Laugh Out Loud at ColdTowne Theater

No matter what type of entertainment you typically enjoy, anyone who likes to laugh can appreciate the productions at ColdTowne Theater. Before 2006, Austin didn't have much of a comedy scene—certainly nothing like the countless improv clubs of Chicago. But that was the year that New Orleans transplants brought their brand of comedy to Austin in the form of ColdTowne Theater, which hosts everything from stand-up shows to improv.

You can take improv classes at ColdTowne Theater if you're interested in getting up on the main stage yourself, but you're also welcome to kick back and laugh from the comfort of a seat out in the audience. ColdTowne Theater holds a few signature events on a regular basis, like the improvised game show known as GameTowne (every last Thursday of the month) and an interactive storytime for kids, "What's the Story, Steve?" (every Saturday at 10 a.m.). However, the theater also boasts an ever-changing itinerary of performances that have only one thing in common: good comedy.

ColdTowne Theater
4803 Airport Boulevard
Austin, TX 78751
(512) 814-8696
www.coldtownetheater.com
www.yelp.com/biz/coldtowne-theater-austin

How to Host a Great Football Party at Paseo at Bee Cave

It's football season! If you're a fan, most of your Sundays will be spent gathered around the TV, cheering on your favorite team, and relaxing before the start of another work week. If you'd like to share your passion with friends and family, why not host a football viewing party? Here are a few tips to ensure your party wins big with your guests:

1) Reposition the TV.
A football viewing party is the one type of party where the television takes center stage. Be sure that the TV is easily viewed from different areas around the room so that all of your guests can get in on the action. Similarly, you might need to rearrange your furniture to provide the best vantage points.

2) Decorate for the occasion.
Head to a discount party supply store to pick up football-themed wares for your event. Paper cups, plates, a tablecloth, and inexpensive football decor will add a festive flair to your party, and they shouldn't cost you too much money.

3) Serve food buffet-style.
The only thing better than the game itself is the excuse to indulge in finger foods! Provide your guests with handheld treats and eats so they can keep their eyes glued to the game. If you prefer, position your buffet table away from the TV area so guests can mingle during commercial breaks.

How to Host a Football Party [eHow]
Host a Super Bowl Party [BHG]
5 Foolproof Football Parties [MyRecipes]

Marye’s Gourmet Pizza Pub: Making Pizza a Bit More Nutritious

By using only fresh, local ingredients and nutritious cooking techniques, Marye’s Gourmet Pizza Pub offers a healthier take on the usual pizza. This thoughtful approach to pizza doesn’t sacrifice its delicious flavor, however: the restaurant’s tasty pies are still flavorful, delicious, and indulgent.

Stop by this local favorite pizzeria and discover pizzas with names like the Mother Lode and The ‘Que, as well as classics like the veggie-loaded Nature’s Treat and the decadent Four Cheese. There are gluten-free pizza crusts for those with restricted diets, and if you’re not in the mood for pizza, Marye’s even offers large sandwiches, lasagna, and salads that are just as delicious. Have a glass of wine or beer with your pizza in the minimal, modern restaurant, or take it to go to enjoy at home while relaxing in front of a movie.

Marye’s is open Mondays through Thursdays 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Marye’s Gourmet Pizza Pub
3663 Bee Caves Road
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 327-5222
www.maryesgourmetpizza.com
www.yelp.com/biz/maryes-gourmet-pizza-austin-2

Happy Thanksgiving!

We hope everyone has a wonderful day celebrating with family and friends! What are you thankful for this year?

Simple Ways to Cut Costs in the Home — and Out

If you’re looking for ways to cut costs on everyday items around the home and in your day-to-day life, these simple tips can help you get started.

