FEBRUARY 8 | CARLA NICKERSON OPENS 2010 SEASON FOR COMMUNITY ART SPACE

Carla Nickerson opens the 2010 Season for Community Art Space in Austin's Newly Designated African American Cultural Heritage District on Saturday, February 6, at 7:00PM at
Bydee Art Gallery, located at 1050 East 11th St.

The work presented will include both established and emerging artists as well as provide a showcase for young artists under the age of 18.

Carla Nickerson will open the season with her character studies, portraits and figure drawings on canvas. Carla has worked as an art director, illustrator and graphic artist for over 20 years.

Her artwork has been featured in films in the US and Cuba, and is collected internationally. More information on Ms. Nickerson's work can be found online at the weblink below. The exhibit will run through February 25th. Please contact Bydee Art Gallery for gallery hours.

FMI: web | email | tel: 236.0064

[submitted by l. byrd]

FEBRUARY 11 | NEO-SOUL AND POETRY LOUNGE

Every Thursday South Flavas presents Neo-Soul Lounge and Poetry Reading at Club Illusions. Club Illusion is located 2700 Pecan Street W. in Pflugerville (1825 W and Central Commerce). Acts can include anything from spoken word to singing and monologues, with neo-soul music sliced in between. Sign up start at 8 pm and is open to anyone. Check web site for cover.

FMI: web | email | tel: 877.733.5491

[submitted by h. mason]

FEBRUARY 13 | CELEBRATE ME! NIGERIA AT THE CARVER MUSEUM

On Saturday, February 13 from 1 p.m - 4 p.m. the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center will be transformed by the tastes, music, dance and history of the Nigerian people with Celebrate Me! Nigeria. Celebrate Me! is a cultural exploration event held at the Carver to appreciate the diverse cultures that make up our world.

During our ‘journey’ visitors will admire African art, sample cuisine, join a drumming circle, and dance!

Activities for youth and adults will provide a thoroughly cultural and educational experience that will enlighten visitors about Nigerian life.

FMI: email | tel: 974.4926

[submitted by Faith Weaver]

FEBRUARY 13 | ALL ABOUT LOVE

Kick start your Valentine's Weekend by spending a delightful afternoon enjoying the smooth sounds of some of Austin's finest voices. Mark Anthony has long been compared to Luther Vandross, as well as Jamie Foxx. Dorothy Mays Clark has become recognized as a sought after ZACH Scott regular. And, Ms. Dre, well, Austinites are honored to even have this very talented songtress in their midst. And to add a little something special, enjoy the comedy skills of Austin's own Gospel Comedienne, MizT!!

All About Love is on stage at The City Theater, 3823 Airport Blvd, t 2pm. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door, and can be purchased at Mt. Sinai BC (5900 Cameron Road), Mitchie's Gallery or online.

FMI: web | email | tel: 695.2171

[submitted by d. clark]

FEBRUARY 20 | KUJICHAGULIA:AFRIKANS DEFINING/NAMING OURSELVES

Did you know that most Afrikan names can sum up the bearer's destiny and life purpose or describe the conditions in which they were born or that your name can influence character?

Kujichagulia:Afrikans Defining/Naming Ourselves – A free discussion / workshop on how people of Afrikan ascent [Black folks] can reclaim our Afrikan heritage and purpose through our ancestral names. Learn how to discover/[re]claim your actual Afrikan ancestral/ethnic lineages presented by Sankofa’Asafo Ilu/Ofié. Learn the purpose of and what a "true" naming ceremony is/involves. Go beyond pulling a name out of a book or a making up one…

Saturday, 20 february @ 4pm, SankofaAsafo: Ilu/Ofié @ 2011 SL Davis Ave. An RSVP would be appreciated. This is a free event!!

FMI: web | email | tel: 552.6277

[submitted by n. akinyemi-sankofa]

FEBRUARY 25 | 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF RAISIN IN THE SUN

The City Theatre Company is proud to present the unforgettable production of Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary and called “a milestone in the American theatre,” this intensely affecting drama chronicles how a financial windfall touches the lives of an African-American family living in Chicago in the late 50s. As the simple desire for a home of their own becomes the touchstone of heartbreak, sacrifice, trust and love, their story becomes a heroic struggle to hold a world together.

Raisin in the Sun runs Thursday – Saturday at 8:00 p.m. and on Sunday at 5:30 p.m., through March 21, at The City Theatre, located at 3823 Airport Blvd. – east corner of Airport Blvd. and 38 1/2 St.

FMI: web | email | tel: 524.2870

[submitted by a. berkovsky]

FEBRUARY 27 | SOUNDS OF BLACKNESS, A CELEBRATION OF BLACK HISTORY

This program is presented by Out Tha Box Productions and FLAVA Dance Company, an Austin based children's dance company.

