Cinco de Mayo! Mom's Night Out

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In celebration of hardworking mom's everywhere, Austin Mom's Blog has outdone themselves, yet again, in curating a festive Cinco de Mayo party! As hundreds of mom's filled the grounds of the historic, Barr Mansion, their Cinco de Mayo! Mom's Night Out event was featured in their largest venue to date. 

Marking 2016 as one of the rainiest season's Austinites have seen in a while, the reprieve of rain created the perfect opportunity to explore the vast landscape and verdant, flower laden gardens. As our favorite vendors lined the rustic ballroom, we enjoyed tasty treats, drinks and mingled with the local moms while enjoying a night of pampering and relaxation. 

Austin Mom's Blog partnered with Center for Child Protection as their charity of choice for this year's Cinco De Mayo! Mom's Night Out event.

The Center for Child Protection is a nationally accredited children's advocacy center and the only nonprofit in Travis County involved in the investigation of crimes against children. For more than 25 years, the Center has been the first stop fro children in Travis County who are suspected victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect and for children who have witnessed a violent crime. The center is a child-friendly, specially0equipped facility where children go for recorded forensic interviews, medical exams, counseling and intervention. All services are provided to children and their protective caregivers free of charge and are available in English and Spanish. In 2015, the Center conducted 1,025 forensic interviews, provided 4, 763 services to children and 4,099 services to adults. For more information, visit www.certerforchildprotection.org. To learn the signs of child abuse, how to prevent it and hot to report it, please visit www.StopItStopIt.org.

Barr Mansion is an 1898 house on the National Register of Historic Places. The Artisan Ballroom is a reconstructed 1700s New York Dutch barn, hand-hewn with lumber from trees that were living when Columbus came to America. The Farmstead is an outdoor pavilion with a large solar array angled to catch the afternoon sun. Delicious eats: Every single ingredient is certified organic, and we are growing more and more of our own produce every day. Interactive food stations and family-style service cultivate community and make for a spirited gathering. Our mission to improve our environmental footprint informs every decision we make. For instance, our farm tables, designed by an Austin craftsman, are built from sustainable, locally harvested pecan, sycamore, and red oak.

Title Sponsors:

Comfy and Chic Boutique :: an Austin based boutique created by two hard-working mamas. They work to create a virtual boutique experience where you can find chic, affordable AND comfortable clothes. Shipping is always free, so put your kids to bed, put your feet up and click on over to give them a try. They’ll do the rest!

Lonestar Pediatric Dental :: With 6 locations all across Austin, Lone Star Pediatric Dental goes above and beyond to make each dental visit an experience free from stress and filled with fun. As always parents can accompany their children for exams, hygiene treatments, and operative work to provide the comfort they need. They also have extensive experience with special needs children and adults and are equipped to provide quality service in all situations. Their Doctors are Board Certified and/or Eligible in Pediatric Dentistry and are ready to be your family dentist for years to come.

Vitalogy Skincare :: Vitalogy Skincare is a full-service dermatology practice specializing in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Medical Dermatology, Cosmetic Dermatology, Plastic Surgery and clinical aesthetic procedures. Dedicated to your lifelong skincare journey, our team is focused on keeping your skin healthy and looking great. At Vitalogy, we go beyond skincare — we practice patient care. The health of your skin deserves our highest level of care, from acne to skin cancer treatments and from fillers to facials. Not only committed to providing you with the highest level of care, we’re dedicated to arming you with the knowledge and education necessary to care for and protect your skin. Vitalogy. For life, and the life of your skin.

Cocktails:

Tequila 512 :: A premium quality tequila without the gimmicks, Tequila 512 is the product of a lot of blood, sweat and tears from Austinite, and Dad of four (!) children, Scott Willis. His mission is to capture the soul of Austin in the tequila. and he will be serving his prized tequila with margaritas at the beautiful main bar service area inside the Barr Mansion.

Tekeen :: TEKEEN is Texas’ newest and most versatile premium drink made with agave nectar, orange wine, and all natural flavors! ENJOY IT OVER ICE OR MIX IT INTO A COCKTAIL OR SHOT. With a crisp and refreshing taste, TEKEEN is the perfect complement to your pool party, night out, or social gathering.