  1. Lower your thermostat. When you leave for work for the day, turn down your thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees (or switch off the air conditioner in the summer). This could lower your bill up to 15% throughout the year. Also, consider applying inexpensive shrink film to your windows during the winter for added insulation.
  2. Stop speeding. To save money on gas, drive the speed limit instead of over it. This can raise your fuel efficiency by up to 17%!
  3. Make coffee at home. This also goes for eating out, grabbing a snack, or going out for happy hour after work—limit these outings to once or twice a week instead of every day.
  4. Check the thrift store. Before you buy something new, such as an air conditioner or a winter coat, visit the thrift store or consignment shop first. You could save a great deal of money on something that’s in perfect condition!

5 big bills you can cut fast [Bankrate]
Lower Your Monthly Bills Checklist [Real Simple]
30 Ways To Cut Your Monthly Expenses [Lifehack]

Zilker Botanical Garden: 26 Acres of Natural Beauty in Austin

If you’re looking for a relaxing (or even romantic!) way to spend an afternoon near Paseo at Bee Cave, consider visiting the Zilker Botanical Garden. This beautiful area attraction is filled with flowers and plants from as close as the Austin area to as far away as Japan, offering a unique glimpse into the plant life from all corners of the world.

Here, you can take a stroll through themed gardens, including a rose garden, a wonderfully scented herb garden, and even the Hartman Prehistoric Garden, which recreates the habitat in which the dinosaurs once lived! There are waterfalls and small streams scattered throughout the park’s 26 acres, as well as a large Koi pond filled with colorful fish.

Zilker Botanical Gardens is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Zilker Botanical Gardens
2220 Barton Springs Road
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 477-8672
www.zilkergarden.org
www.yelp.com/biz/zilker-botanical-gardens-austin

Happy Veterans day!

Today is a day to honor the men and women who have bravely fought and continue to fight for our country. Thank you for your service!

Katherine Fleischer Park: A Community Gem in Austin

Katherine Fleischer Park is a favorite among Austin residents. This community green space is home to a soccer and baseball fields, as well as tennis and basketball courts. You'll even find a sand volleyball pit. The playground area provides plenty of shade from the hot afternoon sun, and in addition to all the typical equipment, it features a unique two-story, castle-like playhouse for kids, complete with a spiral staircase.(Regular visitors report that on occasion you'll see kids dressed up in prince and princess costumes in the playhouse.)

Katherine Fleischer Park also offers a set of wide and well maintained running trials, as well as a community center and a gazebo that can be reserved for private picnics and barbecues. History enthusiasts should be sure not to miss the historic Gault Homestead that's also located in the park. Guided tours focus on 19th century pioneer life and can be customized for both children and adults.

Katherine Fleischer Park
2106 Klattenhoff Drive
Austin, TX 78728
(512) 251-9814
www.wellsbranchmud.com/parks/katherine-fleischer-park.html
www.yelp.com/biz/katherine-fleischer-park-austin

Election Day

Today is Election Day. Be sure to get out and vote!

Stop Into Jason’s Deli for a Fast and Healthy Lunch in Austin

RETIRED: CLOSED.

A chain restaurant with a presence in more than half of the nation's states, Jason's Deli proudly proclaims that it was the first eatery of its kind to ban artificial trans fats and high fructose corn syrup from its menu. So when you sink a fork, spoon, or tooth into Jason's Deli's organic salads, piping-hot soups, and loaded sandwiches, you can feel reasonably certain that your meal is in line with your healthy lifestyle.

The fast-casual restaurant's vibe is similarly wholesome; the chain appeals to families with its relaxed atmosphere and robust kids' menu. Little ones 12 and under can choose from well-balanced meals that include antibiotic-free chicken nuggets, grilled cheese on multigrain bread, and bowtie pasta with meatballs. A side of organic carrot sticks or apple slices helps ensure Junior gets his fair share of fruits and veggies.

Note that Jason's Deli also serves a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Jason's Deli
3300 Bee Cave Road
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 328-0200
www.jasonsdeli.com/restaurants/tx/austin/plaza-de-las-lomas-deli

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