FEBRUARY 5 | BROADWAY'S WICKED

After breaking box office records and selling out in record time in 2009, WICKED, Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, will return to Austin at Texas Performing Arts Bass Concert Hall, playing January 25-February 12, 2012.

Based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire, WICKED, winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy® and three Tony® Awards, is the untold story of the witches of Oz. Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls meet in the Land of Oz. One – born with emerald-green skin – is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular.

WICKED tells the story of their remarkable odyssey, and how these two unlikely friends grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.

Called “a cultural phenomenon” by Variety, WICKED continues to thrill audiences around the world.

FMI: web | email | tel: 477.6060

[submitted by t. performing arts]

FEBRUARY 5 | HAVING OUR SAY: THE DELANY SISTERS' FIRST 100 YEARS

Having Our Say - Carver Museum Feb 3 - 5

Join us for a sit down with Sadie and Bessie, the unparalleled Delany sisters. You'll leave the theater having had an intimate encounter with wisdom.

Having Our Say received 3 Tony nominations in 1995 and has since been produced internationally to critical acclaim. The play was turned into a television movie starring Diahann Carroll and Ruby Dee, earning a Peabody Award for Excellence in Television and a naacp Image Award nomination.

Join acclaimed local actresses Jennifer Cumberbatch and Carla Nickerson as they take you on a historical journey revealing truths about Jim Crowe, Civil Rights and cultural resiliency.

FMI: web | email | tel: 964.4506

[submitted by j. cumberbatch ]

FEBRUARY 11 | OPEN AUDITIONS FOR BLACK/AFRIKAN MODELS

RunWay Underground [the Evolution] Fashion Production Group & Network is holding Calls for Black Models - Men & Women - 16 & up
[*Especially Petite Women - 5'-0' to 5'-5" tall & size 0-2]

RWU is hoping to cast 20-30 new models for our very full 2012 season of fashion shows, events and editorial photo shoots. We're especially getting a head start for Austin Fashion Week (August) and for our first annual International-Afrikan Fashion Week/Austin event in October. 

Auditions are: Saturday, 11 February from 1:30PM -3:30PM and Saturday, 25 February from 2;30PM - 3:30PM only @ the Carver Museum @ 1165 Angelina St. [in the conference room]

It would serve you well to know more about what we're looking for and what to do and expect by visiting our website.

FMI: web

[submitted by n. sankofa]

FEBRUARY 17 | FOLKTALES’ BLACK WOMEN’S LITERARY SOCIETY

If your new year’s resolution was to find a book club where the selections were a bit more serious than the latest by-the-numbers romance novel, then we may be the book club for you.

2012 marks the beginning of the 20th year for the Folktales’ Black Women’s Literary Society. We enjoy a wide array of works by African American authors. Our mix includes: recent releases with the classics; first time authors with well established writers; short (less than 300 pp.) and longer (up to 600pp.) works; and genres (fiction, biography, commentary, mysteries, historical).

We meet the 3rd Friday from February – November at 6pm at the Carver Museum.

Our February 17th selection (and National African American Read-In contribution) is ASSUMPTION: A NOVEL by Percival Everett. For the March 16th meeting – and in honor of the 75th anniversary of the its’ publishing – we are discussing THEIR EYES WERE WATCHING GOD by Zora Neale Hurston.

FMI: email

[submitted by p. terry]

FEBRUARY 18 | KA-ASO AFRIKAN/ADULAWO WOMEN'S TEXTILE LOUNGES

It's back by demand — TiWan TiWa: Abibiman presents KA-ASO Afrikan/Adulawo Women's Textile Lounges are meeting [for now] at the Carver Museum in the classroom on saturday, 18 February from 10:30am to 12:30pm.

Please feel free to bring breakfast or snacks to munch on while we crochet, knit, quilt, weave and share... These are not classes but there is always someone present who can show how to doing something, help solve problems and answer questions...

An evening Lounge at my studio space will be added soon. It would be helpful to call, text or email us if you're coming so we'll know how many folks to expect and set up for.

Ka-Aso Textile Lounges are Free informal knitting, crochet, embroidery, quilting, weaving, textile arts social gatherings.

FMI: web | email | tel: 552.6277

[submitted by n. sankofa]

FEBRUARY 19 | THE MONTH OF LOVE

The VORTEX and Love Production present
THE MONTH OF LOVE on Sunday, February 19th 9PM-Midnight at The VORTEX Theater, located at 2307 Manor Rd. Admission is $7.

Come celebrate the month of love with an evening of live R&B, Soul music, and erotic poetry. LaLove Robinson hosts The Month of Love at The VORTEX, featuring live music by Stephanie Grissett, Ugly Elephant, and Da’Shade Moonbeam. Faylita Hicks along with Mark Bialik will be delivering sensual poetry, along with a surprise guest.

The Butterfly Bar will be open and serving up wine, beer, and savory snacks, so come by and experience and evening of love!

