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Marathon Kids Kick-Off This year, the free Marathon Kids program is expecting 35,000 registered kindergartners through fifth Graders to complete the project. Their annual free Kick-Off celebration will take place at the University of Texas Mike Myers Track and Field Stadium on Saturday, September 18 at 9 a.m. During the next six months the children will color in the Marathon Kids Running Log. They will log each time they run a quarter or half mile, eventually totaling 26.2 miles over the next six months. They also log when they eat five fruits or vegetables in a day. This program aims to help kids adopt a more active lifestyle and eat healthily no matter what their current fitness level may be. Come be a part of this important event. For more information, visit www.marathonkids.com.

211 Texas is your information and referral resource for health services, food and clothing, housing, child, youth and family and elder services, education, employment, community groups, counseling and support groups, recreation and government resources, and much more. Information is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We speak Spanish, too. For more information, call 973-9203 or visit www.unitedwaycapitalarea.org/gethelp.

Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Austin Chapter, Support Groups are held throughout Austin and surrounding areas on various days and times. For more information, call 241-0420 or visit www.alz-austin.org.

American Cancer Society’s Support Groups Several support groups are offered for issues such as bone marrow, breast cancer, dialogue support groups and life after loss. For more information, call 919-1866.

Angel Valley Organic Farm Buy directly from the farm on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and enjoy a pretty drive out past Lago Vista. Or come out Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located at 11713 Jollyville Road or visit www.angelvalleyfarms.com.

Anger Management Classes This 10-week series is held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Austin Men’s Center. For more information, call 445-7946.

Applying New Attitudes and Directions. If you are affected by anorexia nervosa or bulimia, this discussion group focuses on providing a place to meet and talk with others experiencing similar problems. Meetings are every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Insight Center. For more information, call 469-7678.

Aussie’s Bar and Grill Volleyball Tournaments. Aussie’s has ongoing tournaments, including women’s, men’s and coed “A” and “B” divisions and more. For more information, call 480-0952.

Austin Ballroom Dancers invites people of all ages who enjoy Latin, swing and smooth dancing to classes and weekly dances. Partners aren’t required at the smoke- and alcohol-free events. Classes are held Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and from 8:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. at Hancock Recreation Center, located at 811 E. 41st St. Dances are Saturdays from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Senior Activity Center, located at 2874 Shoal Crest. The cost is $8, or $5 for students and members. For more information, call 989-3939 or visit www.austinballroomdancers.org.

Austin Children’s Museum“Storytime” is presented every Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. The cost is free with admission to the museum.

Austin Epilepsy Support Group This support group for epilepsy patients, their families and friends meets the second Tuesday of every month from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Brackenridge Hospital, located at 601 E. 15th St., in the second floor conference room. For more information, call Nikki at 413-1596.

Austin Farmers Market is in downtown’s Republic Square Park at Fourth and Guadalupe streets. Growers and vendors will sell seasonal, locally grown produce, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, dairy products, baked goods and ready-to-eat foods, as well as crafts and local arts. The market will also feature cooking demonstrations, educational programs and live music. It’s open Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon through Nov. 22. For more information, visit www.austinfarmersmarket.org.

Austin Fit Marathon Training Register for the Austin Fit Marathon Training Program. The success rate of those who complete the program and enter and run the marathon is outstanding! For more information, call 703-6596 or visit www.austinfit.com.

Austin Floorball Club This fast-paced, Scandinavian sport resembles a cross between floor hockey and indoor soccer. A basic floorball stick is provided; all you need is a pair of sneakers. The Austin Floorball Club is committed to fun, friendly, noncompetitive floorball play. For playing times and locations, or for more information, e-mail austin_floorball@yahoo.com or call 477-5566, ext. 1219.

The Austin Fly Fishers meet the third Thursday of each month in the Austin Northwest Recreation Center, located at 2913 Northland Drive. Fly fishing begins at 6 p.m. with a general meeting beginning at 7 p.m., followed by announcements and a speaker. For more information, call Constance Whiston at 916-4393.

Austin Meditation Center Enjoy bhakti yoga with a vegetarian dinner and lecture Sundays from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., along with mantra meditational techniques for calming the mind and controlling the senses. Classes are always free for children, teens, adults and community groups. Mantra meditation is also offered, providing simple techniques to calm the mind and control the senses. Yoga for all levels is offered Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Fridays from 5:45 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Yoga for children is Sundays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:25 p.m. for ages 4 to 8, and 4:30 p.m. to 5:20 p.m. for ages 8 to 12. For the mindful, check out Yoga Philosophy on Tuesdays from 7:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. The first class is free but registration is required. For more information, call 472-YOGA or visit www.austinmeditation.org.

