Toma Mi Corazon

Who says money can't buy love? Well, okay, maybe you can't buy love, but you can sure buy a heart at the Seventh Annual Toma Mi Corazón fundraiser for the La Peña arts organization. Artists, students, celebrities, politicians, dignitaries, locos, and others have decorated wooden hearts which you can bid for and then give to your amor for San Valentine's. Multiple hearts by Amado Peña, Rick Treviño's signed heart, Gus Garcia's City of Austin heart, and Hector Galán's Chicano! heart are just a few of the many hearts that will be auctioned off to raise funds for La Peña. Or take a chance and buy a raffle ticket to win one of two hearts painted by Santa Barraza; for five bucks, you can own a beautiful piece of fine art worth much, much more.

This year's event, set for Sunday, February 7, begins with a preview party at 4pm at Club Meneo, 217 Congress. Guests can sample aphrodisiac, romantic foods from 12 of Austin's finest chefs, including David Garrido of Jeffrey's, Mark Paul of Brio, and Michelle Haram of Mezzaluna, and enjoy complimentary libations as they preview the hearts. Rachel Yvonne Cruz y El Grupo Cielo Azul will perform during the preview.

At 6pm, the bidding frenzy takes over with the silent auction at Peña Studios, 227 Congress, and the old Rackley's Hardware space, 213 Congress. Hearts are won by the highest bidder; just don't break any hearts in the process.

After the food and excitement, with your amante by your side, you can enjoy your prize back at Club Meneo as Piel Canela, special guest Ruben Ramos, and a very special surprise guest provide music for an evening of dancing!

Cost for the event is $20. For more information, call La Peña at 477-6007. -- M.J.G.