Crystal Creek Moonshine :: Born out of the Austin Hill Country and inspired by The Roaring ’20s, Crystal Creek Moonshine brings a new twist to an American classic. Distilling the highest quality of shine made from Texas-grown ingredients creates a unique taste that is perfect for drinking on the rocks or in almost any combination of mixed drink! By providing a percentage of sales to a cause which could make a difference would give Crystal Creek Moonshine a genuine reason to exist. The purest reason to distill. The goal is to provide as many people as they can with clean drinking water by donating a percentage of the profits from each and every bottle towards build water wells. They then donate that money to an Austin-based charity called, A Glimmer of Hope.

Dripping Springs Vodka – Dripping Springs Vodka and Dripping Springs Artisan Gin are smooth, handcrafted spirits made in the Texas Hill Country.  They’re made with sweet non-GMO corn, are gluten free and are certified Kosher. Dripping Springs Vodka and Gin are distilled in handmade copper-pot stills in small 50 and 40-gallon batches and are mixed with pure, mineral-rich artesian spring water. Dripping Springs Vodka is the ONLY American vodka to have won “Gold-Best in Class” and “The Vodka Purity” Trophy at the prestigious International Wine & Spirits Competition, and Dripping Springs Gin won Gold at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition earlier this year.

Food:

ChefATX :: ChefATX is a high quality and local chef based catering company with a meal deliver service founded by Chef Steve Constantine. We offer many different services, and can help you with any size event from 2 to 500. ChefDELIVERED is our meal delivery service offering convenient, healthy, affordable family style meals DELIVERED to your door.

Pickachili :: PickAChili is a local food trailer that puts a spin on chili. Their chili is made from scratch, and includes vegan as well as gluten free options. Whether you’re in the mood for a Texas traditional chili or one full of beans and chicken, you can find it at PickAChili.

MAD Greens :: Founded in 2004 with 20 locations across Colorado, Arizona and coming soon to Texas on April 7 (Grand Opening at The Domain), MAD Greenshas built a loyal following for its healthful, ‘crave-able’ and customizable menu, highlighted by gourmet made-to-order salads, topped with premium, farm-fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, fresh juices, grilled panini sandwiches, soups and wraps. Not to mention more than 20 salad dressings made from scratch each day by MAD Greens’ certified ‘Dressing Mixologists.’ All locations are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

OneTaco :: These tacos are the real deal, brought to you by two guys who wanted to bring the best tacos from Mexico to Austin. Your new favorite taco truck can be found behind Little Woodrow’son 6th or at the Midway Food park.

Aphrodite Oysters :: Meet Aphrodite! She is the Greek goddess of love, beauty, pleasure, fertility, and protectress of sailors. She is said to of been born from the sea-foam and floated ashore on a giant shell, thus Aphrodite is represented by the oyster shell. Aphrodite Oysters brings the raw bar to you, specializing in shucking the freshest oysters while mingling at your private parties, weddings, corporate events, and even boat cruises. Reserve your date now!

Hill Country Cakery :: A family-owned cottage food operation located in Lakeway, TX making fun and delicious custom cakes for weddings and special occasions. Everything is made to order, custom and fabulous. Cakes and treats are hand-crafted by a trained pastry chef and use fresh and mostly organic ingredients. 

Music:

Texas Pro DJ’s :: Texas Professional Disc Jockey is an Austin, TX based DJ company that serves the entire state and beyond. We have been providing services for events like yours since 1999. Our experience and professional staff brings the latest in entertainment services, so we can make your event a success. All of our DJs are hand-picked by Miles and are the best of the best. Paying attention to detail, going above and beyond, and possessing a great personality are qualities we look for in a DJ. Our team is always excited and truly love what they do and it shows.

TiNMAN Photobooth :: TiNMAN Photo Booth was founded by sisters Mariel MarTiN and Michelle OsMAN who both share a passion for creating memorable events. This sister team offers an extraordinary level of expertise and professionalism and their extreme attention to detail will leave nothing lacking. Let TiNMAN Photo Booth complete your event by representing your unique style and vision for what’s sure to be the party everyone will be talking about!

Fashion:

Comfy and Chic Boutique, one of our title sponsors, will be there featuring and selling clothing from their wonderful boutique! You’ll get a chance to see and shop in person for chic, affordable and very comfortable clothes.