Austin Outdoor Gear Kayaking Classes offered include introduction, flat water, moving water, whitewater and coastal. For more information and the current schedule, call Wilderness Supply at 476-3712.

Austin Paddling Club is for beginners, intermediates and experts, as well as river, lake and ocean paddlers. Meetings are held monthly every second Thursday at 7 p.m. For more information, call 448-5171.

Austin Rugby Football Club welcomes all to join the exciting game of New Zealand coaches division-one rugby. The practice location is at the Burr Field Complex, located at 6013 Loyola Lane. For more information, call Abel at 736-7609.

Austin Runners’ Club meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at Run-Tex south. Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Duncan Park, there is a social run for anyone interested in running with a group. Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. come out to the MoPac footbridge on Town Lake for the midweek social scamper. For more information, call 301-4245, 922-7828 or visit www.austinrunnersclub.org.

Austin Sierra Club The general meeting is held the first Tuesday of each month at the LCRA Hancock Building, located at 3700 Lake Austin Blvd. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; the program starts at 7 p.m. For more information, call 305-6296.

Austin Triathletes Club meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at Matt’s el Rancho, located at 2613 South Lamar Blvd. (just north of Manchaca and south of Oltorf). For more information, call 499-4633 or visit www.austintriathletes.org.

The Basic Essentials of Health This free program is for individuals who are interested in learning wellness for the entire family and is presented monthly at Northcross Shopping Center. For more information, call 451-6626.

Bhagavad-Gita Ongoing classes are held on Tuesdays from 7:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. and include meditation. Classes are free. The Austin Meditation Center is located at 2307 Rio Grande St. For more information, call 472-9642.

Boggy Creek Farm Shop the farm stand during Market Days for T.D.A.-certified organic vegetables, flowers and herbs. The market is open year-round on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The farm is located two and a half miles east of downtown, at 3414 Lyons Road. For more information, visit www.boggycreekfarm.com.

Bone Marrow Support Network The bone marrow stem-cell transplant support network, cosponsored by the American Cancer Society and the Southwest Regional Cancer Center, is an ongoing service for current cancer patients and survivors. Patients undergoing bone-marrow or stem-cell transplants are able to receive information and have direct contact with others who have experienced the procedure. For more information, call 421-4100.

Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are for breast cancer patients only and take place on the fourth Tuesday of every month from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call Eva Villanueva at 919-1886.

Cancer Support Group Meetings are open to people with cancer, their families and friends the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Brackenridge Hospital on the ninth floor. For more information, call 324-7994.

Central Texas Division of the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition meets the first Tuesday of each month at Riverbend Church, located at 4214 Capital of Texas Highway in classroom 3B. For more information, visit www.ovarian.org or call 1 (888) OVARIAN. Chaparral Ice offers a free one-time “Learn to Skate” class every Saturday at 12:15 p.m. and 1 p.m. for ages 6 and older, including adults. This is a great opportunity to advance to one of their beginner programs. For more information, call 252-8500 or visit www.chaparralice.com.

Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure Screening This screening is $32 and takes place the second Thursday of each month at Seton Medical Center, located at 1201 W. 38 St., from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Appointments are required. For more information, call 324-3162.

Climb Like a Girl. In the spirit of women and adventure, whether a veteran or a beginner, come experience the thrill of indoor climbing at R.E.I. each Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come join the women of Austin who enjoy this ever-growing sport. It’s free if you own your own shoes or you can rent a pair from our rental department for a small price. The first two Tuesdays of every month are for women 18 and older. The last two Tuesdays are for women 18 or younger. R.E.I. is located at 9901 Capitol of Texas Highway North. For more information, call 343-5550.

Colorado River Walkers meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month, at the Lower Colorado River Authority cafeteria, located at 3701 Lake Austin Blvd. For more information, visit www.io.com/~zenteer/crw/index.html.

Diabetes Support Group offers coping skills for the physical and emotional implications of the disease. It meets every Friday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Seton East Community Health Center. For more information, call 324-4930.

Eco-detective Trail Walk the trails at the Austin Nature Center, located at 301 Nature Center Drive, Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, call 327-8180.

Eternal Way Center Wednesday meditation services and lectures are held from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 1122 S. Lamar Blvd. For more information, call 445-1080 or visit www.eternalway.org.

