Downtown Houston - Houston Downtown Alliance RSS Feed

CAPITAL ONE BANK CULTURE COLLISION, MAY 12

Heather Pray - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Wed, 04 May 2011 18:00:00 GMT

CAPITAL ONE BANK CULTURE COLLISION, MAY 12

A one-of-a-kind happy hour uniting Houston urbanites with the visual and performing arts

WHAT: Houston is full of things to do and Capital One Bank Culture Collision brings the people, the music, the art and scene together for one night each year giving Houston urbanites the opportunity to find out how they can be involved in the Houston art scene. With hosts Houston Young People for the Arts, Emerging Leaders, Capital One Bank Bayou City Art Festival, DiverseWorks 3D, Dominic Walsh Dance Theater, Ensemble Theatre Act One, Fresh Arts Coalition, Health Museum Professionals’ Circle, Houston Ballet Barre, Houston Grand Opera O.N., Houston Symphony YPB, NiteSPA, Spacetaker, The Studio at the CAMH and Theatre Under The Stars’ UP @ TUTS – guests will get all the info they need to incorporate the arts into their lives for the next season. The evening also features a trapeze aerial dance performance byVault and music by DJ Hardware with light bites by Phoenicia Specialty Foods, beverages courtesy of Republic Tequila and Saint Arnold Brewing Company and complimentary valet. All attendees will be invited to sign up to win a Awesome Advantage BMW weekend complete with a BMW from Advantage BMW Midtown, one-night-stay at Hotel ICON, tickets for a performance during the 2011-2012 Houston Symphony season and dinner for two.

WHEN/

WHERE: Thursday, May 12, 2011

5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Advantage BMW Midtown, 1305 Gray, Houston, TX 77002

COST: $5 suggested donation to presenter, HYPA; 21 and up only.

WHO: Participating organizations include: Houston Young People for the Arts, Emerging Leaders, Capital One Bank Bayou City Art Festival, DiverseWorks 3D, Dominic Walsh Dance Theater, Ensemble Theatre Act One, Fresh Arts Coalition, Health Museum Professionals’ Circle, Houston Ballet Barre, Houston Grand Opera O.N., Houston Symphony YPB, NiteSPA, Spacetaker, The Studio at the CAMH and Theatre Under The Stars’ UP @ TUTS.

SPONSORS: Capital One Bank, Advantage BMW Midtown, Republic Tequila, Phoenicia Specialty Foods, Saint Arnold Brewing Company, CultureMap, Houston Young People for the Arts, Hotel ICON, Houston Symphony.

FOR MORE

INFO: Visit www.houstonarts.orgor Houston Young People for the Arts’ Facebook page at www.facebook.com/houstonartsfor the latest event updates or follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/houstonarts.

About Houston Young People for the Arts

The concept of Houston Young People for the Arts (HYPA) was conceived by two Houston residents acknowledging the need for an umbrella organization to help the next wave of art supporters experience the Houston art scene through monthly events. HYPA is a committee of the Houston Downtown Improvement, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that promotes Downtown Houston and manages the Theater District through the Houston Downtown Alliance.

HYPA aims to promote education of the visual and performing arts; advance cultural awareness of current events in the Houston art scene, particularly among young people; and to collaborate with companies, governmental and not-for profit organizations to achieve these goals.

###

4-May-11 1:00 PM

HOUSTON YOUNG PEOPLE FOR THE ARTS BRINGS AN ANDALUSIONAL NIGHT TO HOUSTON FEBRUARY 5, 2011

Heather Pray - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON YOUNG PEOPLE FOR THE ARTS BRINGS AN ANDALUSIONAL NIGHT TO HOUSTON FEBRUARY 5, 2011

WHAT Houston Young People for the Arts celebrates six years with an evening of whimsical, magical and surreal proportions with Andalusional: A Spanish Dream World on Saturday, February 5, 2011. Kathryn Lott Neumann will serve as Honorary Chair and Chairs Michael Coppens and Rowena Sahulee bring a night of dillydallying with Solero flamenco dancers, astonishing audio-visual and unique entertainment with the tunes of DJ Derek Jones, Spanish cuisine, Build-Your-Own Sangria bar, cocktails and much more. The party will continue with transportation available to Vinoteca Quattro at Four Seasons Hotel Houston with DJ Ash and guests taking the music reins, $4 tapas and drink specials to conclude this annual must-attend party for Houston art lovers and supporters.

WHEN Saturday, February 5, 2011

7 p.m. to 11 p.m. – Gala

11 p.m. to 1 a.m. – Post-Party

WHERE Gala: Vine Street Studios

1113 Vine Street

Houston, TX 77002

Post-Party: Vinoteca Quattro at Four Seasons Hotel Houston

1600 Lamar St.

Houston, TX 77010

WHY Houston Young People for the Arts, a committee of Houston Downtown Alliance, aims at introducing Houstonians 21 & up to the Houston art scene to ensure and continue Houston’s rich history of philanthropy and support. Andalusional: A Spanish Dream World is inspired by Houston Symphony’s upcoming performance of Ravel’s Spain with Bolero and HYPA’s celebration will conclude February 11, 2011, with attending a performance of Ravel’s Spain with Bolero and after party with Houston Symphony Young Professionals Backstage. Proceeds from the evening benefit HYPA’s programming for 2011-2012 as well as their annual donation to Houston Theater District which hosts the annual Theater District Open House.

CONTACT For more information, or to purchase tickets, contact Heather Pray at 713-658-8938 or visit www.houstondowntownalliance.com/hypa.

COST $50 individual HYPA/EL/HDA members

$90 couple HYPA/EL/HDA members

$75 individual non-member

$140 couple non-member

$70 individual + HYPA/EL/HDA membership

$100 non-member + HYPA/EL/HDA membership + Houston Symphony Ravel's Spain with Bolero

INFO Visit www.houstondowntownalliance.com/hypafor more information.

