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Welcome to The Dallas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Single-family rentals grow as apartments cool.

• Upcoming Dallas Mavericks Playoff Game

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

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"One cannot step twice in the same river."

- Heraclitus

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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!

Dallas is known for a specific style of cuisine. What is it?

A) Tex-Mex

B) Barbecue

C) Seafood

D) Vegetarian

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The Dallas park known for its Pegasus sculpture is B) Pioneer Plaza.

News

💼 Business

Apartment market cools, single-family rentals see growth. (link)

Dallas sex-based business curfew survives another court challenge. (link)

Is Chili’s closing? No, and the Dallas company wishes you’d stop asking. (link)

Housing-focused consortium gets new leader. (link)

🏒 Sports

Dallas Looks To Score Big With Women's Pro Sports. (link)

Colorado Avalanche season ends in Game 6 double overtime loss to Dallas Stars. (link)

Dallas approves deal to bring new women’s soccer team to Cotton Bowl. (link)

Eddie Gossage, legendary promoter and former Texas Motor Speedway president, dies at 65. (link)

🏦 Finance

Women in Technology Awards 2024. (link)

Does Dallas's Banking Boom Portend Another Eighties-Style Crash? (link)

Mixtitos restaurant in Dallas sees a ‘miracle’ surge in business, will remain open. (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. Arizona Diamondbacks
Globe Life Field, Arlington, TX
Tuesday, May 28th | 7:05 PM | (More info)

🏀 Timberwolves at Mavericks Rd 3 Hm Gm 2
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
Tuesday, May 28th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

🏒 Dallas Stars Watch Party - Western Conference Final Game 4
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
Wednesday, May 29th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

🤸 Suites: U.S. Gymnastics Championships - Junior Men Day 1
Dickies Arena, Fort Worth, TX
Thursday, May 30th | 1:30 PM | (More info)

Music

🎤 Taking Back Sunday
Tannahill's Tavern and Music Hall, Fort Worth, TX
Monday, May 27th | 8:00 PM | (More info)

🎵 Mariah the Scientist - To Be Eaten Alive Tour
House of Blues Dallas , Dallas, TX
Tuesday, May 28th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎷Two Door Cinema Club
South Side Ballroom, Dallas, TX
Tuesday, May 28th | 7:00 PMM | (More info)

🎸 From Ashes To New - The Blackout Tour Pt. 2
The Echo Lounge & Music Hall, Dallas, TX
Wednesday, May 29th | 5:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🎢  Free Kids Summer Beach Bash
3121 Forest Lane, Garland, TX
Tuesday, May 28th | 3:00 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 “Dallas illuminated entirely by bioluminescent plants and structures” 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

1963: Assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas.

On November 22, 1963, Dallas became the focal point of a national tragedy when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated while riding in a motorcade through Dealey Plaza. This event shocked the world and left an indelible mark on the city's history. As the presidential motorcade passed through the heart of Dallas, shots rang out, striking the president and Texas Governor John Connally. President Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The assassination plunged the city and the nation into a profound state of mourning and disbelief, initiating a period of introspection and mourning across the globe.

In the aftermath of the assassination, Dallas found itself at the center of an intense scrutiny and criticism, with many associating the city with the act of violence against the president. The event brought unwelcome attention and a stigma to Dallas, overshadowing its cultural and economic achievements. The arrest of Lee Harvey Oswald for the assassination, and his subsequent murder by Jack Ruby while in police custody, added layers of mystery and controversy that persist in public discourse and investigations to this day. The assassination has since been the subject of numerous inquiries, including the Warren Commission, which concluded that Oswald acted alone, though conspiracy theories continue to abound.

The legacy of the Kennedy assassination has had a lasting impact on Dallas, shaping its historical narrative and collective memory. In the years that followed, the city has worked to overcome the shadow cast by the events of November 22, 1963, striving to honor President Kennedy's memory and legacy. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza now serves as a place of reflection and education, offering insights into the life and presidency of John F. Kennedy, as well as the circumstances surrounding his death. The assassination remains a pivotal moment in American history, a somber chapter that forever changed Dallas and the nation.

Famous People From Dallas

R. L. Thornton (1880–1964): Businessman and Mayor of Dallas.

Early Life and Entrepreneurial Beginnings (1880–1903)

R. L. Thornton was born in 1880 in Milford, Texas. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in business, leading him to Dallas where he started his career. His early endeavors laid the foundation for what would become a lifetime of significant contributions to the city's economic and civic development.

Banking and Business Expansion (1904–1929)

Thornton's business acumen became evident as he ventured into banking and established himself as a leading figure in Dallas's financial sector. His efforts during this period were instrumental in fostering growth and stability in the local economy, especially through the establishment and expansion of the Mercantile Bank, which played a pivotal role in financing Dallas's early development.

Great Depression and Economic Resilience (1930–1939)

During the Great Depression, Thornton's leadership and financial insight were critical in navigating the economic turmoil. He implemented strategies to mitigate the impact of the depression on Dallas, ensuring the survival and eventual growth of the local economy. His actions during this challenging time cemented his reputation as a steadfast and innovative businessman.

World War II Contributions (1940–1945)

With the onset of World War II, Thornton's focus shifted towards supporting the war effort. He played a key role in mobilizing Dallas's resources and workforce to contribute to national defense, demonstrating his commitment to the country and his ability to lead through adversity.

Mayor of Dallas (1946–1951)

R. L. Thornton's civic contributions culminated in his election as Mayor of Dallas, a position he held from 1946 to 1951. During his tenure, he initiated significant infrastructure projects, including improvements to transportation and public services, which propelled Dallas into a period of rapid growth and modernization.

Civil Rights and Social Progress (1952–1960)

Though Thornton's era as mayor was marked by progress, it was also a time of social and racial tensions. While he was a product of his times, Thornton's later years in public service saw gradual engagement with the evolving demands for civil rights and social equity, reflecting the complex dynamics of leadership in a changing America.

Philanthropy and Community Development (1961–1964)

Even after leaving office, Thornton continued to influence Dallas through his philanthropic efforts. He supported various cultural and educational institutions, contributing to the city's development as a center for arts and learning. His legacy includes significant donations to local schools, hospitals, and charities.

R. L. Thornton and Dallas

• Spearheaded economic growth in Dallas as a banker and businessman.

• Served as Mayor of Dallas, leading the city through a period of significant infrastructure expansion.

• Contributed to the community through philanthropy, impacting education and healthcare.

Key Achievements:

• Played a pivotal role in Dallas's economic development and resilience during the Great Depression.

• Served as Mayor of Dallas, initiating major infrastructure and public service improvements.

• Supported the war effort during World War II, demonstrating leadership and patriotism.

R. L. Thornton's life and career were deeply intertwined with the city of Dallas. His contributions as a businessman, mayor, and philanthropist significantly shaped the city's economic landscape, infrastructure, and community resources. Thornton's ability to lead through challenging times, coupled with his commitment to the city's growth and well-being, left a lasting legacy in Dallas. His vision and dedication were instrumental in transforming Dallas into a thriving metropolitan area, reflecting his profound impact on the city's development and progress.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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