Reasons to LOVE the EASTside

THE INSPIRATIONAL

side

OF AUSTIN

REASONS TO

THE EASTSIDEÂ

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December/January

CONTENTS

06 10

Publisher’s Note

A Historic Designation

18

11

Meet the community leaders and visionaries whose commitment to the Eastside built and continue to exemplify the culture of East Austin.

Local

Local residents spearheaded the effort to designate their neighborhood one of Austin's first historic districts.

Art+Entertainment Classically Complex

Austin's classical music station aims to foster community through the shared experience of music.

47 Go+Do

6 Best Places to Learn About Culture What makes Austin so weird? Discover something new about this city's history.

53

Home+Away Outside In

See how a creative design team transformed a Cherrywood home without compromising its signature aesthetic.

59

Sip+Taste

Protecting a Legacy

A local bakery stands the test of time and continues to offer up delicious treats without compromising their core values.

31 Faces of East Austin

Heart, Strength, & Soul

Toms Carmella Frames

Happy, Healthy, Vision Starts Here

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eastsideatx.com

5

eastside | publisher's letter

Eastside Love

A

ON THE COVER

We are always trying to do something different, and this cover reflects that creativity. The concept of this issue was much more than one person or one subject, so we did our best to represent the love we feel for our community and the stories we tell.

As a result, we selected some powerful imagery collected over the years put it inside the word love.

s 2020 comes to a close, we decided to share all the reasons "Why We Love East Austin.”

Our team has wanted to do this issue for a while, and it never seemed to be the right time until now. Over the past five years, we have told hundreds of stories, sat down with more community members than we can count, advocated for a ton of small businesses, put tens of thousands of words into print, and have captured what seems like a million photos. Additionally, in total, we have shared the stories surrounding East Austin with just about 2 million print readers and nearly 4 million digital readers on eastsideatx.com.

If it weren’t clear, we are pretty proud of our local community and our creative team. So this issue is for the old and new neighbors who might not know about all the wonderful people who call this place home, the people who we've had the privilege to capture over the

years, and the people who have so graciously shared their story with us. EASTside’s whole existence is to give a voice to our neighbors, to be authentic in our story-telling, and to unite a community.

This is your chance to take a peek inside and learn what makes this side of town so inspirational, strong, caring, and creative. And it also serves as a reminder — to us and those who've come before us — the many things to be thankful for (especially this year!) and to learn when to hold tightly and when to let go.

We also had a little fun with this issue and selected our favorite covers, some of the best moving issues, and the most-read stories over the years. You will see links to the full stories throughout the feature and will be able to read them all in full length on our website or follow us on social media @eastsideatxmag to stay up-to-date on everything going on.

Thank you for entrusting us to tell your story! And thank you for reading!

Gratefully, Will and Ashley Bowling

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Creative Director Will Bowling Publishing Editor Ashley Bowling Photo Editor Eric Morales Business Development Will Bowling Copy Editor Pam Bowen

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Editorial Team Abby Johnson Joanna Fuller

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OF AUSTIN

Contributing Photographers Shelby Bella, Ashley Haguewood, Rachel Benevides, Andrea Calo Contributing Writers Sam Lauron, Jessi Devenyns, Sean Saldana, Gaudalupe Triana, Bethany Wales, Sommer Brugal, Alison Bryce, Chris Ferguson, Justin & Kayla Butts Distribution Brian Phillips, Will Bowling

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Publisher Nillo Studios, LLC

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It’s Your Community.

Be a Part Of It.

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Copyright Š 2016 Nillo Studios, LLC. EASTside Magazine is published by Nillo Studios, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without express written consent. Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice, but is rather considered informative. Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.

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7

ALL TRAILS LEAD YOU HOME.

With more than 1000 residents and homes from Central Texas’ best builders, Easton Park is a neighborhood designed for active Austinites.

When the community is complete, you’ll find 350+ acres of parks featuring a 13.5 mile trail system and our beautiful amenity center, The Union. With a resort-style pool and club-style fitness center, The Union is the perfect place to work out or chill out.

“THERE’S NO NEED TO NEED TO LEAVE TO GET THE EXERCISE YOU NEED.” Easton Park is known for stylish homes and an active resident community, and that’s no accident. In this master-planned community, you’ll find a running club, boot camp fitness classes, yoga, and more happening both outdoors in the parks and inside the beautiful club-style fitness center at The Union. “I love the access to all the exercise and health and wellness opportunities,” says Easton Park resident Brittany C. “There’s no need to leave to get the exercise you need.”

DREAM GYM COMES STANDARD The club-style fitness center at The Union was designed to accommodate a variety of workout styles. It has a group fitness room for yoga and HIITstyle classes, as well as a full array of machines, free weights, treadmills, cycles, ellipticals, and more. “I take my computer [to The Union], and they have the technology set up so I can do on-demand cycle classes,” says Easton Park resident Mario P. Outdoors, there’s an additional yoga lawn as well as lap lanes in the resort-style pool.

HIT THE TRAILS One of the residents’ favorite amenities at Easton Park is the awesome trail system. Whether you’re running, biking, or walking, the trails are a great way to get a workout outside. “We’re very outdoorsy, and I love to go running,” says Easton Park resident Brandy H. “Being able to walk out my front door and walk miles of trails is a huge bonus for me.”

There’s something for everyone—some of the trails have paved surfaces, while others consist of natural dirt and gravel pathways. “We love how environmentally conscience the community is with making sure the natural green space is preserved as much as possible or that natural park space is added back in after construction,” says Easton Park resident Kristine T. When everything is complete, the neighborhood will have more than 13.1 miles of planned trails running through the neighborhood.

Read more stories and see why people love Easton Park at NORTH eastonparkatx.com/blog

eastonparkatx.com The Union

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Union Park Overlook

NEWTON COLLINS ELEMENTARY

Union Park Loop 1.25 MI Union Park West Loop .5 MI Union Park East Loop

The neighborhood consists mostly of the mid-century architecture that’s associated with prosperity and the American middle class. The onestory homes with low-pitched roofs, large front lawns, and winding streets with shady oak trees add to its charm and invoke feelings of times when life operated at a slower pace. It’s no surprise that this part of town has been home to so many people who have helped shape Austin’s history.

eastside | local

An effort spearheaded by community members, the proposed district received 63% support among homeowners within its footprint, wellsurpassing the 51% support needed to move forward with the application process, according to The Austin Monitor. The initiative also received wide support from noteworthy organizations like Preservation Austin, the City of Austin's Equity Office, The Blackland Community Development Corporation, and The Austin Revitalization Authority.

A Historic Designation for East Austin

The RogersWashington-Holy Cross Neighborhood

Sean Saldana PHOTO BY Will Bowling

WORDS BY

After a large community effort, the City of Austin designates an East Austin neighborhood as one of its historic districts.

10 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

T

he Rogers-Washington-Holy Cross neighborhood, which has been home to some of Austin’s most prominent Black leaders like Jimmy Snell and T.C. Calhoun, has long been a historic part of East Austin. Most recently, that history has been signed into law.

