In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Glassell School of Art opens an art exhibit from the lower southwest state of Oaxaca in Mexico. The exhibition Magical and Mystical Oaxaca: Celebrating Oaxacan Art and Culture showcases vibrantly colored diverse works of art in three installations. Valentina Atkinson, director of the Serrano Gallery and Serrano Oaxaca Gallery, shares with host Blanca Quezada her partnership with the Glassell School of Art and the exhibition, which, for her, was a unique opportunity to help foster cultural exchange and to engage with Oaxacan art and artist. She describes the state of Oaxaca as a state that still maintains many pre-Hispanic traditions and a magical culture. She discusses the powerful works by four Oaxacan contemporary artists featured in the exhibit and how their art focuses on the worlds of the real, the imaginary, tradition, and modernity found in their state. Women artists are also featured in the exhibition. This exhibit highlights the Oaxacan women printmakers' unique perspectives and artistic expressions. The exhibit shows their printmaking techniques, including woodcut, etching, and lithography. Valentina also mentions the Glassell's students' journey to Oaxaca to experience and explore the culture and art and how they created visual documentation of what they discovered, which are also part of the exhibition.  Visit the Magical and Mystical Oaxaca: Celebrating Oaxacan Art and Culture, now through October 1, 2023, at the Glassell School of Art. For more information visit: https://www.mfah.org/search?q=oaxaca+art+exhibit,  or visit: https://serranogallery.com.  Connect with us: ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow ·         Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow ·         Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

When we hear the word dementia, sometimes the first thing we think of is Alzheimer’s. Today, we’ll discover what dementia means and learn more about what we need to know about Alzheimer’s. Jorge Olvera, director of outreach with the Alzheimer’s Association, Houston and Southeast Texas, joins host Blanca Quezada to clarify the differences between mental health diseases often called dementia or Alzheimer’s.  Jorge discusses warning signs to look for to identify what’s happening to your loved one or yourself. He also mentions that these diseases don’t just affect the elderly but also younger adults as well. Jorge focuses on what Alzheimer’s is, how to identify the symptoms, how the disease is diagnosed, available resources, how to access them, and how to lower our risk. He talks about research treatments, how to get involved, and what treatments are available. Jorge shared information about their upcoming event, Houston Walk to End Alzheimer’s, happening November 4, 2023, and the need for volunteers and donations. For more information, visit: https://www.alz.org/texas or for call their helpline at (800) 272-3900.  Connect with us: ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow ·         Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow ·         Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou ·         Website: https://spotlighthoustonshow.com/ Timestamps (Ai-generated) [00:01:58] Dementia is an umbrella term that covers different types of dementia, including Alzheimer's. Other types include frontotemporal, vascular, and Huntington's disease. There is also mild cognitive impairment, the early stage of dementia. [00:05:08] Mild cognitive impairment can lead to changes in emotions, social behavior, interests, and forgetfulness, such as difficulty measuring distance or time. [00:07:46] Advances in science allow early Alzheimer's identification through methods like PET scans and blood draws. Previously, diagnosis was only possible after death. MRI and PET scans can currently diagnose, but blood draws may hold future potential. [00:10:06] Treatment options for Alzheimer's disease are available but are more effective when started early. Medications can help slow down progression if identified and treated early, but cannot slow progression in later stages. Drugs can help alleviate symptoms but do not treat the disease itself. [00:17:03] The Houston Southeast Texas chapter of the Alzheimer's Association provides resources for Alzheimer's patients and caregivers, including a 24/7 helpline, (800) 272-3900, support groups in multiple languages, and early-stage social engagement programs. [00:21:12] Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disease that affects the whole family with no cure. Early diagnosis allows for planning and decision-making. Emotional challenges include frustration and embarrassment. [00:24:05] Encourage family conversation about caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's. This impacts everyone, including children. [00:27:19] The Walk to End Alzheimer's is a series of events in the Houston area from August to November, with the Houston walk on November 4 drawing 5,000 people. It offers support, resources, and community for those affected by Alzheimer's. [00:30:26] Thank you, Jorge, for discussing Alzheimer's and mental health. Don't be alone; seek support. Thanks for joining Spotlight Houston.

