Mmmm! Ice cream! For many of us, just the thought of ice cream conjures up memories of frosty sweetness on warm summer nights, the familiar ring from the bells of the ice cream truck as it rolled down the street, and sticky fingers as the melting ice cream dripped down the side of the crispy cone. Lucky for us, ice cream is perfectly legal (and not to mention absolutely delicious!), and we don’t need a special day to celebrate its yumminess (but we can!) In fact, we can celebrate it all month long because July is National Ice Cream Month. Additionally, the third Sunday of July has been designated National Ice Cream Day. This year, the holiday falls on Sunday, July 20.
Read moreState AI Regulation? Aye-Aye!
Photo by Igor Omilaev on Unsplash
The striking of the moratorium on state AI regulation is good news for many states, including Texas, that have already enacted laws to police AI. In June, Governor Greg Abbott signed into law the Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act (Act). The Act, presented as HB 149, established regulations for the use of AI within Texas. The Act was designed to facilitate and advance “responsible development of [AI] systems,” protect individuals from foreseeable risks associated with AI, and create transparency in the development or use of AI, including such use by state agencies.
Read moreIt’s Not Just the Law-It’s Your Life:
When most people hear “law,” they imagine courtroom dramas or criminal trials. The truth is, legal issues impact our daily lives much more than we realize—especially civil law. From leases to medical bills, knowing basic legal terms can protect your rights, help you make informed decisions, and prevent costly mistakes.
Read moreHelp Select the Next Gulf Coast Reads Book!
Each October, libraries across the Texas Gulf Coast unite for Gulf Coast Reads Month, a regional reading initiative that invites communities to share in the experience of reading and discussing the same book. Your vote is needed to help pick the next Gulf Coast Reads selection!
Read moreCelebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
AAPI Heritage Month
May has officially been designated by Congress as a month to celebrate Asian and Pacific American (AAPI) Heritage since 1992, and there are a multitude of ways to join the celebrations in Harris County this year. AAPI is a fairly broad term that includes mainland Asia and the Pacific islands of Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia, meaning there are expansive cultural celebrations happening this month. Check out the events below being hosted everywhere, including libraries, community centers, businesses, parks, and museums around town.
5/4: Floating World exhibit opening at MFAH
This exhibit by the Tokyo and London-based artist duo A.A.Murakami is comprised of five interconnected pieces that blend science and art. Perfect for anyone who enjoys unique and interactive art experiences.
5/6: Asian Snack Showdown at Aldine Branch Library
Get a taste of Asian American and Pacific Islander food culture with the free and fun event presented by the library.
5/7: A Taste of Japan at South Houston Branch Library
Adults can join this free event to try delicious Japanese snacks like boba and red bean buns!
5/9: Journey to the Heart: AAPI Film Celebration at Freed Community Center
The whole family can enjoy this free showing of an animated film celebrating adventure, self-discovery, and cultural heritage.
5/10: Asian American and Pacific Islander Month (AAPI) Celebration at POST
This popular downtown venue is offering a free, all-ages event with traditional dance, fashion shows, a K-pop performance, martial arts demos, an Asian night market, and more!
Chinese Canadian author Liann Zhang discusses her novel Julie Chan is Dead and her work as a thriller writer in this month’s virtual Authorama program.
5/15: AAPI Heritage Day at Bayland Community Center
This free event encourages attendees to dress to impress and represent their heritage while joining other community members for a documentary screening and refreshments.
5/15: Children’s Museum Houston’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration
For the price of general admission families can join and enjoy Polynesian crafts, Silambam Houston, Polynesian music and dance from Malia’s Hula Hut and Calligraphy workshops.
5/15 & 5/16: The Swan Painter at Discovery Green
For two nights only join this free, open-air performance bringing a Japanese-based story to life!
5/21: Library Movie Nights at Galena Park Branch Library
Adults can join for free to watch The Farewell (2019) and enjoy some snacks.
5/29: AAPI Heritage Month Celebration at Tracy Gee Community Center
Bring the whole family and enjoy a Library story time followed by candy sushi-making and more fun activities!