Mad & Mac – Quite possibly the softest thong you’ll ever wear! Complete with their signature “Animal Print” liner, these functional and fun, made in Texas panties will have you tossing those Granny Panties for good! The Mad & Mac team uses exclusive “Microbrushed” lace which means this pantie is lightly brushed on the inside so it is great for sensitive skin! The onlylingerie company using this technique. You will love this line of fun, high-fashion, trend-setting, quality lingerie that is perfect for girls of any age.

SUAVS Shoes – SUAVS is a casual footwear brand based in and designing out of Austin, Texas, providing shoes that are the epitome of modern, stylish comfort. The unisex slip-on is made of a breathable Air Mesh sports fabric and microfiber terry insole, which provides elasticity, air venting and moisture wicking. Additionally, the rubber sole is composed at 55% density to allow for maximum flexibility. Designed for women and men on the go, the everyday shoe is specifically designed to prevent blistering even when going sockless.

Matilda Jane Clothing – Matilda Jane Clothing’s designs are youthful. Playful. And expressive. Our whimsical approach to texture, pattern and color results in designs that capture the spirit and imagination of childhood. Remember when your grandpa let you pick your own flavor of ice cream for the first time? That’swhat being a Matilda Jane girl is all about. Lucky for you, gals of all ages and sizes can join the fun! Matilda Jane Clothing is available in girls, tweens and adults. Flavors for all! Steffany Duke, Matilda Jane Clothing Independent Trunk Keeper #1356

Prov Clothing Co – Prov Clothing Co is a small boutique that strives to make every women feel like a Proverbs 31 Woman! In a world full of clothes made to fit a toddler, Sueann, the owner of Prov Clothing Co ,wanted to bring modesty back with a vengeance and show ladies (mostly her 15 year old daughter!) that you can be stylish, sophisticated and rockin’ no matter if you’re young or wiser.   Sueann strives everyday to raise her three girls as Proverb 31 ladies in hopes they do the same.

Pampering:

PRIV :: PRIV is the key to all your on-the-go beauty and lifestyle needs. In a flash, PRIV can deliver exclusive services directly to you, wherever you are. It’s a beautiful thing. Equipped with an esteemed network of stylists, PRIV offers its posh members first-rate access to primping essentials. Need a blowout before brunch? PRIV it. Looking for a last-minute mani after work? PRIV it. Craving an at-home massage? PRIV it.

Blo :: Blo is North America’s Original Blow Dry Bar. No cuts, no color: Just WASH BLOW GO. Guests choose from 7 styles featured in the Blo Hair Menu, from the razor-straight “Executive Sweet” to the runway-inspired “Pillow Talk”. It all started in 2007 with a vital question: “Why isn’t there a place for quick, affordable catwalk-quality blow outs?” We have been coiffing ever since. Can’t wait to Blo you away!

Vita Wellness Massage :: Offering free chair massages for all the well-deserved Moms at this event! Vita Wellness Massage is a boutique located in the heart of South Austin, and they believe a good massage can change the world.

SpaSocial :: A luxury day spa located in Round Rock that welcomes you to be pampered with your friends! What could be better for a Moms Night Out?! Meet some of the spa team at this event.

100% Chiropractic :: 100% Chiropractic is a patient-centered; family-oriented organization that concentrates on alleviating immediate symptoms with the goal of creating long-term wellness and improved quality of life. Dr. Duvi has an office in Cedar Park and she looks forward to meeting Moms in-person here!

Special Thanks:

Austin Diagnostic Clinic :: The Austin Diagnostic Clinic is an independent, primary and specialty care physician group.   With 140 doctors in 22 specialties practicing in 10 locations throughout Central Texas, they have been caring for generations of Central Texas families since 1952.

Barre3 :: barre3 will balance, strengthen, and lengthen the body with moves inspired by ballet, yoga, and Pilates. We focus on a unique combination of large dynamic movement, small range movement, and isometric holds. These strategically designed sequences transform the body and develop long term postural benefits. Visit any of the barre3 locations :: Downtown, Hill Country Galleria, and Circle C.

iFLY Austin Indoor Skydiving delivers the dream of flight to everyone from 3 to 103! Visit iFLY Austin for a unique activity the whole family can enjoy. Even if you or someone in your family doesn’t feel like flying, the free viewing area is a great space to watch your family and friends take flight. iFLY Austin is open 7 days a week and the flight deck is available for reservations and special events! 

