{Friday.06}

Ars Lyrica Houston presents Hail! Bright Cecilia

7:30pm | Hobby Center, Zilka Hall | more info

Ars Lyrica Houston is joined by the amazing Chamber Choir tonight! Don’t miss it, I’ll c.u.t.here!

“The glorious voices of the Houston Chamber Choir lift in song as we celebrate the 350th birthday of composer Henry Purcell with a collaborative musical trip to late 17th-century London. This grandiose tribute to music’s patron saint features Purcell’s extravagant but seldom heard Hail! Bright Cecilia.”

{Saturday.07}

Life Is Living Houston Kickoff Featuring MC Lyte!

11 am – 3 pm | Discovery Green Park (1500 McKinney St) | Free Admission

Explosive spoken word poet/choreographer Marc Bamuthi Joseph is back for the Houston launch of Life Is Living, a national campaign using hip hop to address changing perspectives on environmental justice. The kickoff will feature special guest MC Lyte, Houston area hip hop artists and DJs, graffiti workshops, dance performances, and more presented by a range of Houston organizations including Aerosol Warfare, CKCStart Street and Urban Arts & Graffiti Research Lab, Last Organic Outpost, Workshop Houston, Project Row Houses, youth slam poetry group Meta-Four Houston, plus the UH College of Architecture, Moores School of Music, and the School of Art. Presented in partnership with Discovery Green and Houston Arts Alliance.

Tierney Malone’s Third Ward is My Harlem

Nov. 7 – Dec. 19, 2009
Opening Reception: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, 6 – 8pm
Commissioned by DiverseWorks

Join us for the opening reception of Third Ward is My Harlem this Saturday, November 7th. Houston artist Tierney Malone transforms the DiverseWorks Main Gallery into a massive multi-media installation with his latest work. Drawing from his own Southern roots and experiences, growing up in urban black American, Malone reframes American history and situates himself and his audience firmly in complex, non-linear narratives full of stoic nostalgia and sophistication. Malone craft’s an undeniably personal story of the Third Ward in a way that speaks to the experiences of much more than just one man.

For more information on Third Ward is My Harlem, click HERE.

Uncle Charlie Poster Show at Sig’s Lagoon

6-11pm | Sig’s Lagoon(3710 Main) | Free Admission

Uncle Charlie Hardwick is back in town this weekend for a poster show at Sig’s. Music and arts fans alike will enjoy his graphic representations of the modern band’s show poster.

{Sunday.08}

Western Conference Semi-finals: Houston Dynamo  vs. Seattle Sounders FC

2pm | Robertson Stadium (UH) | purchase tickets

This team has a soft spot in my heart ever since they came to this fair city 4 years ago.  After winning back to back championships their first 2 years in Houston, they are back in the playoffs this season with a Western Semi-finals game this weekend vs Seattle Sounders.

I’ve always said this is one of the best entertainment values in the city. For $20 come out to see the best in the MLS.

Houston, let’s rally around OUR team and let them know we are PROUD that they are representing our city. Hope to see you there!

To help you  pull together this last-minute costume, I’m teaming up with AXE Hair to offer some simple tips from Men’s Celebrity Hair Stylist and Grooming Expert Diana Schmidtke, who is working with AXE Hair.

The “Mad Men” costume is very easy to pull off.  Most guys probably have most of these items in their closet:

- Suit coat and Slacks (any color)
- White, collared, button-down shirt
- Dress shoes and belt to match (any color)
- Briefcase (you can also find this an a near-by thrift store)
- A shine pomade to create a sleek, classic hair style. Don’t forget the straight-as-an-arrow part!

I’m giving away two (2) of the following prizes packages:

- “Mad Men” DVD set – to get in the spirit and help your readers model their costume after their favorite character
- Brooks Brothers skinny tie
- AXE Smooth & Sophisticated Look Shine Pomade – the newest product from AXE Hair designed to give guys that classic look you’re seeing on the runways and in popular shows like Mad Men
- AXE Itch Relief 2 in 1 Cooling Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner

In order to enter, leave a comment on this post and I’ll draw a winner tomorrow afternoon at 4pm CST. The prize package will be overnighted to you just in time for all  your Halloween shindigs.

Good Luck!

In the meantime, I’ve just launched my new company newsletter! So put your hands up they’re playing my song!

If you’d like to get on the email list for updates about my clients and rad events around town, you can sign up here: http://www.cosmopolitician.net/hello

A few upcoming events for this weekend:

I’ll be teaching a workshop this Friday on Blogging and Photo Sharing as part of the Bright New Media series at Bright Sky Press. Check out all the workshops in the series here.

Friday night is my FAVE FAVE FAVE event at Lawndale all year! (yes i say that about Modern Market too, whatevs!) Dia de los Muertos Gala and Silent Retablo Auction! all juicy deets here

Stop by Sew Crafty this Saturday 10am-5pm for the Grand re-Opening Party in their new spot on 19th in the Heights! Food, fun, drinks, and of course crafts all day! www.sewcraftyhouston.com

Saturday Night is the 2nd annual Saint Arnold Foamraiser at the Orange Show, 7-10pm. more info here. I’ll c. u.t.here!

You can also view my events calendar here or add it to your gCal or iCal .

Have a great weekend! Ciao, peeps!

I’ll be at ACL fest in Austin this weekend for a much needed getaway, and I’m totally beside myself just thinking about seeing Them Crooked Vultures on Thursday night. Must. clam. down. Holler if you’re gonna be out there, and i’ll c.u.t.here! Peace, Love + Sound, Peeps! Speaking of, I’ve got a gCal for upcoming shows that you can access here. Have at it. Soon to be one for events as well. Stay tuned. c.u.there, peeps!

{Tuesday.29}

The Architecture of Social Networking

Facebook, Twitter, Wiki, Blogs, Forums, LinkedIn, and everything else you’ve ever wondered about. What is social media, what it means to you and how you can use it.

Panelists:
Filo Castore, AIA LEED AP
Fayza Elmostehi (Schipul – The Web Marketing Company)
Jeromy Murphy, AIA

{Wednesday.30}

Robert Ellis + the Boys at Mango’s

Craving your country fix? Stop by Mango’s for some pre-ACL celebration as Robert Ellis and the boys infuse this local music joint with some honky tonk blues.

{Thursday.01}

Elizabeth Irvine Lunchtime Lecture Series

I recently finished a site redesign for Elizabeth Irvine. Beth is an amazing mentor and friend. She’s most definitely positively impacted my life in the short time that I’ve known here. She’ll be doing 2 lunchtime series this fall the first one in October is focused on creating balance and well-being. In November, she will lead lunchtime meditation at Bright Sky Press. Stressed out? You seriously need this like I do!

