Austin lost one of its most committed advocates of the arts community; Mary Margaret Farabee, who passed away last Sunday. As co-chair of the Festival’s Film & Food Party for two years and a great supporter of the Festival, she was a tireless crusader. Her infectious spirit and altruism were incredible assets to our national recognition as a creative city. She was an incredible activist and tireless supporter of many local organizations. The restoration of the Paramount Theatre, a local treasure and a cornerstone of Austin Film Festival each year, was spearheaded by Ms. Farabee. The energy and passion she put into organizing events like the Texas Book Festival and into fundraising for AFF partners, like KLRU, was legendary. We are lucky to have had her as an impassioned supporter and friend. We will miss her tremendously.