Houstonians are fortunate to have an incredible nature center situated close to downtown. The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a beautiful gem that sometimes can be missed because of its location, but once you hear what it has to offer, you'll want to put it on your list of places to visit in the city. Christine Mansfield, senior manager of marketing and development of the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, joins Blanca to talk about the 155-acre non-profit urban nature sanctuary established in 1967. Christine describes everything visitors can enjoy as they walk the 5 miles of nature trails and, at the same time, learn about what they are seeing, as well as take in the amazing views. Christine also mentions all the Arboretum's has to offer, such as diverse educational classes; exhibits; events for children and adults; bird and bat watching; virtual educational programs for kids; and so much more.  To learn more about the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, visit: https://www.houstonarboretum.org  or call 713-681-8433. Connect with us: ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow ·         Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow ·         Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou Timestamps (AI generated) [00:00:45] Blanca introduces Christine Mansfield, who works in nature surrounded by animals. Christine is the senior marketing and development manager at the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center. [00:04:03] The Houston Arboretum focuses on native plants and wildlife, resembling Houston's historical landscapes. It is a nature center, not a botanical garden, strongly emphasizing plants that thrive naturally in the area. Visitors can observe a variety of native flora and fauna. [00:09:09] The Houston Arboretum has gardens with many butterflies and a new butterfly house. They teach about plants for butterflies and encourage learning about native wildlife. Cocoon sightings are common, and there is always something interesting to see at the Arboretum. [00:11:44] Children's programs include Tike Hikes, the home school program, and Nature journaling. Membership perks include free parking and discounts. [00:15:18] Two upcoming events: Bat Fest, open to the public on September 23 and Going Baddie talk about bats on September 22. Fun nature learning opportunities. [00:17:57] The Houston Arboretum has a nature shop, Discovery Room, ambassador animals, classrooms, and a nature playscape. [00:21:34] Houston Arboretum is working with ecosystems to restore tree canopy lost in Houston, using goats for land management and prescribed burns to maintain ecosystem health and reduce fire risk, contributing to conservation efforts and educational opportunities. [00:28:02] Houston Arboretum relies on donations, welcomes online donations, and also works with corporations for sponsorship. Multiple ways to support are appreciated.

Becoming an organ and tissue donor is something we can easily do, but for many of us, that’s not something we even think about. It may seem like a scary thing to do, but when you’re a registered donor, you will not only be giving hope to the person in need of a life-saving transplant but also to their families. Kevin Myer, LifeGift President and CEO, joins Blanca to discuss how we can give the incredible gift of life through LifeGift. The non-profit organization offers information that can answer whatever questions, fears, or concerns that keep us from becoming a donor.   Kevin explains the need for specific organs and tissues for children and adults. He also talks about their launch of an innovative neonatal donation program and what to expect as a donor. He addresses the fears many people may have and how we can register to become a donor.   Kevin lets us know how we can become volunteers and join their upcoming LifeGift’s 2nd Chance Walk/Runs happening September 17 at Minute Maid Park, Downtown. This event honors donors and celebrates new life with recipients.   To learn more about LifeGift, visit: https://www.lifegift.org or call 713-523-4438.  Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

Houston has an excellent Health Department with over 70 health resources and plenty of services and information for our community. Porfirio Villarreal, public information officer for the Houston Health Department, joins Blanca to explain how this dynamic city department's mission is to work in partnership with the community to promote and help to protect the health and social well-being of all Houstonians, from children to the elderly, as well as the environment in which they live.   It's almost time for children to return to or start school, so Porfirio begins by addressing parents about how they mistakenly believe that children need vaccines and other shots right before starting school. However, they begin at the time of birth. He talks about the need to vaccinate children and what diseases are prevented with vaccines. He also discusses how to obtain children's birth certificates because it's almost the end of summer. He also mentions children and swimming safety and what parents should do to prevent a drowning accident.   The Houston Health Department is a one-stop service department that assists with diverse personal needs and educational programs. Porfirio discusses a few of the many resources that are available to everyone.   To learn more about the Houston Health Department, visit: https://www.houstonhealth.org or call 832-393-4220.   Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

As a society, we tend to view aging people as “old people” that should sit at home and basically become invisible. What a mistake this is because they still have a lot to contribute. All they need is someone to recognize that they still exist. Fritz McDonald, president and founder of the Great Age Movement, has done just that. Listen to Fritz talk about why he’s made it his mission to redefine “old age” through his organization. Fritz is so passionate about getting people in their golden years to get inspired by participating in exercise programs, so with the support of sponsors, the organization launched a Great Age Fitness Park. Seniors now have a playground to safely workout with the help of instructors, and with the partnership of The Health Museum, they can join indoor fun exercise programs as well. The Great Age Movement is committed to providing free diverse activities, from movement programs to educational classes focused on mental and spiritual wellness, entertainment, healthy cooking, DIY projects, and so much more. Fritz also mentions how the organization worked with The Health Museum to create free online videos providing exercises and topics to benefit senior citizens for anyone to do in their homes. Fritz wants to ensure everyone can participate, even when they can’t visit the park or the museum. To learn more about the Great Age Movement, visit https://thegreatage.org.  Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

