A 2008 crime report conducted by CQ Press in Washington DC recenty ranked Austin the safest of Texas’s biggest cities based on 2007 crime statistics. Overall our fabulous city ranked 199 in least amount of criminal activity in cities with populations over 75,000.

 To check out crime statistics in your particular area visit: http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/police/crimeinformation.htm

So this past weekend my husband and I ventured out in search of some delicious Mediterranean food and found an abundance of it at Dimassi’s Mediterranean Buffet located at 4301 William Cannon Dr.  

Located in what was formerly a Village Inn restaurant, Dimassi’s Mediterranean Buffet is a breath of fresh air for the Southwest Austin foodies looking to expand their cuisine horizons. There is an abundance of food to choose from, including many vegetarian items which is a high... Full Story

We visited on of Austin’s iconic landmarks, the Broken Spoke, for a friends birthday Friday night and I have to say, it was a lot of fun! Although I didn’t have any boots to dust off ( I wore heels), I could still boogie with the best of them, well sort of. Jake Hooker and his band played and the place was packed. If you’ve never... Full Story

A recent report in the Association of Foreign Investors in Real Estate has ranked Austin 11th in top cities for U.S. and global investment in 2009, up from 16th place in 2008. Washington D.C. took the top spot on the ranking, followed by New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Houston for the top five. Foreign investors were most interested in purchasing multifamily sectors, followed by office space, industrial buildings, retail space and hotels. What’s interesting to note is that the... Full Story

 This weekend my husband and I ventured to a new establishment, Fion Wine Pub in Steiner Ranch, for a birthday dinner. This place is really interesting. While it started out as a beer and wine retail store, they have recently added a bistro-style dining area complete with an open chef’s kitchen and eclectic decor. The store boasts a HUGE selection of beer and wine, 500 different beers from around the world (some... Full Story

According to builderonline.com, the Austin housing market ranks second in the healthiest housing markets in the nation for 2009. While most markets are seeing drastic declines in unemployment, the Austin job market actually added 17,400 new jobs last year. That’s a 2.3% increase! While the average price of a home in Austin is slightly higher than most major cities in Texas at $188,600, it still sits below the national average which further adds to the appeal... Full Story

I can’t believe we have to wait five more months, but I think it will be well worth it! Rumors were swirling that Pearl Jam, Kings of Leon, Dave Matthews Band and Beastie Boys were front-runners for the headlining band but now it’s been confirmed that all four are playing!For a complete list of the lineup Click Here.Rock on!

Carlos’NCharlie’s Fireworks Extravaganza

Friday, July 3 – 5973 Hiline Road Austin, Texas 78734

http://www.cncaustin.com/index.html

Lakeway 4th of July Celebration

Saturday, July 4, 2009 – 8:30 am – City Park, Lakeway, TX

www.lakeway.org

Fourth of July all day event starting with a fanciful sponsored parade/floats that make their way down Lakeway Drive. Locals then head to the park for a picnic, games for kids, music and the announcement of the float award winners. The... Full Story

There are three, count them three movie premiers debuting in Austin in the next four days.

Tomorrow night, Quentin Tarantino will be premiering “Inglourious Basterds” at the Ritz Alamo Drafthouse. He will be on hand to curate the first of three films of the Cinemapocalypse, an all night movie marathon. Not surprisingly, tickets sold out in 45 seconds. The real question is… will Brad Pitt be making a cameo appearance???

Sunday afternoon head over to the historic... Full Story

I’ve been reading a few great articles recently about downtown living in Austin. As much resistance as there has been to change, the inevitable is happening and the downtown skyline is changing.73% of the 1,562 condos that have already been built or are currently under construction are occupied. The most anticipated  projects nearing completion are the Austonian and W Hotel and Condominiums. With no new construction slated to start for another 4-5 years, demand may... Full Story

Go visit a museum!!