Exercise for New Moms This class, taught by a certified instructor, gets your body back in shape with low-impact, high-energy aerobics. Babies up to eight months are welcome. New participants may begin at any time. The class is at Seton Northwest Health Plaza on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Preregistration is required and costs $30 for 10 sessions or $5 per session. For more information, call 324-4450.

Finding Happiness from a Different Source Enjoy a meditation and class on integrating Buddha’s teachings into your daily lives with Western Buddhist nun Gen Kelsang Dekyi at Chittamani Buddhist Center. Classes will take place on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. Donations are accepted. For more information, call 916-4444 for a free brochure or visit www.meditationinaustin.org.

Family Program with Western Buddhist nun Kelsang Dekyi Bring along the children for meditation instruction and class on “What Buddha taught” at the Chittamani Buddhist Center, located at 2919 Manchaca, Ste. 102A. Donations are accepted. Classes are held on Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. For more information, call 916-4444 or visit www.meditationinaustin.org.

4H Club Shooting Sports. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at Austin Outdoor Gear & Guidance, located at 3411 N. Interstate Highway 35. For more information, call 476-3712.

Guided Historic Walking Tours Discover downtown historic treasures on foot during guided weekend tours of the Capitol grounds and the Bremond Block, Thursday through Sunday. For more information, call 478-0098.

Hatha Yoga Classes are based on 12 basic postures emphasizing concentration, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques designed to integrate body, mind and spirit. The focus is on yoga as a holistic, spiritual lifestyle. Everyone is welcome. Classes meet Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and Mondays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church, located at 3315 El Salido Pkwy. For more information, call 388-1162 or visit www.yogaadvaita.org.

Hiking Tour Enjoy scenic views along the unique rock formations of Hueco Tanks, located in El Paso or Big Bend County, on an upper or lower-level hike. Tours last a minimum of two hours and begin at 9 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. each Sunday. Reservations are required. For more information, call (915) 849-6684.

Holographic Repatterning These group healing sessions are designed to free us from fear and limitations and empower us to create our dreams. Ongoing classes are held Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Private sessions are also available. Each session is $24. For more information call Nancy at 447-1879 or visit dakini@texas.net.

Mantra Meditation Simple techniques help you gain more control of your mind and senses and find satisfaction within. These classes are for adults, children, schools and community groups and are always free. For more information, call the Austin Meditation Center at 472-9642.

Meditation for Children and Teens Simple meditation techniques allow your child to be more in control of his or her mind and senses and to find self-acceptance. Classes meet every Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Parents are encouraged to learn too and classes are always free. Special school programs are also available. For more information, call the Austin Meditation Center at 472-9642. Movin’ Easy Dancewear. Our danceline is a great resource for anyone. Updated weekly, the voice recording contains current information on dance events, workshops, performances, upcoming classes and job opportunities. The danceline number is 416-5700, code 3262. You can also sign up for our monthly e-mail newsletter, which lists performances for the month. E-mail mktgeasy@swbell.net to sign up.

Northwest Recreation Center Nooner Basketball Get in shape and have fun playing basketball during your lunch hour every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Northwest Recreation Center, located at 2913 Northland Drive. There is a $2 fee for drop-ins. For more information, call 458-4107.

Oasis Gardens Farmstand A short trip out of central Austin takes you to a new organic farmstand. The produce is vibrant and wonderful with cabbage, broccoli, fresh greens and Brussels sprouts. The stand is open Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to noon and is located at 7516 Delway Lane east of Highway 183. For more information, visit www.greenbuilder.com/oasisgardenscsa.

Optimal Health Institute of Austin holds its open house every Sunday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Come and enjoy the beautiful property, learn about our program and be our guest for dinner. For more information, call 261-5367. Outdoor Adventures: A Component of the University of Texas at Austin’s Division of Recreational Sports. Register for a variety of instructional and recreational outdoor events such as backpacking, biking, canoeing, outdoor rock climbing, kayaking, hiking and rafting. U.T. affiliation is not required. For more information, call 471-3116.

Overeaters Anonymous (O.A.) Compulsive overeaters are invited to attend one of two new weekly meetings of OA. We’re not a diet club and there are no dues, fees or weigh-ins. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. Members seek recovery on three levels, following a 12-step program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. Saturdays from 11 to noon we meet at 10010 Anderson Mill Road, Bldg. D, room 205, and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. we meet at Hyde Park Presbyterian Church located at 3913 Ave. B. For more information, call 327-2802.

