SAT 6/21
On a typical Houston evening, you’re more likely to
glimpse a 737’s landing lights than a star. With the limitless frontier of space
obscured by smog, lying back and contemplating the Milky Way seems an impossible
luxury. This weekend, the (relatively) clear cosmic space of Moody Gardens in
Galveston will come to the rescue of the star-starved. Nestled in a landscape
that melds the tropical with the extraterrestrial, the Summer Star Party will
give you the opportunity to indulge your inner astronomer and connect the dots
of the Big Dipper. You’ll learn what you never knew you didn’t know about the
sun, the moon, the solar system and other galaxies from staff presentations
and, of course, your own observations. Several “large and powerful” telescopes
will be on hand. “There’s one telescope bigger than some of the children that
come,” says Lauren Wheeler of Moody Gardens. Boy Scout participants will have
the opportunity to earn astronomy merit badges, and everybody else will get
to reflect upon their insignificance in the big, bad universe. The party runs
from dusk until 11 p.m. Saturday, June 21. Moody Gardens, One Hope Boulevard,
Galveston. For information, call 800-582-4673, extension 4233, or visit www.moodygardens.com.
Admission to the infinite is free of charge. — Eric Norvell

SAT 6/21
Fun Run for Everyone Whether you walk, jog, run or roll, you’ll be welcome at the Houston Pride 5K
Fun Run/ Walk. It’s not surprising that the Houston Gay & Lesbian Pride 2003
event strives for inclusiveness. Participants are encouraged to show up early
to stretch and meet their fellow racers, then hang around afterward at Sam Houston
Park. Mac Crone, the race director, says there will be “one of the best postrace
parties around.” Awards will be given to top finishers in several classes, but
everyone will get a T-shirt and a good feeling. 7:30 a.m. Saturday, June 21.
Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby. To volunteer or to participate in the race, call
713-661-8919 or visit www.geocities.com/ houstonpride5K/index.html. $20 entry fee benefits AssistHers, an organization
that aids chronically ill or disabled lesbians. — Eric Norvell

This article appears in Jun 19-25, 2003.