Unlikely Collaborators is bringing astrophysicist Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger to Santa Monica for a conversation centered on one of science’s most enduring questions: Are we alone in the universe? The event, part of the organization’s Spark Salon series, took place on March 17 at 7:00 p.m. PT and was offered both in person and via livestream.

Kaltenegger, founding director of the Carl Sagan Institute at Cornell University and a professor of astronomy, is widely recognized for her work on habitable exoplanets and the search for detectable signs of life beyond Earth. Her talk focused not only on the science of planet hunting, but also on the assumptions people bring to questions about life, habitability, and reality itself.

According to the event announcement, the discussion examined how scientists interpret data from distant worlds and asked broader questions about what counts as life, what makes a planet habitable, and how human perspective can shape discovery. The program also highlighted how the search for life beyond Earth can challenge long-held ideas about what is normal, possible, and even alive.

The evening included a reception, the main program, and a book signing. In-person guests also received a complimentary copy of Kaltenegger’s book, Alien Earths: The New Science for Planet Hunting in the Cosmos.

Unlikely Collaborators, founded by Elizabeth R. Koch, describes itself as a nonprofit focused on helping people better understand themselves and the world through its Perception Box framework. The Spark Salon series regularly brings together researchers, artists, and thought leaders for conversations designed to challenge perspective and encourage reflection.

Related Links

• Unlikely Collaborators official website
• Event details: Are We Alone in the Universe?
• Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger’s book: Alien Earths: The New Science for Planet Hunting in the Cosmos
• Cornell profile: Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger

Source

• Source: Unlikely Collaborators via PR Newswire

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Little Woodrow’s Opens 2026 Turtle Racing Season Across Texas

Little Woodrow’s is bringing back one of its most recognizable Thursday night traditions with the launch of its 2026 turtle racing season, this year under a new retro sci-fi-inspired theme called TurtleVerse. The season officially began March 5 and runs weekly through Nov. 19 at participating locations in Houston, San Antonio, Lubbock, Austin and, later this spring, Frisco.

The long-running event, which started in Midtown Houston nearly two decades ago, has grown into a signature piece of the Texas neighborhood bar chain’s identity. This year’s TurtleVerse concept adds a comic-book-style multiverse angle to the races, pairing the usual crowd energy with themed branding and a lineup of turtles carrying names like Turtle Swift, Shellvester Stallone and Timothée Shellamet.

Woody’s Brands President Ray Risley said the company wanted to build on one of Little Woodrow’s most popular traditions by leaning into both nostalgia and humor. In addition to the themed races, the company is also introducing a new Turtle Journey loyalty program, allowing guests to check in, earn points and redeem rewards throughout the season.

Little Woodrow’s said races begin at 7 or 8 p.m., depending on location. Fans can find schedules, turtle bios and loyalty program details at Little Woodrow’s website.

Related Links

• Little Woodrow’s Turtle Racing
• Woody’s Brands

Source

Source: Woody’s Brands via PRNewswire

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Two landmark institutions in American music are coming together for a major live event in Washington, D.C. The Apollo Theater and the Howard Theatre have announced Best of the Apollo, scheduled for April 26, 2026, at the Howard Theatre, marking the first official co-presentation between the two iconic venues.

Hosted by comedian and actor Chris Spencer, the event brings together two stages with deep roots in Black performance history. Both the Apollo and the Howard were key stops on the Chitlin’ Circuit, the network of venues that supported Black artists during segregation and helped shape the course of American music. Artists including Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye all performed on these stages.

What to watch for: this is more than a one-night concert. It is a symbolic link between Harlem and Washington, D.C., two cities with major influence on Black cultural history. The event also honors the legacy of Amateur Night at the Apollo, the long-running talent showcase known for introducing new artists to wider audiences. Performers have not yet been announced, so the lineup will be a key next step to watch.

The show takes place Sunday, April 26, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show starting at 7 p.m. at the Howard Theatre in Washington, D.C. Early-bird tickets start at $60.

Related Links

• Apollo Theater
• Howard Theatre

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