e-culture: Eight Days Without an Alligator-related Accident
January 20, 2002
IN THIS ISSUE
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The First Thing About Texas
On November 6, 1528, Spanish Conquistadors approached Texas, not as a massive invading force like Coronado's army in 1540, but rather a contingent of several dozen destitute men who washed up on the shore, near death. Cabeza de Vaca was among them.
The expedition had sailed from Spain in 1527. They lost many men and a ship in a hurricane that struck Cuba as they were re-supplying. At the end of a hard winter, the expedition comprised of Spaniards, Africans, Greeks and Aztecs went ashore in Florida in the spring of 1528. They may have reached Tampa Bay on the west coast. Though half of their horses died in rough seas while crossing the Straits of Florida, the expedition's governor, Pámfilo de Narváez, sought an overland route to Mexico and released the ships. Among the 300 men were soldiers, priests, officers and specialists. By the end of summer, with their progress slowed by swamps, dense forests, difficult river crossings and fights with local Indians, fewer than 250 men arrived at the "Bay of Horses", where the desperate explorers methodically consumed their last horses. This was probably Apalachee Bay on the west Florida coast. On five crudely-built barges, in an attempt to save their lives, the expedition transferred to the sea. The barges floated more than five weeks before reaching the Mississippi River, where they scooped fresh water from the sea. Along the way, the expedition begged for corn from local Indians, saw an African and Greek jump ship near Mobile Bay, and skirmished with Indians in swift canoes after they took two of the Indians hostage.
Cabeza de Vaca's adventure became a surreal flight for survival in the eight years that followed, as he traded goods among coastal Indians and traveled over 6,000 miles on foot with no possessions. Only four were known to survive, three Spaniards and one African.
We have been examining each segment of Cabeza de Vaca's bizarre journey and struggle for survival. We have recently developed extensive insight into the final eight days on the Gulf of Mexico that may have brought Cabeza de Vaca to Texas. We gained personal experience on the sea in similar conditions to those he experienced and we tested "drifters" to measure our human capability against the Gulf currents.
We found that applying science to this cultural study meant applying ourselves to the real experiences of Cabeza de Vaca. It is difficult for us to face many things the Spanish explorers faced: There are no hostile Indians acting aggressively based on real threats or superstitions; No deadly storms surprise us with our weatherband radio; Alligators may have been the least of Cabeza de Vaca's problems (he seemed more interested in the possum), but we know not to torment them; And, we can't fully experience the feeling of being hopelessly lost. We were able to measure the obstacles that the ocean presented to the Spanish Conquistadors' attempts to reach Mexico. We took only a few things with us that we were willing to loose in the Gulf, as had happened to Cabeza de Vaca, and like the wayward Spaniard, we faced the prospect of loosing ourselves in the Gulf had we continued in the worst conditions. An outboard motor on our little Sea Eagle (the "Jornada de Cabeza de Vaca") allowed us to retreat from the north winds to a warm motel. Based on our GPS readings and other measurements, as well as the benefit of existing NOAA research, it must have been impossible for the Spaniards to overcome the Gulf currents, starvation and the weather conditions they faced to travel effectively along the Gulf Coast.
The implications are that Cabeza de Vaca did not make it to Texas, but rather came ashore in Louisiana. We will present these new ideas in our Virtual Classroom. Our next newsletter will tell you how to follow the Virtual Classroom (which will begin about two weeks after our January 24 class on the Territorial Periods of New Mexico's History, learn more below).
Even if Cabeza de Vaca started the final arduous stretch of his journey in Louisiana, his accounts are still the most relevant information we have about Texas in pre-colonial times. His experiences among the Indians of Texas and Mexico foreshadow the conflicting and volatile conditions the Spanish created in the "New World". To truly understand our history, Cabeza de Vaca's desperate adventure is the first thing you should know about Texas.
We have Cabeza de Vaca's journal on line, as well as comparative timelines. See our introduction to Spanish history in our region to learn more:
http://www.houstonculture.org/spanish
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Seven Cities of Gold
The failed expedition of Pámfilo de Narváez in 1528 had tremendous impact on New Mexico's indigenous population. Shortly after the four survivors arrived in Spanish-controlled Mexico City (1536), the Spanish turned their attention to the reported cities on the Rio Grande, cities of the Tewa Indians that the Spanish hoped would yield vast riches greater than those found in the Aztec empire. Through the stories of Cabeza de Vaca and Esteban, the African survivor, the legend of the Seven Cities of Cibola (imagined to be Seven Cities of Gold) developed. By 1539, Esteban led an expedition to the Cities of Gold, where he was killed at Zuni (Hauwika). Though one year later, when Coronado led a conquering force to the region, no substantial wealth was found. Those suspected of protecting gold by misleading the Spanish were killed. Legends of the enchanted land are found in Native American lore and throughout the years of conflict and integration of cultures in New Mexico.
