Media Contact:
David Perry & Associates, Inc / David Perry / (415) 676-7007

International Pride Orchestra Makes Historic Texas Debut at
Houston’s Wortham Center, Following New State Drag Ban

Historic Texas Debut on June 3, 2026 Benefits the Montrose Center, Houston’s Premier LGBTQ+ Community Organization

18 May 2026 – Houston, Texas: In a rehearsal room in San Francisco just three years ago, something remarkable happened. More than 80 musicians, queer people and their allies, gathered from around the world, lifted their instruments and played together for the first time. For many, it was the first time they had ever made music as their full, authentic selves. Those first historic notes were the start of something special that continues to this day.

That orchestra was the International Pride Orchestra (IPO). And on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 7:30 p.m., IPO brings that spirit to Houston for its Texas debut, a one-night-only concert at the Cullen Theater at the Wortham Center, 501 Texas Ave, with a portion of ticket proceeds benefiting the Montrose Center, Houston’s largest and most beloved LGBTQ+ community center.

The concert arrives at a pivotal moment for Texas and for LGBTQ+ Americans everywhere. Just weeks after Texas enacted one of the nation’s most targeted drag performance bans, a law years in the making, IPO is bringing its 85+ LGBTQ+ musicians and allies to the Lone Star State to make an unambiguous statement: queer artistry cannot and will not be silenced. The orchestra comes to Houston fresh off a celebrated performance at the Music Center at Strathmore as part of WorldPride 2025 in Washington DC. 

The program IPO has assembled for Houston is both sweeping and intimate, a journey through American music and beyond that speaks to endurance, identity, and joy including music by Leonard Bernstein, Carlos Simon, Gabriella Lena Frank, and Reza Vali, among others. The concert closes with Lincoln Portrait by Aaron Copland.

“We built this program around the idea that visibility is not one-dimensional,” said IPO’s Founder and Music Director Michael Roest. “Queer life contains joy, grief, resistance, humor, beauty, anger, love, and hope. This program reflects the fullness of that experience, and we are honored to bring it to Houston.”

The program will be led by a distinguished trio of conductors including Christine Brandes, guest conductor at Seattle Opera, Atlanta Opera and Chicago Opera Theater, Robert Moody, the music director of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, and Arizona MusicFest, and Michael Roest, the orchestra’s visionary founder, who has guided the ensemble from the ground up. Together, they have curated a program that confronts, celebrates, and reflects the realities of the world around us.

“Selecting Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait for orchestra and narrator was a conscious choice made against the backdrop of the current assaults on the fundamental pillars of our nation as we approach its 250th anniversary,” Brandes said. “It is a powerful and moving work, made even more so by having Davóne Tines as our narrator. We in the queer community must rise up and loudly say, ‘This is what America and democracy look like.’”

Draped in glamour, chaos, and pure theatrical magic, San Francisco–based drag icon Peaches Christ will take center stage as host for the evening, delivering the signature high camp and razor-sharp humor that only Peaches can bring.

“Being part of the International Pride Orchestra has become a personal PRIDE highlight for me each year,” Peaches said. “It’s a space where openly queer musicians can take the stage, not only with excellence and pride, but for an audience that recognizes itself in them. And when this kind of work is presented in places like Texas, at a moment when trans and drag communities are being directly targeted through legislation and rhetoric, it takes on an even deeper resonance.”

Joining Peaches is acclaimed bass-baritone Davóne Tines, heralded by The New Yorker as an artist “changing what it means to be a classical singer and one of the most powerful voices of our time.” Tines is a pathbreaking artist whose work encompasses a diverse repertoire, ranging from early music to new commissions by leading composers, while exploring the social issues of today. alsoanoperasinger.org

The concert will also highlight the vital work of the Montrose Center (montrosecenter.org), which has served Houston’s LGBTQ+ community since 1978. A portion of ticket proceeds from the evening will directly support the Center’s wide range of services aimed at empowering LGBTQ+ individuals and their families to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

The concert also carries a particular resonance for Houston itself. Inspired by her own experience as an IPO participant, Houston musician Ruby Ortiz launched the first-ever Houston Pride Orchestra, a direct and living legacy of what happens when queer musicians are given a stage and told: you belong here. “The International Pride Orchestra changed my life,” Ortiz said. “It showed me the kind of community I had never experienced as a queer musician in Texas, and I realized that the orchestra I’d been waiting for someone else to create was something I needed to help start.” That spirit is what IPO has always been about, and it’s what brings the orchestra to the Wortham Center on June 3rd.

