What a difference a year makes. In May 2012, the first annual East End Street Fest was held on Cinco de Mayo along Harrisburg Boulevard, with the lovely and talented Norma Zenteno serving as the headlining musical act. For the second annual entry, the venue has shifted to the brand-new esplanade that runs along Navigation Boulevard in the heart of the East End, although instead of celebrating along with sister Zenteno, we pay tribute to her memory and legacy.

At least that is the plan, according to Frances Castañeda, president of the Houston East End Chamber of Commerce. The festival will begin with a musical tribute to Zenteno, who passed away in February.

"She touched so many people with her music and soul, we are honored to dedicate the East End Stage as a tribute to Norma," says Cantañeda.

"We are truly honored and blessed for this wonderful gesture," says Norma's brother Javier by phone. "My sister was a legend, and she loved the East End. She will definitely be there in spirit."

The remembrance will kick off a day's worth of music and entertainment from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m, featuring top-notch local artists such as Avizo Band (featuring David Marez and Chente Barrera) and Nick Gaitan & the Umbrella Man. Morena, winner of the East End Idol contest, will also be on hand for a performance.

The night will end with a block party featuring the tropical sounds of the Bombón DJ Collective, which includes Gracie Chavez, OG Bobby Trill, Navo, and Panchitron, assisted by Azteca dancers, street performers, and a group from the Freneticore Dance Theater. By then the sounds of zydeco, tejano, country, rock, cumbia, salsa, hip-hop, and musica latina will have rung through the streets.

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