This Sunday, September 20th, marks the 21st annual Austin Museum Day where patrons gain free admission to 28 local Austin museums.Started by the Austin Museum Partnership to encourage Austinites to get out and get cultured, there is something for everyone. Below is a list of participating museums:

• Arthouse At the Jones Center


• Austin Children’s Museum


• Austin Museum of Art


• Austin Nature... Full Story
  Categories : All About Austin

Instead of blogging about each article individually, I’ve decided to lump these three blurbs of articles that discuss the latest and greatest regarding our fabulous city… These are the types of articles I send out to out-of-town buyers keeping them informed of what is going on locally. It can be a bit depressing to hear what is going on nationally, but there’s a little ray of sunshine shining down on our market:)

Friday, October 23,... Full Story

There’s been a lot of discussion amongst the Austin City Council members on whether or not to continue the long-standing tradition of the Zilker Park Trail of Lights, whether or not to charge admission, scale it back or do away with it completely due to a budget deficit.

Well, we now have our answer. There will be a scaled back version of what we longtime Austinites affectionately call ToL. Instead of its usual location, winding... Full Story

I was really excited and a bit nervous when I saw the bulldozers and dumptrucks begin to make themselves at home so close to where I live. Excited because I thought, yippee we’re going to be getting some new potential retail/restaurant establishments just around the corner, but nervous because you never know who’s going to be moving in. My husband and I shared our dreams of a local coffee shop, dry cleaning business, a place... Full Story

2010 looks bright for Austin! Economist Angelos Angelou was one of many economists predicting that Austin will be one of the first cities to pull out of the recession.

One major contributing factor to this is our city’s population growth. Last year 44,000 people moved to Austin and it is predicted that another 110,000 will move here in the next two years bringing in a significant demand for housing amongst other things.

Job stability is... Full Story

It’s been almost ten years since a major multitenant office tower has been developed in downtown Austin. Capital City Partners LLC has big plans for their newest project located on the corner northeast corner of West Cesar Chavez Street and Lamar Boulevard. Park Plaza, the planned 15-story tower will feature 189,000 square feet of predominately Class A office space and will be located next to the Gables apartment community.

The newest development has brought... Full Story

I read various news sources online every morning. It’s become part of my routine.

One topic that seems to come up on a daily basis is the recession. There’s no denying that we’re still in one, but the good news is we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel, especially in Austin. I recently read and posted an article on my facebook page that ranked Austin number one in cities best... Full Story

Have you noticed a few more cars on the roads around town this weekend? A few more people milling about?

With the recession forcing many to plan staycations as opposed to flying overseas for a getaway new hotspots are popping up across the U.S. and Austin is one of them. This year the city was ranked among the top 20 Memorial Day vacation spots, according to a survey taken by Priceline.com.

The Texas capital took... Full Story

Two of my favorite events are happening this weekend.

The 4th Annual Ice Cream Festival is taking place tomorrow, August 14th from 10:00am – 7:00pm at Waterloo Park. Admission is $5.00, kids under 8 get in free.

There will be games, activities, contests and live entertainment including an ice cream eating contest with special guest competitive eating champion Joey Chestnut who’s known for winning four consecutive Nathan’s Hot Dog eating contests. Ice cream vendors including... Full Story

It came a little later this year, but the day has finally arrived. Starting today through Sunday shoppers can purchase clothing items, backpacks and school items under $100.

With most school districts in the greater Austin area, Monday is the first day back to school. You can bet stores are going to be packed with parents and children purchasing last minute items.

For a complete list of what is covered and what isn’t, go to... Full Story

Austin Fashion Week was a few weeks ago, but if you didn’t get your fill, celebrate tonight at Austin Fashion Night Out 2010. Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and the Belmont amongst other venues are celebrating in style. View the latest fashions of local designer and preview upcoming trends for the fall season whilst sipping on cocktails and mingling with other fashion lovers.

http://www.luxeprandpromotions.com/afno_2010

If the music scene is what you’re craving head out to... Full Story

What better way to embrace the heat than attend the 20th Annual Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival. I’ve been and trust me, it’s not as torturous as it sounds:)

Sample and purchase hot sauce from local vendors such as Aztexan, Big Daddy’s Hot Sauce, Granddaddy’s Sweet Southern Heat, and Jaime’s Spanish Village. There will also be live music from David Garza, El Tule and Distant Lights. If you haven’t been, try it out!