CONCERT DETAILS:
Date: Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
Venue: Cullen Theater at the Wortham Center, 501 Texas Ave, Houston, TX
Tickets: Starting at $28.75 with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Montrose Center
Purchase: performingartshouston.org/events/

Learn more: internationalprideorchestra.org

Photos/Logos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1KliemqPnVuIs4BY6y-NO4f2SDg1Scxnc?usp=sharing

Media Contact: David Perry & Associates, Inc. / David Perry (415) 676-7007 news@davidperry.com

Bay to Breakers Marks Biggest Year in More Than a Decade

More than 30,000 registered participants run, walk and celebrate across San Francisco, capped by an epic Golden Gate Park festival drawing 30,000 revelers

17 May 2026 – San Francisco, CA: Bay to Breakers roared across San Francisco today with its biggest field in more than a decade, drawing more than 30,000 registered participants for the city’s legendary 12K celebration of cardio, costumes, chaos and community. Leading off the festive pack of runners was San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie alongside Gerd Rosenblatt, 92 years young.

From the start line near the Embarcadero to the finish inside Golden Gate Park, the 2026 running of Bay to Breakers delivered everything that has made the race a San Francisco institution since 1912: elite competition, corporate teams, families, first-time runners, longtime devotees, outrageous costumes, neighborhood energy and the unmistakable spirit of only-in-San-Francisco joy.

“Today proved once again why Bay to Breakers is more than a race — it is San Francisco at full volume,” said Phyllis Blanchard, Bay to Breakers / Motiv Sports. “To welcome more than 30,000 registered participants — our largest field in over a decade — and see the city turn out from the Bay to Golden Gate Park was extraordinary.”

Photo Credit: RWB Multimedia / Motiv Sports
(Video of Bay to Breakers Start)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1L0hLmoOwDFA8cxTx3KlRqbLbCS6AeJeX/view?usp=drivesdk 

Official 12K results showed Nolan Hosbein, 22, winning the men’s overall title in 37:16; Tamara Jewett, 36, winning the women’s overall title in 40:46; and David Elk, 29, winning the nonbinary division in 41:47. The official Brooksee results page shows Hosbein first overall in the 12K at 37:16 and Jewett first female at 40:46; the nonbinary result is reflected in current race-day reporting of the official results.

In the 15K Breakers Bonus, which added three more kilometers for runners who wanted to keep the challenge going, Timothy Liu, 22, of San Francisco, won the men’s overall title in 54:44; Bella Bueno, 23, of Larkspur, won the women’s overall title in 1:04:35; and Miguel Mercado, 37, of San Bruno, won the nonbinary division in 1:18:21, according to the official Brooksee 15K awards page.

Photo Credit: Motiv Sports

Following the race, Golden Gate Park became the scene of an epic post-run party and festival that drew an estimated 30,000 revelers for live entertainment, sponsor activations, music, food, costumes, photos, reunions and the kind of civic celebration that only Bay to Breakers can deliver. Participants and spectators filled the park in a colorful, high-energy finale that transformed the finish experience into a full-scale San Francisco festival.

SurveyMonkey, Bay to Breakers’ Official Curiosity Partner, was also on hand as part of the event’s expanded participant-experience efforts, helping gather real-time insights from runners, media, sponsors and stakeholders throughout race weekend. The partnership was announced earlier this month as a new way to capture participant, media and stakeholder feedback during race weekend.

“Bay to Breakers is iconic because it belongs to everyone who shows up — runners, walkers, families, fans, sponsors, volunteers and the city itself,” said Eric Johnson, CEO of SurveyMonkey. “Seeing more than 30,000 people take part this year, and then watching that energy carry into Golden Gate Park, shows the power of listening to participants and continuing to improve an event people already love.”

Blanchard noted that the combination of a larger field, a new finish experience and an expanded festival footprint marked an important milestone for the future of the event.

“This year was a turning point,” said Blanchard. “The energy, the participation and the Golden Gate Park celebration all point to a bright future for Bay to Breakers. We are honoring the race’s incredible history while building the next chapter — one that is bigger, more inclusive, more festive and more connected to the city than ever.”

Since 1912, Bay to Breakers has been a defining part of San Francisco’s civic and cultural identity. Known for its cross-city course, festive atmosphere, creative costumes, elite competition and unmatched community energy, the race continues to attract participants from across the Bay Area and around the world.

About Bay to Breakers:
Bay to Breakers is San Francisco’s world-famous footrace, a one-of-a-kind 12K celebration that has been part of the city’s fabric since 1912. Known for its iconic cross-city course, inclusive spirit, creative costumes, elite competition and unforgettable community energy, Bay to Breakers welcomes runners, walkers, corporate teams, families and fans from across the Bay Area and around the world. For more information, visit BaytoBreakers.com.

About SurveyMonkey:
SurveyMonkey is the world’s most popular platform for surveys and forms, built for business and loved by users. We combine powerful capabilities with intuitive design, effectively serving every use case, from customer experience to employee engagement, market research to payment and registration forms. With built-in research expertise and AI-powered technology, SurveyMonkey helps teams gather insights and information that inspire better decisions, create experiences people love and drive business growth. Discover how at surveymonkey.com.