FMI: web | email | tel: 903.8027

[submitted by l. robinson]

FEBRUARY 24 | EAST SIDE HIGH PERFORMED BY TX EMPOWERMENT ACADEMY

East Side High is the story of a high school undergoing massive change during a time of great struggle. East Side High is based on a Principal who turns a school around by unusual means. The students put away their differences buy investing into the Principal’s methods and begin to care for their education during the turbulent times of the civil rights movement.

Come experience dance, live jazz band, choir and drama like you've never seen before, come experience East Side High.

Friday and Saturday, Feb 24 at 7p and a matinee performance on Sat at 2p at the Long Center. Call for tickets or more information.

FMI: email | tel: 494.1076

[submitted by j. booth]

FEBRUARY 25 | 13TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY HERITAGE FESTIVAL

A free family-friendly community event!

Come celebrate Black History and support a worthy cause at this scholarship fundraiser for Huston-Tillotson University.

You are invited to join State Representative Dawnna Dukes, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Mayor Pro-Tem Sheryl Cole, the City of Austin and Huston-Tillotson University for the 13th Annual African American Community Heritage Festival on Saturday, February 25 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on the grounds of the historic Huston-Tillotson University campus, located at 900 Chicon Street in East Austin.

The African American Community Heritage Festival is a free event with activities suitable for all ages.

This festival is at the pinnacle of Austin's Black History Month celebrations, highlighting and appreciating the rich culture African Americans contribute to our community everyday.

The festival will feature product vendors, a fully loaded Kids Zone, health fair, delicious food and entertainment for the whole family.

FMI: web | email | tel: 463.0506

[submitted by p. parker]

MARCH 1 | CHADDICK DANCE THEATER'S "DARK TO LIGHT" PERFORMANCE

A contemporary dance performance by Chaddick Dance Theater that explores the issues of human rights and the importance of peaceful coexistence in our modern world. “Dark to Light” is part of the three month-long Light / The Holocaust & Humanity Project, a full-length contemporary ballet and Holocaust education partnership that promotes the protection of human rights against bigotry and hate through arts, education and public dialogue.

The four-part performance will incorporate Chaddick Dance Theater’s organic, full-body style and signature theatrical expression with such deep-seated cultural and personal issues as spirituality, human rights and coexistence.

March 1-3 at Austin Venture Studio Theater. Tickets $18 in advance online and $20 at the door.

FMI: web | email | tel: 371.7146

[submitted by k. kemper]

APRIL 6 | INSPIRATIONAL STAGE PLAY "LOOKING IN THE WRONG DIRECTION"

When You Take Your Eyes Off Of God and Focus On Other Things You Begin to Start “Looking in the Wrong Direction”.

That is the pivotal message that comes from the New & Exciting Gospel & Inspirational Stage Play “Looking in the Wrong Direction”, Co-Produced by BE Entertainment & Productions & Beacon Multi-Media Entertainment and Productions. Written and Directed by Bianca Emery. Comedy and Drama is the perfect combination for Entertainment. This is a play that you don't want to miss.

April 6th & 7th @ 7:30p.m. at Dougherty Art Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd.

FMI: web | email | tel: 800.917.8024

[submitted by b. emery]

APRIL 10 | MARY POPPINS ON STAGE AT BASS CONCERT HALL

April 10-15, 2012 Tuesday–Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. at Bass Concert Hall. Tickets start at $30

With four productions currently running on three continents, Mary Poppins is one of the biggest stage musical successes to emerge from London or New York in recent years. The musical is the winner of 44 major theatre awards around the globe, including Tony®, Olivier, Helpmann and Evening Standard awards.

The entire original creative team has reunited to bring this magical story of the world’s most famous nanny to audiences around North America. Based on P.L. Travers' cherished stories and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, Mary Poppins the stage play features the Academy Award®-winning music and lyrics of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The stage production has been created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, who has written the book, and the Olivier Award-winning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, who have composed new songs and additional music and lyrics.
'
FMI: web | email | tel: 477.6060

[submitted by t. performing arts]

FEBRUARY 5 | FIRST SUNDAY YOGA CLASS AT CASTLE HILL YOGA

On Sunday, February 5th, from 8:45-9:45 am, Castle Hill Yoga (12th Street and Lamar Boulevard) will host First Sunday for Community Yoga, a monthly fundraising event, with all proceeds going directly towards Community Yoga’s programming.

Each month a different Austin yoga studio agrees to donate one of their regularly scheduled Sunday yoga classes to Community Yoga, as a way of bringing together members of the Austin yoga community in an effort to help the organization share the practice of yoga.

Community Yoga is a not for profit organization that brings no cost yoga classes to people who might not otherwise have an opportunity to experience the benefits of the practice. Currently, Community Yoga leads approximately 30 yoga classes each week, at a variety of locations (shelters, veterans, prisons, schools, recovery centers).

FMI: web | email

[submitted by k. wharton]

FEBRUARY 7 | DINNER WITH EL PRESIDENTE AT SOUTHWEST KEY

A chance for you to meet with Dr. Juan Sanchez, Founder and El Presidente of Southwest Key Programs in East Austin. Share a meal and tell him how you feel Southwest Key can best serve Austin while finding ways to get involved. Light dinner will be served. The event is free but RSVP is required to attend

Tuesday, January 31, 6:30-8pm and Tuesday, February 7, 6:30-8pm at Southwest Key's El Centro de Familia, 6002 Jain Lane, Capital Metro Bus #17.