Pflugerville Panda Bears is a start-up sports exercise group for Austin-area folks around 35to 45 years old (and their friends and family). Interested in softball in the summer, soccer in the fall or basketball in the winter? Give John Raymond a call at 990-2624 or visit www.pflugervillepandabears@yahoo.com.

Protect Your Back: A Proven, Effective Back Injury-Prevention Program Allow the American Red Cross to give you a hands-on, practical course. For more information, call 928-4271.

Qigong These Chinese self-healing classes are offered at Clear Spring Studio, located at 3918-C Far West Blvd., from 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. every Tuesday. The cost is $32 for four weeks. For more information, call 266-7926.

Run-Tex Training Run-Tex sponsors training sessions starting at 5:45 p.m. around Town Lake’s south shore beginning at Run-Tex, located at 422 Riverside Drive. The workouts are free and accommodate all levels of runners. The Monday and Wednesday workouts are for the more advanced crowd. Tuesdays and Thursdays are for beginner and intermediate runners. For more information, call 472-3254.

She Climbs Rock Climbing Club An all-female rock climbing club, our goal is to “put women on rocks” through a caring and supportive environment. We have weekly outings on Thursdays and monthly potlucks. The potlucks are every third Sunday of the month at 6 p.m. For more information, call 926-0941 or visit www.sheclimbs-Austin.org.

Sierra Club Running/Walking Group Meetings are held every Sunday at 8 a.m. (all year long) beginning at the steps of the Austin High School tennis courts. One hour of exercise is followed by a breakfast/social hour at a nearby restaurant. For more information, call Merle Miller at 445-6223.

Skating, Hockey and Ringette Registration is currently being held at Chaparral Ice. Call to find out about the next “learn to skate in a week” class: 252-8500 or visit www.chaparralice.com for more information.

Spiritual Principles and Relationships is an ongoing weekly, one-hour program designed to give you the tools to create empowering relationships and a deeply meaningful life. The suggested donation is $7 and all adults are welcome. Classes are Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at the Eternal Way Center, located at 1122 S. Lamar Blvd. Call Michael Biles for details at 477-1119.
Sports Safety Training. This six-and-one-half-hour workplace program is offered through the American Red Cross, or your training facility, and features video and classroom instruction. For more information, call Mary Edwards at 928-4271, ext. 239. STAR: Seniors in Training and Recreation Program. This program features guest speakers discussing health- or fitness-related topics and begins at 11:30 a.m. the final Thursday of each month at The Hills Fitness Center, located at 4615 Bee Caves Road. For more information, call 327-4881.

Stop the Week Wind down after a busy week. Learn to meditate, chant prayers and relax, followed by food and drink at the Chittamani Buddhist Center, Fridays at 6:30 p.m .The center is located at 2919 Manchaca, Ste.102A (at S. Lamar Blvd.). For more information, call 916-4444 or visit www.meditationinaustin.org.

Stumpy Hollow Nature Hike Take a guided nature hike through the trails of Inks Lake State Park from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Saturday. Bring good walking shoes, water and a hat. Meet at the parking lot across from the park office. For more information, call (512) 793-2223.

T’ai Chi Ch’uan T’ai chi is a choreographed set of martial art postures that are designed to increase one’s power and agility. This exercise helps improve range of motion and lung capacity, placing special emphasis on balance. Participants can enjoy reduced stress and a feeling of well-being. The cost is $36 for six weeks and reservations are recommended. Classes take place every Monday at The Human Potential Center, located at 2007 Bert Ave. For more information, visit www.humanpotentialcenter.org or call 441-8988.

Trail Maintenance Volunteers are invited to the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve to help us repair portions of trails, control erosion and make our trails safe for everyone to enjoy. For more information, call 327-7622 or e-mail to hike@wildbasin.org.

Travis Audubon Society meets monthly every third Thursday at 7 p.m. at Camp Mabry, building 82. For more information, call 926-8751.
Tri-Fit Triathlon Training. Are you looking to fine-tune your swimming, biking or running skills, complete your first triathlon or just balance your fitness routine? Then train to be tri-fit! Learn the latest triathlon-training techniques in one of Ironsmith’s highly personalized classes. All ability levels are welcome. Class fees include access to our state-of-the-art fitness facilities during the duration of the course and the tri-fit training handbook. Preregistration is required. Call 454-4766 or visit www.fitnessdoctors.com.

Volksport, Volksmarch, or Volkswalk Although you’re likely not familiar with these terms, this activity started in Europe, as the names might suggest. This group hosts noncompetitive walking events that you start when you’re ready within a three- or four-hour window. Each walker receives a map of the route and walks the length of their choice. For more information, visit www.walktexas.org.

Vegetarian Dinner, Meditation and Lecture is held every Friday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Austin Meditation Center, located at 2307 Rio Grande St. The suggested donation for dinner is $3. Call 472-9642 or visit www.austinmeditation.org.

Walking Wild Cave Tour Take a guided tour to the large and interesting Gorman Cave. The hike includes a beautiful three-mile, round-trip hike over hill country terrain. Good hiking shoes and a flashlight are required. Please, no children under 6. Walks are held every Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting, from 9:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The cost is $10 per person and reservations are recommended. For more information, call (325) 628-3240.

Westlake Farmers Market Browse booths of more than 35 vendors selling fresh, organic vegetables, fruits and much more. The market is open year-round, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the parking lot of Westlake High School, located at 4100 Westbank Drive, between Loop 360 (Capital of Texas Highway) and Bee Caves Road. For more information, call Pamela Boyar at 280-1976 or visit www.WestlakeFarmersMarket.com.

Wild Basin Preserve Tours are available including special tours occasionally offered during the weekend. Call for meeting times. The preserve is located at Loop 360, one mile north of Bee Caves Road. For more information, call 327-7622 or visit www.wildbasin.org.
Wild Basin Tour-Guide Training. If you would like to learn the wild plants, animals and geology of the Central Texas Hill Country, stop by the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve any Wednesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon for your free certification. For more information, call 327-7622.

Wild Goose Qigong Qigong (sometimes spelled “Chi Kung”) is a type of exercise developed in ancient China. It combines physical and mental techniques to increase and circulate one’s “qi” or internal energy. Wild Goose Qigong uses the flowing and graceful movements of geese. Classes are held each Monday at The Human Potential Center, located at 2007 Bert Ave. There is a fee of $5 and reservations are recommended. For more information, call 441-8988 or visit www.humanpotentialcenter.org.

Women’s Roadrunner Hockey meets at Chaparral Ice on Sundays from 11 a.m. to noon. New and experienced players are invited. The eight-week session costs $130. For more information, call Leslie at 252-8500.

The Wright House Wellness Center Long Term Survivors is for anyone who has known their HIV diagnosis for six years or more. The support group meets in eight-week sessions every Monday night at 6 p.m., and is facilitated by a licensed psychologist. The group is free to all clients of the Wright House Wellness Center. “Wednesday Wellness” is a support group for anyone who has known their HIV diagnosis for five years or less. For more information or to become a client, call The Wright House Wellness Center at 467-0088.

Yoga at McKinney Roughs Reduce stress using breathing techniques and stretching exercises to improve relaxation, flexibility, strength and concentration. Classes cost $10 per visit and are held every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. The first visit is half price. For more information, call 303-5073.

Yoga and Meditation for Children Classes for children 4 to 10 are held every Sunday at the Austin Meditation Center from 3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. The first class is free. Reservations are required. For more information, call 472-YOGA (9642).

Yoga and Meditation for Teens This class is for ages 11 to 16 and is held on Sundays at the Austin Meditation Center from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. The first class is free. Reservations are required. For more information, call 472-YOGA (9642).

Yoga Philosophy This free class is held on Tuesdays from 7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Austin Meditation Center. Reservations are required For more information, call 472-YOGA (9642).

Yoga for Your Life, Especially for Seniors Classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays at Café Dance Studio, located at 3307-B Hancock Drive, from noon to 1 p.m. For more information, call 459-8066.

Ballet Austin Fete 2004 Ballet Austin will host Fete 2004, the company’s elegant, annual black-tie fundraiser to celebrate the upcoming season. The evening will begin at the Paramount Theatre (located at 713 Congress Ave.), with a cocktail party and a one-hour performance of excerpted works by Ballet Austin’s renowned artistic directors, Stephen Mills and Dwight Rhoden. An elegant dinner dance and after-party will follow at the Driskill Hotel, located at 604 Brazos St. For more information, contact Angela Schnars at 476-9151, ext. 124 or e-mail angela.schnars@balletaustin.com

Throughout September
Free Yoga Classes at Ruta Maya. Enjoy free hatha flow yoga classes and more at Ruta Maya coffeehouse. All customers are invited to attend classes offered daily: Mondays (Sept. 13,20 and 26) from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. - Introduction to pilates, Tuesdays at 9 a.m. - vinyasa yoga, Wednesdays at 8 a.m. - hatha yoga, Thursdays at 9 a.m. - hatha flow. For more information and a complete lists of classes, call 707-9637 or visit www.rutamaya.net.