###

11-Jan-11 2:00 PM

If You Want It...OMD brings North American Tour to Downtown Houston's House of Blues

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 21:00:00 GMT

In the past there have been grumblings of bands passing Houston by as they tour their way to our northern friend's illustrious music festival, South by Southwest; however, with OMD announcing Houston as a stop before their stint (THREE DAYS...!) in Austin, it starts to give me hope that other bands will follow suit.

Whether you were an actual fan of them in the 80s or know of them just through the Pretty in Pink soundtrack, it's definitely not a show to-be-missed. If you're super hardcore or you have a teenager that has gone to the synth side and loves 80s music, then you'll want to pony up for the VIP packages.

It's been practically a new generation since their last album and Andy McCluskey calls it 'our best album since Architecture and Morality.' 'History of Modern' was produced by OMD and mixed by one of the UK’s most in demand producers Mike Crossey (Artic Monkeys/Blood Red Shoes/Razorlight).

Last autumn the classic OMD line up of Andy McCluskey, Paul Humphreys, Martin Cooper (keyboards) and Malcolm Holmes (drums) embarked on their sold-out 'History of Modern' European tour. The press raved. The Times praised their “well-crafted song structures, lush arrangements and energetic stage performance” while Q Magazine declared them 'soaring synth-pop of the highest order'.

OMD are offering special VIP tickets which can be purchased at omd.brightantenna.com.

Pre-sale tickets are available Monday, January 10th while normal ticketing goes on sale Friday, January 14th via each venue's websites and Ticketmaster.

VIP package $150

Admittance to show, intimate soundcheck experience AND band meet and greet. Exclusive autographed 8x10 photo and exclusive t-shirt. Plus tour program and your choice of "History of Modern" CD or 180-gram vinyl w/ digital download. Limited to 30 people per venue.

GOLD Package: $100

Admittance to show AND intimate soundcheck experience. Exclusive autographed 8x10 photo and exclusive t-shirt. Plus tour program and your choice of "History of Modern" CD or 180-gram vinyl w/ digital download. Limited to 70 people per venue.

All tickets are general admission.

To view a selection of live performances by OMD: watch here

HISTORY OF MODERN U.S TOUR DATES:

March 5^th Toronto, ON Phoenix Concert Theatre

March 6^th Montreal, QC Le National

March 7^th Boston, MA Paradise Rock Club

March 8^th New York, NY Webster Hall/Irving Plaza

March 10^th Washington, DC 9.30 Club

March 12^th Chicago, IL Park West

March 14^th Atlanta, GA The Loft

March 16^th Houston, TX House Of Blues

March 17^th Austin, TX SXSW

March 18^th Austin, TX SXSW

March 19^th Austin, TX SXSW

March 20^th Dallas, TX House Of Blues

/Granada Theatre

March 22^nd Denver, CO Bluebird Theatre

March 23^rd Salt Lake City, UT Depot

March 25^th Los Angeles, CA The Music Box

March 26^th San Francisco, CA Regency Ballroom

10-Jan-11 3:00 PM

EADO GETS LUCKY: ANTHONY WEGMANN OWNER OF NEIGHBORHOOD MAINSTAY LUCKY’S PUB AND RECENTLY OPENED CORK SOAKERS WINE BAR TO DEBUT GOURMET MARKET IN AUGUST

Stuart Rosenberg - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 15:00:00 GMT

EADO GETS LUCKY: ANTHONY WEGMANN OWNER OF NEIGHBORHOOD MAINSTAY LUCKY’S PUB AND RECENTLY OPENED CORK SOAKERS WINE BAR TO DEBUT GOURMET MARKET IN AUGUST

HOUSTON, TX – July 11, 2010 – While the approval of a stadium for the Houston Dynamo has put a new kick in the step of EaDo district landowners and businesses, it’s news of a gourmet market that has area residents yelling “goal.” Currently under construction at St. Emanuel – EaDo’s primary north/south corridor – and Rusk, the approximately 3,500-square-foot Epicurean Express is slated to open in early August adjacent to the recently launched Cork Soakers wine bar and directly across St. Emanuel from popular restaurant and bar, Lucky’s Pub.

The three venues – all important milestones in the development of EaDo as a sustainable urban neighborhood – are endeavors of entrepreneur Anthony Wegmann, who was first introduced to EaDo in 2006 by Brent Silberstein of Warehouse Live. Epicurean Express and Cork Soakers will both inhabit a 1960’s era shopping center currently being revitalized by Wegmann. The center is currently identifying appropriate tenant candidates for the remaining 3,500-square-feet of retail space with the goal of complementary businesses that will create further synergy.

According to Wegmann, “When I opened Lucky’s next to Warehouse Live, we were somewhat of an island with guests coming for a specific reason. With the support of our local residents and growing awareness of the great offerings in the EaDo district, there is a strong reason for people to come and stay in EaDo for a full night of entertainment. Our goal with Lucky’s Pub, Corks Soakers and Epicurean Express is to create a unique experience that does not currently exist in Houston. A guest can watch a game on the 21-foot mega screen, order from one of the largest selections of beers in Houston, enjoy a flight of wine in our gorgeous wine bar and pick up groceries or a gourmet prepared meal all within walking distance of downtown and Houston’s top sporting venues.

The market concept evolved in part due to feedback from Wegmann’s clientele – more than half of whom live nearby in downtown, EaDo and the East End – who often mention the lack of service-driven businesses to support the urban lifestyle and increasingly sophisticated tastes, especially from the grocery/market side with current offerings either inconveniently located, outdated or lacking in quality.

Epicurean Express is poised to meet the growing demands and needs of the EaDo and downtown area with a site and décor unquestionably more appealing than an access road gas station corner mart and a product and food range much broader than the closest market offering, Byrd’s on Main Street. Wegmann describes Epicurean Express as a premium, small scale grocery store. The interior will incorporate stained concrete floors, earth tones and salvaged ceiling beams and rustic wood accents, creating a modern but warm feeling. While gourmet prepared meals will debut in fall, the initial opening will highlight a coffee bar; fresh produce, meats, poultry and fish; spices, specialty import foods, and other sundries; and a range of household items such as cleaning supplies and paper goods with a focus on green offerings.