Space is limited, so please confirm your RSVP.

FMI: web | email | tel: 583.2504

[submitted by v. joiner]

FEBRUARY 8 | STRESS MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP SERIES AT SOUTHWEST KEY

Do you live in a constant state of stress? The East Austin Children’s Promise is hosting a FREE stress management workshop series at Southwest Key’s El Centro de Familia in East Austin every Wednesday night through the end of February focusing on coping with stress from family, work, relationships, and more. These sessions will be conducted entirely in Spanish and free childcare will be provided for children 18 months and older.

Southwest Key’s El Centro de Familia, 6002 Jain Lane. Capital Metro Bus #17

Wednesday evenings: January 25, Feb 1, 8, 15 from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, and Monday February 20 from 6:00 to 7:30 pm.

FMI: web | email | tel: 287.5038

[submitted by m. holubetz]

FEBRUARY 9 | 2012 30TH ANNIVERSARY AWARDS GALA

Please join CCAACC and distinguished business, political and civic leaders as we celebrate a rich legacy of African-American businesses within Central Texas at our 2012 30th Anniversary Awards Gala.

At this monumental event, CCAACC will honor the founders with the Lifetime Achievement Award for their contribution and commitment to economic advancement on behalf of African Americans.

Keynote Speaker: Brian Tippens, Director, Procurement, Sustainability & Innovation

FMI: web | email | tel: 459.1181

[submitted by n. cofield]

FEBRUARY 10 | FREE, HEALTHY FOOD AT SOUTHWEST KEY’S FOOD PANTRY

East Austin Children’s Promise, in partnership with the Capital Area Food Bank, hosts one of the largest mobile food pantries in Central Texas at Southwest Key’s El Centro de Familia.

ALL families are eligible to receive food available: no ID required and there are no income or zipcode guidelines. You may also get help applying for Food Stamps upon request.

The second Friday of every month from 4-6pm at Southwest Key Programs, 6002 Jain Lane. Accessible on Capital Metro Bus #17

Call or text Val Gomez at 512.879.8105 for more information.

FMI: web | email | tel: 879.8105

[submitted by v. gomez]

FEBRUARY 11 | EAST AUSTIN FITNESS

Early Saturday mornings when it's cooler, we'll conduct group outdoor fitness training sessions designed for beginners who are not under physical restrictions as prescribed by a physician. You must be able to walk/jog for 5 minutes pain free.

If you're looking for something more challenging - please visit our website for our more intense group strength and speed training workouts.

Time to get serious about taking care of your body. Being outside is not going to always feel comfortable, but getting outside your comfort zone is what's going to get you results.

We'll meet and park at the Yellow Jacket Stadium located at 1156 Hargrave St.

Email us if you're ready to train.

FMI: web | email | tel: 826.3977

[submitted by d. braswell]

FEBRUARY 15 | NFL RAVENS STAR MICHAEL OHER FROM THE BLIND SIDE BOOKSIGNING

Join BookPeople when MICHAEL OHER, Baltimore Ravens star and subject of the hit book & movie The Blind Side, speaks & signs his bestselling memoir, 'I Beat the Odds: From Homelessness, to the Blind Side, to Beyond'.

This event is free and open to the public and will take place at BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. All books signed at BookPeople events must be purchased from BookPeople.

FMI: web | email | tel: 472.5050

[submitted by b. bookstore]

FEBRUARY 16 | AFRICAN AMERICAN FAMILY SUPPORT CONFERENCE

The conference will be held Thursday, Feb. 16 and Friday, Feb. 17 from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM at the Hilton Austin Hotel (500 E. 4th Street).

Registration is free for consumers and family members. Peer Support Specialists can apply for Certified Peer Support Specialist CEU's.

Regular Professional Registration fee for the conference is $125, and will be applied to those who register after the January 15 deadline. Groups of 10 or more receive a discounted rate of $15 per registrant.

•Thursday keynote Dr. Abdullah-Johnson a national expert on learning disabilities

•Friday keynotes Joyce James, Associate Deputy Executive Commission, Health and Human Services Commission, Center for Elimination of Disproportionality and Disparities and Lucille O'Neal, renowned motivational author and speaker and mother of NBA basketball star Shaquille O'Neal

•Two days of workshops, seminars and
panels including a specialized track for members of the clergy, The Shepherds Responsibility: Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Your Congregation and a workshop on human trafficking


FMI: web | email | tel: 440.4063

[submitted by e. canales]

FEBRUARY 18 | JIN SHIN DO BODYMIND ACUPRESSURE WORKSHOP

Jin Shin Do means “Way of the Compassionate Spirit” and uses a finger pressure technique from Japan, Chinese acupuncture theory, psychology from the work of Carl Jung and Wilhelm Reich and Daoist yoga/qigong practice.