Houston is very fortunate to have so many diverse non-profit organizations that provide numerous types of assistance for everyone in need in our community. Still, there is one that helps to elevate their living conditions. Today, Jeff Taylor, Director of Operations of the Furniture Bank, sits with Blanca to discuss how his organization is unique and how they have been able to help thousands of people by providing them with the essential furniture they may need. He also talks about making sure no children sleep on the floor by giving mattresses as well.  Jeff mentions how furniture is a critical steppingstone to improve living conditions and elevates an individual’s pride and dignity during their time of need. He stresses that receiving furniture is much more than having a bed to sleep or a table to have a meal with family. It’s about giving a helping hand so that people can get on their feet. It’s about providing the gift of hope. They’ve helped people who lost their homes and everything they owned because of fires, natural disasters like hurricanes or tornados, or those transitioning from houselessness. Jeff also talks about how the community can donate their used furniture or money, purchase furniture at their furniture outlet, and also the need for volunteers and much more. For more information, visit https://houstonfurniturebank.org or call 713-842-9771. Houston Furniture Bank is located at 8220 Mosley Rd. Houston, TX 77075.     Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou Website: https://spotlighthoustonshow.com/

Understanding the Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi at The New Eternal Gandhi Museum   Houston is set to open a new museum, Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston, to honor the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, a civil rights leader, as well as highlight other worldwide leaders who embraced peaceful means to make social changes. Even though the museum has yet to open, many leaders around the world have already recognized the impact it will have. The museum is expected to open in August 2023.   Atul Kothari, co-founder, and museum trustee, talks to Blanca about why creating the first-of-its-kind museum in the country dedicated to promoting and preserving Gandhi’s legacy of nonviolent conflict resolution was important. He also mentions how this museum is a world-class institution that is meant to be a cultural and educational place that cultivates the universal values of Truth, Nonviolence, Peace, Love, and Service. Kothari describes how other worldwide peace leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Dalai Lama, are also highlighted.   Kothari talks about Gandhi’s history, describes the circular architecture of the museum, and what visitors can expect to see and learn in the exhibition galleries. These films will be presented in the museum’s theatre, online virtual tours, upcoming events and programs, and the need for volunteers.   Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston is located at 12379 Riceville School Road, Houston, TX 77031.   For Opening date celebration information, visit https://egmh.org or call 832-850-EGHM.   Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou Website: https://spotlighthoustonshow.com/

Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of Houston's history with the one and only Mister McKinney! He’s Houston’s most amazing and fun historian and marketing director of The Heritage Society. He joins our host Blanca Quezada to discuss everything The Heritage Society offers visitors, including the historical homes that are beautiful collections on display at Sam Houston Park. As a passionate historian, he wants everyone to know all about the historical homes, who owned them and how they ended up at the park. He also discusses educational programs for adults, children, and educators, exhibitions on display, calendar of events, field trips that are offered, and volunteering. Mister McKinney’s goal is to tell Houston’s story so that we can see and learn about what happened in the past and who were the people that helped to create the city that we now live in. He inspires us to treasure the city’s past, and he always takes the opportunity to celebrate Houston’s history and tell its story. Mister McKinney is also known for his open-air yellow school bus, known as Houston’s History Bus that he uses to provide tours to different historic locations around Houston. To learn more about The Heritage Society, visit: www.theheritagesociety.org or call  713-655-1912.   Connect with us: ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow ·         Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow ·         Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

The 4th of July will be here before you know it so get ready to hear all the fun things to do with your friends or family at this year’s City of Houston’s official 4th of July event – Shell Freedom Over Houston.” Susan Christian, director at the Mayor’s Office of Special Events, joins Blanca to give everyone all the details of what’s been planned for the event happening at Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston Parks on Buffalo Bayou – along Allen Parkway. Susan talks about the five stages that will be set up with musical entertainment. Headlining the Shell Main stage will be chart-topping country star, Chris Young. Other stages will feature American Music Award winner Yola and Soul/R&B/Funk band TMF with their new lead singer, native Houstonian Chris Walker.  Listen to her details about Bud Light, Dr. Pepper, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and additional event sponsors. They will offer many fun lawn games, feature Houston’s Professional Sports Teams, a children’s entertainment area, and lots more. Liberty Park will feature a salute to all five branches of the military. Military vehicles such as tanks will be on hand, and NASA will provide an exclusive Space City experience. Also, hear about the spectacular and dazzling fireworks in the evening. To find more details about the 4th of July event or to purchase tickets, visit: https://www.freedomovertexas.org/.  For information on how to volunteer, visit: https://www.houstonspecialevents.org. Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