Homeaway :: At HomeAway, our mission is to make every vacation rental in the world available to every traveler in the world through our online marketplace. With over one million live vacation rental listings in 190 countries, we’re committed to helping families and friends find the perfect vacation rental to create unforgettable travel experiences together.

Painting With a Twist :: Looking for a fun night out? Unleash your creative side with Painting with a Twist! This is a great place to have fun with your friends, or meet new friends; relax or just let your hair down and be you; or simply discover your inner artist. Bring your favorite beverage, possibly a snack, relax and paint along with our artist to create your own work of art that you will take home at the end of the evening. Our talented team of instructors guides you step by step through the night’s featured painting.

Primrose School of Four Points :: a private preschool serving ages 6 wks – pre-k as well as a private kindergarten, afterschool and summer camp programs. The school offers a proprietary curriculum which is a balance between teacher lead and child initiated along with low student/teacher ratios in each of our classrooms. 

Flowers by Nancy, too :: Come visit Flowers by Nancy, too!  We’ll treat you like family and offer you a purchasing experience you’ll be glad to recommend to others! Donna has been offering wedding and event services since 1989.  As owner of Flowers by Nancy, too! she strives to live up to its motto – Custom designs with a personal touch. The shop specializes in creating designs that meet the exact needs of each customer. Gifts and specialty baskets of all kinds are created to customer specifications. Event planning is done with careful consultation so that the final effect created is the atmosphere and ambiance the customer desires. Same day delivery is also a specialty and friendly customer service is always a top priority!

 

 

2015 Recap: A Q&A with the Founder's of Black Fret

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Black Fret Founders Close 2015 with a Ball

but Keep Eyes on ‘16

(Co-Founder Matt Ott)

(Co-Founder Matt Ott)

Written by: Alex Tronche
Photography: Chisum Pierce

The supporters and sponsors of Austin’s music charity Black Fret celebrated the organization’s sophomore class of grant winners by hosting the second annual Black Ball at The Paramount in December. The night was packed with drinks, awards and, of course, plenty of music as more than 15 bands and artists shared the stage for quick but powerful live performances that covered everything from soul to country to rock.

Black Fret also took the opportunity to announce that all 20 of the 2015 nominees would earn a grant including Austin favorites Mother Falcon and rising stars like Tameca Jones. With $145,000 available for contributions, this meant that each nominee can use 2016 to unlock significant grant dollars to use as they see fit - for writing, producing, touring or even just to keep the lights on.

As the year came to a close, RAD had the chance to ask founders Colin Kendrick and Matt Ott about their perspective on 2015 and what we should expect from the artists and organization in the new year. 

RAD (Alex): It's been nearly a year since we last spoke and Black Fret looks to have made the most of it. Can you recap some of the successes or challenges the organization has seen?

2015 was a really great year for us in so many ways. We held over 20 events in some of the best venues and homes in town and had artist after artist deliver amazing musical experiences. And not only from our 2015 Nominees but also from the other local bands we booked to play Black Fret events. We love introducing our members to the best music in town and love when our members point out great acts to us. As far as challenges I’d have to say it can be summed up in one word: rain! We wound up tenting or moving quite a few of our events. Extremely grateful for our full lakes but the weather proved to make our signature house parties harder to pull off. But the show always went on! And of course we are always looking for more Austinites to step up and join us as a Patron of Local Music.

RAD (Alex): What are some of the most memorable or creative ways Black Fret artists have unlocked their grant dollars this year?

To see the artists unlock their grant dollars to record over 70 new songs, have another 41 in lyric or demo stage, create nine music videos, perform over 150 times outside Austin and perform almost 30 concerts for other nonprofits in town has been hugely gratifying. Our artists have continually impressed us with their hard work and diligence to advancing their art and careers. To see real, tangible results in the form of new albums and more successful tours has been a lot of fun.

RAD (Alex): How would you describe the class of 2015 grant nominees?

Our first two classes of nominees have both been outstanding. And yes, there have been wonderful surprises in both years. Our nominees are selected via member vote, advisor vote, two artists from the Austin Music awards and for 2015 and beyond, the vote of our prior year’s artists. To see their voice added was really special. We love that these different perspectives fuel our annual group of nominees and expect the selections to only get better as the years go by and our members, advisors and artists get more involved and enthusiastic about the process.