This 6 hour class will introduce the five element system of Chinese medicine with the focus on Wood. Qigong practice will begin the class. This workshop is for those interested in using acupressure to broaden their scope of practice. Jin Shin Do combines easily with massage, acupuncture, cranial-sacral therapy and other styles of bodywork.

February 18, 9:30am-5pm. $95. AOMA MInd-Body Center, Bldg A, 4701 West Gate Blvd.

FMI: web | email | tel: 492.3034

[submitted by s. bentley]

FEBRUARY 25 | URBAN SOPHISTICATION-ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION

Please join Urban Sophistication for a "Round table discussion" on Saturday, February 25 from 1pm-4pm @ Big Daddy's Burgers and Bar, located at 9070 Research Blvd., Suite 101.

The topic of discussion is "Communication in Relationships". The discussion is FREE and open to everyone single or married. If you have not attended one of our round table discussions, you don't know what you are missing. Menu and bar will be optional per person. Join us for some stimulating conversation.

FMI: web | email | tel: 799.3458

[submitted by c. rogers]

FEBRUARY 25 | 13TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY HERITAGE FESTIVAL

A free family-friendly community event!

Come celebrate Black History and support a worthy cause at this scholarship fundraiser for Huston-Tillotson University.

You are invited to join State Representative Dawnna Dukes, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Mayor Pro-Tem Sheryl Cole, the City of Austin and Huston-Tillotson University for the 13th Annual African American Community Heritage Festival on Saturday, February 25 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on the grounds of the historic Huston-Tillotson University campus, located at 900 Chicon Street in East Austin.

The African American Community Heritage Festival is a free event with activities suitable for all ages.

This festival is at the pinnacle of Austin's Black History Month celebrations, highlighting and appreciating the rich culture African Americans contribute to our community everyday.

The festival will feature product vendors, a fully loaded Kids Zone, health fair, delicious food and entertainment for the whole family.


FMI: web | email | tel: 463.0506

[submitted by p. parker]

FEBRUARY 25 | RISING STARS COLLIGIATE MENTORING PROGRAM - OPEN ENROLLMENT/

Interest Meeting on Saturday, February 25 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at the University of Phoenix, 10801 North Mopac Expwy, Braker Pointe II Bldg., Room 314.

Incepted in 2009, The Rising Stars Collegiate Mentoring Program was created for matriculating and aspiring undergraduate college students in regional colleges and universities who have an interest in professional development. The program provides a Mentor to each student and is sponsored by the Austin Chapter of the National Black MBA Association.

Our seminars prepare students for success in the post-college business professional world by providing training in areas such as Professional Etiquette, Dining Etiquette, Interview Skills/Elevator Speech, and Personal Branding. Other activities are designed to strengthen the professional relationship and bond between Mentor and Student and to train students how to strategically Network within their community.

We are currently having open enrollment and are accepting Mentor and Student applications. Come out to our Interest Meeting if you would like to serve as a Mentor, participate as a Student Mentee, serve as a member of our coordination team, meet and greet other members of NBMBAA's Austin Chapter, or just to show your support.

To receive an application, please contact Acacia Julius. The program is free to all participants.

FMI: email | tel: 466.6373

[submitted by a. julius]

MARCH 30 | AUSTIN BURN SURIVIOR SUPPORT GROUP

New burn survivor support group forming in Austin. This group is being formed to bring support to burn survivors and their families and to offer rescources to help individuals through the healing transition.

First meeting to be held on Friday, March 30 at 630 pm at Simpson United Methodist Church at 1701 E. 12th St,

FMI: email | tel: 538.8550

[submitted by c. williams]

MARCH 31 | AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN'S PROFILES OF PROMINENCE CEREMONY

The Austin Metroplex Chapter of National Women of Achievement, Inc. will induct 15 honorees for the Twelfth Biennial African- American Women’s Profiles of Prominence 2012 ceremony (formerly known as the Hall of Fame).

This year’s program will be held on Saturday, March 31 at the Carver Cultural Center at 6 p.m. with a reception afterward. Achiever Barbara Foreman will serve as narrator for the evening.

The 15 new members of the 2012 African-American Women’s Profiles of Prominence are:
Arts - Eileen ‘Sugar’ Williams–Persley.
Business - Dr. Chiquita Watts Eugene
Care Giver(Foreman-Jones)Award: Mrs. Georgia Johnson Malone.
Civic Leadership - Jessie Warren Bradford
Communications - Rev. Marion Childress-Usher.
Education - Alicia Moore-Hopkins, Ph.D.
Gaye M. Lang, Ed.D.
Health Professions - Monica ‘Moe’ Anderson, D.D.S.
Law - Karen Kennard, Esq.
Professional Leadership - Sheri Jackson Marshall.
Public Service - Denise Davis, Esq.
Youth Achievement - Alexis D. George
Award of Merit - Arlene L. Youngblood.
Lifetime Achievement Award -Scottie Davis Ivory and Alice T. King Johnson(Posthumously).

An independent selection review committee, composed of members of the Greater Austin Community, selected the inductees. The public is invited. For more information, contact Arlene Youngblood.

