Listen up, Austinites, Choose Austin First members--many of them restaurants--will donate a portion of their sales tomorrow, SEPTEMBER 8TH, to the American Red Cross Children's Fund. more ›

Sure, Starbucks is tasty and easy and, heck, some of them have drive-thru's! Damn Starbucks. But our frappuccinos and our soft tacos from Chipotle and our special Make Your Own Pasta dish from Macaroni Grill should only supplement our visits and purchases from local businesses. Not only is it the right thing to do, not only does it help benefit and support our local economy, but Austin has a heaping number of fantastic businesses that are worth your time and dollar. Yeah, Starbucks has the java chip frappaccino, but Pacha (4618 Burnet Rd.) has the super duper yummy Pacha shake made by one of our favorite baristas (the guy in the pony tail or the guy in the glasses). Plus it is a cozier place to work on one's dissertation or novel or meet up with a friend over some sweet potato frittata. Not to mention the fact that they toast your muffin for you! more ›

Tired of Barton Springs? Spend this Sunday, April 3, at Pokejo's BBQ on W. 5th St. for the Choose Austin First .2K Run. This charity event benefits the SIMS Foundation, which according to their website, "...is a non-profit organization that provides access to low-cost mental health services for Austin musicians and their immediate families." Tickets can be purchased through Front Gate Tickets for $10, or $15 at the door. So, for the price of going to see a movie, you get a t-shirt, free food from local restaurants, games & prizes, treats for your canine friends, and live music by KTEL and the Hit Machine, Heybale!, the Resentments, and Carolyn Wonderland. The fun lasts from 2:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. but get there early before the free (Amy's) ice cream melts. more ›