You will enjoy music and dance from many genres including African, Blues, The Cotton Club, Hip Hop and R&B. Etta James, The Nicholas Brothers, Ethel Waters and Michael Jackson are also scheduled to appear. Last year's show was completely sold out so get your tickets early! This is a show you don't want to miss!

FMI: web | email | tel: 799.2807

[submitted by l. smith]

FEBRUARY 27 | 11TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY HERITAGE FESTIVAL

You are invited to join State Representative Dawnna Dukes, ProArts Collective, Amerigroup Community Care, and Huston-Tillotson University for the Eleventh Annual African American Community Heritage Festival on Saturday, February 27, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 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 the pinnacle of Austin’s celebrations of Black History Month and the rich culture African Americans contribute to the Austin community every day. The festival will feature product vendors, a fully loaded Kids Zone, health fair, delicious food, and entertainment for the whole family.

For more information visit our website.

FMI: web | email | tel: 463.0506

[submitted by m. rosser]

FEBRUARY 8 | FREE SELF DEFENSE CLASSES AVAILABLE FOR THE COMMUNITY

Austin Self Defense (ASD), is offering FREE self defense classes for our neighborhood businesses employees, Neighborhood Watch Groups and individuals. This is a free service in an effort to support the safety of our community.
Must sign an ASD waiver

If your company or group would like to take advantage of this free training and take an active role in helping to build safety in the minds of our community, please contact ASD for additional information.

FMI: web | email | tel: 918.9999

[submitted by d. kiser]

FEBRUARY 8 | A CIRCLE OF MEN: SUPPORT GROUP FOR SEXUALLY ABUSED MEN

The subject of boys being sexually abused is not often discussed, but Safeplace has created a safe haven for the healing to begin. Every Monday from 6:30 PM-8:00 PM at 1515 Grove Boulevard, Safeplace holds a support group for men who have been sexually abused. It's free and confidential, and a licensed counselor is present. First time attendees must register for a one time orientation session from 5:00 PM-6:00 PM in which they will receive some educational materials and access to free client services. Let the healing begin.

FMI: web | email | tel: 356.1548

[submitted by m. divita]

FEBRUARY 11 | BLACK HISTORY PROGRAM

Come and enjoy Givens' Annual Black History Program. The 2010 Theme is Black Economic Empowerment. The Celebration will feature a guest speaker, spoken word and entertainment. This event is free to the public and will have refreshments.

The Givens Recreation Center is locaed at 811 East 12th St.

FMI: email | tel: 928.1982

[submitted by b. loggins]

FEBRUARY 11 | 10TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN FAMILY SUPPORT CONFERENCE

The tenth annual Central Texas African American Family Support Conference (CTAAFSC) is one of only five conferences in the nation that helps eradicate stigma related to mental illness within the African American community.

Join us at this free two-day event at the Hyatt Downtown Austin to learn about innovative best practices and avenues of support and resources.

For information, visit our website. Registration is free, a professional fee of $65 will be applied to representatives of organizations. Group discount available.

FMI: web | email | tel: 440.4063

[submitted by s. nandagiri]

FEBRUARY 12 | FREE QIGONG CLASSES

Qigong is one of the oldest forms of mind and body exercises along with Tai Chi. It is a meditation exercise that relaxes both the mind and body. The classes are free at Seton McCarthy Community Health Center on 2811 East Second Street every Friday from 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM. Come and rejuvenate yourself!

FMI: web | email | tel: 324.4930

[submitted by s. bentley]

FEBRUARY 12 | LBJ/LASA PTSA ON-LINE AUCTION

The LBJ/LASA PTSA On-line Auction will open for bidding in less than two weeks. We hope that you will join us as a donor and/or bidder to make this event a success.

This auction will benefit the 2010 Senior Celebration.

Senior Celebration is an alcohol- and drug-free event where students can participate in a parent/teacher/administrator-supervised overnight party on graduation night with activities, games, prizes, food and friends.

Please visit our website.

FMI: web | email | tel: 472.9511

[submitted by s. mcleland]

FEBRUARY 13 | SWAHILI LANGUAGE CLASSES

Are you interested in learning an African Language? Come learn Kiswahili, the second most spoken language in Africa. Ever thought of taking an African Safari, Mission trip or vacation to Africa? Learning basic Kiswahili will equip you to communicate more effectively with the African people during your visit.

Kiswahili classes are offered at the Carver Museum Library, 1165 Angelina St. Classes are every Saturday from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, for a mere $15 with all materials provided.

These Swahili classes will include an introduction to the African Culture; social and economic background of the African peoples. E-mail and phone consulting will be offered for those not able to attend the structured classes.