Wegmann is bullish on the concept for good reason. Not only is he optimistic based on current feedback, but he is an enviable position of being the master of this burgeoning block.

“I see this as a viable business not only from the standpoint of a serving a need, but given that I am a restaurateur, I am able to take advantage of cost benefits associated with buying food for Cork Soakers and Lucky’s and using product at several venues, insuring I can keep a high quality, stocked inventory to meet those needs.”

Epicurean Express is located at 2018 Rusk. For more information, call 713-222-9463 or log onto www.epicureanexpress.com.

# # #

13-Jul-10 10:00 AM

Houston Young People for the Arts presents an evening fit for a Maharajah and Maharani with I Dream of Maharani on February 6, 2010

Heather Pray - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 21:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 6, 2010

CONTACT: Heather Pray, Co-Founder Houston Young People for the Arts

713-658-8938, heather@downtownhouston.org

HOUSTON YOUNG PEOPLE FOR THE ARTS PRESENTS AN EVENING FIT FOR A MAHARAJAH AND MAHARANI WITH I DREAM OF MAHARANI ON FEBRUARY 6, 2010

HOUSTON, TX… Houston Young People for the Arts (HYPA) announces their largest fundraiser of the year, the annual HYPA Gala: I Dream of Maharani on Saturday, February 6, 2010 from 7 pm to 10 pm at House of Blues Houston Foundation Room & Bronze Peacock Room. I Dream of Maharani celebrates HYPA’s 5^th year of introducing Houston’s young, urban enthusiasts to the Houston art scene and raises funds for them to collaborate with other non-profit arts organizations to promote all that is going on in Houston’s art scene. Always true to form, HYPA’s I Dream of Maharani is always one of the most anticipated parties of year with the arts enthusiast in-crowd. This year is even more special as it celebrates HYPA’s 5^th year, recognizes Randall Jamail for his vision and dedication to the arts in Houston and furthers HYPA’s mission by partnering with Houston Ballet Barre and Houston Ballet’s community outreach program, DanceWorks!

Chairs Elizabeth Abraham, Sarah Bray, Liz Cleveland, Joshua Espinedo, Melissa Fitzgerald, Heather Oglesby and Heather Pray set the stage for an evening fit for royalty and transport guests to Bollywood immediately through the entrance of House of Blues’ exclusive Foundation Room and Bronze Peacock Room at Houston Pavilions with its lush décor, Indian cuisine, and flowing premium drinks. The entertainment at each HYPA Gala speaks to the passion and purpose of HYPA and spotlights the artistry here in Houston. Highlights this year include DJ Yogi G of Bollywood Music and Generasian Radio taking the helm at the turntables with music & film. Houston’s vibrant Indian artist community will be the source of this year’s arts performancs. I Dream of Maharani’s Indian bazaar will feature Henna artists, delectable dessert delights, bangles to behold and feature Prashe, designers of Indian-inspired fusion pieces.

“I am extremely pleased to see HYPA reach its 5^th year and continue with its mission of connecting young professionals to the wealth of local art and artists in Houston. When we started, I had recently read an article of how Houston was not a place for young professionals and it has been really great to prove that statement incorrect. I am extremely fortunate to be a part of an organization where we can showcase and support all that is happening in the Houston arts scene and introduce people to the amazing city in which we live,” says HYPA co-founder Heather Pray.

HYPA adds a new layer to its support of the Houston art scene by recognizing not only the necessity of supporting Houston’s many artists and arts organizations but also to inspire school-aged children, our future artists, through pre-existing community outreach programs. This year, HYPA will lend their support to Houston Ballet’s DanceWorks! as I Dream of Maharani was loosely inspired by the upcoming world premiere of Stanton Welch’s La Bayadere. HYPA members will attend opening night of La Bayadere for their monthly event in February with Houston Ballet Barre.

Tickets for I Dream of Maharani are as follows: Houston Downtown Alliance members (includes HYPA and Emerging Leaders) are $50. Houston Ballet Barre members also enjoy $50 tickets. HYPA introduces members’ couple pricing for two tickets for $90. Non-members: $75, non-member couples: $150. Each year HYPA also offers an additional ticket package to encourage new participants; for $100 young professionals receive a ticket to the gala and a one year membership to Houston Young People for the Arts. Visit http://www.houstondowntownalliance.com or call 713-658-8938 to purchase your tickets.

About Houston Young People for the Arts
Houston Young People for the Arts (HYPA) is a committee of the Houston Downtown Improvement, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that promotes Downtown Houston and manages the Theater District through the Houston Downtown Alliance.

HYPA aims to promote education of the visual and performing arts; advance cultural awareness of current events in the Houston art scene, particularly among young people; and to collaborate with companies, governmental and not-for-profit organizations to achieve these goals.

About Houston Ballet Dance Works!
Houston Ballet’s Dance Works! The program reaches over 3,000 school-aged, Houston-area children a year. It is designed to introduce students to different types of dance and offers school three options: Chance to Dance (students from diverse communities are invited to participate in 6 Academy classes, all fees paid); Learning from the Masters (dance classes taught by professional dancers from Houston Ballet); and Studio To Stage (introduces high school students to different career options available to people interested in the arts).

25-Jan-10 3:00 PM

Gloworama Lights The Way Thanksgiving Weekend

Heather Pray Melissa Fitzgerald - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:00:00 GMT

GLOWORAMA LIGHTS THE WAY THANKSGIVING WEEKEND

A 1st annual evening of lights, colors, art cars and artists illuminating Downtown Houston

HOUSTON, TX (November 10, 2009) - Downtown Houston will be glowing brightly with an evening of lights, artists and machines kicking off the holiday season on Saturday, November 28, 2009. The night procession of art cars in H-E-B's 1st Annual Illuminated Art Car Parade will begin immediately following the 9 p.m. closing of the 50^th annual O'Reilly Auto Parts AutoRama.

