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Jack’s role as production manager included coordinating the physical aspects of a performance for the musicians, such as hiring and organizing the crew, lights, catering, security, and more for each and every show on a tour, and then ensuring that everyone followed through on their roles. When musicians weren’t touring on the road, Jack would do similar work for his local shows and events. Production managers were, and are, integral to the music scene here in Austin — without them, we couldn’t have any live music!

Jack Yoder has a solid background in music, coming from a musical family and oozing an undeniable passion for all things music and performance related. But rather than becoming a music-maker himself, Jack’s journey led him to production management, where he supported musicians by facilitating their shows, from huge national tours or one-off gigs. Jack has done production management work for a variety of celebrated musicians, from Julio Iglesias to Frank Sinatra to Austin’s own Willie Nelson! It’s safe to say that Jack is the definition of a cool, old-school Austinite.

Austinites love philanthropy as much as we love our live music, and nothing encapsulates this uniquely “Austin” combination as well as Swan Songs. Swan Songs is an Austin-based nonprofit with a simple and powerful mission: to fulfill musical last wishes. Local musicians come together to perform for people who are nearing the end of their life, putting on an intimate concert in the individual’s home or care facility. (Swan Songs) was founded by singer-songwriter and musician Christine Albert, who found herself stepping into this role of Founder and CEO so that she could give back to her community.

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Meyers is the designer behind the iconic “atx” sign at the intersection of 5th and Lamar, outside of the flagship Whole Foods store. This colorful, functional sculpture has become a symbol for Austin in recent years, and it’s one of the most recognizable and photographed pieces of street art in the city. Find out more by searching ""Vibe Austin"" on youtube and all podcast platforms!

Meyers admits he’s always struck by how much the city changes between visits. But, despite an evolving skyline, new businesses, and additional cars, Meyers says, “It’s really cool to come back and see that Austin still has that energy, and it still has its own sense of cool, and the art is still here.” Find out more by searching "Vibe Austin" on youtube and all podcast platforms!

Ott has lived in Austin since the 70s, taking a brief hiatus out of the city in the early 2000s. He describes Austin as “the biggest small city in the world,” and explains that Austin is a versatile, dynamic, supportive community where creators and enthusiasts can come together to make and enjoy music and art. This sort of collaboration between creatives and their supporters is at the foundation of Black Fret’s mission.

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“There’s a kindness to Austin… I think about the opportunities that this city has given me and there is a real generosity [here],” Ott explains, encouraging Austinites old and new to remember that being generous and kind will help to make Austin the most vibrant city it can be.

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“Become an Austinite as quickly as you can,” Ott encourages the newcomers. His suggestions to do that? Ask people what they like to do around town and take their suggestions. Embrace your inner creative, whether that’s as a maker or a supporter. And always let people merge if you’re in traffic. Austinites — What advice do you have for Austin newcomers?

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STRÜB Residential Group : : Compass
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Austin Title Company
Black Fret