HMNS Plans Month-Long Earth Day Celebration

HMNS Plans Month-Long Earth Day Celebration

AT THE START of a new month, in the beginning of a new season, after a year during which more people than ever were reminded of the beauty of the outdoors, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is celebrating Mother Earth like never before.


Throughout the month of April, HMNS has planned nature- and conservation-themed exhibits, tours and activities in honor of Earth Day, which is April 22.

On Wednesdays, virtual tours of various exhibit halls will call out various conservation themes and efforts, and facilitate conversation about how viewers can change the world around them. Other special events include classes like one on bug life at Brazos Bend State Park; one on pollinators at HMNS Sugar Land; and more.

And on April 10, the annual Spring Plant Sale will also be a virtual event. This year's is expected to be more popular than ever, as Houstonians are eager to replant after the historic freeze. Bonus: Find a stunning variety of blooms that will encourage pollinators to visit and beautify your yard! All proceeds fittingly benefit the Cockrell Butterfly Center.

At the end of the month, nature-lovers are encouraged to participate in the City Nature Challenge by utilizing the iNaturalist app on their phones. It's a four-day "bioblitz" during which users are encouraged to spend time outside and document the wildlife they see. This year's event is April 30-May 3.

Artist Luke Jerram's installation — 23 feet in diameter — featuring high-res NASA imagery of the Earth's surface hangs on the main campus throughout April, a stunning reminder of our planet's fragility and beauty during an important month.

People + Places
Leadership in Action: ‘Setting Clear Goals’ Among Secrets of Success for Attorney Jess Bailey

How did you get to where you are today? A few key principles integrated into my life: setting clear goals, maintaining a growth mindset, building strong habits, and surrounding myself with the right people. Goals provided direction, while a growth mindset helped me turn challenges into opportunities for learning. Consistent habits, like disciplined work and effective communication, kept me moving forward. Being surrounded by motivated, supportive individuals has elevated my standards and kept me accountable. They’ve provided advice, encouragement, and sometimes that extra push I needed to stay on track. With these elements, I’ve been able to create a framework that helps me succeed and ensures I continue to grow and evolve.

Keep Reading Show less
People + Places

AS WE MOVE into Movember, men’s mental health is a big topic. In fact, men can get a lot of benefit, both mentally and physically by taking advantage of everything a spa has to offer. LeBrina Jackson, owner of Escape Spa, has the answers

How does Escape Spa cater to men? We designed Escape Spa to ensure both men and women feel comfortable and welcome. From our earth tones to our luxury brown unisex robes, this is not a pampering palace but a rejuvenation destination.

Keep Reading Show less

Jessica and Ryan Getz, Grace Ward

HOUSTON NONPROFIT Dec My Room threw a country-music-filled bash at House of Blues, where supporters two-stepped the night away and raised record-breaking proceeds, which will be used to decorate and customize hospital rooms of pediatric and young-adult patients all over the country. To date, the organization has improved the attitudes and healing process of 18,000 patients in nearly 200 hospitals.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties