e-culture: Wild West Tour, Current Events, Dutiful Dogs
May 14, 2004

IN THIS ISSUE Wild West Tour Current Events Dutiful Dogs Volunteer Meeting

What you know about the history of the American West is what you know about the mind of modern America. Civil War veteran John Wesley Powell stirred the American imagination when he navigated the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon in 1869. Hired hands who declared mutiny and walked away in the rugged canyon from Powell's unauthorized adventure were never heard from again. Building his legend, the eastern press reported the one-armed captain dead, to which he responded by hand-delivering news of his progress to the colonists of Deseret. No sooner had he improved his legend and unleashed a skillful public relations campaign on the United States Congress, using dramatic photographs of exotic western lands, when he advocated the very thing thrill seekers and empire builders didn't want to hear -- the scarce resources of the arid desert lands could not support expansive settlement.

Modern America may suffer from the very same perils as the zealous followers of John Wesley Powell -- a thirst for adventure, exuberance for consumption and a dire need for conservation.

We will make our annual Canyonlands Adventure later than usual this year, September 17 - 26, 2004, as the Aspens turn golden against clear blue skies. This is a great opportunity to observe the fragile conditions of the American West, experience the traditional cultures of the Colorado Plateau's first peoples, as well as hike and photograph the most distinctive lands on Earth.

Also, keep these dates in mind for exciting educational opportunities:

West Indian Parade and NYC Adventure, August 30 - September 7 (massive cultural celebration just as the GOP rolls into town)
Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, Zwolle, Louisiana, October 8 - 10, 2004 (our Louisiana documentary project)
Kentuck Festival of the Arts, October 15 - 17, 2004 (traditional crafts to visionary arts in historic Northport, Alabama)
Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, October 22 - 24, 2004 (festival continues through October 31)


http://www.houstonculture.org/travel

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Current Events

International Festival of Muslim Cultures

May 15, 2004, 9:00am - 9:00pm
Eleanor Tinsley Park (Allen Parkway at Interstate 45)
Free admission
http://www.ifomc.org

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Pasadena Strawberry Festival

Friday, May 14, 2004, 3:00pm - Midnight
Saturday, May 15, 2004, 10:00am - Midnight
Sunday, May 14, 2004, 10:00am - 7:00pm
Pasadena Fairgrounds
Fairmont Parkway at Redbluff
General admission, $8; Students, $5; Children and Seniors, $4
http://www.strawberryfest.org

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The Corporation
Presented by Rice Media Center and Houston Independent Media Center

A facilitated audience discussion will follow the screening of "The Corporation." Saturday, May 15, 2004, 7:30pm
Rice Media Center
Rice University
University Blvd. Entrance 8

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A Nation Acts
A reading of Now Let Me Fly, a play by Marcia Cebulska, directed by Mr. Ryan Symack

Join the Rothko Chapel in celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision, Brown v. Board of Education

"I'm hungry for those shiny books they have up at Farmville High. I want the page of the Constitution that is torn out of my Social Studies book. I want a chance at that 'Romeo and Juliet' I've heard about, but they tell me I'm not fit to read." - Barbara Johns, Now Let Me Fly, scene 7

This inspiring play, commissioned by the Brown Foundation, is based on oral histories and personal interviews with the real people involved in the struggle leading to Brown v. Board. With the invaluable leadership of Thurgood Marshall and the NAACP, Brown v. Board jump-started the civil rights movement by overturning "Separate But Equal." Years before that landmark court case, brave citizens held grassroots meetings across the nation in homes, schools, church basements and barbershops. In honor of their courage, A NATION ACTS will take us again to our community meeting places, this time for an uplifting play that brings to life the unsung heroes and heroines who set the stage for legal action. Now Let Me Fly will open hearts and minds in your community. A NATION ACTS will bring the issues of race and equality to the forefront of the national dialogue.

The program is free and all are welcome. Seating is limited and on a first come, first served basis. Following the play there will be a reception to honor Houston's local experts, heroes, and heroines who helped to end segregation.

Monday, May 17, 2004, 7:00 pm
The Rothko Chapel
1409 Sul Ross
Houston, TX 77006
713-524-9839
http://www.rothkochapel.org

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Anchee Min, Empress Orchid

Ms. Min and Houston resident and Chinese actress Lily Foster (Chen Ye) will perform a scene from Min's new novel Empress Orchid. Ms Foster is also the wife of Asia Society Texas Chairman, Charles C. Foster. Ms. Min will introduce the performance and take questions from the audience. Afterwards, there will be a book signing. In Empress Orchid, Min brings to life the story of China's longest-reigning female ruler and last Empress, Tzu His.