Location 1001 Avenida de las Americas (in front of the George R. Brown Convention Center & Discovery Green)

Admission Admission varies depending on event; please see below, visit www.illuminatedartcarparade.com or call 713-658-8938 for ticket prices and information.

When Saturday, November 28, 2009

7:30 pm - 2 am (please see schedule below for specific events)

Schedule The Invincible Czars perform "Nutcracker Suite"

7:30 pm

Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney

Free

Austin's The Invincible Czars, known for composing a "...frenzied, turn-of-the-century riot inducing classical music..." The Dallas Observer, continues to spread a unique variety of holiday cheer by performing their zealous take on Tchaikovsky's classic "Nutcracker Suite" at Discovery Green on Saturday, November 28 at 7:30 p.m. to open the park's ice skating season. Their re-imagined "Nutcracker Suite" appeals to everyone from children to the young at heart seeking to experience the classic holiday tradition in a radical new format that is certain to delight.

VIP Balcony Viewing Party

7 pm - 10 pm

George R. Brown Convention Center balconies

$150, advance purchase only

Get a bird's eye view of the illuminated art car parade complete with cuisine, open bar and complimentary access to AfterGlow, the official afterparty of Gloworama.

H-E-B's 1^st Annual Illuminated Art Car Parade

9 pm - 10 pm

1001 Avenida de las Americas

Free

See art cars like you've never seen them before! It's Gloworama with spectacular lighting, fire and music making this a parade you will never forget. An electrifying procession of illuminated art cars, brimming with light and color, will weave its way down Avenida de las Americas in front of the George R. Brown Convention Center. An incredible, new 3D light show projected on the George R. Brown Convention Center and never-before-seen in the United States, accompanies the cars and artists as they travel down the avenue and empty into the George R. Brown Convention Center and bask in the Afterglow!

AfterGlow

10 pm - 2 am

George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A
1001 Avenida de las Americas

$25 advance purchase

$35 at the door

Party the night away with the illuminated art cars, artists, live music from the Rich Latimer Band, pop-up performances from Luminosity, Ninja Noodles, The Renegades and Their Collection of Carnies, Red Agent Aerialist, Roller Derby Girls and other visual delights you have come to expect from the art car artists. Illuminated costumes encouraged, cash bar.

GLOWORAMA BOX OFFICE

Tickets for all events with Gloworama are available on-line at www.illuminatedartcarparade.com or at the door on event night. VIP tickets are only available for advance purchase. Ticket prices may be subject to increase at the door.

A full listing of Gloworama's events can be found at: http://www.illuminatedartcarparade.com

Gloworama is generously sponsored by H-E-B, Houston Downtown Alliance, Art Cars of Houston, ABC-13 KTRK, City of Houston Convention & Entertainment Facilities of Houston, City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance, Bud Light, LD Systems, Continental Airlines and O'Reilly Auto Parts AutoRama in Houston.

###

About Houston Downtown Alliance and Houston Downtown Improvement, Inc.

Houston Downtown Alliance is a broad-based civic organization of individuals, businesses, arts and entertainment organizations dedicated to promoting, advocating and participating in a vital and vibrant Downtown Houston. Houston Downtown Improvement, Inc., the 501 (c)(3) arm of HDA is home to Houston Theater District, Emerging Leaders and Houston Young People for the Arts. HDI creates events and programs for the downtown community including Downtown Home Tour, Haute Town - Summer in the City, Theater District Open House and many other programs to foster awareness as well as to make Downtown Houston an enjoyable place to live, work and play. www.downtownhouston.org

About Arts Cars of Houston

Art Cars of Houston, Inc. was formed in 2009 to promote art cars as a celebrated mode of daily transportation as well as a sophisticated art form within the City of Houston. Goals include increasing exposure of art cars to more diverse groups, encourage new art car artists/builders and increase participation by established art car artists and owners through a variety of events and workshops. www.artcarsofhouston.org

About the O'Reilly Auto Parts AutoRama in Houston

The 50^th annual O'Reilly Auto Parts AutoRama presented by Super Start Batteries in Houston is sponsored by O'Reilly Auto Parts and is part of the . Event hours are Thursday from 3-9 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; and Sunday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Discount tickets are available at Houston-area O'Reilly Auto Parts stores; regular admission tickets may be purchased at the George R. Brown Convention Center with children five years old and under admitted for free. Additional information about the show is available at www.autorama.com.

10-Nov-09 3:00 PM

50th Annual O'Reilly AutoRama in Houston to Feature Major Firepower for Golden Anniversary Event

Luke DeRouen - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON, TX -- (Marketwire) -- 10/20/09 -- The annual O'Reilly AutoRama® presented by Super Start Batteries will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Nov. 26-29, 2009, in downtown Houston. The Thanksgiving weekend event, which is one of the largest and longest running indoor car shows in the United States, will feature a salute to the past five decades, as well as a stellar lineup of custom cars, motorcycles, racecars, tuners, trucks and family entertainment at the George R. Brown Convention Center at 1001 Avenida De Las Americas. The O'Reilly AutoRama is sanctioned by the International Show Car Association (ISCA).

A 50th anniversary reception will be held on Friday, Nov. 27 to recognize the individuals and local car clubs who have helped produce the show for decades.

"I'm proud that AutoRama has become such an important part of the culture in Houston that we're now celebrating our golden anniversary," said Bob Larivee Jr., CEO of Championship Auto Shows Inc. "For over 50 years, enthusiasts of every age have celebrated their passion for the automobile at AutoRama. Many of them have grown up with the show and now bring their kids and grandkids."