Details:
... Full Story

It’s no surprise that Austin continues to top the nation’s best lists. This time the city came in first as best city to live and work in for the next decade according to Kiplinger Magazine.

One of their main criteria was searching for cities coming up with innovative ways to create jobs & businesses thereby boosting the economy. We have the four main fields that are thriving in job creation: government, education, healthcare and technology.... Full Story

Another great weekend to live in Austin!

The Grand Opening of the new Twin Oaks Branch Public Library, located at 1800 S. Fifth Street, is taking place Saturday, August 21 at 10:00 a.m. There will be a building dedication ceremony, live music by the swinging Academy of Jazz Players, food & drink from local vendors.

Like cupcakes? Cupcake Smackdown 2.0 is also being held tomorrow at Le Cordon Bleu and The Westin Hotel from 11:00am... Full Story

This weekend has a couple of really great events for families.

First off is national Free Museum Day which is now in its twelfth year taking place Sunday, September 19th. 31 museums all around Austin will be taking part in the event. Even better, this is the first year that Austin Tour Guide will be involved providing hosting trolley tours around the city allowing you to hop on and off at different venues.

For a... Full Story

I don’t know about you, but after this week, I am definitely looking forward to the weekend! There’s a little bit of everything going on this weekend (but what’s new, right?).

The 7th Annual Tribeza Fashion Show is taking place tonight at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Festivities begin at 7:30 and go until 11:00 pm. Enjoy runway looks from local boutiques and big names alike such as Estilo, Saks Fifth Avenue, Missbehave,... Full Story

This weekend, think European and think festival!

Tonight and tomorrow night from 6:00 – midnight take part in the 78th Annual St. Elias Mediterranean Festival, recently named Central Texas’ Top 10 Food Festivals by the Austin Chronicle.

Enjoy food, wine, cocktails, live music and dancing. There will also be a Festival Marketplace including a diverse Orthodox Bazaar.

Tickets are on sale at all 62 Twin Liquors locations for a $5 donation.

Opa!

Want to get... Full Story

Believe it or not, a lot of Austinites as still recovering from ACL weekend even though it’s been a week. I’m thinking it has something to do with the gorgeous weather!

With this weekend’s forecast mimicking last, it’s time to get back out there and party a little more.

NXNW 9th ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST TO BENEFIT THREE LOCAL CHARITIES, in its 9th year, takes place tomorrow, Oct. 16th,... Full Story

Frankly it doesn’t really surprise me. Living in Austin almost my entire life, I know how amazing this city is. It’s just great to know that in the last few years, it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.

According to an article published by the Milken Institute, the Austin/Round Rock area came in second for best performing cities where jobs are created and sustained. The 2010 Milken Institute Best-Performing Cities Index ranks U.S. metropolitan areas... Full Story

Movies and music is the theme of the weekend.

Wednesday night kicked off the 17th Annual Austin Film Festival with the Film & Food Party. This particular festival is near and dear to my heart as I worked for the festival for a few years as travel coordinator/ co-conference director. Unlike other film festivals, this one concentrates on the behind-the-scenes geniuses, the screenwriters, producers, directors etc. From Oct. 21 – 28 enthusiasts have the opportunity... Full Story

Boo!

Ready for Halloween? It can get a little crazy in Austin, but there are fun things to do all around town for the whole family.

For those of drinking age, check out the Zombie Ball. Tomorrow night at the Seaholm Power Plant, dance to the sounds of Austin’s own White Ghost Shivers amongst ghosts, goblins and Lady Gagas. There will also be a haunted couture fashion show and music on two stages.

Advanced tickets... Full Story

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Austin added 14,300 new jobs to the workforce in September making it the 6th fastest growing market in the nation. Washington topped the list at 34,000 jobs. The sad thing is most of the major metro areas lost jobs with Chicago topping the list at 66,000 jobs lost over the last year.

With the elections taking place this last week and the Federal Reserve’s decision to pour... Full Story

It’s so funny the saying, “If you don’t like the weather, stick around for a minute and it will change”, how true it rings here in Austin. Just a few days ago it truly felt like fall. Temps in the low 50’s, dark and drizzly. The forecast for today and the rest of the weekend? Sunny and gorgeous with temps in the 70’s. So perfect for all of the fun activities going on.