About Motiv Sports:
Motiv Sports is a leading producer of active lifestyle events across the United States, creating memorable race experiences that connect participants, communities and brand partners through running, celebration and endurance. Its portfolio includes some of the country’s most distinctive endurance events, including Bay to Breakers and Surf City Marathon.

media contact:  David Perry / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

 
MEDIA ADVISORY / COVERAGE REQUEST

SUNDAY, MAY 17: 5am – 8am: Interview opportunities with Race principals and sponsors from SurveyMonkey, BioFreeze, Waymo, Motiv Sports, and SilverBack.  The media tent will be located at the northeast corner of Fremont and Howard Street (next to the old “Town Hall” / 542 Howard Street). Press should enter from Mission Street at Fremont. FREE coffee service for members of the press will be provided by BrewBird: Interview opps in media tent

Sunday Bay to Breakers
Some 20,000 participants, many in costumes, are expected to take part in Bay Area’s most historic and beloved events on Sunday; Residents are advised to plan and expect delays; alternate routes are available; more information at www.BaytoBreakers.com

WHAT:
The 115th running of the iconic Bay to Breakers road race returns this Sunday. City of San Francisco residents and visitors can expect road closures and delays on Sunday from the waterfront from the San Francisco Bay in downtown all the way to Ocean Beach. The streets will reopen on a rolling basis as soon as the last participant has passed and all course support materials have been removed.

WHEN:
Sunday, May 17
6:00 am – Citywide Road Closures begin
8:00 am – Official Race Start Time
2:00 pm – Majority of Course Reopens

WHERE:
Start: Main and Howard St.
Finish: 21291 Pacific Coast Highway
San Francisco, California

MORE:
Bay to Breakers features a challenging USA Track and Field-certified 12-K (7.46 miles) course.  Starting at the base of the San Francisco Bay, the course rises steeply along the City’s famous Hayes Street Hill.  Around the 2.5-mile mark runners climb an 11.15 percent grade between Fillmore and Steiner streets, bringing them to the highest point in the race, approximately 215 feet above sea level. The remainder of the course gradually flows alongside the Panhandle and through Golden Gate Park and ends at the Pacific Ocean.

media contact:  David Perry & Associates, Inc, David Perry
(415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com   

Braille Institute Breaks Ground on New 5,200-Square-Foot
Coachella Valley Center in Rancho Mirage

www.brailleinstitute.org

New facility will expand free, life-changing services for Coachella Valley residents living with macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and other forms of vision loss

15 May 2026, Rancho Mirage, CA: On Wednesday, May 6, the Braille Institute of America officially broke ground on its new 5,200-square-foot Coachella Valley Center in Rancho Mirage, marking a major milestone in the organization’s more than century-long mission to help people with vision loss live with independence, confidence, and connection.

The ceremony took place at the future home of Braille Institute Coachella Valley, 42525 Rancho Mirage Lane, and brought together civic leaders, donors, supporters, staff, volunteers, students, and members of the Braille Institute community. The new center is expected to open in November 2026.

“Rancho Mirage is a community where people come to live — not just longer, but better,” said Rancho Mirage Mayor Lynn Mallotto, noting the importance of local support systems as the region’s population continues to age. “Today, nearly one in four residents in the Coachella Valley is over the age of 65, and that number continues to grow. With that growth comes responsibility. Thousands of our neighbors, friends, and family members are already living with vision loss, and many more will need sustainable support systems in the years ahead. We are proud to welcome this investment into Rancho Mirage,” she added, “and we look forward to the impact it will have on our community for years to come.”

The Braille Institute has served the Coachella Valley since 1973, when it opened its first local center in nearby Palm Desert. Over the past five decades, the organization has helped thousands of area residents through low vision assessments, orientation and mobility training, assistive technology instruction, independent living classes, and other free services. Last year alone, nearly 450 people in the region participated in Braille Institute programs — a number the organization says represents only a fraction of the need.

“This new center comes at a critical moment,” said Dimitri Kales, CEO of Braille Institute of America. “The Coachella Valley has one of the fastest-growing senior populations in California. As that population grows, so does the prevalence of age-related vision loss — from macular degeneration to glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.”

Kales said the Rancho Mirage facility will play an important role in Braille Institute’s five-year strategic plan, Mission Magnified, which aims to serve 200,000 people annually by 2030.

“This is more than a building,” said Kales. “It’s a place where independence is rebuilt. We imagine this new center enriching lives by providing confidence, skills, and connection. It will serve as a low vision hub for the entire region — a place where people can receive practical support, hands-on training, and the reassurance that they are not alone.”