FMI: email | tel: 928.2540

[submitted by a. youngblood]

APRIL 7 | 14TH ANNUAL MIGHTY TEXAS DOG WALK

Mighty Texas Dog Walk Gets Hairy!

This year’s Mighty Texas Dog Walk, on Saturday, April 7th at Auditorium Shores is more than walking the most dogs for a third Guinness World Record for Texas. Organizers have added three New Guinness World Record attempts:

- Biggest Fur Ball (Sponsored by Mud Puppies) Your dog's hair can help us bring a new Guinness World Record to Austin! - Brush your dog and help us build the Ball!

- Most Dogs Sitting Simultaneously - Sponsor this Ring!

- Most Dogs Wearing the Same Bandana (provided by Petco!)

Dog and family friendly sponsors like Petco, Purina and Mud Puppies will be back sharing samples and information for dogs and their best friends. The popular Groovy Dog Bakery’s Doggie Cake Walk will be back as will the Canine Center for Training and Behavior’s cool Agility Course. Try it out with your pooch.

Proceeds benefit nonprofit Texas Hearing and Service Dogs, now in its 24th year of turning strays into stars that assist disabled Texans.

FMI: web | tel: 858.1495

[submitted by b. leverich]

APRIL 28 | HEART O' TEXAS ORCHID SOCIETY'S 41ST ANNUAL SHOW & SALE

April 28th & 29th, at Zilker Botanical Gardens Center, 220 Barton Springs Rd. Show & Plant Sale: 10:00am - 5:00pm Saturday & 10:00am - 4:00pm Sunday.

This year we are very proud to present the 41st Annual Orchid Show. Orchids are Mother Nature at her best, so come join us and check out all the beautiful orchids that will be on display.

There will also be hundreds of blooming orchids for sale, as well as helpful information for growing these beautiful plants from the 8 vendors and society members. Need flowers for that special person in your life...orchids are becoming one of the most popular flowers in the U.S., so why not get an orchid this year for that special someone or special occasion.

Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend. For a complete schedule of events, or for more information, please visit our web-site.

FMI: web | email | tel: 413.3199

[submitted by g. frost]

FEBRUARY 9 | NEO-SOUL LOUNGE AT 11TH STREET STATION

11th Street Station Restaurant and Bar is now serving Neo-Soul Lounge every Thursday from 9 pm to Midnight. Neo-Soul Lounge is an open mike showcasing music and poetry attracting local, regional as well as national talent. Acts can include anything from spoken word to singing and monologues, with neo-soul music sliced in between. Check website for upcoming acts.

FMI: web | email | tel: 844.5491

[submitted by h. mason]

FEBRUARY 9 | LEDGE THURSDAYS HAPPY HOUR @ HAVEN

Ladies & Gentlemen who make up Austin's Finest...

Join us at HAVEN! It's the newest THURSDAY Happy Hour Hot Spot in town. Watch the crowd below from the newly designed LEDGE, or get your 'visual pleasures' from all the New Flat Screen TVs.

>>>>>>FREE FOOD * FREE FOOD * FREE FOOD<<<<<<

* HAPPY HOUR (5p-9p) FREE FOOD till 8p
* Drink Specials All Night Long
* Party till 2a!
* DJ Dontizl (Top 40s, Dub Step, Hip Hop)
* $100 Bottle Vodka B4 11:00p
* Free B4 10:00p

We welcome all corporate and local businesses to select Haven on Thursdays for your After Work treat.

Treat Yourself. It's a Beautiful Thing.

FMI: web | email | tel: 552.2817

[submitted by r. walker]

FEBRUARY 10 | H-TOWN TAKEOVER HT HOMECOMING WEEKEND

During the Ram Homecoming weekend of 2010, three alums from the Houston area wondered what it would be like if th H-Town experience met the homecoming experience in Austin.

The Takeover is back on for HC 2012. This time we have you covered for the whole weekend. Team Takeover hopes you are ready for another All-Star DJ and partying to 3 am. We will also have a special salute to the Spring '92 Lines of DST, AKA, the men of, Kappa Alpha Psi - Gamma Lambda Chapter, and Omega Psi Phi - Alpha Psi Chapter.

The Weekend's events include:

Friday, Feb. 10 - "Takeover Happy Hour" at MoJoe Room 4pm-9pm

Friday, Feb. 10 - "Salute to Spring '92 Celebration" at MoJoe Room 10pm-3am

Saturday, Feb. 11 - "Blackout Party" at Holiday Inn Midtown 9pm-3am

Sunday, Feb. 12 - "It Ain't Over Jazz Brunch" at MoJoe Room 10am-1pm

Visit the Takeover website to purchase tickets and for more information.

FMI: web | email | tel: 832.224.6618

[submitted by d. arnold]

FEBRUARY 11 | A.B.N(ZRO&TRAE) AND V.I.P(KPAUL &PIMPIN PEN)

Make sure u get ya tickets NOW while they LAST! FEB 11th. A.B.N(Zro&Trae) and V.I.P(KPaul &Pimpin Pen) in Austin, Tx @ Emos East. Riverside Dr. $25 Tickets Now while they LAST. THIS WILL SELL OUT! All ages welcome!! V.I.P available! Email or txt.

