My dearest Austin, we can always count on you to be the great creator of all things amazing.  From ACL to SXSW to Leslie Cochran, you are the nurturer of such beauty and uniqueness that many other cities try to emulate, but fail due to their lack of authenticity and individuality.  So it is no surprise that on this day, Wonderful Weirdos Day, we celebrate a holiday which was also birthed from your delightful womb chock full of eccentricity and bat droppings.  In honor of this celebration, we vow to transform what is normal and commonplace into something that is unique, weird, and most importantly, wonderful.  So to you, our faithful readers, how now shall you live?  Allow me to offer up a few humble suggestions that can turn your plain into inSANE!

• While getting your lunch or standing in line at the DMV, begin muttering to your self in a soft and barely audible whisper.  After every 12th word, let out a giggle while bringing your hand up to your mouth in horror.
• Upon entering the elevator, do not press the button of your desired floor, but make a beeline to the back of the elevator and stand facing the corner as if you were put into a time out by your boss.
• Whenever anybody calls your name, respond with ‘That is no longer my name.  I am now known as Gallivan, sorcerer of Candalwynn and savior of the tree people’.
• Do not speak your responses to people, but have your responses be sung to the tune of ‘Mambo #5’ by Lou Bega.

[Ready…Set…CAFFEINE HIGH!!!]

The time has come, friends. Whether you’re on bike or car, moped or SUV, feel free to drive past your usual Sunday morning coffee watering hole and let our new coffee venture satisfy your cravings for all things caffeine!! During the month of September, we will begin making coffee available for you, our Vox family, during Sunday liturgies. Starting at 10am, for an affordable price, you can enjoy a cup of delicious coffee made from fresh andlocally roasted beans, all the while, supporting an initiative that desires to be a redemptive voice in a marginalizing culture. So come early with your cash and your coffee withdrawal headaches to Vox these next 4 Sundays and let our home brew be the fix you need. If you’d like to get involved, we’re currently in need of some help to operate the coffee bar. So if you’re interested in helping out or would like more info, send an email to Kevin and he’ll ring your bell with all the answers you can handle.

[Open Systems Meetings]

Go ahead, ask yourself what this is. Chances are your search will return with zero hits. If that happens, allow me to fill you in!! In 2 weeks, Vox will be holding our first ever ‘Open Systems Meeting’ where you, our beloved Vox community, are invited to join in on a series of discussions that will directly influence the future and direction of Vox by putting your fingerprints and passions on the tangibles that happen at Vox. On September 12th, 19th and 26th, join us after Vox where we will participate in meaningful conversation while swapping verbs, nouns and adjectives over a delightful luncheon. If you have questions, feel free to email them.

[Generosity Report – July]

Through your unswerving kindness and generous giving, this community has been tremendously blessed by your faithfulness and sacrificial living. For the details of July’s giving, you can download the report here. If you have any questions please email our treasurer.

[Photo from fanpop]