September 1
Games Night at Central Market. No Kidding is an all-volunteer, non-profit social club for couples and singles who, for whatever reasons, are not parents. Join us for games night from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Central Market located at 4001 N. Lamar. For more information, call 294-7930 or visit www.austinnokidding.org

September 2 to 5
Retreat at Mt. Shasta. Enjoy a relaxing Labor Day weekend in Mt. Shasta. We will be staying at a mineral springs lodge on Native American Property having daily yoga, hiking, eating healthy meals and visiting a sweat lodge with Walking Eagle. For more information,call (310) 281-7002 or visit www.aziam.com.

September 3
The Fear of Singing. This group assists people in overcoming their fear of singing from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This will be facilitated in a small group setting (with a New York influence). All styles and levels of singing are welcome. Seating is limited for this free workshop located at 500 E. St. Elmo, Room C. For more information and to register, call 479-5004, visit www.marcilynne.com or e-mail marci@marcilynne.com.

Texas State Park Slide Show. Come to the amphitheater for an overview of the Texas State Parks, and find out about many hidden treasures that are a part of the state park system. This event will take place from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 793-2223.

September 7
Introduction to Iridology. Learn how the scientific study of the colors, patterns and structures of your eye can give a clear and complete picture of overall health and reveal potential early signs of imbalances in your body. Discover your personal health tendencies and acquire a new respect for the wonder of your body. Reservations are required. This free seminar will take place at at Omega at the Crossings at 13500 F.M. 2769, from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For reservations or more information, please call 258-7243 or visit www.omegacrossings.com.

September 8
How Foods Affect Your Health and Emotions. Learn a holistic way to take charge of your life, health and emotions. You can achieve balance through simple tools of awareness and common sense eating and living. This lecture will take place at Casa de Luz, located at 1701 Toomey Road. For more information, call 476-2276 or visit www.NaturalEpicurean.com.

September 9
Devil’s Waterhole Canoe Tour. Take a guided tour and see many of the unique geological and natural features of the Hill Country and Inks Lake State Park from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Participants are expected to have basic canoeing skills; if not, please attend a skills clinic prior to taking part in this program. Wheelchair accessible if transferrable. Cost is $5 for Texas State Park Pass members, $6 for non-members, $5 for senior citizens and $5 for children 12 and under. Reservations are required. For more information, call 793-2223.
Shake the Sugar Habit. In this seminar, learn what sugar does to the body and how it promotes weight gain, heart disease and diabetes. Learn tips and tricks to overcome short term gratification. Experience the power of hypnosis to reinforce a commitment to eat healthy and avoid processed sugars and white starches. This seminar will be held at the Wells Branch Community Library, located at15001 Wells Port, from 7p.m. to b:30 p.m. Cost is $25. For more information and to register, call 797-6536 or visit www.mindhunger.com.

September 9 to 10
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Conservation Development Symposium. Land in Texas is being developed at an alarming rate. Rapid growth has placed a tremendous demand on housing needs as well as our natural resources, and conservation development is one of the innovative ways we can preserve the rural heritage of Texas for future generations. The goal of the Conservation Symposium is to move conservation development forward in Texas by raising awareness of alternative approaches to developing land that is both profitable and ecologically sound. Fees are $75 for the general public, $65 for Wildflower Center members, fees include a reception on Thursday and lunch on Friday. For more information, call 292-4200.

September 11
Contemporary Shamanism: Spiritual Elderhood. The second of a series of discussions, this presentation examines the appropriate role and social value of spiritual elders as spiritual evolution affects both the individual and the culture. Cost is $5 and space is limited. This event will take place from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Life Dance Institute, located at 3212 S. Congress Ave. For more information and to register, call 443-3013 or visit www.lifedanceinstitute.org.

September 11 & 12
Guided Hikes of Bright Leaf State Natural Area. Meet at the parking lot off RR 2222 and Creek Mountain Road for a 4-mile guided hike. Wear sturdy shoes and bring your own water. Please arrive on time. The hike will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. To arrange group tours or for more information, call Jeff Hershey, park manager, at 459-7269 or Nancy Murphy at 323-0544.