A new highlight at the 2009 show will be a GlowoRama parade in conjunction with Art Cars of Houston Inc. A collection of illuminated Houston art cars will parade down Avenida De Las Americas in front of the convention center at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 28. A party will follow the parade inside Hall A of the convention center.

Additional attractions will include an automotive swap meet and toy show, AutoRama Women's World, an All American Motorcycle Show, the Tuner Galleria for imports and the Chevy Vette Fest section. One of the most anticipated displays will be the Ol' Skool Rodz with over 100 traditional rods.

Feature cars will include the legendary ZINGER Corvette and Volkswagen, the Hudson Hornet from the hit movie "Cars," "El Tiki" from the pages of "Ol' Skool Rodz" and the "Ratical Rod" street coupe. The top show cars in North America will also be on display as part of the ISCA Championship Finals.

"Custom cars are king at the Houston AutoRama," added Larviee. "We have a fine group of area cars and award-winning national vehicles lined up for the show this year."

The Action Arena will be staged outdoors behind the convention center this year. Highlights will be a "Cacklefest" for 1960s vintage nitro dragsters, an AutoRama Burnout Competition and XSBA Streetbike Freestyle Shows. Celebrities scheduled to appear include the Houston Texans Cheerleaders, Houston Rockets Power Dancers and Clutch the Bear mascot, the Texas Bikini Team, SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer.

About the O'Reilly AutoRama in Houston

The 50th annual O'Reilly AutoRama presented by Super Start Batteries in Houston is sponsored by O'Reilly Auto Parts and is part of the Summit Racing Show Car Series. Event hours are Thursday from 3-9 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; and Sunday from 11a.m.-7 p.m. Discount tickets are available at Houston-area O'Reilly Auto Parts stores; regular admission tickets may be purchased at the George R. Brown Convention Center with children five years old and under admitted for free. Additional information about the show is available at www.autorama.com.

21-Oct-09 10:00 AM

HYPA & The Fodice Foundation - The Life of the Party....And the After-Party

Heather Pray - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:00:00 GMT

NEWS RELEASE:

HYPA & The Fodice Foundation

The Life of the Party. . ..And the After-Party

Houston Young People For The Arts & The Fodice Foundation Keep it Fresh with an Exclusive After-Party Following Houston Magazine's Summer Cocktail Tour on August 20.

For Immediate Release

Contact: Lauren Lovell, PR Representative

Lauren.B.Lovell@gmail.com 713-828-6123

Heather Pray, Houston Downtown Alliance Liaison/Co-Founder

Heather@downtownhouston.org 713-658-8938

HOUSTON, TEXAS. . .Following the Houston Magazine Summer Cocktail Tour on August 20th, Houston Young People for the Arts (HYPA) will host an exclusive arts-focus after-party in conjunction with The Fodice Foundation at the studio of innovative local artist couple and Fodice founders, Katy Anderson and Patrick Medrano. The after-party will take place from 8:00pm - 12 Midnight at 2020 Commerce Street, Studio D, where the artists' work will be on display alongside a rendering of the Fodice Art Farm and documentary video, No Paved Roads. HYPA members attend at no cost. Admission to the after-party is available to the public for a donation of $35 to The Fodice Foundation. Donations can be made at the door.

The Fodice Foundation and its Art Farm Residency Program are being established to foster artistic development, support arts education and advancement in the state of Texas while at the same time protect and preserve an important piece of African-American history. During the late 1800's Fodice, which is located 2 hours outside of Houston, was a thriving African American community. During the 60's, desegregation consolidated schools and left the Fodice schoolhouse unused. Gradually, the entire community evaporated as people moved to other cities for work and education. The Fodice Foundation is revitalizing and repurposing the Fodice School grounds to encourage diverse, cultural events, shows and exhibitions, while at the same time, educating and promoting a very special and unique piece of Texas history.

About The Artists:

Fodice Foundation founders Katy Anderson and Patrick Medrano are some of the hottest local artists and advocates in the "under 40" community. The pair are individual artists in their own rights (Katy is a photographer and Patrick, a sculptor and painter) and have worked on collaborative pieces as well. Their artwork will be on display at the after-party.

About Houston Young People for the Arts:

Houston Young People for the Arts (HYPA) is a committee of Houston Downtown Improvement, a 501(c)(3) organization of Houston Downtown Alliance that promotes living, working and playing in Downtown Houston through established programs including the Houston Theater District, Live Downtown Initiative, Emerging Leaders and Houston Young People for the Arts. Houston Young People for the Arts aims to promote the visual and performance arts; to advance awareness of current events in the Houston art scene, particularly among young people; and to collaborate with governmental and not-for-profit organizations to achieve these goals.

For information about The Fodice Foundation visit http://www.fodicefoundation.org.

For more information visit http://www.houstondowntownalliance.com or HYPA's blog at http://www.houstonarts.org.

# # #

17-Aug-09 12:00 PM

Brennan's of Houston to Re-emerge This Fall One Year After Hurricane Ike

Amber Holst - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 17:00:00 GMT

Eighty Percent of Original John Staub Structure to be Restored; Brings 125 Jobs to Midtown

HOUSTON (March 3, 2009) – Houston Mayor Bill White and restaurateur Alex Brennan Martin announced at a press conference today that the esteemed Brennan’s of Houston would re-emerge at its long-standing Smith Street address this fall, just 13 months after having been damaged by fire as a result of Hurricane Ike. Slated to open in October 2009, the restored Brennan’s is expected to bring an additional 125 jobs back to Midtown.

“Adding jobs and welcoming back a Houston institution like Brennan’s to Midtown is all great for Houston,” said Mayor White. “Rebuilding this historic structure in the process is like extra sugar on our Banana’s Foster.”

Particularly in a downturn economy, the Houston community looks forward to the creation of 125 new jobs that range from service employees to managerial positions.