Last weekend... Full Story

Hard to imagine, but it’s time to get into the Christmas spirit!! I know, I know, it’s not even Thanksgiving yet, but that doesn’t seem to stop some people:)

Saturday, November 20th head over to the Domain for The Domain’s Fourth Annual Lighting of the Great Tree. Festivities kick off at 3:00 with a free concert by Sara Hickman. Stick around, do a bit of Christmas shopping then enjoy the sounds of Kelly Willis and... Full Story

A rating by the Brookings Institution had Austin, TX ranked 26th in having the best economic recovery worldwide and 1st in the United States. 150 cities were ranked taking employment growth, per-capita gross value added and income per person into consideration. From 2009 to the present, the employment rate has grown 3.2%. Compare that to the national average which is currently huddling at an unemployment rate of 9.8% and you can see why the population... Full Story

A few weeks ago I attended E.A.S.T., an art tour showcasing artists in their studios on the east side of town. This weekend a similar event is taking place, the Travis Heights Art Trail. Here artists of Travis Heights invite you to visit their homes and studios to view and purchase works of art including paintings, photographs and ceramics. This year they’re adding something new, music, puppet shows and improv theater.

Saturday 2 PM 2004... Full Story

Did you survive Black Friday? I did, but barely. Woke up at 4:00 am and trekked out into the cold with my partner in crime, my mom. We shopped for almost seven hours straight and got some stellar deals. After a nap, I am ready to start the weekend!

Tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 27th bring the kids to the Chuy’s Children Giving to Children Parade. This amazing event is one of Austin’s premier parades complete with... Full Story

I have been very fortunate to spend the majority of my life living in Austin. Growing up here, it amazes me how much the city has grown (and is growing). For this post, I’ve decided to include a few links on why Austin is the best city in the states:)

http://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2010/12/20/lonely-planet-rates-denver-a-top-10.html

http://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2010/12/23/austin-ranked-12th-best-city-for.html

http://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2010/12/17/austin-adds-3900-jobs-in-nov.html

http://www.kiplinger.com/magazine/archives/10-best-cities-2010-for-the-next-decade.html

Happy Reading!

Ready for Christmas?!? Is all of your shopping done? Family members picked up from the airport? Good:) Now it’s time to relax and have some holiday fun!

Last weekend a few of my girlfriends and I attended the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. It was my first time seeing them in person, and let me tell you, it was well worth it. We had a blast! This weekend through Dec. 31st you’ll have... Full Story

There’s a new shopping center in the SoLa (South Lamar) District and it is comprised of all local businesses. Austin 78704 is anchored by Amy’s Ice Cream and the Soup Peddler, two weirdly delicious establishments that are so Austin. Check it out!

http://austin.ynn.com/content/top_stories/276147/new-shopping-center-celebrates-austin-s-local-flavor

Brrr, it’s cold outside, but guess what? No rain forecasted for the weekend! Yippee!!

There’s nothing like a fun 80’s coverband to get you warmed up. Tonight at The Phoenix, check out LC Rocks. They have the leather pants, the hair and the attitude to bring you back! Doors open at 10pm, so come dressed up in your best rock glam and get ready to sing along to Guns & Roses, Def Leopard and AC/DC.

It doesn’t happen very often, but there is a good chance we’ll see snow in Austin tonight. Yay!!

Because it is such a rarity, many of us don’t really know how to prepare for the freezing cold weather. KXAN provided a great list that covers how to protect your kids, pets, plants and home. Stay warm!

How to prepare for freezing weather

Some quick tips: People, Pets, Plants and Pipes!

AUSTIN (KXAN)... Full Story

It was so amazing to wake up this morning, look out my window and see a blanket of snow covering my backyard. Not something we’re really use to here in Austin. Funny thing is, Sunday we’re back up to sunny and 68 degrees!

Once the snow thaws and the ice begins to melt away, it’s time to make plans for the weekend.

First up, the 4th Annual Modern Home Tour, tomorrow, February 5th from noon... Full Story

Another gorgeous weekend is forecasted for Austin! Here are a few things to do to keep you occupied…

It’s a weekend of celebrities!