Thursdays in October: 1, 8 and 15, 12 noon – 1 p.m
COST: $100 for series, $40 for individual lecture. Lunch provided

click here to register

Three Simple Ways To Create Balance in Everyday Life

Thursday October 1, 2009 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

Beth shares ideas of how to relieve stress and replace it with balance and well being. How do I deal with the frustration of mundane tasks day after day? What can I do to have more energy and clarity? What are three things I can do to improve my diet? Do I really enjoy what I do?

For more info on all her workshops, visit http://www.elizabethirvine.com/engage/workshops/

Divergence Vocal Theater Presents: Autumn Spectre

6 – 9pm | First Cumberland Presbyterian Church (2119 Avalon Place) | facebook invite | $20

I’ve recently found out about Divergence and met the lovely Misha Penton. I’d be here if i weren’t in Austin. Check it out!

Boundary-defying performances featuring historic and new opera, art song, piano works, theater, dance, and multimedia arts. Contemporary staging, a progressive attitude to repertoire selection, and an exciting fusion of interdisciplinary arts characterizes our non-traditional approach to opera and classical vocal works. Artistic Director: Misha Penton.
www.divergencevocaltheater.org

An ethereal October eve of contemporary art song in English, piano & harp works, with sitar music, film, butoh inspired dance, & shadow play. Music of Dominick Argento, Philip Glass, Meredith Monk, Jake Heggie, Benjamin Britten, and more…

Friday, October 2nd, 8pm
Saturday, October 3rd, 8pm

For more information and tickets: http://www.divergencevocaltheater.org/performances.html

Join us immediately following the performance for a meet-the-company after-party.

Opera in the Heights: Il Tabarro + Pagliacci

7:30pm | Lambert Hall | www.operaintheheights.org| facebook invite

Final Performances Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Kicking off it’s 14th season on September 24th, Opera in the Heights! adventurously takes on the unique double bill of Il Tabarro with Pagliacci, two unforgettable stories paired together to heed the tale of unfaithful women, jealousy and revenge which result in their untimely death.  Could these be the desperate housewives of a century ago?

Opera in the Heights! is a professional regional opera company that exists to provide a stage for emerging performers and to bring affordable opera to the greater Houston area. All operas are presented in the original language with English surtitles in Lambert Hall, 1703 Heights Blvd. located in the Houston Heights, with easy and convenient parking.  Experience these traditional productions in an intimate, historic setting, where the audience can enjoy the performance up close!  Ticket prices start at a mere $10 per performance, with the best seats in the house for only $45. Restrictions apply, call 713-861-5303 or visit www.operaintheheights.org for more information. See you UP CLOSE!

29-95.com Presents Buxton at the Continental Club

10pm | Continental Club | www.operaintheheights.org| facebook invite

2995 continues their free concert series at the Continental Club this week with one of my fav local bands, Buxton. Listen to some of their tracks here. Or just show up. It’s free. duh. You won’t regret it.

{Friday.02}

C2 Creative presents Hous(e)ton: the photography of Shannon Duncan and Ben Desoto

7pm-9pm | Caroline Collective (4820 Caroline) | www.carolinecollective.cc | facebook invite

Please join the C2 Creative community in opening their newest show at Caroline Collective Friday, October 2nd from 7pm to 9pm. The show features work from local Houston photographers Shannon Duncan and Ben Desoto.

The works collected here from the talented Houston Artists Ben Desoto and Shannon Duncan speak about home, house, and Houston – home to us all. Each artist has chosen to explore the shadowy axioms of house, home and Houston. That’s not to say in a derogatory manner, but to say from the inverse. Each of their subjects is shown without house, or home. Their work shows us the oft-overlooked side of our fair city. Shannon’s works painstakingly reveals the beauty in the everyday mundane detritus of urban life while Ben’s work forces us to confront the very human realties of homelessness. Each set however has an optimism that far outstrips the meager realities of the objects or people shown. Together each artist elevates the inverse, the shadows of our homes, houses and Houstonians to a place of touching poignancy. And together each photographer reminds us that every great image, and maybe every great story, starts with a negative. Light refreshments will be provided.

Horsehead Theatre presents Red Light Winter

8pm | Frenetic Theater (5102 Navigation) | www.horseheadtheatre.org | facebook invite

I’ve been hearing so much buzz about this performance, I can’t wait to make it out to see this. Naked people, sex on stage, and Amsterdam. I’m so there. Warning: this performance is not for the easily embarrassed or squeamish. OK, see, now you’re intrigured and you’re gonna go, right?

September 24, 25, 26; October 1, 2, 3 & 8, 9, 10
All shows at 8:00 pm

General admission price: $15 first weekend; $20 second & third weekends; Student price: $10 per ticket per student ID & must be purchased at door;
Tickets available now at http://horseheadtheatre.org/tickets and will be available at the door.

Horse Head Theatre Co. presents Red Light Winter as its premiere production running September 24 to October 10 at Frenetic Theater. Written by Adam Rapp, Red Light Winter has not been seen in Houston before. Horse Head Theatre hopes to bring an exceptionally new and engaging theatre-going opportunity for Houston audiences by creating a completely designed experience. Horse Head Theatre’s goal with all of its shows is to create a theatrical presentation that reinvigorates the soul and reawakens the human spirit. Horse Head productions begin and end with ceremonial rituals and create opportunities for audiences to break the traditional code of theatre etiquette.

The story of Red Light Winter centers on misplaced affections between long time friends Matt and Davis, and an enigmatic Amsterdam prostitute, Christina. All three characters have flaws that they are aware of but do nothing to change. Because of this, emotions are propelled in a tragically wrong direction, creating an end sequence that rips out your heart with rage, disgust, pity, and complete stupor.

A few things you should know about RED LIGHT WINTER:
• Don’t expect a traditional theatre experience.
• Red Light Winter audiences will not sit in standard theatre chairs in rows. You are encouraged to sit, stand, lounge, spread out and move around any time you’d like during the course of the show. There will be no intermission.
• Red Light Winter contains nudity, explicit language, drug references, strobe effects and fog. Cigarette smoking will take place on stage during the course of the show.
• No one under 18 will be admitted due to the content of the show.
• Photography or video of any sort is not permitted.
• Drinks and snacks will be available before, during and after the show. Please bring cash for the bar and vendor stand.
• You can party, drink and lounge before and after the show. The Frenetic Theater lobby will open at 7:00 pm.
• Smoking is not permitted.
• Please turn off your cell phones.

