Plus, Intelligentsia arrives in Austin, a new Molly Ivins doc hits theaters and more buzz in town.
By Poonam Patel
There’s always something happening in Austin, and you know we’re chatting about all the latest news and gossip in town at the Austin Woman office. Every Friday, we’ll share the buzziest things you need to know about what’s going on in Austin, everything from events to the most news-worthy local topics. We’ve got you! From our office to you, here’s The 512.
Calling all party girls: Two of our favorite local brands are teaming up. Woman-owned gifting and party-accessories company Packed Party is launching nationally at Whole Foods, and it’s the collection we never knew we wanted but definitely need. Decorative banners, confetti, celebratory cupcake kits and mini party hats will be available just in time for your Labor Day shindigs.
And the winner is: Austinite Courtney Ray Goodson took first place in H-E-B’s 2019 Quest for Texas Best and won $20,000. Goodson’s great-uncle perfected his sticky, tasty brittle recipe during the span of 35 years, which Goodson then borrowed to start up Texas fave Uncle Ray’s Peanut Brittle brand.
Get your caffeine fix: Chicago’s favorite craft roaster arrived in Austin this week. At 607 W. Third Street, inside Third + Shoal, you’ll now find the 30-seat coffee bar Intelligentsia. Serving six different coffees and tea drinks on tap, plus lattes and seasonal drinks, the new location is the first in Texas, making it the sixth state to welcome the trendy brand. It’s hard to miss, as it features an immersive 20-foot-by-40-foot mural created by local artist Erin Curtis.
The big screen: The legendary Molly Ivins is having her world come to life on screen Aug. 30. Raise Hell: The Life and Times of Molly Ivins is Janice Engel’s tribute documentary to the late Texas reporter and sassy columnist (and former AW cover woman!). The film premiered at this year’s South By Southwest festival and will premiere nationally after its Texas release.
Book-club buzz: Former AW cover woman Lizzie Velasquez is being recognized among great heroes including actor Emma Watson, anthropologist Jane Goodall and singer Lady Gaga. Talk about a powerhouse group of women! The new book Girl Activist: Winning Strategies From Women Who’ve Made a Difference highlights the stories of women who have made progress in women’s fight to stand up for ourselves and change the world. Happy reading!