FMI: web | email | tel: 789.3539

[submitted by j. muturi]

FEBRUARY 14 | IYE-AIYE HOLISTIC GARDENING WORKSHOPS

SANKOFA'ASAFO[ACASELI] Presents Iré-Aiyé Holistic Gardening & Care Workshops for beginner and experienced gardeners.

Sundays, starting January 31 and ending February 21 from 1:00-3:00pm.

$45 for 3 sessions - $55 for 4 sessions or $18/workshop

Most herbs can be planted anytime, even in the "winter" months in Texas. We'll come together to get a good head start on our spring gardens. Learn how to start and maintain small in-ground vegetable and herb gardens and container gardening. Classes will cover how and what vegetable/fruit/herb plants to start indoors from seeds and many other gardening survival techniques. We'll also learn what's needed to prepare the ground for planting after the final freezes, designing and placement of raised beds, the secrets of composting as well as simple holistic/organic methods to protecting and maintaining your bounty.

This is a wonderful opportunity to express/live the principles of Ujimaa, Nia and Kujichagulia by reclaiming a vital aspect of our earth-centered Afrikan heritage by feeding ourselves and communities?

In Iré-Aiye workshops we'll draw on basic/traditional, cultural and holistic approaches/techniques to gardening and wellness in these on-going workshops. These workshops consists of both lecture and hands-on components. So bring your note books, gloves, wear warm/comfortable clothes and be prepared to stick your hands (and feet) in the dirt. We'll also go on a field trips and discuss how to prepare quick delicious holistic meals.



FMI: web | email | tel: 552.6277

[submitted by n.akinyemi-sankofa]

FEBRUARY 16 | SOLES 4 SOULS

Every 9 seconds, Soles4Souls, Inc. gives away another pair of shoes to someone in need. This shoe charity has earned glowing endorsements from Hollywood stars and professional athletes, but the people that truly make the non-profit organization effective are those who clean out their closets to personally drop off their “gently worn” shoes at a participating location, such as Hendrickson High School.

For a limited time, Soles4Souls and Hendrickson High School will be collecting your gently worn footwear and/or donations to ship the shoes to a person in need, whether they are victims of a natural disaster or subject to living in extreme poverty.

It is estimated that Americans have 1.5 billion pairs of unused shoes lying in their closets. The charity can use each and every one of these pairs to make a tangible difference in someone's life.

FMI: web | email

[submitted by j. gipson]

FEBRUARY 24 | TEXAS INDIGENT DEFENSE SUMMIT

The Texas Indigent Defense Summit will coincide with NACDL's 2010 Midwinter Meeting and Seminar in Austin, Texas. The event will take place Wednesday, February 24 and will be held at the Austin State Capitol building from 9:00 AM-4:30 PM in Room E1.004. The Summit panels will delve into various issues concerning Texas indigent defense. It is free and open to the public.

FMI: web | email | tel: 478.2514

[submitted by n,. turner]

FEBRUARY 27 | ONE-DAY CHILD CARE MINI-CONFERENCE

S&M Child Care Training Professionals will host a one-day Mini-Child Care Conference and Luncheon on February 27, 2010 at Ryan’s Family Steakhouse, 1813 W. Parmer Ln, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The purpose of the mini-conference is to provide quality training to enhance the professional skills of child care providers and directors.

The conference theme is “New Year, New Day, New Way.” Early registration is $35 per person. Seating is limited to 50 – register early! Registration is by U. S. mail and must be postmarked no later than February 18th. Fee increases to $50 afterward for late registration. There is no on-site registration. Fee includes an all you can eat buffet lunch, workshops, certificate for 6 hours of training, door prizes, handouts, resource table materials, networking with other child care professionals.

Make money order or cashiers check payable to: Linda Moss/SMCCTP, and mail to P. O. Box 140191, Austin, TX 78714-0191. NO on-site registration, no refunds.

FMI: email | tel: 696.9328

[submitted by p. sheppard]

FEBRUARY 28 | HOTEL RWANDA HERO SPEAKING IN AUSTIN

Paul Rusesabagina, who was the subject of the film ‘Hotel Rwanda’, will speak at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church on Sunday, February 28, at 6:30 pm.

Rusesabagina is an internationally honored real-life hero, credited with saving 1200 lives during the Rwanda genocide. He was portrayed by Don Cheadle in the film.

Rusesabagina leads the Hotel Rwanda Rusesabagina Foundation, The Foundation works to prevent future genocides and raise awareness of the need for a new truth and reconciliation process in Rwanda and the Great Lakes Region of Africa.

His book, “An Ordinary Man,” will be available for purchase and signing. A collection for his foundation will be taken.

St. Andrews is located at 14311 Wells Port Drive, west of IH 35 off of Wells Branch Pkwy.

FMI: web | email

[submitted by k. nunn]

FEBRUARY 9 | TWITTER TUESDAY'S

Square Bizness Ent. presents Twitter Tuesday's! It's a social network event with the young, fly, and flashy of who's who in the ATX!

