusive educational environment. This period was marked by both progress and setbacks, with episodes of hostility and resistance serving as stark reminders of the deep-seated prejudices that had to be overcome.

The integration of Dallas public schools in the late 1950s and beyond was a transformative process that not only reshaped the educational landscape of the city but also contributed to the broader civil rights movement. It challenged the social norms of the time, paving the way for further advances in racial equality and justice. The courage and resilience of those who fought for integration left a lasting legacy, highlighting the importance of education as a battleground for civil rights. Although the road to full equality and integration was long and fraught with challenges, the efforts in Dallas during this era marked a significant step forward in the city's and the nation's history.

Famous People From Dallas

J. Erik Jonsson (1901–1995): Co-founder of Texas Instruments.

Early Life and Education (1901–1922)

J. Erik Jonsson was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1901 to Swedish immigrant parents. His early life was marked by a keen interest in engineering and technology, leading him to pursue higher education at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. There, he earned a degree in mechanical engineering, setting the stage for a distinguished career in technology and public service.

The Foundation of a Career (1923–1939)

After graduating, Jonsson began his career in the burgeoning field of telecommunications. His work initially focused on improving communication technologies, where he demonstrated a natural aptitude for innovation and leadership. These early years were crucial in developing the skills and experience that would later define his professional legacy.

Geophysical Service Incorporated and the Birth of Texas Instruments (1940–1951)

In the early 1940s, Jonsson co-founded Geophysical Service Incorporated (GSI), a company specializing in seismic exploration technology. This venture laid the groundwork for what would become Texas Instruments (TI), a global leader in semiconductor and electronics manufacturing. Jonsson's vision and entrepreneurial spirit were instrumental in steering the company's transformation and subsequent success.

Innovation and Growth at Texas Instruments (1952–1966)

Under Jonsson's leadership, Texas Instruments became known for its innovative products, including the invention of the silicon transistor and the commercial production of integrated circuits. These breakthroughs revolutionized the electronics industry and cemented TI's position as a technology powerhouse. Jonsson's commitment to research and development drove the company's growth and its contributions to the tech revolution.

Civic Leadership and Mayor of Dallas (1964–1971)

Amidst his professional achievements, Jonsson also dedicated himself to civic service, particularly in his adopted city of Dallas, Texas. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, Jonsson became mayor of Dallas, focusing on urban renewal, education, and racial integration. His leadership during this tumultuous period was critical in healing and uniting the city.

Urban Planning and the "Goals for Dallas" Initiative (1972–1980)

As mayor and beyond, Jonsson initiated the "Goals for Dallas" program, aimed at improving the city's infrastructure, education system, and community services. This forward-thinking initiative led to significant urban development projects and helped shape Dallas's modern landscape. Jonsson's vision for the city was rooted in inclusivity and progress.

Philanthropy and Education Advocacy (1981–1990)

In his later years, Jonsson continued to champion educational causes, contributing to the establishment of the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD). His philanthropy extended to various civic and cultural institutions, reflecting his belief in the power of education and community engagement to drive societal progress.

Legacy and Honors (1991–1995)

Jonsson's contributions to technology, civic leadership, and philanthropy were recognized with numerous awards and honors. His legacy is particularly evident in Dallas, where his impact on the city's development and character is profound. Jonsson passed away in 1995, leaving behind a city and a company that had been fundamentally shaped by his vision and dedication.

J. Erik Jonsson and Dallas

• Led Texas Instruments to become a global technology leader from Dallas.

• Served as Mayor of Dallas, focusing on urban renewal and community development.

• His philanthropy and advocacy for education significantly impacted Dallas's cultural and academic landscape.

Key Achievements:

• Co-founded Texas Instruments, pioneering advancements in semiconductor technology.

• Served as Mayor of Dallas, leading urban renewal and integration efforts.

• Initiated the "Goals for Dallas" program, fostering significant urban development.

• Advocated for education, contributing to the establishment of UTD.

J. Erik Jonsson's multifaceted career spanned technological innovation, civic leadership, and philanthropy, leaving an indelible mark on both Dallas and the global technology industry. His leadership in the aftermath of the Kennedy assassination helped steer Dallas through a period of crisis, while his vision for the city's future catalyzed its development into a modern metropolis. Jonsson's legacy as a pioneer, mayor, and philanthropist continues to influence Dallas and the tech world, embodying the impact of visionary leadership across diverse sectors.

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-Matthew Larsen

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