{Saturday.03}

Buffalo Bayou Walking Tour

10am-noon | Buffalo Bayou / Architecture Center (315 Capitol) |website | $10-$15

Every 1st Sunday my buddy Jim mParsons leads this fantastic walking tour of Buffalo Bayou. Jim will be the first to remind you I haven’t bene yet. But I still know it’s fantastic if he’s involved.

Architecture Center Houston (ArCH) with the cooperation of Buffalo Bayou Partnership invite you to a stroll along Buffalo Bayou Parkway for an overview of downtown Houston’s history and architecture from it’s beginnings in 1836 to the efforts to revitalize the central city today. ArCH docents will lead you on this 2 hour architectural tour.

WHEN: Every First Saturday of the month – 10am-noon *(weather permitting) These tours will take place every First Saturday of the month. Reservations are not required but appreciated.

WHERE: Architecture Center Houston 315 Capitol Street, Suite 120

FEE: $15, $10 for AIA Houston, ArchiTypes, and Bayou Buddies members. Cash/check only at the door. Credit card purchases must be in advance. Call 713.520.0155 for tickets.

PARKING: Theater District and Hobby Center parking garages recommended due to 2 hour limited street parking.

About Architecture Center:
Architecture Center Houston (ArCH) houses offices of the American Institute of Architecture, Houston Chapter, the Houston Architecture Foundation, a gallery for rotating architecture-related exhibitions, meeting rooms, and a terrace overlooking Buffalo Bayou. ArCH aims to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the ways in which architecture and urban design influence and enhance the quality of life in our community. For general inquiries, please call 713.520.0155, or visit www.aiahouston.org online.

About Buffalo Bayou Partnership:
The Buffalo Bayou Partnership is a non-profit organization that oversees Buffalo Bayou improvements. The Partnership coordinates the integration of major amenities into the Bayou greenbelt and seeks ways to increase community involvement through pedestrian, boating and biking amenities, permanent and temporary art installations, and other natural and built attractions. For general inquiries, please call 713.752.0314, or visit the Partnership online at www.buffalobayou.org.

GIVEAWAY! This week’s c.u.t.here features a ticket giveaway. Oh like I’m gonna just tell you what event it’s for. Keep Reading.

{Tuesday.22}

HP Rocks Off hosts Movie Nite at the Mink

HP Rocks Off presents Movie Nite at the Mink.  Free, every Tuesday night. Tonight’s movie is Fight Club. Stop by Continental Club next door to check out Umbrella Man and score a free hot dog. Ah, jeah.

It’s Tuesday, people. Now Hear this.

Jim James, Conor Oberst, M. Ward and Mike Mogis , a.k.a., Monsters of Folk Album Release Today. They’ll also be on Conan, Thanks, Brent! In other music news, I can hardly function day by day with my excitement of seeing Them Crooked Vultures play at ACL pre-show next Thursday. Are you headed to ACL? Are you gonna be at the Vultures show? Um, yes and yes, right?

{Wednesday.23}

ArCH: Elsewhere, Tx

I’m super excited to be a part of this year’s ArCH Committee. I’ve always been a fan of their programming and am looking forward to great upcoming events, including this one Wednesday.

Elsewhere, TX exhibition features significant architectural projects completed after the year 2000 through Texas and beyond, some of which may have been overlooked by publications or design awards. The projects are located outside of Houston’s city limits and were designed by architects whose practices are based outside of Houston as well. This show honors our peers throughout Texas as they visit us during the 2009 Texas Society of Architects Convention.

Music Makers Mixer

6-8pm | Warehouse Live (813 St. Emanuel)

The Music Maker Mixer is back! An awesome opportunity to mix and mingle with music industry professionals.

The Music Makers Mixer is a music industry night in Houston sponsored by The Recording Academy Texas Chapter, SugarHill Studios and the Houston Press. Our venue sponsor is Warehouse Live. ArtsHound calls the event the “one of the hottest gatherings in town.” Event admission is free and open to members of the music industry at large. Please join us right where it began!

{Thursday.24}

HYPA + FreshArts Culture Crawl

6 – 9pm | Houston Pavilions | facebook invite | $30

One of my very favorite events of last year! Looking forward to this immensely. Get your tickets today, they will sell out by Thursday.

Eat. Drink. Chill. Cheer a cocktails + culture crawl benefiting Fresh Arts Coalition and Houston Young People for the Arts.

5 different stops. 5 different drinks. 5 different bites.

Via Colori artist Matthew Manalo | Center Court | 6-9 pm
Aurora Picture Show | In the Chill Room | 6-9 pm
Opera in the Heights | Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar | 6:30 pm
Main Street Theater | Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar | 7 pm
Runaway Sun | House of Blues | 9 pm

Enjoy complimentary signature drinks and food pairings from III Forks Steakhouse, Guadalajara del Centro, House of Blues, McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant & Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar. Self-parking and complimentary valet parking available on Fannin.Purchase tickets at www.downtownhouston.org or call 713-658-8938. Only 300 tickets available!

Cultured Cocktails: feat. Divergence Vocal Theater

5 – 10pm | Boheme Wine Bar and Cafe | www.fotofest.org

Celebrate our local art scene each Thursday with Spacetaker and Boheme. Join us at Boheme from 5-10PM, when a portion of the proceeds benefits a new local non profit arts organization each week.

This week’s organization:  Divergence Vocal Theater. http://www.divergencevocaltheater.org/

Our productions merge repertoire from both opera and art song sources with dramatic text-based works from classical theater, original theater making, and poetry. We’re driven by a fascination and commitment to the incredible gems of Western classical music and theater literature traditions: from medieval to modern to wholly original.

Opera in the Heights Opening Night: Il Tabarro + Pagliacci

7:30pm | Lambert Hall | www.operaintheheights.org| facebook invite

It’s finally here! Opening night of Opera in the Heights 2009/10 Season!

Kicking off it’s 14th season on September 24th, Opera in the Heights! adventurously takes on the unique double bill of Il Tabarro with Pagliacci, two unforgettable stories paired together to heed the tale of unfaithful women, jealousy and revenge which result in their untimely death.  Could these be the desperate housewives of a century ago?

Opera in the Heights! is a professional regional opera company that exists to provide a stage for emerging performers and to bring affordable opera to the greater Houston area. All operas are presented in the original language with English surtitles in Lambert Hall, 1703 Heights Blvd. located in the Houston Heights, with easy and convenient parking.  Experience these traditional productions in an intimate, historic setting, where the audience can enjoy the performance up close!  Ticket prices start at a mere $10 per performance, with the best seats in the house for only $45. Restrictions apply, call 713-861-5303 or visit www.operaintheheights.org for more information. See you UP CLOSE!

{Friday.25}

Steel Lounge Underground

8 – 11pm | Contemporatry Arts Museum (5216 Montrose) | facebook invite | FREE

DJ Pooks and Josh Zulu host the next edition of Steel Lounge Underground Friday September 25th at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston (5126 Montrose, 77006) from 8pm-11pm. This is a special Steel Lounge Underground sponsored by Premium Goods (www.premiumgoods.net). Premium Goods is celebrating their 5th year anniversary.

Steel Lounge Underground is a monthly event featuring Houston based musical artists who create entertaining & inspiring soundscapes within a visual environment that is synergistic with their particular music style.This is a free event!

This month’s musical line-up features The ARE, Jaekim, Baby Jae plus a live performance by Neon Collars.

Musical Lineup:
The ARE
Jaekim
Baby Jae
Neon Collars

Exhibits on view in the museum:

In The Brown Foundation Gallery: No Zoning: Artists Engage Houston
On view: May 9 – October 4, 2009

{Saturday.26}

The Snake Charmers + Friends @ Coffee Groundz

7pm-midnight | Coffee Groundz (2503 Bagby) | facebook invite

Featuring The Snake Charmers, Kenneth Scott, Gail Bixler, Wayside Drive and Doc & The Holidays

A special evening of music from some of The Coffee Groundz’ and The Snake Charmers’ musical friendz!

The Wine Conference

2:30pm-8pm | Houston Italian Cultural and Community Cencter (1101 Milford)| www.thewineconference.com

This Saturday, a few of my friends are putting on Houston’s first Wine Conference! Featuring very special guest Gary Vaynerchuk of Wine Library TV!

I’ve got 2 tickets to give away to this event! Shoot me an email with your best wine hangover story, and the best story wins the tickets. #subjectivityrocks

“Coach to Cure” Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

all day Saturday | Bubba’s Sports Bar & Grill at (6225 Washington Ave)

Earlier this year, a friend of mine’s child was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. A heartbreaking disease that is a severe recessive X-linked form of muscular dystrophy characterized by rapid progression of muscle degeneration, eventually leading to loss of ambulation and death. This affliction affects one in 3500 males, making it the most prevalent of muscular dystrophies. Read more on the Houston Chronicle here.

In an effort to raise money for research and awareness, this Saturday a national event that will take place called ‘Coach to Cure’. College football coaches across the nation will wear ‘Coach to Cure’ patches on their arms this day to increase awareness for Duchenne. National commercials will air about Duchenne. Also, around the nation on this day, families and groups will be holding tailgating parties to raise awareness for Duchenne.  Attached is a 3-minute video about Duchenne and ‘Coach to Cure’.  Although it is sad, we have to get the message across. This disease is ruthless. Please watch it and share it with all your friends. The video will ask you to donate $5 by texting the word “CURE” to 90999 on your phone.

With the help of family, friends, Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, The Houston Chronicle, The University of Houston, and Academy…one the Houston area tailgating parties will be held at Bubba’s Sports Bar & Grill at 6225 Washington Ave (near Memorial Park). Bubba’s has agreed to donate 10% of all food sales from that day to Duchenne MD.

Please help us increase awareness for Duchenne and support ‘Coach to Cure’. Come out to Bubba’s the 26th to watch your favorite college football game, share the ‘Coach to Cure’ video with friends, or just tell someone you know about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Small things can equal a big impact! Click here to watch the video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufeNxXto4a4

If you’re headed out on Saturday to watch some football, or just for lunch, head over the Bubba’s for a great cause.  Thank you for your support!

{Wednesday.09}

HP Rocks Off hosts Beatles Rock Band Rock Off Contest

The Houston Press and Rocks Off Music Blog present The Beatles RockBand Rock Off! Celebrate the release of The Beatles Rock Band edition and be the first to play on Wednesday, September 9th at Coffee Groundz (2503 Bagby). Free Event! Enjoy Beatles inspired cocktails while you rock out. Prizes awarded for the highest score in each skill level and the best Beatles costume. Sign up your band starting at 6pm. Rock off competition starts at 7pm.

Hotel Sorella monnalisa lounge launch party

6:30-8:30pm | Hotel Sorella (800 West Sam Houston Parkway North (between I-10 and Memorial Drive) | facebook invite

I had a chance to check out this place a few weeks back and was hella impressed. If you find yourself outside the loop, don’t panic.  Head here for come luxurious pampering. The pool is small and quaint, and once the restaurants get built up around the area, we may even find ourselves heading OTL more often. Gasp!

{Thursday.10}

“POKE!” Opening Reception at FotoFest

6 – 9pm | FotoFest (1113 Vine St. | www.fotofest.org

Totally stoked about this exhibit. My worlds collide = social media + art. They’ve got tons of events in conjuction with the exhibit, including a social media panel discussion that I will be sitting on Oct 7th at FotoFest.

The increasingly pervasive, user-created content of online social media – tweets, confessional video, status updates, online gaming – are these subjects for art? In online parlance a poke is a virtual gesture intended as interaction without any specific purpose, usually interpreted as “hello.” POKE! is also a new FotoFest exhibition featuring eight technologically savvy artists who explore online social media and its evolving relationship with the public, the media, and art.

On view September 10 – October 24, 2009, POKE! explores the inter-personal intentions of social media technology and the nature of modern internet-mediated relationships with work that references and uses source material from popular online social media websites such as Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Craigslist, and YouTube.

{Friday.11}

FreshArts FreshFest!

5 – 8:30pm | Discovery Green | facebook invite

Take a breath of Fresh Art.

FREE dance, theatre and poetry performances; an instrument petting zoo, poetry booth, costume dress-up trunk, scratch film project and after-dark film screenings. A festival celebrating Houston’s alternative art scene.
FREE food provided by Strip House.

5-6PM: Educator’s Preview – Open to all educators! Come see what Houston´s alternative art scene has to offer you and your students! Incorporate arts into your classroom or come to us! You´ll also be treated to a free dance workshop from Dance Houston and performance from Main Street Theater.

6-8:30PM: FRESH FEST
Performances from U of H Dance Ensemble, Travesty Dance Group, Michael Khalil, Dance of Asian America, Mildred’s Umbrella and Main Street Theater; film screenings from Aurora Picture Show; scratch film project from SWAMP; an instrument petting zoo, costume dress up trunk and more!