September 12
Leading a Contented Single Life: A Personal Growth Workshop for Singles. Join Art Paul, educator and lecturer, in an interactive workshop that addresses the ways that honesty, integrity, wisdom, empathy, inner harmony, self-esteem and thoughtful speech contribute to leading a more contented life. This is also an opportunity to meet like-minded singles. This workshop will take place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Academy of Oriental Medicine, located at 2700 West Anderson Lane, Ste. 204. Cost is $35. For more information, call 217-9501 or visit www.values-first.com.

No Kidding Monthly Supper. Our club for child free couples and singles hosts this perfect way to end the weekend. Come to Threadgill’s World Headquarters, located at 301 W. Riverside Dr. at 5:45 p.m. for dinner. For more information, call 294-7930 or visit www.austinnokidding.org.

“Not Afraid of the Dark - The Show that Glows!” Kids, never fear - Joe Scruggs and Ballet Austin are here! Together they’ve turned the darkness into a place to laugh, sing, clap, dream, dance and do everything imaginable, except be afraid. Set to the whimsical tunes of Austin’s songmaster, this glow-in-the-dark delight features such wonders as sashaying tick figures and pirouetting popcorn. It’ll leave children of all ages entertained, enlightened and unafraid. For more information, visit www.notafraidofthedark.com. To purchase tickets call 469-SHOW (7469).

Single Parent Resource Network will have a meeting and clothing swap at 2 p.m. at Ruta Maya Coffeehouse located at 3601-D South Congress Ave. For more information, call 707-9637 or visit www.sprncentral.org.

September 14
Austin Skiers Meeting. This non-profit social club continues to offer great deals on group snow adventure vacations, as well as a variety of fun social and sporting activities throughout the year. Austin Skiers provides the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. We will be discussing the upcoming U.S., Canadian, European and Exotic Southern Vacations for the 2004 to 2005 ski season. Learn about year-round sports and social activities. Refreshments will be served, including a cash bar. This meeting is free and will take place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Red Lion Inn (at the crossroads of Highway 290 and Interstate Highway 35). For more information, call 335-3662 or visit www.austinskiers.org.

Team In Training. Challenge yourself for a cure! Join the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training, the world’s largest endurance sports training program and help fund research to find cures for blood cancers. Teams are forming now in Austin for marathons, triathlons and century rides. Learn how you can get fit while you help save lives. Attend a free informational meeting at 6:30 p.m. at Town Lake Y.M.C.A., Metro Boardroom, 1110 Cesar Chavez, to learn all about Team In Training. For more information, call 343-7073 or visit www.teamintraining.org/swt.

September 16
Sun Dragon Martial Arts Open House. Come see our girls’ class from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., or our women;s class from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Highlights of the evening include demos of advanced martial arts and self-defense techniques by current students and a chance for guests to try out karate for themselves. All ages and abilities are welcome. This event will be held at Sun DragonMartial Arts, located at 203 E. Riverside Dr. For more information, call 416-9735 or e-mail info@sundragonmartialarts.com.

September 17 to 19
Naked Relationships. Jan Denise, a nationally syndicated columnist and author of “Naked Relationships,” will conduct a weekend workshop for Omega at the Crossings. In this workshop, Denise shows us how to find the courage to “get naked,” or to be honest. When we do, we find our authentic selves- our greatness- and fall in love with who we really are. Within the safety of this workshop, singles and couples alike have the opportunity to understand relationships in an entirely new way and discover that there is really a recipe for perfect, unconditional love. The cost of this workshop is $265 and does not include accommodations. It will take place at Omega at the Crossings. For more information or to register, call (877) 944-3003 or e-mail registration@eomega.com.

September 21
Take Pounds Off Sensibly (T.O.P.S.) Club & Open House. Before you sign up for one of those expensive commercial weight-loss programs, come to our T.O.P.S. Open House. This organization is the oldest non-profit, non-commercial weight-loss program founded in 1948. T.O.P.S. philosophy is that a desire to change comes from within an individual and the most effective way to sustain change is to provide a supportive environment. Weekly meetings include private weigh-ins, an informative program, incentive programs, positive reinforcement and motivation to adhere to food and exercise plans, Enjoy high enthusiasm, not high prices. Admission is free. The open house will include a regular T.O.P.S. meeting from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. followed by a silent auction. The open house will take place at Westoak Woods Baptist Church, located at 2900 Slaughter Lane, Room 103. For more information, contact Kay or Rich at 441-2254 or visit www.tops.org.