FMI: web | email | tel: 758.1578

[submitted by k. paul]

FEBRUARY 11 | LOCK & KEY MIXER

Urban Sophistication is hosting a Lock & Key Mixer for Austin's Singles, Sat. Feb. 11th 8pm-until. We provide unique activities that allow everyone to interact with one another. Come out and have a great time with other single men and women looking to meet and mingle. You'll be glad you did, after all best encounters are in person!

Appetizers will be provided. $10 Admission $5 Before 8:30pm. Door Prizes valued at $200. Ultimate First Date Package Giveaway.

Big Daddy's Burgers & Bar, 9070 Research Blvd., Ste. 101 (located in the Crossroads Ctr across from Highland Lanes in the parking lot with Chili's)

FMI: web | email | tel: 913.2319

[submitted by d. harris]

FEBRUARY 16 | NEW ORLEANS MARDI GRAS BUS RIDE

New Orleans Mardi Gras and Country Inn and Suites invites you to 2012 event. Mardi Gras trip packages starts at $600 per person for 6 nites and 7 days in New Orleans from 2/16-22/2012.

Price is inclusive (hotel, transportation, breakfast, t-shirts and more.) Snacks, bottle water, drinks, sodas will be aboard the bus. Come out and help celebrate the 2012 New Orleans Mardi Gras Gala Event.

FMI: email | tel: 573.3926

[submitted by d. steib]

FEBRUARY 18 | COMEDIAN EDDIE GRIFFIN

Funny man Eddie Griffin is guaranteed to make you laugh at the official Central Texas Black Expo post comedy show!

This event will take place in Killeen at the Civic & Conference Center located at 3601 South W.S. Young Drive. There will be live entertainment throughout the evening including more hilarious comedians! You do NOT want to miss this night of laughter and fun so please get your tickets early while they still last! Tickets are available in Austin at Mitchies and in Killeen at Renaissance Records and Obsessions by Carolyn.

Brought to you by The Best of Five, proceeds from this event will benefit the Kathy's Kids Project!

FMI: web | email | tel: 698.3334

[submitted by y. miller]

MARCH 16 | LOVE & HAPPINESS COMEDY SHOW FEAT. MARY J. BLIGE

50/50 Entertainment presents the VIII Annual Love & Happiness Comedy Show Friday March 16 at the Illusion Theater inside the Alamodome in San Antonio. Featuring The Queen of Hip Hop Soul Mary J. Blige, that's right Mary J. Blige performing live with a host of comedians. Tickets can be purchased at any Ticketmaster Location.

FMI: web | email | tel: 210.273.2858

[submitted by 5. entertainment]

FEBRUARY 7 | BIZAID BUSINESS ORIENTATION

BizAid Business Orientation provides a general overview to opening a small business or re-evaluating an existing business during its growth. This course provides information on where entrepreneurs can find assistance at the idea, start-up, and existing stages of their business. This orientation covers key questions to ask yourself when starting or expanding a business. In addition, this course furnishes you with the information necessary to answer those questions and to take the next step in the development of your business.

Every Tuesday from 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM at 201 East 2nd Street, There is no cost to attend and you may register online or by calling.

FMI: web | email | tel: 974.7800

[submitted by c. villegan]

FEBRUARY 5 | WORSHIP WITH SPIRIT AND TRUTH

You are invited to Grow With Us! Join Pastors Carsons and the Spirit and Truth Christian Church for worship service each Sunday @ 11 AM. Worship services are held at the Holiday Inn & Suites, 2340 IH 35 North in Round Rock (Exit 254, next to the Cracker Barrel Restaurant.)

We are currently accepting letters of interest for musicians. If you are interested in taking your personal and public music ministry to the next level in Christ, go to our website for further information.

God bless you and remember, you Can Win in Christ!

FMI: web | email | tel: 626.4708

[submitted by a. carson]

FEBRUARY 5 | HEALING SERVICES WORSHIP IN THE CITY

God has been moving in a powerful way People are getting healed and sat free right here in Austin Texas. Dont miss your time to be healed and set free..Run and tell it that God is Healing and setting people free.
Jan.22 @ 6pm Worship In The City, 15501 North 620 #1200.

FMI: web | email | tel: 803.4774

[submitted by n. matthews]

FEBRUARY 5 | COME WORSHIP WITH THE ABIDING GLORY TABERNACLE

TAGT recently moved into a new worship facility to accommodate the growth of the ministry. 

At TAGT, we believe the Glory of God is revealed through the truth of His word.  We are commissioned to train up disciples who will operate in the demonstration of the Spirit and power to reach the lost for Jesus Christ.

Please join us for worship services at 10:30am on Sundays and/or 7:00pm on Wednesdays.  Our new worship facility is in North Austin - 12636 Research Boulevard, Suite A-102. We look forward to you worshipping with us!