On Thursday, January 24, we will present a class on the Land of Enchantment (focusing on the relationship of the Territorial Periods in New Mexico's History). Use the link below to find out more:
http://www.houstonculture.org/travel/presjan02.html
Learn more about our upcoming educational adventure to New Mexico and Colorado, which will follow historical routes:
http://www.houstonculture.org/travel/itinmay02.html
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We Rate the States
Which states produce the most popular, best-dressed, rehab-graduated celebrities, or the most over-paid singing and dancing athlete-music producer moguls with their own line of fashions? On what fragile environment have the supermodels and teen pop stars built their multi-million dollar mansions, to be flaunted on MTV Cribs? Where are the best beaches to spot nude sun-bathing royalty slumming at spring break with their politician-player boyfriends? Well, we wouldn't know about all of that. But, historical and political events, as well as issues in culture and environment, and tourism and recreation, are our area of expertise.
It started with a simple game of Rail Baron in a Morgan City, Louisiana motel, but the late-night quest to monopolize the historic railroads of the United States resulted in a committee charged with the awesome task of rating the states. Before any results could be determined, rules were set so our personal preferences wouldn't be too obvious. The basis of the rankings in each category would be the opportunities to pursue interest in the predetermined topics. The states would be ranked in a variety of categories, such as history, culture and natural environment. The lowest score, or the best "golf score", would place highest.
We figured Texas would rank first because we were placing emphasis on aspects of history and culture related to Texas. For example: Early Spanish history impacted Texas culture long before the British colonies were established; German and Acadian immigrants are prominent factors in our culture today; Issues of environment are closely related in Western states; In its development, Houston has demographically resembled both Southern and Western U.S. cities.
Our preliminary math, however, shows New Mexico leading with the lowest score. We will see if our accountants and Enron execs can produce a more favorable result. We may have to add a couple of frivolous off-the-ledger categories, like the "Biggest State" and the "Earliest Date of Statehood for States Formerly Part of Mexico" to help Texas edge out New Mexico. Without calculated manipulation of the results, these are the best states to explore for a better cultural and historical appreciation, as well as environmental experience. Be warned, as a good Texan, this unfounded committee report might make you mighty mad.
1. New Mexico (important archaeology, pioneer trails, distinctive culture)
2. Texas (frontier history, diverse cultural activity, modern issues)
3. Louisiana (history, lively festivities, interesting cultural music styles)
4. Arizona (Native American history and culture, diverse landscape)
5. California (modern immigration issues, land use issues in parks, museums)
6. Utah (extensive public lands, well-preserved landscape, stage for modern issues)
7. Oklahoma (folk historians, Native American culture, history and art museums)
8. Mississippi (cultural history, folk traditions, music development)
9. Colorado (source of many major rivers, environment, prehistoric culture)
10. Florida (unexplainable, like the recount)
We will present comparison charts in the next e-culture newsletter.
We hope the survey will promote interest in cultural and environmental characteristics of the states in our region. It may encourage travel for educational and other beneficial purposes. At the very least, it's something to think about.
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Holiday Extra, Carry That Weight
"We're Number 1!" That statement carries a lot of weight, especially when we are literally ranked first in excess weight. For the second year, Men's Fitness magazine ranked Houston at the top of the list of "America's Fattest Cities" in their February 2002 issue.
We had a good laugh about it, while enjoying a hearty meal at a local favorite Cajun restaurant. Houston (with the best restaurants in the world) might be at the top of the infamous list, but obesity is a national trend. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, in 1990 there were no states where more than 14% of the population was obese. By 2000, there was only one state (Colorado) where fewer than 14% of the population was obese. 49 of the states exceeded 15%, and in Texas, more than 20% of the population was obese. It doesn't require a medical degree to guess wildly that the culprits are televisions at home, computers at work, bad fast food diets and cars. The study also takes into account environmental factors, air, water quality and climate. Five of the six Texas cities in the report were in the top 20 of the "Fattest Cities", while only two Colorado cities were included in the study (based on their size) and both placed at the top of the "Fittest Cities", which would support the beneficial effects of topography and environment.
