November 20th, 2012 
From the 2013 models and vintage Lamborghini’s lined up outside the venue to black and white photographs of classic F1 cars projected against the walls, the reception was well underway as old and new friends gathered to celebrate the F1 kick-off event at the amazing Ballet Austin. The venue was transformed into an upscale European-style nightclub, that was the premiere destination for guests in town for the weekend’s F1 races.
Kate Hoffner and Blaire Kniffin (Photo Credit: Tara Hagen)
Starting off the weekend with a big bang, My Yacht F1 Club hosted a VIP Reception that benefited I Live Here, I Give Here. I Live Here, I Give Here is a non-profit organization aimed to “deepen and expand the culture of personal philanthropy” in Austin. Throughout the year, there are events that support its mission and help raise awareness for worthy organizations in the city.
During the presentation, Karen Frost talked about Amplify Austin, an event set for March 4, 2013. For Amplify Austin, the goal is to raise $1 million in 24 hours for Austin nonprofits. Frost encouraged the guests to “march fourth” and the raise money. I Live Here, I Give Here supports six programs that allow Austinites to participate in the community in different ways.
Friends Kate Hoffner, Austin Involved, and Blaire Kniffin, I Live Here, I Give Here, talked to me about the importance of giving back to the community. Austin Involved is made up of members of the Austin community that donates time and money to a local non-profit each month. The non-profit is chosen by the group.
Among the celebrities spotted at the event, Jean Paul DeJoria was relaxing with friends. DeJoria co-founded the Patrón Spirits Company, one of the sponsors of the event.
Jean Paul Dejoria (Photo Credit: Tara Hagen)
Inside the VIP reception, international DJ Alex Karlsson spun the tracks as the Comte de Mazera Golden Girls provided bottle service to guests. This was the US debut of Comte de Mazera’s 24-karat gold-flecked champagne.
Along with I Live Here I Give Here, the Circuits of The America’s team is also a member of the Green Sports Alliance, which is a non-profit organization with a mission to help enhance the environmental performance of athletes and venues. Through simple techniques like waste reduction, recycling and more, they have been able to save millions of dollars, and maximize their respective sustainability efforts. The Austin track is the first one to be a member of the Green Sports Alliance.
