Hey everyone! I’m in DC and New York this weekend but I’m actually a little jealous of what all is happening in Houston (except for the storm; please stay safe!). As always, you can visit MerlexPicks.com for more events and sign up for my newsletter!

100th Anniversary of Camp Logan Mutiny
August 25 – 26, 2017
The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is proud to announce its 100th Commemoration of the Camp Logan Mutiny. In 1917, a clash between police and Buffalo Soldiers erupted in Houston leaving 17 civilians and officers and 4 Buffalo soldiers dead. This little-known tragedy led to the largest murder trial and largest court-martial in U.S. history. Activities include a Camp Logan Reenactment Play on Friday at 6pm and Lecture Series with remarks from mutiny descendants on Saturday at 10am. Learn more here. 

HISD School Board Candidate Forum
Thu, August 24, 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Six of the HISD School Board Seats are up for election in November. This is your opportunity to hear directly from the candidates. Come join us to discuss the major issues facing HISD. Learn more here. 

Princess Nokia Headlines- “UNITY Women’s Music & Art Show
Thursday, August 24, 6:30pm – 11:00pm
Lots of local acts on the bill as well. Princess Nokia is a musical collective lead by twenty-four year old Destiny Nicole Ortiz (formerly known as Wavy Spice). Destiny is an up and coming, multifaceted, DIY artist from the New York City underground. Her unique musical style blends tribal beats, with trip hop and R&B – creating an exciting and unprecedented crossover of sounds. A bit pricey but it should be fun. $45. Learn more here. 

Closing reception: Carlos Cruz-Diez La Autonomía del Color
Thursday, August 24, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Last chance to see this remarkable exhibition by a master artist of kinetic art and one who has made a significant contribution to Houston’s vibrant art scene. Includes a special talk by MFAH Assistant Curator of Latin American and Latino Art, Rachel Mohl. Learn more here. 

Film and Psychoanalysis: Moonlight
Thursday, August 24, 7pm – 10pm
Four Thursdays in August, four different free film screenings with discussions afterward.
Co-sponsored by the Houston Psychoanalytic Society, The 2017 Oscar recipient for best picture is a gorgeously rendered, paradigm-breaking film made by a black writer, director, and cast. Learn more here. 

Play: Say That He More Than A Dream
August 25 – 27, 2017
Houston premiere of Lois Moses’ “Say That He More Than A Dream.” This gripping multifaceted drama honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the sacrifices he made during the last years of his courageous life. HMAAC brings you the Philadelphia-based First World Theatre Ensemble production of this provocative piece that moves beyond the “mountaintop.” Learn more here. 

UR Talks: Sexuality and Spirituality
Friday, August 25, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Upper Room Houston is excited to announce the first in a series of dynamic curated experiences for young adults in Houston. Announcing UR TALKS: “Sexuality and Spirituality – Bridging the Divide, Embracing the Tension”. Make plans to join us for a night of entertainment, social engagement, and provocative dialogue from guests and attendees that are as diverse as Houston! Learn more here. 

Writers of Color Workshop Reading Showcase
Friday, August 25, 7pm – 10pm
Please join the Writers of Color Workshop participants as they celebrate and showcase their work! Hosted by Writespace and the “WOC” Workshop Guru, Adrienne Perry. Light refreshments and amiable chit chat to follow. Learn more here. 

Vibe & Ride #ForTheCulture: Twerk Anthems
Friday, August 25, 7:00pm – 9:30pm
At this music themed event, Vibe & Ride #ForTheCulture, riders will experience a cruise around the city streets like no other on the Dutch Bikes with stops in Midtown Bagby Park and sounds from various artist from the playlsit such Travis Porter, Ying Yang Twins, Big Freeda and the list goes on. Learn more here. 

The Fix (Houston) 8.25.17 Dj Big Reeks + Marcus BDAY Celebration
Fri, August 25, 9pm – Sat, August 26, 2am
Bringing back the true essence of the Dance party with Hip Hop and R&B flavas crossing many decades. Please join us for “THE FIX”. If you’ve been to Alley Kat or Breakfast Klub you know Marcus; if you’ve been to Waxaholics Thursdays or 5015 on Sunday you know Big Reeks. Learn more here. 

SunnySide Community Block Party
Saturday, August 26, 10am – 4pm
An annual event that serves to honor the Sunnyside area- while, commemorate the families and businesses of this special community. The goal is to uplift the youth and empower its residents by donating school supplies, hosting a fundraiser and artist showcase so that we may expose them to a positive environment and diverse culture. Learn more here. 

Alley Kat Day Party ft. Big Daddy Kane
Saturday, August 26, 3pm – 10pm
https://www.facebook.com/events/380113529071737/

Blood Rich Legacies
Saturday, October 21 at 4 PM – 7 PM
Come meet artists Lee Carrier, Royal, and Paty Lennon and view their work addressing stereo-types, micro-aggressions and all the silly and ridiculous things we can’t help but laugh about when addressing race. They have a 10 foot collaborative mural installation in store along with a selection of our art pieces on display. Learn more here. 

Houston Roller Derby 2017 Championships
Saturday, August 26, 7pm – 10pm
Come join Houston Roller Derby at Revention Music Center for their FINAL double header event of the season on Saturday, August 26th, 2017! Doors open at 6 pm, First game whistle at 7 pm. Each bout has two (2) 30 minute periods, with breaks in between. Get there early to ensure best seating! $15 and it’s really fun! Learn more here. 

Houston Neo Soul Session: V
Saturday, August 26, 9pm – Sun, August 27, 2am
Featuring Kristal Cherelle, Big Brandon Willis & The Afroknotts, Philippe Edison (beat set) followed by the open jam session as always horn players, and other instrumentalist are welcomed to sit in. Eroda One will be on the 1 &2’s curating the music between sets and closing out. Perfect warm-up for freshDark Fest. Learn more here. 

Theater District Open House
Sunday, August 27, 12pm – 5pm
Marking the official launch of the fall performing arts season, the event is a free, family-friendly festival that takes place at venues throughout the Theater District in Downtown Houston. Get a taste of all the arts and your season tickets! Learn more here.