Free, Sponsored by Inprint and Brazos Bookstore
May 17, 2004, 7:30 - 11:00pm
The Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Avenue
713-439-0051
E-mail: txcenter@asiasoc.org

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Teach-in with Pratap Chatterjee (Corp Watch), Medea Benjaminm (Global Exchange), Rania Masri, Bob Buzzanco (UH history professor), and more

$5 donation requested (although no one will be turned away)
Tuesday, May 18, 8:00pm
The Station
1502 Alabama (at LaBranch)
Houston, Texas

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Globalization Forum presents Dr. Ray Wright, "A Reflection on the Recent, Newly Chosen Chinese Leader"

Globalization Forum presents a talk by the University of Houston China expert, Dr. Ray Wright, talking on "A Reflection on the Recent, Newly Chosen Chinese Leader." What did the Politburo want in a leader? What does the United States want?

Wednesday, May 19, 2004, 7:30pm
Olive Branch Room (rear garage apt)
2360 Rice Blvd., 4 doors from Greenbriar

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U.S. - Australia Free Trade Agreement: Emerging Business Opportunities
Co- Sponsored by Asia/Australia Business Forum Committee & World Trade & Australian American Chamber of Commerce

The committee will feature Mr. Peter Baxter, Deputy Chief of Mission of The Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C., who will present on the U.S. - Australia Free Trade Agreement and the business and investment climate in Australia. "Robust international commerce between Houston and Australia is increasingly vibrant and diverse, representing growing markets and illustrating a strong commercial relationship. The U.S. - Australia Free Trade Agreement, to be signed on May 18th, 2004 and turned over to Congress for approval, will further encourage commercial activity between both countries and present a boon to Houston-area companies. According to the 2002 Foreign Trade Statistics from the Port of Houston, total sea borne trade between Australia and Houston reached over $440 million with rapidly growing sectors in the areas of chemical, petroleum, agriculture and machinery."

Thursday, May 20, 2004, 9:30am - 11:00am
Houston Partnership Board Room, 1200 Smith, Suite 700

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MadCat Women's International Film Festival
Presented by Ariella Ben-Dov
http://www.madcatfilmfestival.org

Passions and obsessions are revealed through documentary, animation and experimental short films and videos. Bingo Ladies (Tami Wilson, Canada), a documentary about women who spend their last dime for a game of bingo! Kate's Sole Excess (Carolyn Kaylor, US) reveals a young woman's infatuation with shoes. Murmur (Kate Matthews, Australia) is a simple and heart-wrenching animation that depicts a man who has a problem with his ticker. Under the fluorescent lights and piped-in "muzak" of a grocery store, the "Food Education Demo Specialists" struggle to keep their perky attitudes intact in The F.E.D.S (Jennifer Drummond, US). Also, the 'anti-animation' Drum Solo (Liliana Porter, US) depicts an existential tragicomedy of human affairs.

Saturday, May 22, 8:00pm; Sunday, May 23, 3:00pm
Admission is always $5, unless otherwise indicated
Aurora Picture Show
800 Aurora Street
Houston, Texas 77009
(713) 868-2101
http://www.aurorapictureshow.org

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Houston Artists and Dissent
A film screening, panel discussion, poetry reading, refreshments, music and more presented by Voices Breaking Boundaries

The benefit will feature a film screening by award-winning documentary filmmaker Laura Harrison who talked with more than fifty Houston artists about art, dissent and artists' responsibilities to society. Following the screening will be a discussion with panelists, including filmmaker Laura Harrison, slam poet E-Quality, Iranian-American novelist Farnoosh Moshiri, break dancer Marlon Perla, musician and visual artist Denise Ramos, and photographer and social activist Wendy Watriss. There will be music by experimental rock band Quantum 5, and Mock Run with Denise Ramos, as well as food and refreshments provided by local restaurants.

Sunday, May 23, 2004, 6:00-9:00pm
General admission: $8
The Artery, 5401 Jackson Street
Houston, TX 77004
http://www.arteryhouston.com
For information, reservations call (713) 228-2052

Learn more about the artists and event at:
http://www.voicesbreakingboundaries.org

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Asian Pacific American Heritage at the Children's Museum
May 29, 2004, 9:00am
The Childrenšs Museum
1500 Binz Street
Houston , TX 77030

www.apaha.org

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U.S. Ambassadors to ASEAN visit Houston
Sponsored by Asian American Chamber of Commerce and the Thai American Chamber of Commerce

Participating Ambassadors: The Honorable Ralph L. (Skip) Boyce, US Ambassador to Indonesia; The Honorable Douglas Hartwick, US Ambassador to Laos; The Honorable Frank L. Lavin, US Ambassador to Singapore; The Honorable, Darryl N. Johnson, US Ambassador to Thailand; and The Honorable, Raymond F. Burghardt, US Ambassador to Vietnam. In addition there will be participating Senior Commercial Officers: Ms. Margaret Keshishian, Senior Commercial Officer - Indonesia, Mr. William M. Zarit, Senior Commercial Officer - Malaysia, Mr. David W. Fulton, Senior Commercial Officer - Philippines, Mr. George Ruffner, Senior Commercial Officer - Singapore, Ms. Judy Reinke, Senior Commercial Officer - Thailand, and Mr. Michael Frisby, Senior Commercial Officer - Vietnam.