Encompassing just a few blocks from East 21st Street and East Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard and first established in the 1950s, the Rogers-Washington-Holy Cross neighborhood has also been home to some of Austin’s most successful Black families for decades. Residents have included Tuskegee Airmen, Obama Administration cabinet members, and numerous local education leaders like Willie Mae Kirk.

The neighborhood has been called a “powerful symbolic response” to “racially restrictive covenants, redlining, prejudiced lenders, and other social and governmental barriers" facing Black Austinites after World War II, and it doesn’t take much to understand why.

Lori Martin, president of Preservation Austin, described the district as, “an early neighborhood developed by Black professionals for Black professionals” and went on to say that the area, “represents the strength and tenacity of many African American families who dedicated their lives to the education and uplifting of their children and their community.”

The effort’s first major test came on July 27 when it was officially reviewed by the Historic Landmark Commission. After over a dozen residents showed up to the meeting in support, the Commission unanimously recommended granting the area a historic designation.

From there, the application moved forward to the Planning Commission where a revised boundary map was reviewed and approved. The preservation efforts were finalized on September 3 when the Austin City Council signed an ordinance amending the city code and officially establishing the Rogers-Washington-Holy Cross Historic District.

During the Council meeting, one resident who spoke in favor said, "We envision generations of the families who founded this neighborhood staying or returning to raise children here sideby-side with new residents, putting down new roots.”

Did You Know? The new historic designation requires a Certificate of

Appropriateness to be issued before structures in the district can be demolished, undergo significant site work, or construction of a contributing building can begin.

find more at eastsideatx.com

Art+ entertainment

Dec +Jan 2020/21

12 art of

listening

A CLASSICAL RADIO STATION FINDS ITS NEW HOME IN EAST AUSTIN.

14 entertainment

HOW ONE LONGSTANDING THEATRE HAS ADAPTED AND CONTINUES TO THRIVE AS A CULTURAL HUB AMIDST CHAOS

eastside | art

Art For a Cause

Classically Complex Classical Music and the ‘Full Gamut of Human Emotions’ WORDS BY

Sommer Brugal Morales

PHOTOS BY Eric

For first-time listeners, the full spectrum and sound of classical music may come as a surprise.

T

here can be a preconceived idea about classical music and its perception. But classical music, in reality, “runs the full gamut of human emotions and experience,” explains Carla McElhaney, director of creative learning and artistic director at KFMA, Austin’s Classical Music Station. “There’s a depth there [that many] don’t realize,” she elaborates. “It’s so complex, but it doesn’t have to be explained.”

KFMA, an independent public classical radio station, was founded in 1967. Since then, it has grown to serve approximately 100,000 listeners and features a range of locally produced shows, including Classical Austin, which Carla suggests for new listeners. Hosted by Dianne Donovan, the show puts the spotlight on the artists and musicians who live in town.

But every show featured on KFMA is worth a listen.

“If there was one word to define our cultural taste around music, it would be eclectic,” says Carla. “Part of the Austin culture that I love is this reluctance to be defined and limited, and that’s reflected” in the music played throughout the day.

One thing KFMA does well is provide context for new and veteran listeners

12 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

alike. Hosts go the extra mile to explain a song’s origins, including any cultural influences. Carla explains that there are people hand-crafting the menu of songs to create a story for listeners, selecting the right piece to follow another. It’s the personal touch and attention to detail that make the station stand out in an often-saturated radio market that expands far beyond classical music.

“There’s a quietness about us that we’re not pushing ourselves on people.” Carla goes on to emphasize, “We don’t need to force our message on someone. We’re going to open the door and invite people in.”

She hopes that open invitation and unpretentious vibe will further support the station at its new home in East Austin.

Located in the Holly neighborhood, the new building will enable KFMA to be more than just a radio station but a cultural hub.

With its new space, she says, “KFMA can get back to its roots. It can bring people together to talk about shared experiences and their love of classical music.”

Contact:

41 Navasota St. info@kmfa.org kmfa.org

find more at eastsideatx.com

The station’s ode and love for its community are further exemplified through its music theater and recording studio at the new headquarters. The Draylen Mason Music Studio is named after the 17-year-old bassist who was killed in the 2018 package bombings.

Lynne Dobson and Greg Woolridge funded the more than 130-seat studio. According to Carla, the duo was close to the family and wanted to continue his legacy.

“It’s incredibly special,” she says, when it comes to “uniting people in a space that was built for things important to [Draylen].”

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13

eastside | entertainment

The Show Must Go On

Palace Theatre Getting Creative A

The Georgetown Palace Theatre Perseveres WORDS BY Sean

PHOTOS COURTESY Palace

Saldana Theatre

First built in 1925, the Palace Theatre started off by screening silent films.

Opened in Georgetown’s downtown square, the theatre quickly became one of the city’s premier entertainment centers.

14 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

few years after the theatre showed its first film with sound, it was reported that, “the new theatre was marked by record-breaking attendance” with no standing room available, according to a 1920s article in The Williamson County Sun. In 1936, the Palace was renovated and redesigned in the iconic art deco style it has become renowned for; and, for the next several decades, the theatre cemented itself as an important part of the City of Georgetown. By the early '90s, it had become the longest continuously operating theater in Williamson County.

There was, however, one problem, The Palace Theatre had fallen into disrepair. With aged equipment and decreasing revenues, she was listed for sale.

It didn’t take long for local residents to come to her rescue. In 1991, a group of citizens banded together, formed a nonprofit called George-

find more at eastsideatx.com

The Georgetown Palace Theatre's 2020-2021 season includes productions such as The Music of Motown, The Wizard of Oz, The Sound of Music, and Singing in The Rain. Visit their website for an extensive list of their outdoor entertainment options and shows this season or simply to donate to the organization.

town Palace Theatre, Inc., and purchased the property.

Since then, Georgetown Palace Theatre has become a focal point of arts and community for the Georgetown and Austin areas and has taken on the mission of providing an “affordable and accessible venue for musical and dramatic entertainment” in Central Texas.

Over the past three decades, the organization has undergone significant renovations, secured a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, a million-dollar donation from philanthropist Doug Smith, and launched several education programs and classes. According to the organization, it has granted over 1,600 scholarships.

Most noteworthy of all though, Georgetown Palace Theatre has put on over a hundred shows ranging from Broadway classics to seasonal performances by amateur actors who compete for roles through open auditions.

But like every arts organization, Palace Theatre has disproportionately been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Executive artistic director Ron Watson says, “We’ve gone through some painful times.

We’ve laid off some of our staff. The rest of us are working at 50%.”

Like so many times before, though, the theatre has refused to take these challenges lying down. In April, after shutdowns went into effect, the organization launched The Palace Plays On, a virtual event that featured over 40 free performances and an auction to help keep the theatre afloat while shutdown orders were in place. “In that first auction, we must have raised $23,000,” Ron says. “We’re in the arts, so we’re going to be creative.”

A few months later, after restrictions were lifted, the theatre reopened, hosting outdoor showings of popular movies, to give people a gathering place while still observ-

ing safety guidelines. Ron smiles, “We actually renamed our parking lot: the courtyard.”

“I bought an inflatable screen on Amazon, got the rights to show movies, and showed Grease. We had over 80 people at each showing,” he enthuses.

