Hi there - my name is Stephanie Urbina Jones. Welcome to the "I'm Not a Pinata" web page. I am a recording artist, writer, wife, mom, friend and woman (in my own process of transformation), who wrote this funny little song with my co-writer Mark Marchetti, which took on a life of its own. Both Mark and I got a kick out of carving this clever ditty out on our guitars but we both knew from our own experiences behind this silly tongue-in-cheek song is a potent message close to our hearts and worth talking about. In the end we hope the message of "I'm Not a Pinata" is a powerful reminder to love and respect ourselves and each other, by standing up against any kind of abuse.

I have found that one of the most fulfilling things in life is to give to others what has been given to me. This song has given me that opportunity. Through my guitar player and his wife, Lonnie and Kimberly Key, I was introduced to the non-profit CASA ( Court Appointed Special Advocates) and was blown away by how they give "Voice" to kids who are hurting, have been neglected and abused. I have chosen CASA as my Charity of Choice for 2011 and have committed to give $1 from every "Texicana Sessions" cd and $1 from every "I'm Not A Pinata" t-shirt to this amazing non-profit organization this year. I took my passion and purpose to my sponsor, Arriba! Salsa, and they enthusiastically joined forces to create a campaign to raise awareness and funds. We have invited CASA advocates to our Texicana Concert Series, given them a stage and a place to share their story and tell folks about how they can become an advocate. As of today we have had 11 advocates sign up across the state of Texas, I've been told this will change the life of 50 children. We have raised over $500 in donations, as well as, increased awareness of a powerful organization working every day to change the lives of some very worthy children.

As I mentioned before, this song is taking on a life of its own and we are creating a campaign of Public Service Announcements and a book called "I'm Not a Pinata", Stories of Transformation from everyday people like you willing to use your voice and share your story. If you have a camera and would like to send us your video or writing for consideration please contact us at info@texicanaentertainment.com . Your story just may be the one that helps someone tell a new one in their life! If you would like to learn more about CASA and how you can make a difference by becoming an advocate or to make a direct donation please go to www.becomeacasa.org If you would like to hear the song "I'm Not A Pinata," buy a cd or t-shirt, learn more about me, inquire about a booking or speaking engagement, or to sign up for our email list please go to www.stephanieurbinajones.com