At a Glance
- James Magnuson, 84, passed away on January 18, 2026 after a long battle with ALS.
- Hyde Park Bar & Grill sold to Brian and Angela Luke, who will keep the famous buttermilk fries.
- The back room of Hole in the Wall renamed Calamity on January 11.
- Barrett’s Too and Achiame opened a new joint location on January 23.
- We Love Austin Music Week runs through January 30, featuring performances across schools.
- Why it matters: The city’s cultural fabric is strengthened by honoring a beloved educator, preserving local culinary traditions, and supporting youth music education.
The Austin community is experiencing a mix of loss, renewal, and celebration. From the passing of a revered writing program director to new restaurant owners maintaining cherished recipes, the city’s residents are witnessing change while holding fast to traditions. Meanwhile, music educators and students are drawing on the city’s rich heritage to inspire the next generation.
James Magnuson: A Legacy of Generosity
James Magnuson, the founding director of the Michener Center, led the program for 23 years, shaping it with a human-first teaching style. In 2017, when he retired, he told the Chronicle: “I hope we set a tone of kindness and generosity with one another.” Robert Faires, in a memoriam for the Chronicle, wrote, “He chose to be generous. So when you measure this man’s impact on American letters, that must be taken into account alongside his novels, stories, and plays.”
Magnuson’s influence extended beyond the classroom:
- Developed a polymorphous approach to storytelling.
- Fostered a culture of fellowship, laughter, and bear hugs.
- Left a lasting imprint on American letters.
His passing on January 18, 2026 at age 84 marks the end of an era for the Michener Center.
Hyde Park Bar & Grill: New Owners, Same Fries
The 44-year-old Hyde Park Bar & Grill, a neighborhood staple, changed hands late last year. Founder Bick Brown told the Statesman, “It’s an old-time business that needs some new energy. I think it’s a very positive thing. I’m excited for the future of Hyde Park Bar & Grill.”
Brown’s decision came after years of fan concern about menu changes. The new owners, Brian and Angela Luke-who run Artemis Mediterranean Grill since 2019-promise:
- Keep the original buttermilk fry recipe.
- Add a touch of extra seasoning.
- Maintain the restaurant’s approachable, elevated diner vibe.
**Key points
- Fry recipe preserved.
- New owners bring Mediterranean experience.
- Community reassurance about menu continuity.
Hole in the Wall Rebrands as Calamity
The back room bar of Hole in the Wall, previously known as Amity’s, announced a name change to Calamity on January 11. The Instagram post read, “The new name reflects the energy, creativity, and community that have always lived here. Cheers to Chaos!”
The rebranding brings a few updates:
- Waived fees for alternative milk in coffee drinks.
- Introduction of a DVD library.
- Minor alterations to the space and offerings.
These changes aim to deepen the venue’s community focus while preserving its karaoke lounge and coffee bar heritage.
Barrett’s Too and Achiame: A New Partnership
Barrett’s Too and Achiame are set to split the North Loop coffee shop and taco bar that was formerly Double Trouble. After a brief renovation, the joint opened on January 23.
Travis Kizer, owner of Barrett’s Coffee, co-opened the eatery in 2023 with Vegan Nom’s Chris Rios, who left months later. The new name highlights:
- The relationship between St. Johns roasterie and its central outpost.
- A separation of the partially vegan kitchen from the bar.
The menu and overall vibe will remain consistent, as confirmed in the eatery’s announcement post.
We Love Austin Music Week: Schools Celebrate
Across Austin schools, cafeteria concerts and live performances will continue until January 30 as part of the Texas Cultural Trust’s Arts Access initiative. The week aims to:
- Celebrate Austin’s music legacy.
- Support student well-being.
- Highlight music’s economic impact.
- Foster appreciation and proper audience etiquette.
Notable performances include:
- Casey Elementary: Student rock band The Rest Notes performing late this week.
- Elgin: Student band performances on Tuesday.
- St. Elmo Elementary: Music teacher’s band Deer Bunny on Monday.
- Creedmoor Elementary: Harpist from the Austin Symphony on Wednesday, thanks to a collaboration between the Texas Cultural Trust and KUTX.
Community Support for Independent Journalism
The local press remains a vital voice, expressing community concerns and supporting Austin’s cultural scene. The publication that has served Austin for over 40 years urges readers to consider a donation of $5, $10, or any amount to keep journalism free and independent.
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Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 11, 2026 | Hole in the Wall rebrands as Calamity |
| January 18, 2026 | James Magnuson passes away |
| January 23, 2026 | Barrett’s Too and Achiame opens |
| January 30, 2026 | End of We Love Austin Music Week |
The city’s leaders, restaurateurs, and educators are all contributing to a vibrant, resilient community. By honoring past achievements, preserving beloved traditions, and investing in youth arts, Austin continues to thrive.