Throughout the fall, the theatre has slowly begun to increase its number of stage performances.

Ron says that as the organization continues to struggle financially, more government aid will be crucial to the Palace’s survival through the coming months.

TASTING ROOM

In the meantime though, the show must go on.

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15

eastside | events

8THINGS WE LOVE IN

DECEMBER JANUARY

&

Redeemer Presbyterian Church.

The Redeemer Choir will fill the room with songs uplifting the season. The festivities are patterned after the King’s College in Cambridge, England, which has held services annually since 1918.

redeemerpres.org | 2111 Alexander Ave.

Intro to Modern Calligraphy December 10, 6-8pm

Begin learning modern calligraphy with local calligrapher Jesilyn Kay. The workshop teaches participants the art of traditional modern calligraphy using pens dipped into ink.

Discover the proper way to hold the pen, how to create letters, and different techniques to become successful in the lettering art.

Tickets are $85. madeatcraft.com

| 4704 E Cesar Chavez St.

PrintAustin Festival

January 15-February 15, times vary PrintAustin’s annual festival is back in 2021. Various arts organizations are coming together for 10 days to bring light to the art of printmaking. Enjoy a hybrid festival offering both in-person printmaking focused experiences as well as virtual programming.

916 Springdale Rd. | printaustin.org/events

In the Ether

December 2-6, times TBA

Peppermint Parkway November 27-January 3

Cruise through Candy Cane Lane, Gingerbread Alley, ATXmas, Frozenland and more during Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of the Americas. The annual event has gone virtual this season and provides a one-mile driving attraction that will immerse visitors in millions of holiday lights, a six-story light show tree, and more. Tickets start at $35 per vehicle.

peppermintparkway.com | 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd.

16 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

Live-stream the excitement of attending a show at the theater inside your home with a showing of In the Ether by The University of Texas Theatre and Dance department. The show explores elements of cyborg and queer theories by challenging core notions of perceptions and existence in a cybernetic world. Tickets are a pay-what-youcan price with a minimum of $5.

theatredance.utexas.edu/event/ ether | Virtual Event

ATX Certified “Funny” Comedy Show January 15, 8-9:30pm

Enjoy a night of laughs at The Rolling Rooster’s Victory Bar & Grill location as B Smooth Ent presents ATX Certified “Funny” Comedy Show. Comedian and actor Lorenzo Cromwell, “Renny,” will take the stage to give a show that will keep the audience laughing all night. eventbrite.com

| 1104 E 11th St.

SFX Workshop Happy Hour December 17, 6-8pm

Combine happy hour with an exciting workshop during Austin School of Film’s Sips, Space, and Star Stuff Happy Hour. Learn galaxy makeup techniques while enjoying an artful curated mocktail.

Tickets are $25 and must be purchased by December 7. The price includes a SFX makeup kit to use during the workshop.

austinfilmschool.org/play-athome | 2200 Tillery St.

Martin Luther King Celebration January 20, 9am

Participate in the annual MLK march and festival to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy while uplifting diversity and multiculturalism throughout the city. The march kicks off at the MLK statue on UT’s campus and ends on the south steps of the Capitol. The festival begins at 11:15am and will include vendors and local artists.

Participants are asked to donate canned goods or non-perishable food items to the Central Texas Food Bank. mlkcelebration.com

| 804 Chalmers Ave.

Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols December 24, 4:30 & 6pm

Celebrate Christmas Eve with the telling of the Christmas story, carols, and songs for the holidays at

find more at eastsideatx.com

WORDS BY Alison

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eastsideatx.com

17

HEART, STRENGTH, AND SOUL

REASONS TO

18 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

find more at eastsideatx.com

WHEN THINKING ABOUT A COMMUNITY, PEOPLE ARE AT THE FOREFRONT. WHETHER IT'S A CITY, A NEIGHBORHOOD, OR EVEN A GROUP OF FRIENDS, PEOPLE MAKE UP A COMMUNITY, AND THAT'S NO DIFFERENT IN EAST AUSTIN. FROM THE PEOPLE WHO USED THEIR VOICES TO BUILD THIS COMMUNITY TO THE ONES WHO KEEP IT GOING THROUGH DETERMINATION, CREATIVITY, AND SACRIFICE, THEIR STORIES, EXPERIENCES, AND VALUES ARE WOVEN INTO THE FABRIC HERE. OVER THE YEARS, WE HAVE HAD THE HONOR OF LISTENING TO COUNTLESS COMMUNITY LEADERS, BUSINESS OWNERS, NONPROFIT PROS, ARTISTIC MINDS, AND CHANGEMAKERS SHARE THEIR STORIES. NOW, WE’RE REVISITING A FEW OF THE FAVORITES. THIS COLLECTION OF STORIES REPRESENTS THE HEART, STRENGTH, AND SOUL OF EAST AUSTIN AND MAKES UP JUST A FRACTION OF THE REASONS WHY WE LOVE THE EASTSIDE.

THE EASTSIDE Words by Sam Lauron Photos by Eric Morales

oices The

that Made East Austin

Wilhelmina Delco

“ALL OF AUSTIN’S DIVERSITY IS RIGHT HERE.” A few years ago when we interviewed Wilhelmina Delco, the first Black legislator from District 50, she shed light on a number of important topics that relate to East Austin and its community. Mrs. Delco moved to Austin in 1957 and has lived in the same home just south of MLK Boulevard for 59 years. She shares that while she wouldn’t live anywhere else in Austin today, initially she didn’t have a choice. It used to be that no African American was allowed to buy a house or live anywhere west of I-35. If they tried and were caught, the city shut off the property’s utilities,

forcing Black Austinites to seek a better quality of life on Austin's Eastside.

Fast forward 50 years, and she now fears with so many new people flooding into the area that “one day, we might wake up and never know Black people were here,” she states, while talking about the bike lane that had just been constructed on MLK Boulevard.

East Austin’s sense of community is extremely important to Mrs. Delco. While there are many things she doesn’t want it to lose, one main thing is the annual traditions and celebrations such as the annual Juneteenth celebration which serves as an example of how longtime residents and newcomers alike can learn about and preserve the stories, people, places, and events of East Austin’s early inhabitants. Read the full story at eastsideatx. com/wilhelmina-delco.

Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette

PRESIDENT OF HUSTON-TILLOTSON UNIVERSITY

Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette has been leading the way at Huston-Tillotson University as President and CEO since 2015. Being both African American and female, Dr. Burnette is no stranger to swimming upstream against the social current. She attributes her grit to both her upbringing in inner city Cleveland, Ohio, and the inherent need for women to work harder to rise above in their careers.

When EASTside Magazine spoke to her, she shared that she has dedicated a large portion of her work to helping young women harness their full potential. “As I have gotten older and I’ve clearly progressed in my career, I try to instill a sense of confidence in young women that I didn’t know I had,” she explains.

Read more of Colette Burnette’s story at eastsideatx.com/ colette-burnette and to read more about Huston-Tillotson, eastsideatx.com/huston-tillotson-university.