It's going down at Kick Butt Coffee 2 (in the triangle 4600 Guadalupe/Lamar) to get directions to event visit. Every Tuesday of the month! 9pm-1am. Drink Specials! Free before 10pm. $5 cover after 10pm.

FMI: web | email

[submitted by h. young]

FEBRUARY 11 | THROWBACK THURSDAYS AT KRUSH LOUNGE WITH DJ KEVIN SMITH

Throwback Thursdays @ The Krush Lounge is the grown folk party on the northside! Join us every Thursday starting at 9p. No cover all night! DJ Kevin Smith is live on the turntables spinning the best of old school + new school. You've heard him keeping the party hype on Fridays with Rayon - and now we're keeping the party going on Thursdays! Full Dining Menu + Great Drink Specials + Plenty of Free Parking.

Grab your co-workers and your friends and come get your mind right for the weekend at Krush Lounge, located at 14106 North IH35 in Pflugerville! No athletic attire. Office + Birthday Parties + Reserved Tables + Bottle Service available.

FMI: web | email | tel: 695.4364

[submitted by j. beene]

FEBRUARY 12 | GROWN FOLKS FRIDAY AT THE CIAO-CHOW EVENT CENTER

Yolanda B. presents Grown Folk on Friday Jan. 29th, at 6019 North I35, at the Ciao-Chow Event Center, on the corner of IH35 and 290, behind Texas Land and Cattle, next to Mothers Window tent.

We'll have DJ Pat Luv, Guest DJ's Bill One Time, The “Man with the Majic Hands” and CL Smooth spinning the Best in old school Sounds. Doors open at 5:30pm with a complimentary buffet from 6pm til 8pm Food provided by Ms. Linda of Mason’s Catering.

Come and enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere with adult conversation. This is a Grown Folk event and dress code strictly enforced - blue jeans acceptable. No cover before 9pm, $5 after wards. The Ciao-Chow Event Center has an indoor patio with a full license bar serving only the finest. New Year, New Place New Time. Don't miss out!

FMI: web | email | tel: 709.1151

[submitted by y. bumpers]

FEBRUARY 12 | WIN A PRIVATE MEET AND GREET WITH ANITA BAKER

Rozone Productions and presents The Sweet Love VIP Experience.

The legendary Anita Baker will be performing live in Austin on Friday, Feb 12 at the Austin Music Hall. Tickets are on sale now and start at only $38.

You can also log on and register for your chance to win the Sweet Love VIP Experience which includes a Backstage Private Meet and Greet with Ms. Baker, a 2 night hotel stay at the Stephen F. Austin Intercontinental Hotel, dinner for two at the Roaring Fork - and a pair of Golden Circle Tickets.

Log on to the website today and register for your chance to win this dream Valentine's Day Giveaway Package.

FMI: web | tel: 866 4 GET TIX

[submitted by s. lamon]

FEBRUARY 13 | VI ANNUAL LOVE AND HAPPINESS COMEDY SHOW

It Gets Bigger and Better Every Year! The VI Annual Love and Happiness Comedy Show will take place Sat. February 13 at the Municipal Auditorium in San Antonio, Texas. It will feature Platinum Artists Jaheim and Monica debuting their new music. Get Your Tickets Now at all Ticketmaster Locations. For a discounted rate, purchase your tickets at the Alamodome.

FMI: email | tel: 210.273.2858

[submitted by t. allen]

FEBRUARY 13 | VALENTINE HEART TO HEART GALA

An evening with David Stevens and the Morris Nelms Quartet, featuring Alex Coke, performing some of the greatest love songs ever written, including “I Got It Bad and That Ain’t Good,” “Embraceable You,” & other sweet songs for the romantics.

Includes a feast of delectable desserts, complimentary champagne and a live auction. Proceeds benefit freshwater wells in Malawi. Limited Seating. Reserved tables available - call Nancy.

FMI: web | email | tel: 610.3549

[submitted by m. mitchell]

FEBRUARY 14 | THE ALL-STAR WEEKEND FINALE CONCERT: "A SEXY EVENING OF VALE

"Sexy After 30" , The All-Star Skate Weekend, and The Law Firm of Simon & Robinson present "THE ALL-STAR WEEKEND FINALE CONCERT". This event will be a sexy evening of Valentines Day Soul" hosted by "SEXY AFTER 30".

Sunday February 14, 2010 Valentines Day & NBA All-Star weekend in Dallas, Texas.

The concert will feature Dave Hollister;he's back with a new R&B album to be released in early 2010, Marsha "The Songstress" Ambrosius; former member of "Floetry" , Comedian E-Griff from BET's Comicview,Spokenword Artists, and more!!!