Some people think he’s funny, me not so much:), but if you feel the urge to check out his stand-up routine, Jerry Seinfeld will be performing at Bass Concert Hall tonight at 7:00 pm.
Get tickets at texasperformingarts.org

American legend Diana Ross will be performing at ACL Live,... Full Story

Adding to Austin’s accolades is a recent list put out by the publication, Business Review USA stating Austin as the top place to live and work. The article lists Austin’s low unemployment rate, now about 6.8 percent, and small business-centric community as two of it’s contributing factors.

Read more about it here: http://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2011/02/01/austin-top-place-to-live-and-work.html

One week from today is the kickoff of one of Austin’s most anticipated events, SXSW!! Do you have your badge yet???

Well, to keep the momentum going check out some events going on this weekend…

March 2nd, Texas celebrated its Independence Day, but this weekend is THE time to celebrate at the Texas Independence Fest. Beginning today through Sunday head out to The Cotton Gin and Longhorn Ranch in Maxwell, TX for some... Full Story

Ajilon Professional Staffing has named Austin the second best city to find a job in the U.S., according to a U.S. Department of Labor statistics analysis. The firm took the city’s low unemployment rate, business fields & number of businesses hiring, and over education levels as some of the factors in determining its ranking.

This isn’t the first time Austin has ranked high on flattering lists. Last month the Business Review USA ranked Austin... Full Story

What a gorgeous beginning to Spring we’re having! Couldn’t ask for better weather… If you’re looking for some fun things to do outdoors, I have a couple of suggestions for you:

The annual Zilker Garden Festival will be taking place at the Zilker Botanical Gardens, Saturday March 26th through Sunday, March 27th. This family friendly event includes “the annual Flower Show in the Garden Center, featuring... Full Story

Happy April Fools! No tricks here, just a few fun things to do on another gorgeous weekend…

First things first. Clint Small Middle School is having their annual plant sale tomorrow. Come out and support my dad and his amazing students who keep the grounds of the school lush & beautiful!
http://insmallgardens.blogspot.com/

Once you’ve purchased your plants & trees, take the pups and head... Full Story

Prepare to be mystified (in one way or another) by the famous duo Penn & Teller. Their performances include a little bit of magic, a little bit of conversation and a whole lot of laughter.

Friday, April 8
Doors @ 7:00pm | Show @ 8:00pm
The Paramount Theatre

http://www.austintheatre.org/site/Calendar/1892750398?view=Detail&id=24562

Celebrate the culture of one of our neighboring states at the Louisiana Swamp Thing and Crawfish Festival. Usually held in Austin, the... Full Story

It’s all about festivals this weekend.

If you’re planning on staying in town, check out the Austin Reggae Festival at Auditorium Shores. Starting this afternoon through Sunday, enjoy the sounds of Israel Vibration & the Roots Radics Band,Tribal Seeds, Taj Weekes, Grimy Styles, Ashes of Babylon, and many more. Tickets are $15 a day with a portion of the sales benefitting the Capital Area Food Bank.

For more information go to www.austinreggaefest.com

If... Full Story

One of my favorite new places to hang out is Black Sheep Lodge on S. Lamar. The main reason, shuffle board! I love it. The atmosphere is laid back, it’s in a great location and their drink prices aren’t too bad.

This Saturday marks their 2nd birthday. Stop by and enjoy the crawfish boil, drink specials and music by More Cowbell and Whisky Shivers. The festivities... Full Story

For the second consecutive year, Austin has come in 2nd for best city to live in and raise a family by parenting.com. The website takes into consideration the number of pediatricians, acreage of parkland and all around quality of life.

See what other cities made the list:

http://www.parenting.com/gallery/2011-best-cities-to-live?pnid=381605

Add another accolade to Austin’s long list. It continues to be one of the best cities for young professionals and this article published by the Austin Business Journal explains why:

http://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2011/06/20/austin-best-city-for-young-adults.html

It’s 4th of July weekend and it’s going to be a scorcher! Good thing there are plenty of bodies or water to keep us cool. Mix that with a little laughter, some music and a fireworks show or two and you’ve got the makings of a perfect three-day weekend:

1. Broadway comedy hit, The Little Dog Laughed, will be staged at The City Theatre Friday-Sunday. Enjoy a hilarious look at one... Full Story

It’s Easter weekend and you know what that means… dozens of adults dressed up as the Easter bunny hopping their way around Austin.