John Aielli

FROM BROADCASTS TO BOOKS

For more than 50 years, John Aielli has been a steady source of familiarity on the Austin airwaves. Though the KUTX personality never intended for radio to become a lifelong career, his spirited dedication to sharing cultural commentary and all of the goings-on around Austin has cemented his presence in the city as a legend, and we’re proud to call him a fellow Eastsider. eastsideatx.com/john-aielli

Delores Duffie COMMUNITY LEADER

A prominent figure in the Cherrywood neighborhood and beyond, Delores Duffie is the embodiment of community.

When we interviewed her, she had been in her Cherrywood home for 51 years and had arguably built her surrounding community to what it is today through her many roles over the years: community activist, chair of Precinct 127, president of the Maplewood Elementary PTA, and a stint in the county attorney’s office.

Throughout her life, Mrs. Duffie has been consistently active in the East Austin community. The Delores Duffie Recreation Center was named in her honor, and if there were people who needed a voice, Mrs. Duffie has always been there to be a voice to the voiceless. eastsideatx.com/delores-duffie

rts

& Culture

Ballet Afrique

FROM CHINA TO EAST AUSTIN At Ballet Afrique Contemporary Dance Company, the culture of African diaspora meets classical ballet. East Austin native China Smith, founding executive director of Ballet Afrique, opened her dance studio in 2008, with a goal that was two-fold. One was to explore African American culture through dance, and the other was to create something that wasn’t available when she was young.

China believes that art can create avenues to more opportunities, and her goal is to contribute to the youthful art community through her studio. She says, “I’m in [East Austin] because I’m from this community. I grew up in this community, and I wanted to provide something I didn’t have access to when I was growing up.” Read more of Ballet Afrique’s story at eastsideatx.com/from-china-to-east-austin.

< Jennifer Balkan

Eli Halpin

As one of the founders and instructors at Atelier Dojo, a fine arts school, Jennifer gives us a glimpse into her creative process, her light-filled studio, and her story. With a Ph.D. in sociology, Jennifer’s fascination with the human psyche directly translates to her paintings which focus exclusively on imaginative figures and life-sized portraits. eastsideatx.com/jennifer-balkan

Growing up in Anchorage, Alaska, Eli was surrounded by the majesty of untamed nature, and she learned to live by its rules.

As a result, her larger-than-life whimsical oil paintings are filled with animals depicted in a rainbow of brushstrokes that celebrate nature’s inherent division between beauty and savagery. Her work can now be viewed at her colorful studio, Eli Halpin Gallery. eastsideatx.com/eli-halpin

BENEATH THE MASK

Best of the 6 best

We’ve shared countless 6 Best lists over the years, but these were just a few of our reader's favorites. To enjoy the tastiest empanadas, discover the thoughtfully-designed restrooms, and get a fresh cut and shave, visit these Eastside establishments.

We guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

22 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

NATURE AT PLAY

6 Best Empanadas

6 Best Restrooms

6 Best Barbershops

Cafe Nena’i Casa Colombia Buenos Aires Café Artessano mmmpanadas Mr. Natural

Suerte Native Hostel Alamo Drafthouse Kitty Cohen’s The Butterfly Bar L’Oca d’Oro

Barbon’s Barbershop Marshall’s Barbershop R Todd Fisher The Rosewood SHED Barber and Supply Kane’s Barbershop

find more at eastsideatx.com

Mi Madre’s MORNING COFFEE

After nearly 30 years of serving the community, Mi Madre’s is one of the oldest brick-and-mortar restaurants on Manor Road.

Founded in 1990 by Aurelio and Rosa Torres, Mi Madre’s has grown with the neighborhood.

What began as a small mom and pop eatery has become an Austin staple with several extensions to the brand, including their next door neighbors, School House Pub, run by the Torres’ son Edgar Torres and Vida Pura Juicery run by his daughter, Veronica Torres. eastsideatx.com/mi-madres 2201 Manor Rd.

Boggy Creek Farm

trength

FAMILY LEGACY

that Keeps on Going

Estrada’s Cleaners FAMILY LEGACY

As one of the longest-running businesses on East 7th Street, Estrada’s Cleaners has played a central role in East Austin’s history.

The patriarch of the entire operation, Fidel Estrada, Jr., worked for various dry cleaners before opening his own in 1960. He began their operation in the backroom of a garage and gas station on Webberville Road before eventually opening up shop at their current location in 1962.

When Fidel retired several years ago, he left his longtime business in the hands of his son, Danny Estrada.

Growing up at Estrada’s, Danny was witness to the influential business leader in his father. Like other well-known businessmen in the community, such as Rudy Cisneros of Cisco’s and Roy Velasquez of Roy’s Taxis, Fidel was very involved in East Austin’s community and the politics that surrounded it. These leaders were the voices for the rest of the community at the time, and their legacy will live on. eastsideatx.com/ family-legacy-estradas | 2618 E 7th St.

FAve Articles:

The History Lives On 1. V is for Victory 2. Frederick Douglass Exhibition 3. Blacklands Community 4. Street Names 5. Chase: Architecting History

Larry Butler and Carol Ann Sayle were pioneers of the urban farming industry. As one of the first urban farms in the United States, Boggy Creek Farm was unlike anything Austinites had ever experienced in 1992. As both a farm stand and historic farmhouse with rich history, Boggy Creek Farm regularly gives tours of the property, educating people not only on the process of urban farming but also on the history that’s rooted there. Visit their weekly farm stand, and read more about Boggy Creek Farm at eastsideatx.com/family-legacy-boggy-creek-farm. 3414 Lyons Rd.

10 Most

Read & Shared Stories 1. Depeche Mode Comes to Austin 2. Austin Music Foundation 3. Daily Bread 4. Best Barbershops 5. Community First!

Village 6. Jennifer Balkan 7. Best Summer Camps 8. Rockstar Bagels 9. Family Legacy 10. Best Happy Hours

5 Most

Iconic Homes on the Eastside 1. Barr Mansion 2. Sallie Johnson House 3. Home is Where the Heart Is (Cherrywood) 4. If Walls Could Talk (Lindemann Home) 5. Perfect Wall House (Matt Risinger)

< Intero Ristorante ENTIRELY ITALIAN AT INTERO

Creative

ATS

Located in the East Cesar Chavez neighborhood, Intero—which means “entire” or “complete” in Italian—approaches upscale Italian in a warm, understated way. Combining artisan elements like delicate chocolates with farm-to-table offerings and locally-sourced ingredients, the family-run Italian restaurant is an inviting community space, while their attention to detail and service shine through every bite and their layers of flavor are always a comforting surprise.