This event will be held live at he Dallas Convention Center Complex,
the Academy of Black Arts and Letters
Naomi Bruton Main Stage.

Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster or TBAAL
Tickets are $55 & $65



FMI: web | email | tel: 214.743.2440

[submitted by t. johnson]

FEBRUARY 14 | SUNDAY GOSPEL BRUNCH AT STUBBS

Join us for the best brunch in Austin!

Live Gospel music and a world-renowned buffet, featuring such items as: southern-style grits, migas, fried catfish, and our famous BBQ brisket. Enjoy the perfect Bloody Mary created by YOU at our world famous "make your own" Bloody Mary bar.

Brunch served every Sunday. Seating at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Stubbs is located downtown at 801 Red River.

FMI: web | email | tel: 480.8341 x 306

[submitted by j. gauthreaux]

FEBRUARY 14 | BOOK SIGNING

Best-Selling Authoress' Tamika Newhouse and Anna Black will be signing their books, "The Ultimate No No", "The Ultimate Moment No Regrets" and "Now You Wanna Come Back" on a romantic evening at the Killeen Civic and Conference Center.

Join them with the All About The Love Tour with The SOS Band, featuring Lenny Williams.

Come out and get a copies of their page turning plots and get a taste of two of Delphine Publication's literary talents and get information about their up and coming projects.

For more info visit the website and view their calender of events.

FMI: web | email

[submitted by a. smith]

FEBRUARY 14 | RED AND WHITE VALENTINES' DAY DANCE

The Elks Shrine Club Presents the Red and White Valentine's Day Dance on Sunday, February 14, 2010.

This event will feature Bill One Time on the 1’s & 2’s blazing the best in R&B, Jazz, Blues and Zydeco.

Doors open at 7pm with a $5 cover charge. Hats allowed and there will be a complimentary buffet and door prizes. Join us at the Elks Lodge located at 7237 Hwy 290 East.

FMI: email | tel: 928.9545

[submitted by y. williams]

FEBRUARY 18 | JAZZOPOLY

Encore performance. If you missed the first one, we've been asked to do it again! Jazzopoly is performing many of your contemporary smooth jazz favorites at Junior's Grille and Icehouse, 119 E. Main Round Rock. If you are in a north going groove, come by!

FMI: email | tel: 350.0828

[submitted by l. wright]

FEBRUARY 20 | BLACK COMPOSERS CONCERT SERIES

The Black Composers Concert Series is a free concert which will be the first of concerts in Austin that focus on the contributions of Black American composers to the world of classical music. Although the highlight is on Black composers; another feature of this concert is the multicultural and highly talented artists from Austin.

Please join us as we continue the city's celebration of Black History month on Saturday, Feb 20th at 7:30pm at University Methodist Church, located at 2409 Guadalupe St.

FMI: web | email

[submitted by n. taylor]

FEBRUARY 20 | REAL GROWN FOLKS SOCIAL CLUB MARDI GRAS DANCE

Real Grown Folks Social Club presents their 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Dance, February 20,from 9pm to 2am. This will be the party of the year!

7517 Cameron Road, Suite 112 (across from Old Midtown) BYOB. Music by DJ LT. Presale tickets are $5 / $6 at the door. Please come out and party Louisiana Style!

FMI: email | tel: 689.4353

[submitted by t. francis]

FEBRUARY 20 | BACK IN THE DAY PLAY

The Back In The Day Play event committee is excited to invite you to our third event. We could go on and on about how much fun we have and how beautiful the people are, but you probably would still wonder. Instead we took took pictures of the event so you could see for yourself!

Go to our website and watch the video, thumb through the pictures & RSVP for the next event. Now booking bday parties for our event. Contact us for rates and info. See you there!

FMI: web | email | tel: 228.9714

[submitted by g. williams]

FEBRUARY 20 | WILD IS THE WIND - A TRIBUTE TO NINA SIMONE

On Saturday, February 20th, The Independent will host Wild is The Wind, the second annual Nina Simone tribute created by Bemba Entertainment. On this very special evening, a tribute to the legend, Nina Simone, will take place in front of a limited audience. On this date, she will have turned 77.

The doors will open at 6pm and the first performance will begin at 7pm. A “dress to impress” style is preferred, but not required.

Seven carefully chosen artists from the Austin area will pay tribute to the High Priestess of Soul. This very intimate evening will captivate you with performances by Pamela Hart, Akina Adderley, Kat Edmonson, Blues Mafia, Corrina's Dreamland Band, Chandra Washington, and Bryce Clifford. Each performance will bring a different style of music to the night. (Although different in style, they all share something very important, in common.) That is, that they have all been influenced by Nina Simone and they each have a very special place in their hearts for her.

Tickets are on sale through Frontgatetickets.com and are $20 in advance and $30 at the door. This event sold out last year and will most likely do the same this year.