In honor of Father’s Day, award-winning author Alicia Araujo-Elatassi discusses her bilingual easy-to-read book Querido Papa (Dear Dad). This is a book written to assist dads in creating a strong, loving connection with their daughters as they grow into adulthood. Alicia shares her experiences and struggles with her dad, and what it took to achieve the exceptional loving relationship she now shares with him. She talks about why she decided to recount her upbringing and her experiences with her dad. She explains how dads can better understand the struggles their daughters may be going through and how they can help them navigate through their lives. Alicia knows it may not always be easy to connect, but through her experience, she knows it can happen. She wants dads and daughters to use her book as a valuable tool to have those important conversations. She also offers tips and encouragement. Alicia tells dads know how important they are to their daughters and how it’s not that difficult to build and improve their relationships and create that loving bond for the rest of their lives.  Alicia wrote her book with the collaboration and approval of her loving dad, Jose S. Araujo Sr. Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

In this episode be prepared to be astonished to hear about how trillions of microbes make their homes inside our bodies from Becky Seabrook senior director of communications and Ella Hohmann science communications specialist at The Health Museum. They will be discussing the museum’s newest exhibit “The Zoo in You,” that shows and teaches visitors of all ages to explore this fascinating and complex world inside us that is our microbiome—a dynamic, adaptable, and delicately balanced ecosystem much like any other found in nature.  Find out who our constant microbial companions are, where they live, how diverse they are, and in what ways scientists are discovering just how important they are to our personal health. And, how we can explore this vibrant world of our inner microorganisms through engaging, interactive, and bilingual exhibits and programs.  Hear about the “Zoo in You” exhibit’s three thematic areas:  Meet the Microbes, Our Complex Ecosystems, and Exploring our Microbiome. You will be surprised to find out that our microbiome is more than just bacteria, viruses, or fungi.   “Zoo in You” is now open and closes Sunday. September 17, 2023.     In addition, find out about the museum’s summer programs for kids of all ages. Teens can register for the Global Teen Medical Summit Program happening through July 14, 2023, and younger children up to age 13 can join the Summer Discovery Camps happening through August 26, 2023.   To discover all about The Health Museum including their calendar events and exhibits, visit: www.thehealthmuseum.org or call 713-521-1515 for more information.   Don’t forget to tune in every Sunday for new episodes of Spotlight Houston.   Connect with us: ·        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow ·       Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow ·       Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the enchanting world of the Houston Ballet and shine a spotlight on their upcoming performance of the timeless love story Swan Lake. Prepare to be swept off your feet as we hear from the remarkable principal dancers, Yuriko Kajiya and Connor Walsh. They share their inspiring journeys, from their early aspirations to their current positions and the obstacles they overcame along the way. But it's not just the principal dancers who bring this mesmerizing tale to life. The entire ballet company, along with stunning set designs, exquisite costumes, and an enchanting score, all play a vital role in creating the magic. Yuriko and Connor reveal the dedication and artistry of the entire production, including the intricate dragon incorporated into this year's set design, the dazzling costumes that adorn the performers, and the orchestra that flawlessly performs Tchaikovsky's magnificent score. Get ready to be spellbound as the Houston Ballet showcases its opulent production of Swan Lake for the fifth time! After a triumphant Hometown Tour following Hurricane Harvey in 2018 and an acclaimed performance at Tokyo Bunka Kaikan in Japan, they are returning to the Wortham Theater Center for this highly anticipated performance, marking a special homecoming after seven years. To discover all about the Houston Ballet, including their calendar of the upcoming season performances, visit www.houstonballet.org, or for more information, call 713-227-2787. Don’t forget to tune in every Sunday for new episodes of Spotlight Houston. Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShowTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou Photo credit: Houston Ballet Principals Yuriko Kajiya as Odette and Connor Walsh as Prince Siegfried in Stanton Welch’s Swan Lake.  Photo by Hidemi Seto (2022). Courtesy of Houston Ballet.