Chocolatier Krystal Craig and her husband, Chef Ian Thurwachter, opened Intero in early 2018. The team not only chose East Austin for nostalgic reasons—Krystal grew up with the Meza family of nearby Juan in a Million—but also for the area’s focus on art and community. It’s clear that this team has accomplished that unpretentious, authentic community atmosphere that they set out to create. eastsideatx.com/entirely-italian-at-intero 2612 E Cesar Chavez St., Suite 105

Austin Secret Kitchen > EAT, DRINK, & BE MERRY

In a dining scene as creative as Austin, it’s simply not enough to dole out delicious dishes. Creating a memorable experience is also key for any food concept trying to make its mark, and Austin Secret Kitchen does both. Read more about Austin Secret Kitchen at eastsideatx.com/ austin-secret-kitchen | @austinsecretkitchen

< Micklethwait Craft Meats BEST BARBECUE IN THE EAST

Fourth generation Austinite, Tom Micklethwait, has spent his entire life in Austin—and a majority of it on the Eastside. Though he opened his namesake barbecue truck on Rosewood Avenue with his own recipes made from scratch, he recently shared how he’s adapted his business to better serve and grow with the community. Moreover, Tom has reinvented the wheel and taken on a new barbecue concept with Taco Bronco food truck which is currently operating out of their main location on Rosewood Avenue. eastsideatx.com/micklethwait-craft-meats-best-barbecue-in-the-east 1309 Rosewood Ave. | craftmeatsaustin.com

24 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

find more at eastsideatx.com

Bird Bird Biscuit BIRDS OF A FEATHER

Since opening in 2018, Bird Bird Biscuit has quickly earned the love and patronage of many Eastsiders with a craving for breakfast and lunch biscuits. Head Chef and co-owner, Brian Batch, is the creator behind these signature sandwiches and the “genius of Bird Bird,” according to partner, Ryan McElroy. eastsideatx.com/bird-bird-biscuit 2701 Manor Rd.

nventive Sips

Suerte

SPIRIT, SOUL, & SUERTE

With a focus on masa, chefs Fermín Núñez and Sam Hellmann-Mass created a menu for Suerte that combines traditional Mexican dishes with the creativity of East Austin.

Their masa filled a void in the Austin food world, both as an ingredient in their tortillas and what Fermín calls the “canvas of Mexican cooking,” as he explains the concepts behind the depths of flavors on their menu. eastsideatx.com/spirit-soul-suerte 1800 E 6th St.

La Holly

<

COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Vixen’s Wedding FOOD: A FUSION OF CULTURES

Serving Goan and Portuguese-inspired dishes, Vixen’s Wedding has brought a unique dining concept to East Austin. The fusion cuisine is underscored by the vibrant interiors that make up the East Sixth Street restaurant concept inside Arrive Hotel. Read the full story at eastsideatx.com/vixens-wedding.

1813A E. 6th St.

With an affordable and highly curated cocktail menu, which includes the vibrant frozen margarita, La Sancha, La Holly aims to be a purveyor of community. Owner Simon Madera kept their Tejano neighborhood top of mind when crafting the bar. “It’s important for us to keep our menu affordable so that the community can keep coming here,” says Simon when

talking about their intent to honor the neighborhood as they carefully craft cocktails with simplicity and authenticity. eastsideatx.com/ la-holly-la-sancha 2500 E 6th St.

Hillside Farmacy

THE TURMERIC Located in a historic building that previously operated as Hillside Drugstore in the ‘50s, Hillside Farmacy offers elevated comfort food classics alongside a creative cocktail

menu. We showcased one such cocktail, The Turmeric, as part of Sip Back and Relax feature story which even made the cover of the 2018 Escapes Issue. eastsideatx. com/sip-back-relax 1209 E. 11th St.

Curcuma

GOLDEN MYLK

Chef and owner of Curcuma, Rachel Musquiz, is a trailblazer for being the first in Austin to offer Golden Mylk, an all-natural beverage made with turmeric.

Their signature drink is among many other nutritious, medicinal, and delicious plantbased, vegan items on the menu. eastsideatx. com/golden-mylk-curcuma | 2324 E Cesar Chavez St.

< Juniper THE TRIAD NEGRONI

Though Negronis have graced traditional cocktail menus for ages, this drink has seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly as a go-to summer sip.

We highlighted the high-end Negroni served at upscale Italian restaurant, Juniper, because though there are a thousand renditions, there is nothing quite like Juniper’s version.

Read more about Juniper at eastsideatx. com/juniper. 2400 E Cesar Chavez St. #304

FASTEST MOVING ISSUES

BY YEAR:

Since its conception, EASTside Magazine has had a consistently high pick-up rate. So much so, we have a hard time keeping racks full and rarely have any issues left at the end of each month.

Farm Fresh (2016)

Barbecue (2017)

Escapes (2018)

{the authentic side of austin}

Home (2019)

Comforts (2020) eastsideatx.com

25

What We

iss Richard Overton SUPERCENTENARIAN MAY 11, 1906 - DEC 27, 2018

Born outside of Bastrop in 1906 to Jim Gentry Overton and Elizabeth Franklin, Richard Overton moved to East Austin in 1945, when he bought his home for $4K. “That was a lot of money back in those days,” he noted.

26 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

Fans and visitors came to his door almost daily, and he graciously welcomed them in as they’d take pictures, shake his hand, and drop off some cigars or whiskey. Inevitability, he was asked about his secret to longevity. He would scoff, say he doesn’t know, and chalk it up to good luck. However, the amount of goodwill Mr. Overton created in his life is evident in the smiles of anyone who came near him. Read Mr. Overton’s full story at eastsideatx.com/richard_overton.

DID YOU KNOW?

Hamilton Avenue, the street where Mr. Overton lived, was given an honorary name of Richard Overton Avenue in 2017. And in 2019, nearly a year after he passed, Austin City Council further memorialized his life by deeming his house historic.

find more at eastsideatx.com

<

Mr. Richard Overton was a supercentenarian, World War II veteran, and an East Austin legend. The homegrown hero was celebrated around the country for being the oldest living veteran before his passing at the age of 112 on December 27, 2018. In our interview with him in 2016, he shared a few of the things that remained constant in his long life. He smoked 12 cigars a day, he ate ice cream every night, and he was dedicated to the community where he lived for well over half a century.

He recalled seeing his first car at a time when East Austin only had dirt roads and vividly remembered the Austin streetcar that carried passengers east to 12th and Chicon. He married twice, sadly losing each of his wives to cancer, and never had any children.

Nubian Queen SOUL QUEEN

For years, Lola Stephens-Bell served the unseen Austin community at her signature place called Nubian Queen. Lola opened Nubian Queen on Rosewood Avenue just as a flood left her homeless. She then dedicated all of her time to serving Creole meals and compassion to those in need. Though the Nubian Queen moved from its longtime Rosewood location to Taylor, Texas, in 2017, Lola’s generous spirit and colorful Cajun cooking left a lasting impact in the community.

Read more about Nubian Queen at eastsideatx.com/nubian-queen.

CHEERS TO A LONG RUN Through the years East Austin has been home to handfuls of diverse and creative watering holes, such as Craftsman, Weathered Up, and Buzz Mill Coffee-Shady, plus stunning restaurants and flavorful diners, such as the ones listed below. To read more about some of these places we had come to know and love, read below and visit eastsideatx.com for even more.