FMI: web | email | tel: 577.4460

[submitted by b. badillo]

FEBRUARY 28 | LOVING YOU IS SO EASY TO DO WITH GABRIELLE'S

Loving you is so easy to do. So what's keeping YOU from loving YOU?

This Valentine's at Gabrielle's, we're making it easier for YOU to feel good about YOU!

We are offering discounts on all of our most popular services such as Relaxer, Trim & Style, Highlights & Cut, European Facial or a Green Coffee Body Wrap.

Gift Certificates are also available. Discount prices are good through February 28th. Log on for full details and pricing information.

FMI: web | email | tel: 323.0798

[submitted by l. edwards]

MARCH 6 | HT'S 7TH ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S MASKED SCHOLARSHIP GALA

The Mankind Assisting Students Kindle Educational Dreams (MASKED) event has generated more than one million dollars for the University and featured artists such as Regina Belle, Jennifer Holliday, Najee, and Pieces of a Dream. In addition, celebrity guest appearances from Earvin “Magic Johnson, Judge Mablean Ephriam, and Emmanuel Lewis have headlined the University’s signature event.

The gala will be held on Saturday, March 6, at 6 p.m. at the Sheraton Austin Hotel, 701 East 11th Street.

FMI: web | email | tel: 505.6417

[submitted by a. smith]

FEBRUARY 10 | 5TH ANNUAL BLACK ELECTED OFFICIALS LUNCHEON

The Capital City African American Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us as we honor our area Black Elected Officials at the 5th Annual Black Elected Officials Luncheon. This year's panel discussion will focus on: 2010 Census...Its importance and impact on the African American community.

Ticket Prices:
$45-Members
$55-Non-Members
$550-Table for 10

Please RSVP

Hope To See You There!!

FMI: web | email | tel: 459.1181 ext. 202

[submitted by a. stewart]

FEBRUARY 8 | PEACE AND GOODWILL TO ALL: PEACE SUNDAY

Peace Sunday is hosted every Sunday at the Human Potential Center as a Meditation for World Peace with a potluck brunch. There is no cost to attend. It takes place from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and is open to those ages 14 and up.

he Human Potential Center is located at 2007 Bert Avenue in south-central Austin, three blocks north of Ben White just off Manchaca.

FMI: web | email | tel: 441.8988

[submitted by r. mcgarey]

FEBRUARY 9 | MEN'S REVIVAL

Corinth Missionary Baptist Church invites you to their Men's Revival. CMB is located at 1700 E. 16th Street.

Tuesday - Thursday - February 9th - 11th at 7:00 p.m. Nightly

I Corinthians 13:11
"When I Became a Man"

Pastor M.C. Walker - 19th Street Baptist Church

Pastor Benjamin Smith - Pleasant Grove Baptist Church

Pastor Richard E. Carter - Mt. Olive Baptist Church

FMI: web | email | tel: 626.3278

[submitted by j. ockleberry]

FEBRUARY 13 | NAKED!

You have gotten so called advice from “two can play that game” and tried tips from “He’s just not that into you” and it got you nowhere!

Don’t you think it’s about time for you to be transparent, exposed, revealed, naked, and liberated about your status?

On Saturday February 13th, Double Portion will be hosting an intense discussion, and dialogue on the NAKED true of relationships and single living. This exciting event will conclude with an evening of unlimited authentic Italian food, exclusive social, and celebration of Double Portion’s 25th birthday.
Mark your calendar for February 13th.

Registration is $25. More information is available on the website.

FMI: web | email | tel: 961.7137

[submitted by r. jacobs]

FEBRUARY 14 | CELEBRATION OF JESUS' LOVE

Life Changing Ministries International of Austin hosts Celebration of Jesus's Love during their 10:00 a.m. Sunday service.

Come prepared to be blessed by an anointed and powerful man of GOD. Life Changing Ministries International of Austin is a church where God speaks a Rehma Word and where there is always a powerful move of God. After a time of feasting on the word from God, come prepared to stay and have lunch (free) with the Pastors and members of the church. What better way to share Valentine's Day with that special person than to be in a powerful church service. LCMI is truly a "church like no other."

FMI: email

[submitted by g. dixon]

FEBRUARY 27 | IMANI CHURCH PRESENTS IRON SHARPENS IRON MEN'S BIBLE STUDY

Join the men of Imani Community Church every 4th Saturday at 10AM as we explore and discuss the biblical proof of God's miraculous work in our lives as men and SuperBowl coach Tony Dungy, encouraging men to discover different paths available to achieve a life of significance.

We will look beyond the standard metrics of success such as a degree, job title or income and instead focus on paths characterized by attitudes, ambitions, and allegiances that are all too rare, but uncommonly rewarding.