There is a marvelous place for kids and teens that provides diverse adventures and lots of fun year-round while at the same time giving them the opportunity to learn without even realizing that's happening – it's the Children's Museum Houston.  In this week's episode, Henry Yau, director of marketing and public relations at the Children's Museum Houston, provides us with the scoop on this amazing entertainment and educational destination. He's also going to talk about all the extraordinary summer programs that are being offered.  At the Children's Museum Houston, they know that summer can be challenging for parents, especially when they want to ensure their kids discover new fun and educational activities. Henry will tell us about the exciting interactive museum exhibits and activities and their summer programs. He also mentions the extensive, diverse virtual programs, like fine art, math, reading, science, social studies, and even physical education.  To discover all the Children's Museum Houston has to offer, including their calendar of events, visit them at: www.cmhouston.org, or for more information, call 713-522-1138. Don’t forget to tune in every Sunday for new episodes of Spotlight Houston. Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShowTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

In this week's episode, our host Blanca Quezada sits down with the incredible Tiffany Cuellar Needham, the Executive Director of Teach for America Houston. Teach For America is on a mission to end educational inequity by finding, developing, and supporting a diverse network of leaders. They believe in the power of education and are dedicated to creating a nation where every student has access to a quality education. Teach for America was founded with a revolutionary idea: young people committing to teaching for a couple of years in rural and urban communities where they are needed most could transform their own lives while putting kids on a stronger academic path. And boy, did it prove true! Four out of five people who join Teach for America stay in the work, with 70% continuing in the K-12 education system and 10% working in other roles supporting education. Teach for America works closely with school district partners to identify areas where teachers are most needed and places qualified candidates in those classrooms. It's a transformative process, and in this engaging interview, Blanca and Tiffany dive deep into the journey of placing teachers in classrooms and how Teach for America supports them every step of the way. Tiffany shares her own incredible story, coming from a small town in South Texas and initially pursuing a degree in finance. However, her passion for giving back and helping kids like herself led her to Teach for America, where she became a successful teacher and eventually joined the Teach for America staff. Through the resources provided by Teach for America, Tiffany's dream of making a difference in education became a reality. Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation filled with inspiring stories and valuable insights. Tune in to the Spotlight Houston Show and be ready to be inspired! Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou Website: https://spotlighthoustonshow.com

May is Mental Health Month Learning About Mental Health with Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD  Mental health is an issue that sometimes is not discussed among families or friends for different reasons. It could be because of stigma, but it is a health issue that needs to be brought up so that care can be provided. No one should have to suffer alone. Help is available. In this week's episode, our show host Blanca Quezada discusses the importance of mental health with Tricia Novotny, a licensed professional counselor and practice manager at the Northeast Youth and Family Wellness Center for the Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD. Tricia shares the importance of overcoming stigma and seeking help when needed. She offers guidance for breaking down the barriers that prevent us from seeking treatment. She talks about coping with anxiety and depression and understanding and supporting children's mental health challenges. And she addresses how to navigate the mental health system so that we can access services and know what to expect.  The Harris Center provides high-quality, efficient, and cost-effective services so that persons with behavioral health needs may live with dignity as fully functioning, participating, and contributing community members. Each year, they serve tens of thousands of Harris County's most vulnerable populations, with more than a million services in every corner of the County. Their strong community partnerships and support allow them to provide care and contribute to making Harris County a resilient community with a strong safety net. They do not deny services based on a patient's inability to pay for any reason, including race, color, sex, national origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. For more information, visit https://theharriscenter.org or call 713-970-7000. Don’t forget to tune in every Sunday for new episodes of Spotlight Houston. Connect with us: ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow ·         Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow ·         Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich traditions and contributions of Asians and Asian Americans. In this episode of Spotlight Houston Show, host Blanca Quezada interviews Stephanie Todd-Wong from Asia Society Texas about 31 ways to celebrate this special month and beyond. Stephanie highlights the various live programs and art tours Asia Society Texas offers. These include:  Free gallery admissions to exhibitions throughout May.  On May 11th, pianist Eunbi Kim will perform an immersive multimedia show that explores issues of family and identity.  On May 13th, the BIPOC Book Fest will showcase literary works, panels, and workshops celebrating Black, Indigenous, people of color, and other creatives.  On May 18th, notable women news anchors Shern-Min Chow, Melanie Lawson, Pooja Lodhia, and Rekha Muddaraj will participate in a discussion about their careers and the challenges of being female journalists and news anchors of color.  On May 19th, the Summoning Memories exhibition will be the focus of a free symposium, including a gallery tour, panel discussions, and a keynote presentation by the guest curator. Asia Society Texas also offers a curated selection of on-demand activities and staff recommendations. Each Sunday, staff picks for music, books, podcasts, and what to watch next are available. On Mondays, the Encore Series showcases the best of Asia Society Texas' live programming. Tuesdays are dedicated to learning about local Asian Americans who reflect the richness and diversity of the community through Houston's Asian American Journeys video series.  In addition, the Artist and Community Spotlights highlight Houston-area organizations and artists, including Dance of Asian America, Inprint, the Houston Asian American Archive, and former featured Artists on Site Bennie Flores Ansell, Guadalupe Hernandez, and Matt Manalo. Throughout the episode, Stephanie emphasizes the importance of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and the need to elevate the stories and experiences of Asian and Asian American communities.  Don't miss out on this fun and informative episode! Tune in to learn about the exciting ways to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with Asia Society Texas. Connect with us: ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow ·         Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow ·         Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou ·         Website: https://spotlighthoustonshow.com/