<

Unit D

The wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza at Manor Road’s Unit D Pizzeria had a mod atmosphere and great service. Their ability to deliciously serve up creative flavors and their familyfriendly pricing are certainly missed by their Cherrywood and Austin Heights neighbors. However, there is good news; owners of the pasta food truck, Patrizi's, maintained the space for their new Cajun concept, Vic & Al’s. eastsideatx.com/a-new-standard-in-pizza | eastsideatx. com/patrizis-austin

Blue Dahlia Bistro

Springdale Farm Opened in 2009 by Glenn and Paula Foore, Springdale Farm was an essential building block of East Austin’s urban farm scene. The family-run farm, which was located on three acres off Springdale Road, provided fresh produce to longtime establishments, like the Driskill Grill and Justine’s, and served locals with their weekly farm stand. The farm also played a major part in the East Austin Urban Farm Tour. Eden East chef and owner, Sonya Cote, purchased the farm from the Foores in 2018 and has now moved the farm to Bastrop while Eden East has moved west, now known as Eden West. Read more at eastsideatx. com/a-healthy-edge-sustainable-food-center and eastsideatx.com/edeneast.

Blue Dahlia Bistro brought a tiny slice of Europe to the Eastside. The menu featured French bistro classics like Salad Niçoise and fresh tartines. Though Blue Dahlia closed its East Austin location, the restaurant can still be enjoyed in Westlake and San Marcos. eastsideatx.com/a-bistro-forall-weather

East Side Cafe

Opened in 1988 by Elaine Martin and Dorsey Barger, Eastside Cafe was a pioneer of East Austin’s dining scene and a staple in the community. The restaurant served farm-to-table classics until Elaine retired in 2019 and sold the space to Suerte

owner, Sam Hellman-Mass, who has plans to keep their gardens blooming while beginning his own restaurant concept, staying true to its roots.

Wax That

Another Cherrywood area establishment we sadly said goodbye to, Wax That, was a boutique waxing studio founded by Lorie Young. Focused on providing a holistic wellness experience, Wax That closed its doors in July 2020. eastsideatx.com/askan-expert-wax-that/

Soma Vida The Hightower

The Hightower opened in 2014 and served New American dishes and creatively layered flavors. The East 7th establishment closed in 2019, converting to a new concept, Troublemaker, which served as a bar, burrito restaurant, and record shop. Troublemaker closed in June 2020. eastsideatx.com/the-hightower

Founded by Laura Shook Guzman, Soma Vida made waves as the first coworking space in Austin and the first female-founded coworking space in Texas. After 12 great years, the wellness-focused coworking community closed its doors. Yet, Laura is still practicing, and many of her coworking colleagues are scattered about the city doing the same. eastsideatx.com/ connect-collaborate

in.gredients Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop

Best known for cupcakes, the second location of Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop popped up on Manor Road in 2014. However, patrons will now have to visit the original location of Sugar Mama’s on South 1st as owner Olivia O’Neal has converted the Manor Road shop into Lola’s Donuts, a walk-up donut shop. eastsideatx.com/sugar-mamas

{the authentic side of austin}

As the country’s first zerowaste grocery store, in.gredients was one-of-a-kind.

Though the longtime Manor Road establishment closed in 2018, juice and smoothie shop Vida Pura is carrying on the healthy message as the current tenants providing fresh meals and healthy juices. in.gredients: eastsideatx. com/unpackaging-food-consumption-in-austin Vida Pura: eastsideatx.com/ vida-pura-juicery

eastsideatx.com

27

Casa Marianella WHERE HOPE LIVES

During the past 31 years, East Austin’s own Casa Marianella has lived up to the best American ideals, providing hope and assistance to those starting a new life in America.

How the Eastside

ives

Casa Marianella, or simply Casa, is an emergency homeless shelter that serves recently-arrived immigrants and asylum seekers from around the world.

An Interfaith Task Force opened Casa Marianella in 1986 to provide hospitality to the wave of people fleeing their homes during the Central American wars of the 1980s. What started as one home providing shelter for men, women, and children has grown into 13 homes that provide shelter and transitional housing for more than 100 people at any given time.

Casa’s staff of more than 20, along with the work of hundreds of volunteers and community support, helps immigrants transition into their new life in America by offering food and shelter, English classes, and assistance finding work, among many other services which are desperately needed when rebuilding a new life from scratch in a foreign city.

To read more about Casa Marianella go to eastsideatx.com/where-hope-lives.

821 Gunter St. | casamarianella.org

Community First! Village MOBILE LOAVES & FISHES

Community First! Village is a 51-acre master planned community run by Austin-based nonprofit Mobile Loaves & Fishes. The village was developed to provide affordable, permanent housing and support for the chronically homeless in Central Texas. In 2020, Community First! partnered with ICON, the company that constructed the world’s first 3D-printed home, to create a series of leading-edge 3D-printed homes for the community. Read more of the story at eastsideatx.com/community-first-village and to read about ICON's tiny homes, visit eastsideatx.com/austins-new-iconic-home and eastsideatx.com/local-companies-partner-to-provide-3d-printedhomes-for-the-homeless. 9301 Hog Eye Rd. | mlf.org

28 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

find more at eastsideatx.com

Forklift Danceworks CITY DANCE

At Forklift Danceworks, creative directors and choreographers Allison Orr and Krissie Marty reimagine the work of a variety of city departments and reinterpret their everyday functions into a beautiful study and expression of form and motion. The award-winning dance group led a three-year artistic residency called My Park, My Pool, My City in partnership with the City of Austin Parks & Recreation Department Aquatics Division that focused on East Austin pools, their history, and their care as an initiative to raise awareness for these community staples. eastsideatx.com/ forklift-danceworks | forkliftdanceworks.org

Urban Roots MORE THAN A FARM

Set on three acres of fertile floodplain a mile east of Highway 183, Urban Roots is a youth development organization that uses food and farming to teach life, job, and leadership skills through farm internships. The internships give students ages 14-17 the chance to grow food and understand its beginnings. The farm also produces more than 30,000 pounds of food a year which is then donated to local food pantries or is sold at farmers’ markets. eastsideatx.com/urban-roots-austin 7651 Delwau Ln.

Our Favorite Stories

TEAM PICKS J. Leonardi’s (Jun/Jul 2020) Archie (Dec/Jan 2018) Colette Burnette (Fall 2018) Nubian Queen (Spring 2017) Sallie Johnson House (Fall 2017) Murals Downtown (Jun/Jul 2020) Helm Boots (Oct/Nov 2016) Daily Bread (Apr/May 2018) W. Delco (Aug/Sep 2016) East Austin Street Names (Spring 2019)

J. Leonardi’s

FAMILY, COMMUNITY, BBQ

J. Leonardi’s is driven by the community.

Keeping with that, the barbecue trailer began donating sandwiches to school children every Tuesday and Thursday when Austin ISD shut down in March 2020. Owner Jerome Leonardi says, “I have kids at home, and I know how empty my fridge is. I can only imagine how empty our neighbor’s fridges are, too.” There’s more than one reason this tasty barbecue joint earned its spot in both of EASTside’s barbecue issues over the last five years. eastsideatx.com/j-leonardis-best-barbecue-inthe-east | 1124 E 11th St.

...to be continued.

EDITOR’S PICKS Nubian Queen Mr. Overton Eli Halpin Colette Burnette Secret Kitchen La Holly Cecilia Claire Jennifer Balkan Multigenerational Businesses

Special promotion

WHEN THEY LEARN, WE LEARN.

Montessori schools have a track record of being exceptionally successful, and now there is one centrally located, within walking distance to many neighbors.