FMI: web | email

[submitted by j. mims]

FEBRUARY 27 | WHEN I BECAME A MAN

CMBC Men Presents: When I Became A Man Men's Conference!

All men are welcomed to partake in this time of spiritual empowerment and uplifting through learning and fellowship with other men of Christ. We will have dynamic speakers from across the city present to help you to become the man God created you to be.This is a free conference and lunch will be provided as well for free.

Join us at 9:30 am at High Pointe Baptist Church, 12030 Dessau Rd.

FMI: email | tel: 837.7725

[submitted by j. ockleberry]

FEBRUARY 27 | A SANCTIFIED SHOWDOWN PT V

She Smiles Entertainment is preparing for yet, another Showdown! November 14th is the pending date for the next Showdown. She Smiles Ent has been running for almost 3 years with the favor of God and support from friends, family and beloved warriors of the gospel.Please let me know at your earliest convenience if you will be able to bless us with your callings, gifts and talents. This is a free to the public event with a free will offering. So, even though artist are not paid, you are more than welcome to bring product.

I pray you are able to come with your weapon of praise be it dance, rap, monologue, singing, poetry, instrumental. By any means necessary, to tear satans kingdom down!

Please contact me asap either by email or telephone.

FMI: email | tel: 297.4179

[submitted by m. jackson]

MARCH 10 | BLACK CHURCH WEEK OF PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF AIDS

The Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS is a powerful week of prayer, education and action. This global awareness campaign engages black congregations to support, encourage and empower African Americans to take action toward stopping the spread of HIV/AIDS in the African American community.

African Americans are approximately 12% of the population and almost 50% of the new HIV/AIDS cases. African American women are the new face of HIV/AIDS.

This weeklong campaign is scheduled from Sunday March 7 - 13. We invite all black churches to contact Black Faith-Based Health Initiative to find out how your church can participate. For all churches participating during the week, there will be a city wide Unity Service on Wednesday, March 10, at 6:30 p.m. at Greater Mt. Zion Baptist Church located at 1801 Pennsylvania Avenue.




FMI: web | email | tel: 310-0710

[submitted by b. wilborn]

FEBRUARY 8 | FREE TRIP TO EGYPT

Are you interested in earning a FREE trip to the “motherland” to learn more about your African ancestry? To bring this opportunity to the Austin market, AKC Institute of Learning has teamed up with a national organization, the D’zert Club, to sponsor a local chapter of the group.

In order to take advantage of this FREE trip, all you have to do is enroll in a knowledge-sharing program/workshop - which meets only once per month; brings high-profile African-American speakers to us locally to share their knowledge of our rich heritage; and offers four national, all-expense paid trips to different locals throughout the US!

To learn more about the trip to Egypt, visit our website or contact LeKisha McKinley. The program is open to African-Americans or kids of any African descent age 7 to 14, and adults who are willing to serve as chaperones. Enrollment ends March 1, 2010.

FMI: web | email | tel: 589.7073

[submitted by l. mcKinley]

FEBRUARY 10 | AFRICAN MARTIAL ARTS CLASSES

Kilombo Njinga Center for African and Afro Diasporic Martial Arts at the Dynamic Arts Academy will be providing African martial arts such as Afrocapoiera as well as African Stick Fighting for youth. The Center is located at 8910 Research Blvd., Suite D-3 off the Southbound frontage road of Hwy 183/Research Blvd, behind Archery Country.

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines music, chanting, acrobatics and fighting techniques in a ritualized dance-fight played in a communal circle of participants and spectators.

FMI: web | email | tel: 945.4241

[submitted by n. turner]

FEBRUARY 13 | AFRICAN-AMERICAN KIDS' BOOKS STORYTIMES AND SIGN LANGUAGE

Every 2nd and 3rd Saturday, Mitchie's hosts Storytime and Sign Language for Kids at 11 AM-Noon. It will be a joyful hour full of African-American folktales and sign language. Kids receive refreshments, a free gift, and a 30% discount off of a book purchase. Storytime is free and open to the public. Volunteer readers are welcome.

FMI: web | email | tel: 323.6901

[submitted by j. adejumo]

FEBRUARY 13 | ENGINEERING SATURDAYS AT THE AUSTIN CHILDRENS MUSEUM

The Austin Childrens Museum Engineering Saturday program is sure to get your mental gears turning! On select Saturday mornings, children and families can explore engineering first hand through playful activities presented in collaboration with students from The University of Texas's Cockrell School of Engineering.

Projects could include paper airplane design, catapults, building a working circuit and sailboat cars. Check out this website, designed by a parent, that shows the step-by-step process his daughter took in her sailboat car project at one Engineering Saturday.

Activities will be held in the Tinkerer's Workshop at 201 Colorado Street and are included with admission unless otherwise noted. Activities change all the time so come by soon for some engineering fun!