Seven California cities, including Los Angeles, ranked in the top 20 of the "Fittest Cities". It is possible that attitude and interests are factors. After sitting in front of the computer all day and in front of the TV all night, and sitting in the car during the commute to both of these sedentary activities, one would think a short walk would be in order, but many Texans refuse to park more than 50 steps from the front door of their favorite store, to such an extent that malls are loosing business to strip centers and stand-alone department stores. Many Houstonians will take an elevator to avoid climbing 10 feet on a flight of stairs.
Here are two interesting cases: Long Beach, California is a city with a fast-paced corporate mentality, with a sense of entitlement for convenience, similar to Houston. At number 26, It was the only California city to rank in the top 30 of the "Fattest Cities". Conversely, Austin, Texas is still somewhat independent-minded (It is considered a place with widely diversified interests), and it is the only Texas City to avoid the dreaded top 20 of the "Fattest Cities". Beating the average, it made it to number 16 on the side of the "Fittest Cities". A common perception of most of the "Fattest Cities" is that their citizens are heavy supporters of professional team sports (The top five include: Houston, Chicago, Detroit, Philadelphia and Dallas), whereas many of the "Fittest Cities" are known for individual sports, extensive park systems, outdoor activities and other (cultural and social) participatory activities (They include: Colorado Springs, Seattle, San Francisco, Honolulu, Albuquerque, Tucson and Austin).
A note about Houston: We have many great restaurants, and it is often said that they are so good because they must compete in a full field of restaurants. They also compete with a high density of corporate fast food services, which apparently get outstanding support in Houston.
This unfortunate health statistic presents us the opportunity to taut the benefits of participating in cultural activities.
Get inspired to do some outdoor activities. REI offers in-store programs where adventurers present their interests and help others get involved in travel to natural environments. Often, one can find extensive history and cultural significance in the presentations and destinations to enrich the mind. Consider attending the next program:
Along the Continental Divide Trail
Ellen Bryant will share her adventures and beautiful slides along the Continental Divide Trail from Yellowstone to the Canadian border. Joining a friend, Cynthia Hunt who had already hiked from the Mexican border to Wyoming, the two women spent ten weeks trekking through some very pristine areas in the United States - at times losing the unmarked trail, often avoiding grizzlies, and rarely meeting other adventurers. Join us for this outstanding program.
Monday, January 28, 2002, 7:00pm
http://www.rei.com/storelocator/houston
Try an exercise program with an interesting cultural twist:
Genie Jam is a balanced system of exercise, integrating danse orientale with world dance technique, martial arts, yoga, and non-impact aerobics. Genie Jam's gentle movement system has little or no impact on your body's structure yet gives a great work-out through use of your internal energy sources to power your movements and sculpt your body.
Contact Andriana@ev1.net if you would like to find out more about these unique fitness classes.
If you want to get out and explore the cultural and natural environment, please see our upcoming educational adventure to New Mexico and Colorado:
http://www.houstonculture.org/travel/itinmay02.html
And, consider our upcoming informal adventures:
http://www.houstonculture.org/archive/e020120b.html#where
Don't avoid attending parades for fear that you might have to walk six blocks to get to the parade route. Information on two Martin Luther King parades is listed below. Our newsletters always include these kinds of activities. So, stay tuned.
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A Tale of Two Parades
In years past, Houston has held two parades to honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the progress of his work. One parade was on Saturday and the other on Monday during the Martin Luther King weekend. Several years ago, Houston lifted its rules against hosting two parades in one day and both parades were held on Monday, the official MLK holiday. With two parades on the same day some ask, why are there two parades? Why not unite the two in the spirit of Martin Luther King. But, we might say, this is a giant round-the-clock city, why are there only two; why not three or four or five parades?
Dr. King's role in establishing Civil Rights and Voting Rights protections not only deserve the respect and gratitude of African-Americans, but of all Americans. Additionally, he promoted a broader world view of human rights.
From a speech by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr:
Through our scientific genius, we made of the world a neighborhood, and now through our moral and ethical commitment, we must make of it a brotherhood. We must all learn to live together as brothers or we will all perish together as fools. This is what we must learn. It simply means that every nation must be concerned about every other nation; every individual must be concerned about every other individual... Maybe we've spent far too much of our money in the United States establishing military bases around the world rather than bases of genuine concern and understanding...More of Martin Luther King's speech:
http://www.houstonculture.org/hifc/quote10.html
Two MLK parades:
Martin Luther King, Jr. Grande Parade, Monday, January 21, 10:00am
Black Heritage Society Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, January 21, 2:00pm
Both parades start on Texas at Louisiana in Downtown Houston.