L

otus Montessori founder Amilyn Houghton knows the importance of a nurturing educational environment. Amilyn began her Montessori journey as a preschooler and credits her confidence and persistence in learning to the Montessori method. After completing her undergraduate work in Early Childhood Development, she set out to bring the Montessori approach to her community. Her early experience in the Montessori classroom shapes her outlook to this day and inspires her to instill that same confidence within her Lotus Montessori students. She knows the value that the approach has and hopes to enrich the lives of her students and their families.

When Lotus Montessori opened in 2018 in the Cherrywood neighborhood, they set out to curate a unique environment that meets not only the needs of their students but also their community. Lotus strives to inspire and support preschool children in their community to live up to their highest potential.

What is Montessori? Montessori is an approach to learning that puts student curiosity first. The prepared Montessori environment is comprised of four general areas: practical life, sensorial, language and mathematics. Botany, geography, culture, and the physical sciences are embedded within all areas of the environment, giving children the essential keys for understanding 30 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

their whole world. In a Montessori classroom, teachers support their students’ natural drive to learn. Through this method, Lotus strives to fulfill their students’ basic human need of deep connection to each other, the environment, and community.

As Lotus’s name suggests, their preschool curriculum is a fusion of Montessori, yoga, and fine arts, providing children with a “whole-child experiential learning” environment. The children and teachers are on a path together.

At Lotus, the classroom is a space where students and teachers are constantly growing, staying curious, and pushing the boundaries of dreams. Teachers work to see the world through the children’s eyes, and it is with this perspective that Lotus fulfills their mission to constantly be teaching, learning, moving and growing in the world.

Lotus combines the best philosophy and practices of the Montessori method while awakening mind-body awareness through yoga. Music, art, drama, and other fine arts activities enrich the soul and complete their mission to deliver a powerful, caring, and developmentally appropriate environment which meets the needs of their young students. Where most Montessori schools have large classes, Lotus creates a safe, clean environment with smaller class sizes that allow teachers to connect with and nurture each individual child.

As the community of parents and neighborhood community grows, so does Lotus. They continue to add staff and students with the intention of providing the highest quality of education for their community as they grow and evolve with the needs of their neighborhood and its families. find more at eastsideatx.com

THE BENEFITS OF MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Children advance quickly. Parents who love the Montessori approach rave about how quickly even young children advance in terms of selfesteem and academic abilities. They also say that Montessori-educated children tend to be self-motivated, independent learners.

Children develop and learn at their own pace. Children aren’t compared to one another or forced to compete, be it for rewards, accolades, or attention. Instead, they’re encouraged to collaborate and support one another.

Teachers respect children and encourage independence. Children are left to themselves; grown-ups rarely interfere with kids’ activities, respecting children’s intelligence and ability to master many real-life skills.

The Montessori environment is calm and inviting. Children spend their day in a calm, orderly environment; as a result children become less stressed, are inspired and happy at school.

Contact: lotusmontessoriatx.com lotusmontessoriatx@gmail.com (512) 296-7162 2610 Manor Rd

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THE BRIGHT

side

OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

Year round, EASTside Magazine writes about notable individuals and groups in business, education, and nonprofit fields. Once a year, however, we have the pleasure of pulling out all the stops to introduce you to the dozens of folks who work tirelessly to make East Austin a vibrant, creative, diverse, and compelling place to live, eat, drink, work, and play.

As a community, we are fortunate to have many entrepreneurs and business professionals whose talents have a positive impact on our community.

EASTside Magazine invites you to meet some of the faces behind those local businesses. They are leaders in their field. They are game-changers. They are the faces of East Austin.

Photos by Shelby Bella & Eric Morales

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THE BRIGHT

side

OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The FaceS of

BARBON’S Barbershop EAST AUSTIN SARITA & CLARITA SANCHEZ, LEAD BARBER + OPERATIONS + FOUNDERS HAYLEY ROSENBERG, CASSANDRA JOSHI, BARBER CREW ELISABETH GRISWOLD, SHOP BOOKING Welcome BACK TO BARBON’S BARBERSHOP

If you find yourself driving up the hill on East 7th and Chicon streets, you’ve probably seen Barbon’s Barbershop, an Austin original taking Austin’s barbershop scene by storm. Founded in 2017 by sisters Clarita and Sarita Sanchez, Barbon’s hit the ground running and has no intention of slowing down. Even though 2020 has brought its challenges, there is no obstacle this crew of talented women can’t overcome.

Barbon’s is committed to giving every guest the best

quality service and superb craftsmanship in the city, all while keeping safety in mind. Offering a classic menu of services, including hot towel shaves, beard trims, and an impressive selection of local libations, Barbon’s is bound to be your new favorite Eastside barbershop.

Barbon’s was voted Best Barbershop by Austin Monthly in 2019 and 2020 as part of their ‘Best of ATX’ issue.

They are open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 am - 5 pm.

(512) 284-7125 | BARBONSBARBERSHOP.COM | 1912 E 7th ST., STE C. | @BARBONSATX

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THE BRIGHT

side

OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Fast Food Done Right The Flyrite Team Welcome to flyrite on East 7th

When we opened Flyrite, we set out with a mission to provide a convenient, all welcoming, on-the-go food option that tastes great and makes you feel good about

what you are putting in your body! We believe that fast food should be "real food made with real ingredients.”

That philosophy doesn’t just apply to our food. We only work with and source from companies that have a similar vision and share our belief in the bigger picture: the health and sustainability of our planet itself.

We also believe that real food doesn’t have to be so complicated; that’s why we keep Flyrite’s environment fun, with real furniture, great music and local beer and wine.

It’s Real. Good.

flyritechicken.com | 512.284.8014 | 2129 E 7th Street | @flyritechicken

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THE BRIGHT

side

OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Cosmetic Dentistry Mark Sweeney, DDS Welcome to Austin Dental Spa

For more than 40 years, Austin Dental Spa has been changing smiles and bringing cutting-edge dentistry to Austin. Dr. Mark Sweeney, owner and chief dentist of Austin Dental Spa and a University of Texas alum, was born in Wharton, Texas, and is a proud Texan through and through.

Dr. Mark, as he is known to his patients, loves what he does, loves people, and is committed to making a difference in their lives. Patients are quickly put at ease with his trademark sense of humor and easygoing demeanor.

Here’s why Austin loves Dr. Mark and his team: • A trailblazer in the cosmetic dentistry field, Dr. Mark is the recipient of numerous national awards for his Smile Makeovers.

• Austinite awarded him First Place for Best Cosmetic Dentist & Best Dentist in Austin in the Statesman’s Best of the Best 2020.

• He and his staff use only the highest quality materials and the latest technology in a nurturing, spa-like setting for the best experience dentistry has to offer.

• Joining the team in 2013, Dr. Jordan Slagter brings expertise in dental implants, grafting, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry.

Austin Dental Spa goes above and beyond to keep their patients and team members safe and healthy. “Safety and the health, wellness, and comfort of our patients are always our top priority,” says Dr. Mark,“and even more so during these challenging times.”

Austin Dental Spa’s motto remains the same today as it has through the years: “Change Your Smile, Change Your Life.” Call today to experience what Dr. Mark’s patients are talking about!

