Brenda Valdivia

1 week ago | houstonpublicmedia.org | Brenda Valdivia

A philosopher, a physicist, and an engineer walk into a bar…no, it's not a joke. It's any given night in Greater Houston when curious crowds can be found filling breweries and darkened back rooms across the city to hear professors, experts, and enthusiasts on any particular subject tackle big ideas from artificial intelligence to anime — all with a pint in hand — at a variety of different events aimed at engaging the mind (and not just dousing it with alcohol).

2 weeks ago | houstonpublicmedia.org | Brenda Valdivia

Summer is coming, and it already feels like it's here for some. Kids are home for the school break, relatives are visiting, and sometimes you need to take a break and do a little exploring...if you can afford it. More people are searching for low-cost or free entertainment options in Houston these days. While there are plenty of affordable outdoor activities, like parks, the high summer temperatures can make it tough to stay cool and stay on budget.

2 weeks ago | houstonpublicmedia.org | Mincho Jacob |Brenda Valdivia

For more than four decades now, the Kinder Houston Area Survey has measured the attitudes, beliefs and experiences of Houstonians. It's the longest-running study of its kind, examining one of the most important metropolitan regions in the country. This year's survey was released Monday (May 19, 2025). And it reveals a bit of a mixed bag.

1 month ago | houstonpublicmedia.org | Brenda Valdivia

Each election cycle, the Lone Star Parity Project tracks the number of men and women running for elected office in Texas in primary and general elections. According to its latest report, 2025 State of the Texas Woman, more than a thousand men ran unopposed in various offices across the state in 2024. The non-partisan organization wants to change that. Adrianna Maberry is its co-founder and research director.

1 month ago | houstonpublicmedia.org | Brenda Valdivia

Houston is a foodie paradise, famous for our steaks, BBQ, and Tex-Mex. But real Houstonians know there is so much more to be savored. Craving fresh-baked bread? A killer deli? A farmers market bursting with local goodies? That got Houston Matters producer Brenda Valdivia thinking: What if we made the Houston sandwich? A sandwich made entirely from local ingredients — baked, roasted, matured, pickled, and harvested here in Houston.