Ever think you’d see a bunny on ice? Head out to Chapparal Ice for Easter on Ice and catch a glimpse of this rare event. Saturday, April 23, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Event included in the price of admission. Admission is $6 and skate rental is $4 for children and... Full Story

Have you heard? The new ACL venue next to the W Hotel and Residences opened last night and promises to have better sound and acoustics, hold more music lovers and provide for a live music experience like no other.

The first much anticipated concert of the 2011 season is none other than the legendary Willie Nelson. He’s so nice, he’s playing twice! Sunday, February 13th & Monday, February 14th Willie Nelson will be playing... Full Story

It’s not too early to start planning for Valentine’s Day! Thanks to Gracy Title, here are a few ideas on what you can do…

http://www.gracytitle.com/e-flyer/Seasonal/ValentinesDayTreatsandRetreats_2011/ValentinesDayTreatsandRetreats_2011.pdf(http://www.gracytitle.com/e-flyer/Seasonal/ValentinesDayTreatsandRetreats_2011/ValentinesDayTreatsandRetreats_2011.pdf)

2011 is the last school year where schools will be rated on their TAKS scores. See how your neighborhood schools rank.

It’s hot outside, really hot, the hottest summer we’ve had in decades! Still, it doesn’t stop Austinites from taking part in outdoor events. Check out what’s going on in Austin this month.

Austin is one of the most bike friendly cities in the U.S. with new routes to help you maneuver around town created every year. Whether you’re looking for riding events to join, practice routes to ride or a bicycle repair shop to go to, this link will help you out.

Click here for helpful info on road cycling.

Can you believe Austin will be adding 6,000 new residents this month?!? In the latest list put out by Forbes, Austin once again comes in first. Factors taken into consideration are our two year employment & population growth.

Read the rest of the article here

Did you know this week is National Farmers’ Market Week?

Austin and its surrounding areas have tons of farmer’s markets to choose from. My favorite is the one downtown at Triangle Park. Not only are there organic fruits and vegetables, but farmers also sell dairy products, lavender products and delicious wines all grown from our outlying areas.

Click here for a list or... Full Story

With it being the first day of school for many in the Austin area, I felt today would be a good day to post a list of Austin’s top 25 private schools. As an Austin High School alum, public school was a great experience for me but I can appreciate private schools and what they have to offer.

Click here to see the list

For the next few days leading up to the Austin City Limits Music Festival, I’ll be posting blogs with little tidbits of information.

Todays topic: Downtown Parking Meters

For those of you planning on parking at a meter downtown and walking or taking a shuttle, beware. The extended meter times are now in effect:
Monday to Wednesday – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday & Friday – 8 a.m.... Full Story

In a volatile economy like the one we’re in now, news like this makes me thankful to live where I do.

A new study recently published ranks Austin 5th with the healthiest employment outlook. According to the survey, “job prospects appear to be the strongest in financial activities, manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, government, and professional and business services. Transportation and utilities employers plan to reduce staffing levels”.

Read more here

Yay for cool(er) weather!! While I was really really hoping for rain this week, I’ll pretty much take what I can get these days and a high in the mid 90’s is fine by me. Definitely makes it more comfortable for taking part in some fun outdoor activities.

Head out to Fredericksburg for Oktoberfest. Just a short hour drive just west of Austin sits this quaint German town. Enjoy bratwurst, umpalumpa music and of course... Full Story

There are eight, yes eight events going on downtown this weekend. And that’s just downtown! The forecast is calling for gorgeous weather so put on your fall best and get out there!!

It’s October and you know what that means, there’s an Oktoberfest going on somewhere:) This Saturday from 11:30 am – 11:00 pm and Sunday from 11:30 am – 8:00 pm, North by Northwest will be celebrating their 10th Oktoberfest. Authentic German food &... Full Story

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, well kind of. There isn’t any snow on the ground, but at least we get to break out our winter coats! Below is a list of fun things to do inside and out. Enjoy!