Eighty percent of the historic building, designed by the great Houston architect John Staub in 1930, will be restored. Houston-based Linbeck Construction – whose portfolio includes the Omni and St. Regis hotels in Houston – will oversee the project alongside Pin Oak Interests and Studio Red Architects whose architects have participated in such notable projects as Moody Gardens, Wortham Theater Center, and Texas Heart Institute.

“We didn’t burn down, we burned up,” said Brennan Martin. “We are honored and humbled by the outpouring of support we have received over the past year and are looking forward to opening our doors this fall and welcoming back our guests.”

Long before the Brennan’s put their name on the building in 1967, it was a Houston landmark. Designed by architect John F. Staub to house the Houston Junior League, the building’s façade was intended to evoke an image of the Vieux Carré. Today, the building is recognized as one of Houston’s most beautiful structures, having inspired the neighboring development of an area that is often touted as Houston’s French Quarter.

Additionally, Brennan-Martin is in dialogue with the City of Houston and Houston Parks and Recreation Department to relocate a mature tree from the Museum of Natural Science at Hermann Park. The tree will replace the historic Oak that shaded Brennan’s courtyard for over 40 years, which was lost in Hurricane Ike.

Forty-two years ago, the Brennan’s family of New Orleans opened the doors of Brennan’s of Houston, one of America’s most beloved dining destinations and the forerunner in serving Texas Creole cuisine. Led by Commander’s Palace Family of Restaurants co-owners Alex Brennan-Martin, his sister, Ti Adelaide Martin, and their cousin, Lally Brennan, Brennan’s remained on top by constantly innovating while remaining connected to its Creole roots and maintaining a familial level of warmth and hospitality. The Brennan family’s restaurants also include Commander’s Palace and Café Adelaide & the Swizzle Stick Bar in New Orleans and Commander’s Palace in Destin, Fla.

ABOUT BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON

The Brennan’s kitchen has explored the vast spectrum of Creole’s evolution in the “Bayou City.” Cultural influences in South Texas and an abundance of fresh produce unique to the region have provided more than a few opportunities for delicious Texas variations on time-honored Louisiana themes. Along the way, the passionate Brennan’s team has received accolades establishing the restaurant as one of the finest in the city. Awards such as Exxon Mobil’s Four-Star designation beginning in 2000 and a nod from restaurant critic John Mariani in 1997 to former Executive Chef and General Manager, Carl Walker, as “one of America’s most influential chefs” are just a few of the accomplishments Brennan’s counts on its list of accolades. Brennan’s has also been regularly rated among Houston’s “Best” and “Most Popular” restaurants in the Zagat Survey.

XXX

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT

WAGSTAFF WORLDWIDE AT (312) 943-6900

3-Mar-09 11:00 AM

Volunteer for the Texas Bowl

Monica Rhodes - noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:00:00 GMT

Hello Friends,

Monica Rhodes is working with Heather Houston of the Texas Bowl to stock and staff the Houston Hospitality Booths at the two team hotels for this year's Texas Bowl. She needs your help! read on...

The purpose of the Houston Hospitality Booths is to have a central place where the teams & coaches & families can get information about events the Texas Bowl is hosting, learn about other options available to them and gather general information on Houston, things to do, places to eat, etc.

The booth will be stocked with materials like the Official Visitors Guide magazine, a list of things to do in Houston and various brochures/materials from some of Houston's top attraction and destinations.

One of the booths will be at the JW Marriott (on Westheimer across the street from the Galleria). Rice University will be at the JW Marriott. The other booth will be at the Hyatt in downtown Houston (1200 Louisiana). The Hyatt is where the Western Michigan team will be headquartered.

Here's how you can help...

1. Take a look at the schedule (/attachments/wysiwyg/1/TexasBowl08HospitalityBoothSchedule.xls)and let me know if you are interested/available to staff the table during one or more of the available shifts.

2. Help me get the word out about this opportunity by forwarding this message on to all your contacts. Please keep in mind - we are looking for volunteers who are knowledgable about Houston and things to do around town.

Please be in touch ASAP if you can help man the booth....send me an email, give me a call, Also, let me know if you have any questions.

I look forward to hearing from you soon. Thanks for considering this volunteer opportunity!

Happy Holidays,

Monica Rhodes

(formerly of the Houston Museum District; now with Elmore PR)

munum308@gmail.com

979.285.8512 cell

24-Dec-08 11:00 AM

The HYPA Fire + Ice Gala

noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:30:00 GMT

The HYPA Fire + Ice Gala Saturday, January 24, 2009 Houston Young People for the Arts plays it cool with a HOT event. . . FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 15, 2008 Contact: Lauren Lovell, PR Representative 713-828-6123, lauren.b.lovell@gmail.com Heather Pray, Event Coordinator 713-658-8938, heather@downtownhouston.org HOUSTON, TX. . . Houston Young People for the Arts (HYPA) announces their largest fundraiser of the year, the 3rd annual HYPA Gala: Fire & Ice on Saturday, January 24, 2009 from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight at one of the hottest new venues in downtown, Houston Pavilions. The Fire and Ice Gala will take place on the third level in and around the sky ring and feature performances by musical guest Glasnost, fire dancers from Luminosity, ice sculptures and more! True to form, the HYPA Fire + Ice Gala is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated parties of the year. It's a HOT ticket. . .excuse the pun. The entertainment choices, from local fire dancers to ice...

Houston Cinema Arts Society Announces Program for November Cinema and Media Arts Festival

noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Houston, Texas — October 17, 2008 — The Houston Cinema Arts Society (HCAS), announced its festival preview of cinematic programs on November 20-23, 2008, featuring internationally renowned media artist Lynn Hershman Leeson and rising digital media artist and filmmaker Alex Rivera. Curator Richard Herskowitz has deliberately programmed this Cinema and Media Arts Festival to serve as a framework for the full week-long festival that will launch in November 2009. Central to each year’s festival will be tributes to influential media artists whose work will be explored in depth, and who will engage in on-stage conversations with leading artists and critics about their careers. Surrounding these centerpiece programs will be an array of live events integrating cinema, music, and performance, outdoor projections, interactive installations in galleries, and Internet-designed and generated movies, as well as theatrical presentations of international films and videos. According to Herskowitz,...