HIWI Book Launch Party!

7-10pm | Craft Salon -(2307 Dunlavy St) | facebook invite

It’s finally here! It was worth the wait, Houston.

HIWI: IKE tells the story of the hurricane that hit Houston last year through real stories and images. Late Friday, September 12, 2008, Hurricane Ike hit Galveston Island and the Texas Gulf Coast and continued its track inland through Houston, Dallas and as far north as Indianapolis. Many Galveston residents chose to remain on the island despite the National Hurricane Center’s warning of “certain death” for those who did so. Likewise, after witnessing the disastrous mass exodus preceding Hurricane Rita three years earlier, Houstonians were inclined to hunker down too. And hunker down they did. Houstonians met their neighbors while preparing for the storm, stayed together with friends and family during the storm, worked and cleaned up together after the storm, and endured the days, even weeks, without electricity. Without air conditioning. In Houston. At the end of summer. Together. In the spirit of HIWI: The Book, Houston. It’s Worth It. asked Houstonians to submit their accounts of Ike. This result is a personal perspective from some of those who experienced it, to remind Houstonians that, despite the occasional natural disaster, our city is very much still “worth it.” And while there were plenty of photos of destruction (with apologies, not all submitted photos of fallen trees are included), the camaraderie and support brought about in the storm’s aftermath was well documented in photographs and words, proving yet again that it takes more than a big storm to break the spirit of a Houstonian or of our neighbors to the south in Galveston.

DJ Josh Zulu, cocktails, giveaways, and a photo booth named Queso.

Diverseworks Season Kick-off

6 – 8pm | DIverseworks (1117 East Freeway)| facebook invite

Join us for the DiverseWorks season kick off as we celebrate the opening of Now That I’m by myself,” she says, “I’m not by myself, which is good” in the Main Gallery and I found myself an innovator in the flickerlounge. Plus, we will have lots of other surprises. too!

Now That I’m by myself,” she says, “I’m not by myself, which is good”
Sept. 11-Oct. 24, 2009
Opening Reception: Friday, Sept. 11, 6-8pm

Rachel Cook brings together Brian Bress, Wynne Greenwood, Laurel Nakadate and Yuki Okumura, all of which take isolated private experiences from within studio, within the empty landscape, within the feeling behind the gut, within the fantasy of an alien inside your head, and bring them into the public realm through video, photography, sculptural cutouts, and even drawings.

I found myself an innovator
Sept. 11 – Oct. 24, 2009
Opening Reception Friday, Sept. 11, 2009, 6 – 8pm
In partnership with Aurora Picture Show

In this installment of flickerlounge, a selection of films and video art works will feature artists from the upcoming panel Je me laver, Je regarde moi-même as well as other artists who use themselves as subjects in their work.

{Saturday.12}

Ars Lyrica Season Kick-Off Party at Block 7

noon-3pm | Block 7 Wine Co. (720 Shepherd) | facebook invite

Join Ars Lyrica on Saturday, September 12th at the new Block 7 Wine Co. for a preview of the 2009/2010 Season, A Musical Grand Tour.  Musicians will be on hand to showcase some of this season’s performances, as well as wine and food pairings from France, Italy and Germany, representing the many places this season’s programming will take you!

This event is free to the public and open to all. Block 7 Wine Co. holds free tastings every Saturday from noon-3pm.

In additional to previewing the season, subscriptions will be on sale at the event for up to 33% off regular ticket prices. Receive an extra ticket to any performance by purchasing a subscription at the party!

Wines included in the tasting are: 2003 Chateau Bellevue sur Vallee « Vin de Bob », Bergerac, France; 2007 J & H Selbach Bernkasteler Kurfürstlay Riesling, Mosel, Germany; 2004 Cantine Due Palme “Selvarossa,” Salice Salentino, Italy; 2006 Murinais “Caprice Valentine,” Crozes-Hermitage

Museum District Day

10am-5pm | Museum District | www.houstonmuseumdistrict.org

Get ready to enjoy a free day in the Houston Museum District on Saturday, September 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Board a free bus shuttle at any participating museum and spend the entire day exploring favorite museums and discovering new destinations. Museum District Day will feature fascinating exhibitions, hands-on activities, demonstrations and performances throughout the day. Seventeen museums will waive their general admission fee to offer the community the opportunity to enjoy the District’s diverse displays of art, science, nature and history.  For more details about Museum District Day please visit the website or (713) 790-1020.

Participating museums include:
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum
Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum
Children’s Museum of Houston
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
Czech Center Museum Houston
The Health Museum
Holocaust Museum Houston
Houston Center for Contemporary Craft
Houston Center for Photography
Houston Museum of Natural Science
The Jung Center
The John C. Freeman Weather Museum
Lawndale Art Center
The Menil Collection
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Rice University Art Gallery
Rothko Chapel

Picnic in the Park with Dominic Walsh Dance Theater

6pm-10pm | Miller Outdoor Theater | facebook invite

Before Dominic Walsh Dance Theater’s September 12th performance of The Trilogy: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, join us for the third annual Picnic in the Park at Miller Outdoor Theatre. Individual tickets are $25 and include cocktails, a boxed supper (vegetarian options available), and a reserved seat for the performance. Co-hosted by SNAP. Visit www.dwdt.org to purchase tickets today!

{Sunday.13}

Back to School with Dr. Sketchy

2-6pm | Advant Garden (411 Westheimer) | facebook invite

We’re jumping back into Houston Dr. Sketchy classtime with a RED HOT model – JenXer!  An accomplished artist herself, she’s putting herself onstage for a color study in red.

What: Houston Sketchy September party goes red hot, hot, hot!
When: Sunday, September 13th 2-6pm
Where: Avant Garden (411 Westheimer)
How much: $10 + model tips

Bring your sketchpads, drawing pencils and sass – this is one back to school Sketchy that will be blazingly etched into your memory and drawing pads alike.

{Tuesday.25}

The Wine Conference Kick-off Party

This September some of Houston’s most dedicate vino lovers will be hosting the first annual Wine Conference.  Check out some of the amazing speakers (uh, freaking Gary Vee!!!!) wine labels, and local restaurant they have lined up to participate at www.thewineconference.com.  The wine conference will be held on September 26th at the Italian Cultural and Community Center.