RAD (Alex): What have been some of your favorite clubs, events or parts of town to go to explore new music? And are there any artists who are on the radar for 2016?

We have had amazing events at North Door, the Listening Room at Winflo, the Parish, Empire Control Room and so many others. And have some really special surprise locations on tap for 2016. We are also very excited to once again deliver the music to the Art City festival in late April. Expect to see a huge amount of music on that stage over two days. Austinites should keep an eye on Black Fret - and join! - to have what I am know will be an amazing musical year!

RAD (Alex): What are you, the Black Fret members and the grant-winning artists looking to achieve in next year? Any surprises we should be watching out for?

We look forward to growing! And look forward to delivering an even more incredible experience to our Patrons of Local Music. And yes, we have some cool surprises on tap! To see how the over $275,000 we have granted to local musicians has impacted their careers and the city has been inspiring. And know that with each Austinite who joins and supports our city and our music we can do even more. Bottom line, 2016 is going to rock.

 

Check out more photos & event coverage of the Black Fret Ball here!

Check out Black Fret grant recipients such as Mother Falcon, Rider's Against the Storm, Ruby Jane, & many more!  

Photography: Chisum Pierce

Austin Mom's Blog: Favorite Things Mom's Night Out

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Despite the quick venue change from The Allen House to The Brodie Homestead due to weather conditions, the Favorite Things Event held by Austin Mom's Blog was just as spectacular as the last one. As our favorite vendors lined the glittery ballroom, we enjoyed tasty treats, drinks and mingled with the local moms while enjoying a night of pampering and relaxation. 

Austin Mom's Blog is honored to be partnering with SafePlace this year as their charity of choice for this year's Favorite Things Mom's Night Out Event!

SafePlace provides Safety for individuals and families affected by sexual and domestic violence. Helps victims in their Healing so they can move beyond being defined by the crimes committed against them, and become Survivors. Promotes safe and healthy relationships for the Prevention of sexual and domestic violence. Works with others to create Change in attitudes, behaviors and policies that perpetuate the acceptance of, and impact our understanding and responses to, sexual and domestic violence.

Cocktails and Refreshments Provided By:

Tequila 512, TEKEEN, We Olive & Wine Bar. 

Food:

ChefATX, House Wine, PickAChili: Craft Chili with a Twist, Proof & Cooper, Iron Cactus.

Dessert:

Moojo, Royer’s Pie Haven, See’s Candies, Hill Country Cakery.

Shopping:

BabyEarth, Kendra Scott, Mad & Mac, Special Addition, Savory Spice Shop, Swank Baby, SUAVS, Wee Rascals.

Pampering:

Devenir Aesthetics, Kismet Cosmetics & Savvy Root, W3LL People, Vent Boutique. 

Some of Our Favorites:

Painting With a Twist. VarageSale, Zaarly, Fresh Wave, Barre3 :: Downtown, Hill Country Galleria, and Circle C.

Music:

The Texas KGB – We are going to get the party started with the help of the Singer-songwriting trio, The Texas KGB, whose sound is Original Americana has performed over 2000 shows in the last 7 years. From TV shows (The CW’s Song Writers Across Texas, FOX’s God Day Austin, CBS’ We Are Austin, Etc.) to Magazines (STEAM and ROCKSTAR, Etc.), they have become a sought after artist around Texas and throughout the World. Touring listening rooms, the college circuit, music festivals and venues year-round.

Photography:

Le Photo Booth, Laura Morsman Photography. 

A Special Thanks To:

Edward Jones – Whether you’re planning for retirement, saving for college for children or grandchildren, or just trying to protect the financial future of the ones you care for the most, Edward Jones’ works to develop specific strategies to help you achieve your goals.

Flowers By Nancy, Too! – At Flowers by Nancy, Too! you will find ʺCustom designs with a personal touch.ʺ The shop specializes in creating designs that meet the exact needs of each customer. Gifts and specialty baskets of all kinds are created to customer specifications. Event planning is done with careful consultation so that the final effect created is the atmosphere and ambiance the customer desires. Same day delivery is also a specialty and friendly customer service is always a top priority! Come visit Flowers by Nancy, too!  They’ll treat you like family and offer you a purchasing experience you’ll be glad to recommend to others!