Get all the details on this year’s Cinco de Mayo Celebration with the East End Street Fest as Blanca Quezada talks with Lupe Olivares, festival director.  Lupe says, this festival promises lots of fun for everyone of all ages, including children. The festival will be offering a wide variety of Mexican and Chicano Art, Music, Food and Culture! He also mentions the history of Cinco de Mayo and what it means to Houston’s Mexican community, additionally, he discusses the history and historic sites found in Houston’s East End community.  Go hungry and get ready to party because the East End Street Fest will include more than thirty food and art vendors and multiple music and cultural dance performances on several music stages and plazas that will be located on Navigation Boulevard’s esplanade. If people prefer a sit-down meal, there are plenty of well-known restaurants located around the festival area. The fest will feature mariachi prodigy Eduardo Trevino and other musicians and folk-dance performers such as the trio Dime Que Si, Danzas Folkloricas de Solei, Houston Aztec Dance – Calmec, Danza Azteca Taxcayolotl, Chicano Boulevard DJ, mariachi singer Cessar Mandujano, Las Americas Ballet Folklorico, Ambassadors International Ballet Folklorico and headliner Sandy G and Los Gavilanes, among many others. Car lovers will enjoy the lowrider car collection at the Show & Shine area, and kids will bounce around at the Plaza de los Niños. The Cinco de Mayo Street Fest is being presented by The East End Improvement Corporation (501c3) and the East End Houston Cultural District on Saturday, May 6, from 12:00 pm until 6:00 pm on the award-winning Esplanade on Navigation Boulevard. Don’t forget to tune in every Sunday for new episodes of Spotlight Houston.           Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShowTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou

Learn about the mysteries found in the many diverse exhibit halls from around the world that are in the five floors of the Houston Museum of Natural Science, as Blanca Quezada sits down with Kathleen Havens, director of the museum’s curriculum and content to talk about the incredible discoveries that await the public. Presently, the museum has a remarkable exhibit that replicates the experience that British archaeologist Howard Carter and his workmen had when they discovered King Tutankhamun’s burial chamber, “King Tut’s Discovery Experience.” Kathleen discusses how the exhibit was created, the artifacts that can be seen, and how the museum wanted to make sure the public could feel exactly what it would have been like to be the first people to see King Tut’s tomb. Kathleen also shares information on the renovation of the Cockrell Butterfly Center, and the colorful and delicate butterflies, and other insects that call it home; the Burke Baker Planetarium, where we can learn about the vast space beyond our planet; the anthropology hall where we can see amazing dinosaurs, and wonder or imagine what the world must have been like when they existed; then be amazed with artifacts on display that belonged to diverse Native American civilizations;  the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre; and so much more. Be prepared to make plans to visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science soon!            Don’t forget to tune in every Sunday for new episodes of Spotlight Houston.           Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShowTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHouWebsite: https://spotlighthoustonshow.com

In this week's episode of Spotlight Houston, we're getting literary and chatting with the fabulous Raie Crawford, from Writers in the Schools (WITS). As WITS celebrates its 40th anniversary, Raie takes us on a journey through the history of the nonprofit and shares how it has grown into the inspiring creative writing community it is today. We'll also be discussing WITS' upcoming gala on April 20th, 2023, and all the exciting events and programs they have in store for the future. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to be inspired by Houston's vibrant writing scene! Don't forget to tune in every Sunday for new episodes of Spotlight Houston. Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShowTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHouWebsite: https://spotlighthoustonshow.com/