Tonight, Join The Wine Conference, Virtuoso Selections and 29-95.com at Block 7 Wine Company, Houston’s newest retail wine & tasting venue. William Meznarich of Virtuoso will offer free tastings of 4 fine wines, as well as give a short presentation about wine basics. Block 7 will offer a free assortment of appertivo, and provide their gorgeous, art-filled venue for the event. This fun evening promises to put you in the mood for Houston’s fabulous first-ever Wine Conference with special conference discounts and door prizes.

Bob and Weave: Houston’s Creative Throwdown

5:30-9pm | Continental Club (3700 Main St.) | facebook invite

When I first saw the poster for this event I knew it was right up my alley. And FREE? Now, you’re talking.

Join H-Town’s top creative professionals as we come together to mix it up. Hosted by AD2 (AD2)
Crystal Land, President; American Advertising Federation Houston (AAFH) Natalie Gonzalez, President; The professional association for design (AIGA)
Robin Tooms, President; Art Director’s Club of Houston (ADCH) Alex Barber, President; Only in Houston (OiH) Dwight Cook, President; University of Houston Graphics Alumni Partnership (UHGAP) Daniel Bosse, President Elect.

{Thursday.27}

“Found” @ Hello Lucky

6 – 8pm | Hello Lucky (1025 Studemont) | www.hello-lucky.com

One of my very favorite Heights shops.  Still got a G.C. burning a holein my pocket from Fayza from last year’s birthday. must. spend. it.

“Found” Opening this Thursday August 27, from 6 – 8pm Artists : Tracy Melton, JoAnn Park, Christine West, David Brown, Mike Lonchambon as well as our ongoing artists.
Yeti Sunshine will be here for the opening serving up fresh organic juices and purees over shaved ice

On view now: Freebird on view through Saturday August 22, 2009
Artists : Elaine Bradford, Rene Cruz, Jay Giroux, Lisa Marie Godfrey, Frances Trotter, Christine West
and ongoing work by Sean Flournoy, Whitney Riley, Carole F Smith, David Waddell, Ryan Geiger, Tracy Melton, JoAnn Park

Artist Talk at Lawndale: Because we only turn 30 once!

6-8pm | Lawndale (4912 Main Street) | www.lawndaleartcenter.org

I had the chance to check out Lawndale’s 30th Anniversary exhibit (and amazing accompanying exhibits) last week as they hosted a quadruple opening.

In conjunction with Lawndale Art Center’s 30th Anniversary, Lawndale Art Annex founder James Surls, presents a talk on the origins of Lawndale, its unique place in Houston’s art community and its relevance today. Followed by a reception at Barbara Davis Gallery where James Surls From 2009 is on view through August 29, 2009.

p.s. as I was writing this, I got an email from Lawndale saying that Retablos are in for this year’s Retablo Silent Auction/Gala on Friday, Oct 23rd! Pick yours up today! Submission deadline is Oct 8th.

Spacetaker hosts Cultured Cocktails

5-10pm |Boheme (307 Fairview) | spacetaker.org

This week’s non-profit arts organization is the uber fly Fresh Arts. Mojitos or Sangria: they’re both FRESH!

{Friday.28}

Making Moves: Dance Party + Art Show

These are a few of my fav-o-rite things.  Dance + Art. Sucks I’m gonna miss it. You shouldn’t.

Indie Dance Sounds, Rock n Roll, Disco (Italo-cosmic-afro), Retro Dance Floor Classics, New Wave, No Wave, Punk, Electro,House, Funk: Pretty much all the cool jams that rock. With Djs on two floors: Glasnost Dj Set, Ceeplus Bad Knives, Mr. Castillo, J. Calero, G Wizz, IP Freely

Fresh Art Show with Rad Artist: Adrian Landon Brooks, Eli Sebastian Brubaugh, J. Paul Jackson, Jessica Cabaniss, Shelby Hohl, Leosapien, Skeez 181,

Photobooth with: One October Night dot com, Drink Specials All night! Free Mix Cds from, Afghan Raiders / LA Riots / Daptone Records / Ninja Tune + More

No Cover b4 11pm $3-5 after + No Cover if you ride a bike to the event in support of Critical Mass

{Saturday.29}

A/V Swap: The Good, The Bad, and the Dirty

7:30pm-10:30pm | Rice University Theatre | www.theavswap.com

This fall The A/V Swap is back with a bigger and badder group of films, this time from both Texas and New York! 34 films by Houston artists and musicians will screen at 8 pm, Saturday, August 29nd at Rice Media Center in our The Good, the Bad and the Dirty show. For our second screening Friday, September 18th at 8 pm, The A/V Swap presents the Best Of 2009, a selection of collaborations from Houston, Austin, Buffalo, New York and New York City created this summer. Both screenings will start with artist’s receptions at 7:30 pm and the Best Of 2009 screening will conclude a Q & A with participating filmmakers and musicians. This is the 6th annual A/V Swap, and we are glad to bring you more of the emerging filmmakers, aspiring composers, established artists and soulful songwriters that have made the swap a success in the past.

A/V Swap projects are collaborations that begin with a film or song that is traded between artists to complete; we hope to provide a forum where artists can showcase their talents by manipulating audio and video they would never otherwise encounter. In this “swap” we anonymously pair composers and filmmakers, hoping to expand their creative horizons. This year’s Houston artists include Ahmad Squad, Bexar, Chin Xaou Ti Won, Jody Cochran, David Courtney, Face and Russ Kuhner, Fumblz Fingerz-Nacha, Justin Giardina, Scott Gordon, Philip Hays, Chuck Ivy, Kanude, Travis Kerschen, David Lowy, Shawna Mouser, Ron Ochoa, Sharad Patel and Andrew Edison, Phara, PR!MO, Patrick Renner, Michael Rodriguez, Stephanie Saint Sanchez, Aimey Stinchcomb, Everett Taasevigen, The Art Guys, Thousands, Eric Todd, Vanessa Voss, Ramon West, Able Windham and Ruben Ybarra. Over thirty more artists from New York and Texas participated in this year’s swap.

{Tuesday}

Nightclub Cardio @ Pravada

Literally one of THE best workouts I’ve ever had. A night club atmosphere, pumpin’ tunes, and workout clothes and tennies. Pretty much my dream workout. The lights are down, and people let loose. I’ve been dying to write about this for weeks. I tried this class out earlier this summer and was hooked! Now if I can just find time to make it back!  Due to popular demand, they’ve just added a second day at Pravada (Thursday) and a second location (Bar RIO, 6400 Richmond Ave) that begins September 15th. Tell Jennifer I sent you! 