The new center will include a Low Vision Treatment Room, Discovery Lab for assistive technology, adaptive Teaching Kitchen, classroom and community room, social work and counseling services, outdoor Orientation and Mobility Path, garden, and guide-dog area. All services will continue to be provided free of charge.

A highlight of the ceremony was the personal testimony of Braille Institute student and volunteer Stella Espinosa, who spoke about rebuilding her independence after experiencing vision loss from glaucoma.

“My journey with vision loss didn’t begin with an accident,” said Espinosa. “It came gradually, in the middle of everyday life. It took me many attempts to build the courage to enter the Braille Institute building. I had all the excuses and fears you can imagine a mom raising kids has. But what I found at Braille Institute was something I didn’t expect: the tools, the confidence, and the support to keep moving forward.”

Espinosa, who was a single mother working in a local medical office when her vision began to deteriorate, said Braille Institute helped her regain confidence and purpose.

“That sense of purpose is what drives me to give back to others,” she said. “Braille Institute gave me hope through daily living tips, resources, and support. I’m so excited about this new center, and I’m already planning how I’ll get here on my own.”

Kales introduced Espinosa as an example of the human impact behind the new facility.

“The true impact of this work is best understood through the people we serve,” said Kales. “Stella turned to Braille Institute to rebuild her confidence and independence, and today she continues to give back to others on that same journey as one of our treasured volunteers.”

Of all the regions Braille Institute serves, the Coachella Valley has the highest percentage of low vision clients. Nearly one-quarter of the region’s population is 65 or older, an age group more likely to develop vision loss due to macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and other conditions.

Only about 10 percent of Braille Institute’s clients are fully blind; the vast majority live with some degree of usable vision. Because most vision loss is progressive rather than sudden, early intervention and ongoing support can make an enormous difference — helping individuals adapt safely and confidently to changes in their sight.

The Rancho Mirage center will serve as a regional hub for residents across the Coachella Valley and surrounding communities. The facility is designed to provide both practical training and emotional support, helping clients maintain independence while reducing isolation.

Planned features and services include:

Low Vision Treatment Room — Certified occupational therapists will provide personalized low vision assessments and rehabilitation, paired with emotional support and connection through newcomer groups. Specialists will help individuals maximize remaining vision using digital magnifiers, enhanced lighting, contrast techniques, and other adaptive strategies.

Discovery Lab — Expert staff will train clients on the latest assistive technologies, including smartphone apps, digital magnifiers, computer tools, and devices that support independent living.

Teaching Kitchen — An adaptive kitchen where trained specialists will provide instruction on preparing and cooking food safely, and organizing a kitchen for people with low or no vision.

Lobby and Conference/Community Room — A welcoming entryway and spacious community room will host support groups, presentations, workshops, staff training, youth activities, and community events.

Classroom — A dedicated classroom will offer courses throughout the year focused on daily living, technology, safe movement, and skills that can be put into practice immediately.

Social Work Services and Counseling — In-person and group counseling will help clients and families navigate the emotional challenges of vision loss.

Orientation and Mobility Path — An outdoor practice trail will allow instructors to help clients learn to navigate safely and confidently in real-world settings.

Garden — An outdoor garden space will offer rest, contemplation, conversation, and views of the San Jacinto Mountains. A fountain will also serve as an aural cue to help clients orient themselves.

Guide-Dog Area — A dedicated outdoor space will support the service dogs many clients rely upon.

The May 6 groundbreaking concluded with a ceremonial turning of the soil and photo opportunity with Braille Institute leadership, community members, civic leaders, donors, staff, volunteers, and supporters including Rancho Mirage Mayor Pro Tem Michael O’Keefe, Councilman Steve Downs and Dylan Callaway from Assemblyman Greg Wallis’ office. “This new center represents a meaningful investment in the future of the Coachella Valley,” said Patrick Evans, Chief Meteorologist and host of Eye on the Desert at KESQ, who served as emcee for the groundbreaking program. “For more than 106 years, Braille Institute has supported individuals facing vision loss with the tools and training they need to remain independent — and all of these services are provided free of charge thanks to the generosity of individuals and supporters who believe in this mission. We look forward to welcoming the community back for the grand opening later this year. This center represents the beginning of a new chapter for Braille Institute in the Coachella Valley — and a reminder that 100 percent free services will remain at the heart of its work.”About Braille Institute of America:Braille Institute of America has served Southern California communities for more than a century, providing free programs and services that help individuals with vision loss live with independence and confidence. The organization’s programs extend far beyond traditional braille instruction and include free in-person and online classes, low vision consultations, orientation and mobility training, assistive technology instruction, an award-winning library, and enrichment programs for adults, youth, and families. Thanks to ongoing donor support, all services remain free.