Bill Denton to speak on what the new Houston Pavilions will offer Downtown Houston

noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Melissa Fitzgerald Houston Downtown Alliance 713-658-8938 melissa@downtownhouston.org STEWART CADILLAC LUNCH SPEAKER SERIES Presented by Stewart Cadillac, the Houston Business Journal, Continental Airlines, Crescent and the Houston Downtown Alliance WHAT: The Stewart Cadillac Lunch Speaker Series is an opportunity for downtown workers and residents to bring their lunch and hear the perspectives of individuals behind organizations that are making things happen in the City of Houston. The long awaited opening of the Houston Pavilions is fast approaching. Bill Denton, Co-General Partner Houston Pavilions LP, will speak about all the Pavilions will have to offer downtown from restaurants to entertainment. WHY: Downtown workers, residents and those with a passion for promoting a vital and vibrant downtown Houston can socialize, share ideas, and find out what is happening in and around downtown. ...

McCormick & Schmick's Opening at Houston Pavilions

noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Houston, TX – A respected name in seafood restaurants is casting a line in downtown Houston. Houstonians will have their chance to taste more than 30 varieties of fresh seafood when McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant opens its doors at the Houston Pavilions on Monday, November 3rd. It will be the second McCormick & Schmick's in the city and the fifth in the state. We’re excited to be a part of the growing momentum in downtown Houston, especially at a place like the Houston Pavilions, which has created a unique downtown environment filled with entertainment, retail and dining options for visitors, said Doug Schmick, president and co-founder of McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants. The top-notch downtown Houston team we’ve hired for this location is sure to impress diners. The 9,000 square-foot Houston Pavilions McCormick & Schmick's restaurant is located at 1201 Fannin Street, right in the heart of the brand new Houston Pavilions. It will have seating for more than 260,...

Free World-Class Public Skatepark Opens in Houston

noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON, TX (May 12, 2008) --- At last! The long-awaited free downtown skatepark will open for public use on June 1. The Houston Parks Board (HPB) and Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) announce the Grand Opening of the Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark on Sunday, June 1 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. The entire family will enjoy the skating, artwork, live music and more during the first of what will be many events at the new downtown skatepark. It's great to see the wheels turning on such a special addition to our parks scene, said Mayor Bill White. We can't thank the Jamails and the other donors enough for their vision and generosity. The park is named after Lee and Joe Jamail in appreciation of a generous gift donated by the Jamail family. In addition to the naming gift, the Jamail family has been influential in helping develop the full scope of the park as a model of urban environment. This is a park that my mom would have been very proud to see realized in Houston, said Randall...

Schipul - The Web Marketing Company Helps Houston Downtown Alliance Upgrade Site

noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:45:00 GMT

Schipul - The Web Marketing Company Helps Houston Downtown Alliance Upgrade Web Site New Web Site Leverages Power of the Internet to Foster a Vibrant Downtown Houston HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - March 24, 2008) - The Houston Downtown Alliance has launched a new and interactive Web site for people who live, work or play in downtown Houston with the help of Schipul - The Web Marketing Company (www.schipul.com). The new site, www.downtownhouston.org, will serve as a central information source regarding where to go and what to do. Houston Downtown Alliance is a broad-based civic organization dedicated to promoting, advocating and participating in a vital and vibrant city core. The new Web site, designed by Schipul and powered by Tendenci® association management software (www.tendenci.com), includes numerous components that conveniently deliver value to Alliance members as well as downtown workers and residents. The upgraded Houston Downtown Alliance Web site is an important step in...

Get A Sneak Peek Into the Future with Frank Wilson, President & CEO of METRO

noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 15:45:00 GMT

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Andrew Huang or Heather Pray

713-658-8938

Business Breakfast Forum

Presented by the Houston Downtown Alliance

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Fulbright Tower Auditorium, Mezzanine Level

7:45 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.

HOUSTON (February 29, 2008) – Frank Wilson, our March guest, will speak about the upcoming plans METRO has to take Houston into the next decade. With METRO making headlines throughout the entire City of Houston, the Starbucks Breakfast Speaker Series is a great time to get the information straight from the top. With rich experience in both the public and private sectors, Mr. Wilson will describe how commuting to Downtown Houston and mobility for the entire region will be transformed by infrastructure investments that go beyond rail and bus.

As Houston continues its dramatic growth, how can mobility improve without adding more lanes of roadway and worsening air pollution? Answers to these questions and others about METRO’s $2 billion expansion program will be addressed.

The Business Breakfast Forum is made possible by the support of Starbucks, METRO, the Houston Business Journal, Crescent Real Estate Equities Limited Partnership, and Continental Airlines.

Fulbright Tower is located at 1301 McKinney. Admission to the Business Breakfast Forum is $5 or free to Houston Downtown Alliance members. For more information contact Andrew Huang or Heather Pray at 713.658.8938 or heather@downtownhouston.org.

###

Houston Young People for the Arts @ downtownhouston.org

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 18:51:38 GMT

HYPA | Houston Young People for the Arts sponsored by Advantage BMW Midtown We invite you to be a part of In-crowd fave (Houston magazine) Houston Young People for the Arts! We aim to advance awareness of current cultural events within the Houston art scene. HYPA provides Houston art supporters a unique opportunity to view - and participate in - the burgeoning art landscape without emptying their pockets. From private parties with the artists, discounted tickets & HYPA-tailored events, we give you a survey of the best Houston has to offer. HYPA is $20/year to join + includes access to all Houston Downtown Alliance + Emerging Leaders events. See below for upcoming events. Join our email list for special invitations + offers available only here: Sign up for our Houston Arts Email Newsletter For Email Marketing you can trust See pictures here! Find Us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/houstonarts ...