{Wednesday}

Dress for Success 6th Annual Sizzling Summer Soiree

7-9pm | Tootsies (in Highland Village) | facebook invite

Nancy Levicki and the Women of Wardrobe event chairs Sharron Melton, Lauren Freeman and Shern-Min Chow with Tootsies invite you to the Sixth Annual Sizzling Summer Soiree.

Enjoy hip sips and cool canapes, and meet designer Trina Turk. 10 percent of the proceeds benefits Dress for Success Houston, so you have a great reason to shop!

Event is free for WOW members and $45 for nonmembers. Purchase your tickets to Sizzling Summer Soiree in advance to avoid waiting in a very long line! Join W.O.W. for $75 which includes complimentary admission to all W.O.W. events through next June. Buy your ticket today by calling 713-957-3779. Special thanks to The Capital Grille and TY-KU.

{Thursday}

Thursdays are always nuts.  Get in where you fit in.

5-10PM | Spacetaker Cultured Cocktails benefiting Dance Houston | FREE
Boheme Cafe and Wine Bar (Taft @ Fairview)
This has been THE place to be this summer if you are a non-profit. Or if you like wine. Either will do.

6-8pm | HYPA Summer Cocktail Tour at the Grove (Discovery Green) | FREE
feat. Houston artists Katy Anderson + Patrick Medrano + The Fodice Foundation
HOUSTON Magazine is sponsoring a summer long tour of hip places and pretty faces. This week at the Grove with HYPA. There is an afterparty at Katy + Patrick’s studio. The afterparty + film screening is free for HYPA members, and $35 for non-members.

6-9pm | 310 Rosemont Summer Mixer (1965 W. Gray) | FREE
Fashion and Denim for Women AND Men! Come for a drink. Stay for the new fall fashions. Toast to the end of summer.
I’m not sure about toasting to the end of summer…i’m hanging on with my fingernails. But LOVE this boutique. Check it.

{Friday}

Bright New Media

3:30-5:30pm | Bright Sky Press | 5416 Chaucer, right behind Ruggles | $35

Laura Mayes and yours truly will be leading a Social Media Workshop this Friday at the lovely Bright Sky Press. Stop by to ask all those burning questions about Twitter, Flickr, and Blogging, oh my! From 3:30-5:30 p.m. we’ll have the very informal workshop (Easy, practical social media training) and at 5:30 p.m. we’ll break out the Social Media Social Hour (A very happy Happy Hour where social media shows it social side).

Bright Sky Press is hosting its inaugural Bright New Media social media workshop at the Bright Sky Bookspace . Stop in to find out more about Twitter, Flickr, Blogging, Facebook, and a partridge in a pear tree. More importantly, we’ll talk about why we should care about all this (for business, for pleasure, for smart ways to connect)…and we’ll show you how easy it is to do (it’s really easy!). It all starts at 3:30 p.m. and ends with a Social Media Social Hour. $35 a person gets you all the know-how you need to go go go. We can’t wait to see you then!

RSVP to kara@brightskypress.com

Four Openings at Lawndale Art Center

6-8:30pm | Lawndale Art Center | 4912 Main Street | lawndaleartcenter.org

Yummm. I love me some Lawndale. Check out this Friday’s quadruple opening. Opening Reception August 21, 2009, 6:30 – 8:30 PM, Artist talks at 6 PM. Exhibitions on view August 21- September 26, 2009:

Lawndale Art Center 30th Anniversary Exhibition –
Curated by Clint Willour
Work by Seth Alverson, Dawolu Jabari Anderson, Chuy Benitez, Elaine Bradford, Emily Sloan and Mark Schatz

Me, Mine, and not Yours – Joe Ives and Jahjehan Bath Ives

Paper or Plastic?– Nathaniel Donnett

The Green™ cyber web – Adela Andea

{Saturday}

Planned Parenthood + Riazul Tequila present Party Like a Rockstar

8pm-midnight | Warehouse Live

Whether you wear high heels, Doc Martens or blue suede shoes, come to move those feet and pump those fists in the air – and let your voice be heard!

Live Performances by DJ Alex C – voted #1 DJ by the Houston Press and Houston Chronicle and SKYROCKET! – voted Austin’s #1 cover band.

TICKETS:
Single Ticket ($50) – includes catering by Joe’s Crab Shack!

Be a VIP!
Solo-Act ($150) – one person, Hook-Up ($250) – two people, Groupies ($1000) – eight people, Entourage ($3000) – 30 people
VIP level includes catering by Morton’s the Steakhouse & Max’s Wine Dive with a Champagne Station.
Grammy Gift Bags. Exclusive After- Party from midnight to 2 a.m.

Visit http://www.pphouston.org/rockstar2009 for more information. Purchase tickets here

{Tuesday}

Montage of Houston Grand Opening Party

5-8pm,  Montage of Houston (5927 Almeda) | www.montageofhouston.com

The sister tower to the Mosaic on Hermann Park is finally finished! Join us tonight in breaking in the new digs on the 7th floor terrace overlooking Hermann Park. Sweet, views. For realz.

If you didn’t RSVP via email or facebook for this event,  sorry, we’re at capacity!  But become a fan on Facebook for exclusive invites to upcoming parties.

{Wednesday}

Rockstars of Wine @ 13 Celsius

5:30pm-7:30pm,  13 Celsius (3000 Caroline) | www.13celsius.com

Join Dan Redman of Mosaic Wine Group as he presents the wines of the ‘literal’ rock star, Maynard James Keenan (TOOL, A Perfect Circle & Puscifer) and the ‘viticultural’ rock star, Randall Grahm (Bonny Doon).

PLEASE NOTE: This is a wine tasting event hosted by Dan Redman – neither Maynard nor Randall will be in attendance, just their fabulous wines!

Facebook Event

{Thursday}

Mix & Mingle Summer Fashion Show @ Pravada

6:30-9pm, Pravada (2815 South Shepherd) | http://houston.fgi.org

The Fashion Group International of Houston, Inc., (FGI) is proud to host Mix & Mingle Fashion Event on August 13, 2009, at Pravada, to show case five talented local fashion designers & boutiques, as well as a number of local hair stylists, make up artists, and beauty specialists.

Models on the runway will be showcasing clothing lines from Lucho at Uptown Park, POSH Boutique, F.Nebuloni, Au Paradis Swim wear and Kelly Kathleen Designs. Our talented beauty specialists are Hair Stylist – Janelle Alexis of Norris Day Spa & Salon and Make-Up Service is provided by Tree Vaello.

Appetizers + door prizes + fashion show.