The Nutcracker’? Sweet!: You know those sugarplums that dance in your head this time of year? They actually appear on stage, too, along with mice, snowflakes and local celebs as Mother Ginger, all... Full Story

Just one more reason to move to Austin if you don’t already live here. Austin was recently ranked as one of the top five cities with the hottest locals. Yup, that’s right, it’s official! Now step away from the mirror and go out and enjoy our beautiful “winter” weather!

http://www.hlntv.com/article/2011/12/14/cities-most-attractive-people-travel-leisure?hpt=hp_t2

Happy New Year!!! One of my new year’s resolutions is to blog more and I’m planning to stick with it!

I’m not sure about you, but any exercise regime/diets were thrown out the window for the holidays. Well this weekend is the perfect time to jump back on the health wagon and get moving.

If you want to give your abs a good workout check out “The D-List” star, Kathy Griffin at the Long Center.... Full Story

Everyone has a hidden talent, but do you think yours can get you a spot on America’s Got Talent? The tv show is holding auditions this weekend, January 14th and 15th, at the Austin Convention Center. Doors open at 8am and close at 7pm on both days.

http://launch787.com/home/americas-got-talent-auditions-in-austin/

Pssst, pre-register here to get a leg up on the competition: http://americasgottalentauditions.com/

Like the Olympics?... Full Story

If you’re from Austin, into music, film or technology you may have heard about a little festival we have here known as SXSW. This combined with Spring Break and the Austin Rodeo makes Austin a city in full swing. Below are a few links with useful information on how to survive the next week.

Enjoy!

A number of streets downtown will be closed to allow for foot traffic... Full Story

This weekend it’s all about the final days of SXSW. Check out the link below for a list of free parties and events:

http://do512.com/c/sx2012/events/all-parties-by-day/2012/03/16?page=1

Have a great weekend!

It’s no surprise with a near shortage of downtown condos and the amount of development going on downtown including the Seaholm Powerplant and Waller Creek projects that Austin is ranked no. 2 in urban growth development in the U.S. in the last 10 yrs.

According to an article posted in the Austin Business Journal, among urbanized areas with populations of 1 million or more, Austin — with a growth rate of 51.1 percent — ranked... Full Story

It’s no surprise with a near shortage of downtown condos and the amount of development going on downtown including the Seaholm Powerplant and Waller Creek projects that Austin is ranked no. 2 in urban growth development in the U.S. in the last 10 yrs.

According to an article posted in the Austin Business Journal, among urbanized areas with populations of 1 million or more, Austin — with a growth rate of 51.1 percent — ranked... Full Story

It’s Friday the 13th, eeek! Not really. Since I was born on the 13th of July, I feel like these days are actually good luck. Call me crazy:)

This weekend is full of fun events around town. Hopefully the weather holds up!

Tomorrow is the Smarter Spaces Tour, which was created to show Austinites how to promote great design in smaller spaces. From 11:00 – 6:00, check out 11 homes in Central Austin — all... Full Story

Today may not be the best day for outdoor activities, but this weekend has more promise.

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of your everyday life, head down to Austin’s Annual Reggae Festival beginning today through Sunday at Auditorium Shores and sway to the sounds from Bermuda, Jamaica, Antigua and more.

Click here for all of the details

Looking for a little something more... Full Story

Spring is in full swing and this gorgeous weather seems here to stay!

One of the most anticipated events of the year is finally here. The Austin Food & Wine Festival begins today with the New Taste of Texas VIP Kickoff Event at Republic Square Park. Presented by FOOD & WINE Magazine, the AFWF promises to show foodies and winos a good time.

Full Story

It’s the first weekend in May and there are more things to do in Austin than there are days to do them!

Living in Texas you can’t help but think about what plans you’ll be making for Cinco de Mayo. Heck, you could be starting the celebration a day early! There will be a ton of events going on around town today and tomorrow including La Condesa’s Cinco de Mayo Downtown Block Party on 2nd... Full Story