FMI: web | email | tel: 472.2499

[submitted by c. soontornvat]

FEBRUARY 14 | SCIENCE SUNDAYS AT THE AUSTIN CHILDRENS MUSEUM

Discover the fascinating world of science with special guests who'll bring their expertise to visitors on Science Sundays at the Austin Children Museum. Don't forget, the Museum is free from 4pm -5pm on Sundays so come and enjoy some science at 201 Colorado Street.

FMI: web | email | tel: 472.2499

[submitted by c. soontornvat]

FEBRUARY 15 | THE ELKS LODGE - ORATORICAL CONTEST!

Showcase your writing and speaking skills for an opportunity to win up to $10,000!

In this contest, junior and senior high school students choose 1 of 5 pre-selected topics to write about and present to a panel of judges.

Call or e-mail to request an application package. Parent meeting coming soon.

Contest date is April 25, 2010 at The Elks Lodge. 7237 Hwy. 290E.

FMI: email | tel: 699.1454

[submitted by t. burleson]

FEBRUARY 19 | AFRICAN-AMERICAN MEN AND BOYS/WOMEN AND GIRLS CONFERENCE

The African-American Men and Boys/Women and Girls Conference seeks to empower African-American youth and to reduce the desparities in education consisting of workshops, speakers, and activities for both adults and youth. Meals are provided. Registration starts at 9:30 AM, and the event lasts from 10 AM-2 PM.

It will convene on the following dates:

Reagan High School, Jan.20, 2010
Manor High School, Feb.20, 2010
Dobie Middle School, Mar.27, 2010
Garcia Middle School, Apr.24, 2010
LBJ High School, May 15, 2010

FMI: web | email | tel: 585.6696

[submitted by m. lofton]

FEBRUARY 20 | CREATIVE WRITING AND LANGUAGE ARTS LESSONS FOR YOUTH

FREE basic Spanish, basic American Sign Language, expressive writing, culture classes and reading assistance to youths between the ages of three to 15 years of age.

Classes are offered on second Saturday’s at Windsor Park Branch Public Library (5833 Westminster Drive) and on fourth Saturday’s at the University Hills Branch Public Library (4721 Loyola Lane). Class times may vary, so check back frequently or email us below for times.

FMI: web | email | tel: 589.7073

[submitted by l. mckinley]

MARCH 12 | THEA VIDALE COMING TO THE CAP CIY COMEDY STAGE

Friday and Saturday March 12-13 at 8 and 10:30p. Tickets are $15 Gen Adm / $18 Reserved.

Vidale is perhaps best remembered for her primetime ABC sitcom "Thea" for which she was nominated for a People’s Choice Award as Favorite Female In A New Series. In the show, Thea portrayed Thea Turrell, a widowed mother of four who works in a Houston supermarket by day and runs a one-chair beauty salon on the corner of her porch in the evenings. The show’s appeal was centered in her heart-warming portrayal of a no-nonsense mother shepherding her children through their formative years.

Vidale’s success can be attributed to a stand-up act that is anything but mild. Her substantial physical presence can only underscore her raw, confrontational depiction of American culture. Yet audiences from Houston to Europe, and from the Caribbean to Australia are drawn to Vidale because a warmth and honesty pervades her hard-edged material.

Tickets on sale now!

FMI: web link | email | tel: 467.2333

[submitted by c. popp]

JULY 9 | WOMEN ON FIRE EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE 2010

The Women On Fire Empowerment Conference is a conference for all women, young and old that is designed to educate, equip and empower women to live successful fulfilling lives. The Conference theme for 2010 is "We are In the WIN in 2010!" Women Igniting Nations (WIN)! This is a ministry experience you will not want to miss: A ministry mixture of praise, worship, the word, exhibitions and workshops designed to empower and enrich your life!

Seminar speaker Dr. Mary Futrell is currently Dean of the Graduate School of Education and Human Development, and Co-Director of the Center for Curriculum, Standards and Technology at George Washington University. Special guest speaker Dr. Renee Hornbuckle, is a woman of influence and a life designer. She is known as one of the premiere voices that God is raising up to help others discover that God is truly the source of strength for life. Conference Host Evangelist Cheryll Wells will be delivering a WORD that is sure to impact and change your life forever. She has been given a directive by God to Ignite the fire of God in men and women, young and old by the demonstration of the power of God and the preaching of the WORD of God.

Registration for this two day conference is only $45.00 and includes enrollment in conference seminars, admission to the general sessions and to the luncheon. There is a $1.00 processing fee to register online. Don't procrastinate. Register online to reserve your space at www.cheryllwells.com! Room rates at the Marriott are separate. Group rates apply. For information concerning being a vendor, sponsor and or an exhibitor at the conference, please email Evangelist Wells below.

FMI: web link | email |

[submitted by c. wells]