{Friday}

Block 7 Wine Co. Opening Weekend Festivities:

Join us for events all weekend to celebrate the Grand Opening of Block 7! Art, live music, wine tastings, yummy bites, travel & education… plus the unveiling of our full menu. Also, any purchase you make over the weekend benefits local arts non-profit Spacetaker.

FRI AUG 14 @ Block 7
4-7pm | Special Art Exhibition: Western Appliance Meets Wine Warehouse featuring works created from salvaged materials from our warehouse
9pm | Live Music: Robert Ellis & listenlisten

Don’t Fight It @ Boondocks

10pm-2am, Boondocks (1417 Westheimer)

Easily my favorite monthly at Boondocks. Join all the usual suspects, my heart Young Squaddy, along with  DJ Good Grief, Piss Heavy +  Hosted by Miss Shina Rae + my baby boy 25 Cruz.

We want our party to feel like the best house party scene from your favorite 80’s movie. No genre of music is off limits, we play it all. Don’t Fight It is the most accessible and fun club party in Houston. Come see us and find out for yourself!

{Saturday}

Block 7 Wine Co. Official Opening Party

Noon-4pm | Saturday Tasting Market: free tastings of over a dozen of our carefully selected wines plus case pricing on all bottles
5pm-till | Block Party: great wine prices & free delicious bites all night
9pm | Live Music: Andrew Karnavas & Runaway Sun

INFORMATION SUPERHIGHWAY: THE DOWN SOUTH EDITION

7:00 PM – 11:00pm |  Caroline Collective (4820 Caroline St.) | www.carolinecollective.cc

ROFLCon, The Caroline Collective, Schipul the Web Marketing Company and Saint Arnold Brewery proudly present… A Gathering Of Houston Tech

Houston is full of cool Internet people. Why aren’t they meeting each other?

INFORMATION SUPERHIGHWAY is the new monthly party for Houston gathering hackers, activists, artists, designers, nonprofits, startups, academics and general geekery to hang out and connect with one another.

*No agenda, no “networking,” no presentations. Just beverages, food, ideas and cool people.
*Best of all the price is free, and where else are you going to get that kind of deal in this kind of economy?!

Facebook Invite

Pieced Together: All Texas Graffiti art exhibition

7:00 PM – 11:00pm |  Aerosol Warfare Gallery  (2110 Jefferson @ Hutchins) | www.aerosolwarfare.com

Aerosol Warfare has the privilege to host the final leg of Texas’ 1st traveling graffiti art exhibition. The show started its journey last year in Austin, TX when local graffiti pioneer (and curator), SLOKE, pulled together some of the top aerosol artists from each major city in Texas and ‘pieced together’ the exhibition. Since then, this art show has traveled to cities such as Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Phoenix and San Francisco. Houston is the final destination and we are ready to throw a Texas Size Ho-Down to celebrate the successful run of an exhibition that the LA Weekly called a “hybridized style existing in this stylistic space between two art worlds”!

Artists Include: Austin – Sloke, Wake, Spain & Mez; San Antonio – Enks, Duo & Supher; Houston – Coler, Weah, Sode, & GONZO247; Dallas – Soner & Lawgic; El Paso – Grave, Myker & Durock; The Valley – Dmise & News.

Facebook Invite

{Sunday}

Block 7 Wine Co.

2-3pm | Travel Seminar: Unbelievable Undiscovered Wines of Southern Italy
4pm-till | Join us for dinner as our full menu is unveiled
8pm | Live Music: Kenneth Scott

Prairie Cadets with Benjamin Wesley, The Julys, Finnegan @ the Mink

9:00 PM – 1:00am |  The Mink  (3718 Main)

Come out and see us, with our new songs and some fantastic other bands! Seriously, Benjamin Wesley will blow your mind. We’re convinced The Julys are one of the next great Houston bands, and Finnegan will charm you quick.

It’s gonna be a great show. Do it.

Facebook Invite

Each week I’ll highlight a few events that I’m looking forward to in this grand ole city of H. c.u.t.here, peeps.

{Thursday}

Open Mic Night Coffee Groundz

6-10pm, CoffeeGroundz (2503 Bagby) | www.coffeegroundz.net

This will be the first of many open mic nights to come from everyone’s favorite local coffee shop. Come by and check out some great local talent.

Runaway Sun @ Continental Club

10:10pm, Continental Club (3700 Main Street) | Cover $5

This is a big show for Runaway Sun.  Their first at the CC. Fresh off an amazing show at the Houston Press Music Awards Showcase, Shea Serrano of the Houston Press recently said of the band, “And we say this without fear: by this time next year, Runaway Sun will be one of the city’s best bands.” I couldn’t agree more.

Andrew and the guys are putting the finishing touches on their first full length album, The Bridge. Stay tuned for CD Release Party deets. Also, the band is competing with other bands for a slot on this year’s ACL lineup for the Sound and the Jury. Vote daily for them here.

{Friday}

Tech Bytes Geek Gathering @ Coffee Groundz

7:30pm, Coffee Groundz (2503 Bagby) | www.coffeegroundz.net

Houston’s geekiest are at it again! Join the fun folks from KPFT’s Technology Bytes as they continue the fun Friday with their monthly Geek Gathering.  “ou don’t have to be a geek to attend. Heck, you don’t even have to be a current listener of the show. This event is a casual meet-up for anyone interested in technology or social media in all its forms and a great opportunity to just hang out with like minded individuals.”

Ben Wesley @ Block 7

8:30pm, Block 7 Wine Co (720 Shepherd) | www.block7wineco.com

After a soft opening 2 weeks ago, Block 7 has been packing in the wine, food and music fans galore. With Friday night performances from Andrew Karnavas and Tygararaja, this Friday returns with Houston’s eclectic son, Benjamin Wesley, the musical foil and soulmate to flashy Transmissions bandmate, Cornbreadd, Wesley’s Houston Press Awards performance showed us why this talent won’t be in Houston for long. Come check out this unique performance, sure to be one of the last few intimate shows you’ll see Ben play. Kid done blowing up!

{Saturday}

Summer Fest Day 1

I keep saying this, and I seriously won’t believe Summer Fest is real until Saturday when I arrive and see if for my own eyes. For months I was convinced this was an April Fool’s Joke by our friends over at the Free Press.  Headliners include Of Montreal, Explosions in the Sky and Broken Social Scene. Yeah. see? Would you have believed it either? IN Houston?! Rad.

A 2 day pass is only 16 bucks. And a Fancy Pants Pass is $45. Do. This. People.

{Sunday}

Summer Fest Day 2