Moving Forward and Giving Back

Houstonians, for the most part, hunkered down as we were asked to do, so that those from the low-lying areas that were evacuated could evacuate (Rita, Rita - your traffic is a bitter and painful memory for many). Then, we banded together as neighbors and friends helped each other begin the road to recovery, at least those fortunate enough to have homes, even if some were damaged. Now, as power is being restored, some friends and neighbors with electricity are doing what they can for those who are still without power - making ice, offering up washing machines and dryers, or the last fifth of bourbon from their liquor cabinet (kiddin' on that bourbon thing, but, if you are long whiskey......just saying). Ice is a huge help to some, supplies are still kinda tight. Good news, gas lines are becoming shorter, at least they seem to be, as refineries begin coming back online and winter blend gasoline begins to fill gas station tanks all over the greater Houston area. We would like to alert you that we paid in the $3.70 range for regular unleaded, if you see gasoline for sale over four dollars per gallon - it's gouging and you would not be a responsible citizen if you did not rat them out (the hotline number is 1.800.252.8011), no gouging!

We've alerted you to benefits being held for the three victims of the Brennan's tragedy. In addition to direct aid for their families, you can raise a glass and raise money for the American Red Cross at any Tasting Room, where a dollar of every glass or bottle of wine or pizza you purchase will be donated. In fact, some local musicians (our favorites, actually) are going to play at the BIG party tomorrow!!! Party For the Cause at The Tasting Room at Uptown Park from noon until curfew. Come out and enjoy yourself after a very stressful, powerless, hope-my-propane-don't-run-out week of surviving post-Ike. Here's what's cooking, er, shaking to help you help your neighbor while you eat and drink and dance with reckless abandon. There will be collections for non-perishable food items, clothing and cash that will go directly to the Red Cross relief efforts in our area. There will be a silent auction to raise monies, or you may donate directly to the Red Cross, who will be on hand from noon until 5:00 p.m. Now, the very important dancing, music part: The El Orbits, Beetle, The Allen Oldies (our fave), Clay Farmer and Kenneth Scott and more. So, come raise a glass, raise a slice (of pizza) and raise some money, while donating much needed food and clothing to those in our community who desperately need relief. Business owners can donate for the auction by emailing jonathan.

Silent auction items have been donated by: Crave Cupcakes, M. Penner, Hanson Galleries, Lady Elle, Bella Rinova Spa, Gentleman's Tonic, Abejas Boutique, Lot 8, Capital Grille, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Sam Houston Race Park, AJR Media, Galleria Chamber of Commerce, Etiole Perfume, Summit International Bridal Consultation, and many other generous local businesses.

Party For The Cause
The Tasting Room at Uptown Park
1101-18 Uptown Park Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77056
(713) 993-9800

Photo courtesy of flickr user the heliodromus