JellyCAP – JellyCAP turns any bottled beverage into a kid-friendly drink. Drinking out of a regular bottle is not easy especially for the little ones. JellyCAP makes drinking fun and easy by turning any bottle into a sippy bottle or a straw bottle.

Marquee Rents – Marquee has provided custom, trend-setting event rentals for over 30 years and challenges you to rethink rentals. They offer event necessities alongside custom pieces made to suit including custom linen, furniture and decor all backed by unmatched event support.

Have you downloaded your Le Photobooth photos yet? Share them on insta with the tag ‪#‎AMBFavoriteThings‬ your  here!

A Night of Movement from the Center for Music Therapy

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The Center for Music Therapy is proudly presented "A Night of Movement" which took place on Friday, June 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the outdoor patio at Central Market North located at 4001 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, Texas 78756. The evening was free and open to the public and featured a live performance from the band El Tule as they celebrated the release of their fourth album "Cuatro." The event also had interactive activities for children and adults. The evening will provide information about The Movement Tracks Project Kickstarter campaign, which just began recently. For further information regarding the campaign and more, please see: www.movementtracksproject.com.

The mission of The Movement Tracks Project phase one is to expand new potentials for more children with cerebral palsy to gain their ability to walk and adults with Parkinson's disease to regain their ability to walk through the help of music-based tools and technologies. This innovative project is being launched by The Center of Music Therapy in Austin, Texas and brings together extraordinary collaborative partners from across the globe to create new methods for music composition and recording. The results will advance the development of music technologies that offer faster, more efficient tools to create greater access to effective treatment.

"We've reached a crucial point in history where the population in our country is aging and expanding at a rate beyond our ability to fill the demand for healthcare services," said Hope Young, President, Center For Music Therapy, Inc. and Co-Producer of the Movement Tracks Project. "There are projected shortages for nurses, doctors and therapists across all regions of our country. Innovation is needed more than ever to provide tools and technologies to help us more effectively meet the healthcare needs for our future generations. Through the combined global impact of technologies and music we can turn what once was a struggle into confident first strides for improved walking for millions living with these diseases."

"We've discovered music therapy helps certain neurologic conditions such as traumatic brain injury and Parkinson's disease," said neurologist Dr. David Morledge. "No question in my mind it's quite beneficial. Those folks that are signed up with music therapy tend to have a better gait, improved balance and I'm able to reduce some of their Parkinson's medications at times," he said.

"Things far above what we can hear at our normal hearing spectrum impact how we receive music and how it interacts with us," said Stephen Bartlett, Co-Producer and Lead Engineer, Movement Tracks Project. "It's one of the reasons that live music therapy has been so successful and when you look at music therapy, unfortunately, most of the time there is just one therapist working with a child, and so, the music therapy is limited to what that person can do at that given moment. That can be a guitar and tapping a foot or singing, but you can't actually develop a full sound, you can't go too far and it's completely, logistically, and just in every way impossible to bring a whole range of musicians to a patient in their bed in a hospital. So, it's an obvious step then, if we can get the recording to substitute that, we're able to deliver it, not only to more people, but we're able to deliver more options to more people."

 For Inquiries: www.movementtracksproject.com                                                                                                                           Photography by: John Winters - http://www.wynnimages.com

The Victory Cup

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Austin’s best dressed came in full force on Saturday to attend “The Best Party in Texas” for The Victory Cup polo match where the UT Longhorns polo club took on A&M University. The annual event, now going into its 10th year, was founded by ex-Senator of New York, Greg Ball, who is an avid polo player himself. He founded The Victory Cup while in office as an annual political fundraiser and has kept it going throughout the years. 

The social event is not only for putting on your best seersucker attire and wide brimmed hats, it also benefits Dell Children’s Hospital, where 70% of ticket sales go directly to the hospital. The next event will be held July 11, in Patterson, NY for The Cardillo Cup. Then they will be back in Texas October 17th for Boots & Pearls which will team up with the Austin Young Men’s Business League and will benefit Austin Sunshine Camps.

For Inquiries: http://victorycup.org                                                                                                                                                      Photography by: John Winters http://www.wynnimages.com

Gina Chavez "Siete-D" Music Video Premiere

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Austin musician Gina Chavez premiered the music video of her hit song "Siete-D" Saturday night at the Stateside Theatre in downtown Austin. With an amazing lineup of some of Austin's finest musicians including Mother Falcon, Elizabeth McQueen,  Riders Against the Storm and Gina Chavez herself. It was another great night of music in the live music capitol of the world bringing together an all star lineup benefiting the Ninas Arriba College Fund. 