Current Sponsors

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:24:01 GMT

Major Sponsors, $30,000+ Alley Theatre Capital One Bank City of Houston Houston Ballet Houston Grand Opera Theatre Under The Stars Incorporating Sponsors, $10,000+ Advantage BMW Midtown* Brookfield Properties CenterPoint Energy Crescent Hines Houston Area Cadillac Dealers Society for the Performing Arts United Airlines, official airline of Houston Downtown Alliance and Houston Theater District Sustaining Sponsors, $5,000+ Uniquely Houston at the Hobby Center Investing Sponsors, $1500+ Bracewell & Giuliani Elmore Public Relations Houston House Apartments Houston Metropolitan Dance Company Kelsey-Seybold McCormick & Schmick's - Houston Pavilions Maintaining Sponsors, $250+ 20K Group Bank of America/Merrill Lynch* Brian Donnelly* Erwin Distributing EVOLVE yoga + fitness* Hilton Americas-Houston ...

Emerging Leaders

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:23:45 GMT

Emerging Leaders December Happy Hour at the Holiday Happy Hour for the Arts Wednesday, December 7 6 pm - 8 pm 13 Celsius, 3000 Caroline, 77002 Join EL and other Theater District young professionals groups for a holiday inspired happy hour! Guests will enjoy light bites and wine & beer specials. This event is free for members and non-members alike! Questions? Contact Melissa at melissa@downtownhouston.org. 2012 EL Steering Committee Call Calling all Leaders!!! Want to be more actively involved in Emerging Leaders? Looking for a way to put your leadership into action? Emerging Leaders is now taking applications for membership to its 2012 Leadership Board. Applicants must complete the Leadership Board application and return it no later than Wednesday, December 21, 2011 to be considered. More detailed instructions are included on the form. Are you thinking about Leadership Board, but have questions and want to...

Downtown Houston Events

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 22:05:10 GMT

Read the latest on-line version of Downtown magazine here

Houston Downtown Alliance Sustaining Sponsors

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 20:11:22 GMT

Downtown Houston

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 17:46:36 GMT

Honoring Sophia Arabani, Paul Pettie, Brian Thorp Chairs Cindy Rodriguez, Kelser McMiller, John Andell, James Sivco I ♥ HYPA: Houston Young People for the Arts Homecoming Gala Saturday, January 21, 2012 7:30 pm to 11 pm Advantage BMW Midtown Shoppe Pierce St. @ Austin St. Houston, TX 77002 PURCHASE TICKETS HERE MORE INFO HERE

Board of Directors 2008-2009

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 20:01:36 GMT

Geoff Long, Chair Sharon Adams* Houston First Corporation Gregory J. Armstrong WEDGE Real Estate Holdings, Inc. Joi Beasley GOGO Business Communications John Breckenridge* Theatre Under the Stars June Christensen Society for the Performing Arts Holly Clapham-Rosenow Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau C. C. Conner* Houston Ballet Michael Coppens Chair, Houston Young People for the Arts Philip Croker Hines Paul R. Elliott Baker Botts, L.L.P. Susan Elmore Elmore Public Relations Bob Eury* Central Houston, Inc. Mike Flory Environmental Education and Consulting Services Nene Foxhall Continental Airlines Dean Gladden* Alley Theatre David Greiss Theatre Under The Stars Mark Hanson Houston Symphony Tammy Gorr Hendrix* Brookfield Properties Reda Hicks Chair,...

*****home: where to eat

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 20:10:54 GMT

Join our Facebook
fan page!
Click the logo below

Memberships with Houston Downtown Alliance

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 22:01:21 GMT

HDA Membership levels Sustaining Sponsor - $5,000 Twenty representatives from your company receive membership to HDA and all of its programs, each additional representative may join for $20. Special recognition as a named Sustaining Sponsor at all events and on downtownhouston.org with logo representation; Board representation, if desired (six meetings per year); Special Theater District concierge service for Board representative; Free distribution of 200 copies of quarterly publication Downtown; All Supporting Sponsor benefits. Join today! Supporting Sponsor - $3,000 Fifteen representatives from your company receive membership to HDA and the benefits from all if its programs, each additional representative may join for $25. Name recognition on downtownhouston.org. All Investing Sponsor benefits. Join today! Investing Sponsor - $1,500 Ten representatives from your company receive membership to HDA...

Mission

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:17:54 GMT

HDA's mission is to promote and help foster the vibrant Greater Downtown Houston neighborhoods to enhance living, working and playing downtown for the entire Houston community and visitors. This mission takes the form of numerous events created and executed by HDA, the support of the major performing arts companies in the Theater District, the publication of Downtown magazine and numerous email communications, and the marketing support of many downtown events and activities.

Ways in which we do this include:

Communicating and promoting via e-mail newsletter, quarterly magazine Urban Update, websites (downtownhouston.org and houstontheaterdistrict.org);
Emerging Leaders;
Houston Young People for the Arts;
Downtown, our quarterly publication in collaboration with the Downtown District of all things downtown;
Capital One Bank Houston Theater District Open House;
Downtown Home Tour;
Haute Town...Summer in the City Fashion Show
and more!

Lorem ipsum survey

noemail@houstondowntownalliance.com — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 15:45:45 GMT

Objectives:

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diem nonummynibh euismod tincidunt ut lacreet dolore magna aliguam erat volutpat. Ut wisis enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tution ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis te feugifacilisi.

Duis autem dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse molestie consequat, vel illum dolore eu feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros et accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit praesent luptatum zzril delenit au gue duis dolore te feugat nulla facilisi.

Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci taion ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex en commodo consequat. Duis te feugifacilisi per suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex en commodo consequat.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diem nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut lacreet dolore magna aliguam erat volutpat.

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 07:29:57 GMT

File uploaded by Heather Pray.

Lorem ipsum

2007-11-13T15:45:44Z

Instructor: Instructor

Lorem ipsum