September 22
N.F.L. Punt, Pass and Kick Local Competition. Round Rock Parks and Recreation Department will host the Punt, Pass and Kick Local Competition from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Old Settlers Park Football Fields, giving local youth the opportunity to punt, pass and kick their way to a N.F.L. Playoff Game! Competitors that win in Round Rock will advance to sectional competitions in Austin with hopes of advancing to the team competition at a Houston Texans Game and eventually to the national championship. For more information, call 341-3362.
Team In Training. Challenge yourself for a cure! Join the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training, the world’s largest endurance sports training program and help fund research to find cures for blood cancers. Teams are forming now in Austin for marathons, triathlons and century rides. Learn how you can get fit while you help save lives. Attend a free informational meeting at 6:30 p.m. at Serrano’s Restaurant, Mercantile Room, 1111 Red River, to learn all about Team In Training. For more information, call 343-7073 or visit www.teamintraining.org/swt.

September 24
No Kidding Drinks Night. No Kidding is an all-volunteer, non-profit social club for couples and singles who, for whatever reasons, are not parents. Enjoy drinks at 6:00 p.m. For more information and the location, call 294-7930 or visit www.austinnokidding.org.

Self-Esteem: What are You worth? Uncover your intrinsic worth by understanding your eternal identity. Enjoy a mediation and lecture from 7:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. Reservations are required by 3 p.m. the day of the lecture. Donations are appreciated. This event will take place at the Austin Meditation Center, located at 2307 Rio Grande. For more information, call 472-YOGA (9642) or visit www.austinmeditation.org.
Texas Shoot-Out. The Arc of the Capital Area is pleased to announce our First Annual Texas Hold 'Em Fundraising tournament and Casino Nights. This event will consist of 2 separate gaming areas, within one special event. The Hold ‘Em tournament is elimination based with the top 3 winners taking home extravagant Vegas packages. The fun begins at 6 p.m. at Elks Lodge Cost for the tournament is $100. Casino night tickets are $35. For more information, call 476-7044, ext. 202 or visit www.arcofthecapitalarea.org.

September 24 to 26
SheClimbs. Female rock climbers from across the United States and Canada will assemble at the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area near Fredericksburg for the annual SheClimbs Annual Gathering. This women-only event will feature workshops, climbing clinics and more than 600 different trad, sport and bouldering routes varying from easy to expert. Climbers can choose from slabs to practice friction climbing or cracks for traditional climbing. The Annual Gathering will also feature a group dinner, a silent auction and a note rock climber Roxanne Brock, who has climbed many difficult ascents around the world. For more information, visit www.sheclimbs.org or contact the coordinator at ag@sheclimbs.org.

September 25
Austin Fireflies Monthly Bead Makers Gathering. Bead making (also known as Lampworking) involves the manipulation of hot glass with a torch. It includes such arts as glass bead making, glass sculpting, marble making and off-hand glassblowing. Please join us for demonstrations, show and tell and the exchange of ideas and techniques at 7 p.m. The meeting will take place at Blue Moon Glassworks, located at 5241 North Lamar Blvd. For more information, call 380-0770 or visit www.austinbluemoon.com.

Family Day and Open House at Kim Soo Martial Arts. Enjoy an open house with a children’s rank exam at 9 a.m., a children’s teacher demonstration at 10:30 a.m. and a a social with students, families and instructors at 11 a.m. This event is free and open to the public. Kim Soo Martial Arts is located at 1109 S. Congress, Ste.1000. For more information, call 462-2787 or visit www.kimsoo-austin.com.

Simple Sounds Concert in the Cave. This is a unique way to enjoy the park in the “original indoors.” Local acoustic artists bring “the live music capital of the world” to the beautiful Hill Country. The concert will be followed by a hot chocolate and coffee social where you get to meet the artists. Fees are $10 for TCP members and $12 for nonmembers; $11 for senior citizens; and $8 for children 12 and under. Reservations are required. For more information, call (877) 441-2283, (512) 756-4680 or visit www.longhorncaverns.com.

September 28
The Practice of Loving Presence. There is a state of mind, a state of being which all the great wisdom traditions describe as the foundation for true intimacy and healing care. This evening program will be a gentle invitation into this profoundly nourishing state and an invitation to the interpersonal practice of Loving Presence. Please join us for an evening of mutual inspiration, creative unfolding and loving attention. This free seminar will take place at Omega at the Crossings at 13500 F.M. 2769, from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For reservations or more information, please call 258-7243 or visit www.omegacrossings.com.