FMI: web | email | tel: 868.0160

[submitted by m. smith]

FEBRUARY 11 | MEN CONFERENCE

“The Lord is with you with you, mighty warrior.” Judges 6:12

The Corinth Missionary Baptist Church invites you to attend the 2012 Men’s Conference.

Join in the celebration and help them let your friends and neighbors know that men can become a warrior for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, be mentors to our young men, serve our community through street ministry, administer to our men in the prisons and more importantly how to be God’s instrument in your church’s Men’s Ministry.

You are cordially invited to its men’s conference that will allow you a chance to support and fellowship with friends, neighbors, and men who know what life means when you find and develop a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Community advocates, parents, educators, political leaders, and ministers are coming together to demonstrate that there are solutions for our men and their families in our community.

Corinth Missionary Baptist Church has joined with High Pointe Baptist Church to host the 2012 Men’s Conference.

February 11, 9:00 am, at High Pointe Baptist Church, 12030 Dessau Road, Austin, TX 78754

Join us in a day of celebration and come hear dynamic speakers and men of God.
Pastors: Gary Renfro and Juan Sanchez
Ministers: Aaron Smith and Harold Keyes
Brothers in Christ: Mike Bradford and Perry Darling.

There will be food and information from local community organizations that will benefit all men.

FMI: web | email | tel: 626.3278

[submitted by j. ockleberry]

FEBRUARY 11 | FREE SWEETHEART DINNER

The Wheless Lane Church of Christ invites all couples to attend its annual Sweetheart Dinner. The event will take place at Katherine Fleischer Park in Austin on Saturday, February 11th from 7:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. What better way to kick off the pre-Valentine’s Day weekend than t1o enjoy a delicious, catered meal with that special someone and enjoy great fellowship at the same time! Again, the event is FREE, but you must RSVP. RSVP at whelesscoc.org/rsvp or 512-926-2988 ext 106.
FMI: web | email | tel: 926.2988

[submitted by j. thompson]

FEBRUARY 11 | THE RELATIVES WITH THE ISAAC SISTERS: KLRU-TV TAPING

The Relatives with The Isaac Sisters will tape an episode of KLRU's TV show Arts In Context.

Saturday, February 11, Taping starts at 8 pm. Doors will open at 7 pm.

Formed in the early 1970s by the Rev. Gean and Tommy West, The Relatives cut three genre-bending singles during their decade-long run that were too freaky for the church and too righteous for R&B radio. Though pioneers of an utterly singular sound, the Relatives never made a splash outside of Dallas and have remained virtually unknown even among serious record collectors. But all of that is changing with recent performances at ACL Music Festival in 2010 and backing Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears on the PBS television series Austin City Limits last year.

Joining them will be The Isaac Sisters in their very first television appearance.

FMI: email | tel: 475.9070

[submitted by a. burcham]

FEBRUARY 19 | SOUL SISTAZ LADIES NIGHT PT 2

Sunday, Feb. 19, 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm at MoJoe Room 6406 N I-35, ste. 1600.

Holy Souljaz Ent. & Keep Austin Worshiping! presents Soul Sistaz Ladies Night Pt 2.

Hosted by Ms. Jackson of She Smile Ent.
& Tree G of Tree G Music with special guests Kir' Ondria Woods, Kara Nichole, B Sloan, Selah Vie, Phoenix Reign, RnA The Messengers, Anessa Hall-Joseph & more!

FMI: web | email | tel: 832.888.5830

[submitted by a. hall-joseph]

FEBRUARY 26 | KEEP AUSTIN WORSHIPING PRESENTS FALLING IN LOVE

Keep Austin Worshiping! presents Falling In Love on Sunday, Feb. 26 @ 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm at MoJoe Room 6406 N I-35 with special guests Herb Bland, Valerie Scott, Charles Seafous, Melanie Watson, Phoenix Reign, Pslamist Brandi Hughes, Anessa Hall-Joseph
& more!

FMI: web | email | tel: 832.888.5830

[submitted by a. hall-joseph ]

MARCH 16 | LOVE & HAPPINESS COMEDY SHOW FEAT. MARY J. BLIGE

50/50 Entertainment presents the VIII Annual Love & Happiness Comedy Show Friday March 16 at the Illusion Theater inside the Alamodome in San Antonio. Featuring The Queen of Hip Hop Soul Mary J. Blige, that's right Mary J. Blige performing live with a host of comedians. Tickets can be purchased at any Ticketmaster Location.

FMI: web link | email | tel: 210.273.2858

[submitted by 5. entertainment]

MARCH 30 | AUSTIN BURN SURIVIOR SUPPORT GROUP

New burn survivor support group forming in Austin. This group is being formed to bring support to burn survivors and their families and to offer rescources to help individuals through the healing transition.

First meeting to be held on Friday, March 30 at 630 pm at Simpson United Methodist Church at 1701 E. 12th St,

FMI: email | tel: 538.8550

[submitted by c. williams]

MARCH 31 | AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN'S PROFILES OF PROMINENCE CEREMONY

The Austin Metroplex Chapter of National Women of Achievement, Inc. will induct 15 honorees for the Twelfth Biennial African- American Women’s Profiles of Prominence 2012 ceremony (formerly known as the Hall of Fame).