The benefit celebrated the official Video Premiere for her song “Siete-D,” a rock-cumbia-rap mix that explores the delights and dangers of El Salvador from a window on the 7-D bus she rode as a volunteer there in 2010. The Spanish-language song won the Grand Prize in the 2014 John Lennon Songwriting Contest (JLSC) and features Chavez’s first rap. The official video – filmed last October in El Salvador – follows Chavez on an exciting cross-country journey to reunite with a group of young women she considers her Salvadoran sisters, four of whom are able to attend college on Niñas Arriba scholarships.

Niñas Arriba is a campaign to change the world, one girl at a time. Donations directly fund high-quality, low-cost college education for young women in a gang-dominated suburb in El Salvador where founders Gina Chavez and Jodi Granado taught English for eight months. The campaign currently supports full scholarships for three students - Xiomara, Marta and Vanessa - to attend Don Bosco University, a private, Catholic college in Soyapango, San Salvador. Each scholarship covers monthly tuition, academic fees and supplies, food and transportation, and funds are sent directly to the university in the students' names. All donations are accepted through the fund's fiscal sponsor, Stone Room Concerts, a 501(c)(3) public charity. Donations are tax-deductible. For further information, please visitninarriba.wordpress.com.

 

 To learn more about the Ninas Arriba College Fund visit: https://ninasarriba.wordpress.com                                                               For Inquiries: Gina Chavez - http://ginachavez.com / Mother Falcon - http://www.motherfalcon.com /                                      Elizabeth McQueen - http://elizabeth-mcqueen.com / Riders Against The Storm - http://rashiphop.com                                                Photography by: Nick Kwasny - http://nicholaskwasnyphotography.com                                                                                                  

Black Fret Kick Off Party 2015

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Black Fret Kicks Off its 2015 Campaign

The Austin music charity Black Fret recently hosted its 2015 launch party at the Gibson Brands showroom, inviting members and their lucky guests to see performances by rising local acts Aaron Behrens & The Midnight Stroll, The Digital Wild and Barfield.

The showroom made for a distinct backdrop with brightly lit neon signs and the brand’s signature guitars surrounding members, guests and the musicians themselves, who brushed shoulders with the audience and made for great conversation in between sets.

Members have much to look forward to in the coming year as Black Fret organizes more events with their 2014 grant winners and vets those bands and artists nominated for the 2015 funds.

You can learn more about Black Fret by visiting the organization’s website here.

Written by: Alex Tronche                                                                                                                                                                                           Photography by: Chisum Pierce - http://www.getchisumed.com

Black Fret Black Ball

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Inaugural Black Ball at the Paramount Theater 

Black Fret a new non-profit organization here in Austin, was founded by Matt Ott and Colin Kendrick from the Austin Music Foundation. They held the first annual Black Ball at the Paramount Theater on November 8th. Black Fret is a new organization that focuses on local musicians and supporting them to flourish in the music industry by raising money through its membership program. Since working on the foundation as of 2013, both Matt and Colin have been able to recruit close to 100 members and raise $100,000 for the nominees, which were disbursed to ten bands that were awarded $10,000 each at the Black Ball. The nominees were comprised of 20 bands from the Austin area all competing for a $10,000 grant.

Hosting the event at the Paramount Theater in downtown Austin, 16 of the 20 members performed in honor of the Black Ball. Everyone put on a killer performance; and it brought local artists together and the patrons who enjoy their music which is what makes Black Fret such a special organization for the Austin Community. Each of the musicians playing from the Jitterbug Vipers to Graham Wilkinson definitely has a unique sound of their own, showing the complexity of the Austin music scene.

Black fret’s mission is: ” focused solely on funding the creation and performance of new music by the fine musicians who play the clubs and coffee shops of our amazing city.” 

That is exactly what Black Fret has done. They have created an organization to help musicians in an age that is very hard to make it in the music industry. To become a member it’s roughly around $100 a month or $1500.00 a year. In joining the Black Fret membership program, you are able to help in the voting process of who will be the coming year’s nominees. During that year there are several private parties leading up to the Black Ball. Were the nominees’ holds a private concert in an intimate setting for the members, to see them live before the grants are given away at the end of the year.