June 8, 2004, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Four Seasons Hotel, 1300 Lamar Houston
$25 members; $35 nonmembers; free students & teachers with ID
713-439-0051
E-mail: txcenter@asiasoc.org

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Bonnie Burnham: "The Challenges of Preserving the Architectural Heritage of Asia"

In Asia, more than anywhere else in the world, the forces of economic development and the traditions that have historically made up the region's way of life are in powerful opposition. By highlighting specific Asian heritage sites included in the World Monuments Watch, President Ms. Burnham, will discuss how private-sector efforts are affecting government policies toward heritage management and preservation in a way that generates new economic opportunities for communities.

June 16th 6:00 - 8:00pm
The Westin Galleria, 5060 W. Alabama, Houston
$10 members; $15 nonmembers; free students & teachers with ID
713-439-0051
E-mail: txcenter@asiasoc.org

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Dutiful Dogs

Dogs have important jobs. We don't always know what they are, but they know.

Dogs are always on guard, looking and listening. Some dogs have performed amazing life-saving rescues. They would never leave something spilled on the floor. And they are always excited to go wherever their work takes them.

Dogs routinely check to see that everyone in the house is okay and they take their people on healthy walks. Just like people, some dogs need to be trained for their special jobs.

DOG AND OWNER DENIED

In recent months, incidents of discrimination by restaurant service personnel against blind owners of trained dogs have been heard by advocacy groups, discussed on local radio, and brought to our attention as a possible growing cultural issue. Regardless of possible cultural misunderstandings, business owners' personal beliefs or acceptance of dogs in publicly operating businesses, Texas law prevents discrimination against any visually impaired person who requires the assistance of a trained dog.

Texas law states:

Texas Statutes, Title 8, Chapter 121, Sections 121.001 through 121.009, amended 1989

Texas anti-discrimination statutes guarantee a blind person the legal right to be accompanied by a specially trained dog guide in harness in all public facilities. A dog guide user has a legal right to equal housing accommodation in all housing offered for rent, lease, or compensation. The landlord need not modify the premises, nor is a higher standard of care required than that provided other tenants. No extra fee can be levied because of the dog guide's presence, but the dog guide user is liable for any damage the dog might do to the premises. Equal employment opportunity is also guaranteed, except where the visual impairment prevents performance of the work involved.

Under Texas statutory law, the definition of public facilities includes hotels, stores, restaurants, college dormitories, places of resort, recreation and amusement, public buildings, railroads, buses, boats, airplanes, taxis, and all other common carriers or places to which the public is invited. (-121.002, -121.003)

Housing accommodations include any real property, in whole or part, designed or used as a home, residence, or sleeping place, except for a single family dwelling, the occupants of which offer for rent no more than one room. (-121.003)

Violation: Any person, firm, association, or agent thereof who interferes with the above enumerated rights is guilty of a misdemeanor and is punishable by a fine of not less than $100 or more than $300. In addition, the dog guide user whose civil rights have been violated may proceed in any court of competent jurisdiction to recover personal damages with the presumption that at least $100 worth of damage has been sustained. (-121.004)

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

For the visually impaired, dogs play an important role in their ability to perform normal activities. Dogs offer love and affection regardless of any disabilities people may have. But, dogs must go to school to learn to think and act in the most helpful way for the people they care for.

People are lucky to have dogs, but many who need them cannot afford well-trained and educated dogs. Raising a special assistance dog is expensive. If you would like to help a dog get the necessary training to help a visually impaired or disabled person, contact a non-profit agency that provides trained dogs to learn more. Or contact us for referrals.

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Upcoming Volunteer Meeting

General Interest Meeting
Tuesday, May 25, 2004, 6:00pm
Napoli Flying Pizza (713-726-1166)
4820 West Bellfort (about one block east of South Post Oak)

The next meeting for volunteers or anyone interested will take place on Tuesday, May 25, 2004, at 6:00pm. We will discuss upcoming programs, including films forums and cultural performances. The meeting will take place at Napoli Flying Pizza (713-726-1166), 4820 West Bellfort (about one block east of South Post Oak in the Meyer Park Shopping Center). Call 713-521-3686 for directions or more information.

Those with special physical or communication needs that may impact participation in this activity should contact Mark Lacy at 713-521-3686 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting to discuss accommodations.


For agenda items and general interest meeting updates:
http://www.houstonculture.org/meeting


Thank you for supporting diverse activities in Houston.

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M  a  r  k @houstonculture.org


Cultural and Community Organization Listings:
http://www.houstonculture.org/listings

2003 Report to Friends and Volunteers:
http://www.houstonculture.org/report

Support Houston Institute for Culture:
http://www.houstonculture.org/giving