It is an important time to go out and support these events to honor Dr. Martin Luther King.
Travel to Memphis (the site of Martin Luther King's assassination) and the Mississippi Delta:
http://www.houstonculture.org/terra/delta.html
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The Year of the Horse
February 12 begins a New Year according to the lunar calendar. This will make 4699 years China has celebrated a New Year with firecrackers, dragon dances and other festivities. Chinese New Year celebrations, as well as Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year), can be found around Houston. We will offer some suggestions in the next newsletter to help you adjust to life in the year 4699. After all, it happened suddenly. Not a month ago, it was 2002 on the relatively young Gregorian calendar.
This year, China will celebrate the "Year of the Horse". On the eve of the New Year, tell those you meet, "Gong Xi Fa Cai, Happy Chinese New Year!"
Learning more about Chinese New Year:
http://www.houstonculture.org/cr/cny.html
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From Navajoland to Sunsplash
Fulfill your New Year resolution: Don't just sit there, do something!
Asia Society Events:
Steve Raymer, Living Faith: Inside the Muslim World of Southeast Asia
Tuesday, January 22, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
An Evening at The Consulate General of The Republic of Indonesia
Free and open to public. Reservations are requested, call 713-439-0051
Riffat Hassan, Rights and the Qur'anic Prespective
Monday, January 28, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Rothko Chapel
Free and open to public. Reservations are requested, call 713-439-0051
Tea Tasting and Asian Market
Saturday, February 9th, 2002. From 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Doubletree Post Oak Hotel. Admission to the Tea Tasting and Asian Market is $50 per person (members), $75 (nonmembers).
Proceeds from the sale will go to the educational outreach projects of the Asia Society.
Get more information about these programs:
http://www.houstonculture.org/temp/asiasoc0201.html
Trinity Episcopal Church Jazz Festival
Friday and Saturday, February 1 and 2, 8:00pm
Sunday, February 3, (Jazz Mass) 8:00am and 11:00am
Get more information about these programs:
http://www.houstonculture.org/temp/trinityjazz.html
Films in Houston:
Aurora Picture Show
http://www.aurorapictureshow.org
Aurora Picture Show is seeking an Administrative Assistant
http://www.houstonculture.org/jobs/index.html
Museum of Fine Arts films
New films from Iran, January 25-27, and the Houston Pan-Cultural Film Festival, January 31 - February 3.
http://www.mfah.org/Films/films.html
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade
Saturday, February 9, Downtown Houston
Starting at 10:00am on Texas at Louisiana
Discover Navajo: People of the Fourth World
Should you happen to be anywhere near the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Games, you should check out an exhibit sponsored by the Navajo Nation, complete with displays on the Navajo Code Talkers. The exhibit takes place in the Navajo Pavilion and Festival of Nations.
http://www.navajo2002.org
2002 FotoFest
Ninth International Month of Photography, March 2002:
http://www.fotofest.org
12th Annual Bob Marley Festival
Get more information on volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, coming March 9 and 10:
http://www.houstonculture.org/temp/bob.html
St. Patrick's Day Parade
Saturday, March 16, Downtown Houston
Starting at 11:00am on Texas at Louisiana
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Top Film, Top Audio Honors
After we ranked the states, it may seem that we're crazy to rank everything. However weak, here's our defense: everyone else does it. For promoters, ranking things, like the best selling artists and the top sports teams, is a means to increase sales. We want to promote interest in those things not normally given the benefit of mainstream media promotion.
Here are our considerations for the best music and movies of 2001. These things encourage independent thinking, promote support for cultural and artistic visions and defy national homogenous marketing trends. They are also uniquely entertaining and, thus, the real reason we are honoring these film and recordings.
Best Film:
Amélie
Best Regional Recording:
Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, Back to Bogalusa (tie)
The Masked Band (featuring Keith Frank), The Creole Connection (tie)
Best American Recording:
Ralph Stanley and Friends, Clinch Mountain Sweethearts
Best International Recording:
Csokolom, Ludo Luda (Fools Fancy)
For previous honorees:
http://www.houstonculture.org/hifc/honors.html
CONTINUE TO PAGE TWO
Have a great MLK weekend!
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J a n n i @houstonculture.org
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janni@houstonculture.org
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