Although all of the nominees were fantastic, the Winners of this year’s Black Ball included: Amy Cook, Elizabeth McQueen, Erin Ivey, Gina Chavez, Graham Wilkinson, Lincoln Durham, Mother Falcon, Quiet Company, The Rocketboys, and Wild Child.

To find out more about how you can join Black Fret or any of the nominees for 2014 please visit the links below.

 For Inquiries on Black Fret and the nominees and winners: http://www.blackfret.org                                                                       Written by: Kathryn Leffingwell                                                                                                                                                        Photography by: Chisum Pierce - http://www.getchisumed.com

Austin Mom's Blog and Kendra Scott Block Party

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Mom's night out with Austin Mom's Blog

The Austin Mom’s Blog threw a fantastic party Thursday night for the Kendra Scott Block Party. Serving as an online source for mothers in Austin, they have established a loyal following here. Several of the city’s top vendors lined the walkway featuring skincare, decor, health and wellness treats for the moms. The photo booth provided by Photogenica, a generous raffle give-a-way, the D.J., and refreshing cocktails provided by Deep Eddy Vodka, Tequila512, and White Hat Rum all came together to create a relaxing a fun night for both the Austin Mom’s Blog and their patrons.

One of the many perks to joining the Austin Mom’s Blog is their Membership Program. In talking with Chelsea Vail, event manager and contributor to the Austin Mom’s Blog, about what the Membership Program provides, she says, “we wanted it to be a stronger community of moms in Austin. We wanted to have a way to give back, in a way that supports the moms here in the city, and support local businesses.”

The Austin Mom’s Blog has partnered with 80 local businesses who have offered discounts and perks if you hold their Membership Card. The card is $99 a year, which saves you literally thousands of dollars throughout the year. Most of the people attending the Kendra Scott Block Party event are supporters of the membership, but in receiving discounts at the special events, it provides an additional incentive to come out. “Among receiving free play dates, they get discounts for everything you need at salons, gyms, child care- everything these women need to feel supported, which is what Austin Mom’s Blog is all about,” Says Chelsea Vail.

The Austin Mom’s Blog and Kendra Scott Block Party sold out within 3 minutes. With members receiving a 30 minute head start on ticket sales, they were able to get access to V.I.P. tickets to the event before it sold out. The V.I.P. gifts included a $50 gift card to by George, $50 to Langford Market, a piece of Kendra Scott jewelry, coupons for members that support the blog, snacks, jewelry, candles, and bowls from Posh Interiors. Serving as a special treat for the hard working mothers, whom were excited about receiving the bags!

As part of the Membership services, for just $99 a year you become a member of the Austin Mom's Blog that is connected to the City Mom’s Blog national network. Chelsea explains, “When we launched it, we let the network know what we were doing. They had a lot of questions about how it works, what we are doing, and how do you do it. It took me about 6 months to put the program together and then launch it. The companies involved received free marketing as well. If anyone ever comes to me and asks about getting a nanny I’m going to talk about the nanny agency that supports our program.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we are reminded how fortunate many of us are. To assist families who may need help in gathering toys for their children, local charity Bucks Barn, collected toys during the event. Bucks Barn was started by Buck Schroeter who is now 21. When was 12, Buck was diagnosed with AML a form of Leukemia and was in the hospital during most Christmases. As a patient in the hospital he received many gifts, but he couldn't buy any gifts for his family and friends. Motivated to make a difference, when Buck got out of the hospital he promised to be able to help sick kids be able to provide presents to their family and friends. Currently Buck’s Barn collects toys all year long and on December 6th they will be at dell children’s hospital giving out toys to the kids who are patients in the hospital, so they can shop for their families.

Charity, shopping, and a great atmosphere made for a great night out for the Austin Mom’s Blog readers! Subscribe to their blog and be on the look out for the next event!

  Written By: Kathryn Leffingwell                                                                                                                                                                         For Inquiries: www.austinmomsblog.com / Bucks Barn - http://www.bucksbarn.org                                                                                    Photography by: Chisum Pierce - http://www.getchisumed.com                                                                                                                

9th Annual Andy Roddick Foundation Gala featuring Darius Rucker

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For more information about the Andy Roddick Foundation please go to: https://arfoundation.org/