This year’s program will be held on Saturday, March 31 at the Carver Cultural Center at 6 p.m. with a reception afterward. Achiever Barbara Foreman will serve as narrator for the evening.

The 15 new members of the 2012 African-American Women’s Profiles of Prominence are:
Arts - Eileen ‘Sugar’ Williams–Persley.
Business - Dr. Chiquita Watts Eugene
Care Giver(Foreman-Jones)Award: Mrs. Georgia Johnson Malone.
Civic Leadership - Jessie Warren Bradford
Communications - Rev. Marion Childress-Usher.
Education - Alicia Moore-Hopkins, Ph.D.
Gaye M. Lang, Ed.D.
Health Professions - Monica ‘Moe’ Anderson, D.D.S.
Law - Karen Kennard, Esq.
Professional Leadership - Sheri Jackson Marshall.
Public Service - Denise Davis, Esq.
Youth Achievement - Alexis D. George
Award of Merit - Arlene L. Youngblood.
Lifetime Achievement Award -Scottie Davis Ivory and Alice T. King Johnson(Posthumously).

An independent selection review committee, composed of members of the Greater Austin Community, selected the inductees. The public is invited. For more information, contact Arlene Youngblood.

FMI: email | tel: 928.2540

[submitted by a. youngblood]

APRIL 6 | INSPIRATIONAL STAGE PLAY "LOOKING IN THE WRONG DIRECTION"

When You Take Your Eyes Off Of God and Focus On Other Things You Begin to Start “Looking in the Wrong Direction”.

That is the pivotal message that comes from the New & Exciting Gospel & Inspirational Stage Play “Looking in the Wrong Direction”, Co-Produced by BE Entertainment & Productions & Beacon Multi-Media Entertainment and Productions. Written and Directed by Bianca Emery. Comedy and Drama is the perfect combination for Entertainment. This is a play that you don't want to miss.

April 6th & 7th @ 7:30p.m. at Dougherty Art Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd.

FMI: web link | email | tel: 800.917.8024

[submitted by b. emery]

APRIL 7 | 14TH ANNUAL MIGHTY TEXAS DOG WALK

Mighty Texas Dog Walk Gets Hairy!

This year’s Mighty Texas Dog Walk, on Saturday, April 7th at Auditorium Shores is more than walking the most dogs for a third Guinness World Record for Texas. Organizers have added three New Guinness World Record attempts:

- Biggest Fur Ball (Sponsored by Mud Puppies) Your dog's hair can help us bring a new Guinness World Record to Austin! - Brush your dog and help us build the Ball!

- Most Dogs Sitting Simultaneously - Sponsor this Ring!

- Most Dogs Wearing the Same Bandana (provided by Petco!)

Dog and family friendly sponsors like Petco, Purina and Mud Puppies will be back sharing samples and information for dogs and their best friends. The popular Groovy Dog Bakery’s Doggie Cake Walk will be back as will the Canine Center for Training and Behavior’s cool Agility Course. Try it out with your pooch.

Proceeds benefit nonprofit Texas Hearing and Service Dogs, now in its 24th year of turning strays into stars that assist disabled Texans.

FMI: web link | tel: 858.1495

[submitted by b. leverich]

APRIL 10 | MARY POPPINS ON STAGE AT BASS CONCERT HALL

April 10-15, 2012 Tuesday–Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. at Bass Concert Hall. Tickets start at $30

With four productions currently running on three continents, Mary Poppins is one of the biggest stage musical successes to emerge from London or New York in recent years. The musical is the winner of 44 major theatre awards around the globe, including Tony®, Olivier, Helpmann and Evening Standard awards.

The entire original creative team has reunited to bring this magical story of the world’s most famous nanny to audiences around North America. Based on P.L. Travers' cherished stories and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, Mary Poppins the stage play features the Academy Award®-winning music and lyrics of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The stage production has been created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, who has written the book, and the Olivier Award-winning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, who have composed new songs and additional music and lyrics.
'
FMI: web link | email | tel: 477.6060

[submitted by t. performing arts]

APRIL 28 | HEART O' TEXAS ORCHID SOCIETY'S 41ST ANNUAL SHOW & SALE

April 28th & 29th, at Zilker Botanical Gardens Center, 220 Barton Springs Rd. Show & Plant Sale: 10:00am - 5:00pm Saturday & 10:00am - 4:00pm Sunday.

This year we are very proud to present the 41st Annual Orchid Show. Orchids are Mother Nature at her best, so come join us and check out all the beautiful orchids that will be on display.

There will also be hundreds of blooming orchids for sale, as well as helpful information for growing these beautiful plants from the 8 vendors and society members. Need flowers for that special person in your life...orchids are becoming one of the most popular flowers in the U.S., so why not get an orchid this year for that special someone or special occasion.

Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend. For a complete schedule of events, or for more information, please visit our web-site.

FMI: web link | email | tel: 413.3199

[submitted by g. frost]