(512) 452-9296 austindentalspa.com 3305 Northland Dr Suite #515 @austindentalspa

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THE BRIGHT

side

OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Easy Button Mortgages Tiffany hentrup Welcome to UFCu Mortgage Loans

As a local, knowledgeable, experienced resource, Tiffany makes mortgage lending a breeze. From first time homebuyers to luxury clients, time and time again her borrowers are amazed at how easy the process is made for them.

As an Eastside homeowner herself, Tiffany is intimately aware of the importance of financing a home and, therefore,

works to understand borrowersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; specific needs to ensure they are supported throughout the homebuying process.

From offering advice, helping clients research financing options, Tiffany makes it her mission to go above and beyond. Her goal is to make sure that clients not only get their dream home but also find the entire process smooth and efficient. Because of her commitment to client satisfaction, Tiffany enjoys significant repeat business and referrals--even the realtors she partners with remark on how well she works with borrowers.

Tiffany has been recognized by the Austin Business Journal as a Top Producer 2013-2020 and UFCU Mortgage has been recognized as the #1 Mortgage Lender by the ABJ 2016-2020.

(512) 789-8778 | ufcu-tiffanyhentrup.com | thentrup@ufcu.org | 8303 N Mopac Mortgage loan officer: NMLS# 509718 | UFCU Mortgage services: nmls# 441215

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THE BRIGHT

side

OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Home Workspaces Kyle Walker & Bryan Rangel Welcome to Your backyard Office

After building and remodeling homes in Austin for the last ten years, Kyle Walker and Brian Rangel have partnered to introduce a new type of construction firm.

Amidst the ongoing redefinition of what “work” looks like,

Backyard Office is the first local business dedicated solely to turnkey, site-built home offices.

A concrete foundation, electrical service, insulation, a fully finished interior, and a high efficiency HVAC system are always included. Clients are able to choose from one of several esthetically pleasing designs or go for a fully customized design solution tailored to individual needs and goals. You can be working distraction-free just four weeks after order, and the all-in price is probably less than the car you previously used to commute ($18,500 for standard 10’x12’ model). Their team can help you get back to work.

(512) 400-4020 | kyle@backyardoffice.com | backyardoffice.com | @backyard_office

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THE BRIGHT

side

OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Real Estate Expertise Lindsay Harris Broker Associate at Compass

As a proud East Austin resident since 2004, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been in real estate since nearly every home in 78702 was under $150,000. At the time, I was pregnant with my first son and looking for a way to pay off my mounting student loan debt. By the grace of God, I managed to land a zero-down mortgage on my first home on Canterbury Street. In two years, I parlayed the profit on the sale of that first home into multiple properties.

In the last sixteen years, I have bought and sold dozens of homes. I am still humbled by the life that this job has afforded me.

As a single mom with two teenage sons, I want women to know that anything is possible. I love to represent buyers and sellers; but more than anything, I love to inspire my clients to reach their dreams and believe in themselves.

Knowledge eliminates fear, and fear is the greatest roadblock to achievement. I am here as a resource and mentor to my community, whether you are buying, selling, refinancing, collaborating, creating a partnership, needing a second opinion, or just brainstorming. After assessing the overall financial situation of my clients, I love zeroing in on what best suits their goals and maximizes their bottom line.

(512) 784-2163 lindsay.harris@compass.com lindsayharrisrealestate.com @lindsayharrisrealestate

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2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Commercial Real Estate DeLea Becker, Owner + broker Welcome to Beck-Reit Commercial Real Estate

East Austin is forever the heart and soul of Austin. The history, community, and culture of the area have forever impacted Austin for the better. This creative culture is what draws people in today: to live, work, play, and stay.

Watching this community change over the years, founder of Beck-Reit Commercial DeLea Becker’s goal has remained the same: keep East Austin’s buildings as thoughtful to their surroundings as possible. Through careful and creative remodeling and period updates to old buildings, her desire is to keep the character of the commercial spaces and homes that have been a cornerstone of East Austin. “We breathe new life into the original property again for the future without disregarding the past,” DeLea notes.

The growth of East Austin is inevitably an overflow from a growing downtown. But the Eastside still has those small pockets of great neighborhoods due to the outstanding local businesses that call this place home and the walkability to restaurants, venues, and grocery stores. Because of this, many Austinites desire to live, work, and play in East Austin. When looking for a place to grow your business and build wealth, contact DeLea and her team. For over 20 years, they’ve been helping their clients find ways to grow their business while embracing the creative community and culture we all adore.

(512) 472-8833 1101 E. 6th Street DeLea@beckreit.com BeckreitCRE.com

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FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Piercing & Body Modifications Pineapple tangaroa & team Welcome to shaman modifications

For ten years, Pineapple Tangaroa and the talented team of professional piercers at Shaman Modifications have

brought beauty to the Eastside. Drawing on their love of historical and modern interpretations of piercing and body modification, the staff of Shaman Modifications brings decades of experience to a quickly evolving industry. From organics to gold, piercing has continued to grow and be adopted by a broader swath of society, and East Austin is at the heart of that evolution. Shaman Modifications has a second Austin location near Cedar Park and a location in Dallas. The East Austin location is open every day from 12pm - 8pm. Come in and chat about your next piercing project, or just browse the beautiful jewelry selection.

512.981.6637 | 1901 E 7th St. | shamanmodifications.com | Eastside@ShamanMods.com

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2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The FaceS of

Residential Real Estate PROSPECT REAL ESTATE Prospect Real Estate, a boutique, family-owned and -operated residential real estate firm with 40 years of experience in the city’s residential market, focuses on Austin’s urban core. Keenly attuned in local real estate,

Prospect is proud to offer what’s next, now. The firm’s main focus is making the best urban living experience and providing those opportunities to a wide variety of Austinites who desire to live, work, and enjoy the city-center.

As the exclusive listing agent for Pearlstone Partners, a local residential real estate development firm, Prospect recently closed out Eastgate Condominiums on Manor Road and has available inventory with its new construction listings located in Central and East Austin.

prospectrealestate.com | info@prospectrealestate.com | (512) 640-1881

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The firm’s current listings include Axiom East, HŌM Neighborhood Condominiums, Cascade Condominiums, and NatiivoAustin. Appealing to first-time homebuyers, young professionals, empty nesters, and local residents seeking an urban lifestyle, each of these properties offer desirable amenities that make living in Austin so unique.

Prospect’s agents have their fingers on the pulse of Austin, with exclusive access to new-build inventory unavailable anywhere else. | 2213 Poquito Street, #100

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OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Faces of

Luxury Real Estate Kel & Justin Pistorius Welcome to Local Life Realty

Justin & Kel Pistorius, founders of Local Life, have curated an immersive and all-inclusive real estate experience that is like no other in the world. Local Life was founded in East Austin and incorporates real estate, design, media, lending, and provisions with an expansive team in Austin, Dallas, Waco, Denver, and Miami.

In a world erupting with standard real estate brokerages, Justin and Kel instantaneously realized that their friends and

neighbors in East Austin longed for something distinct in regards to real estate decisions and lifestyle aspirations.

Austin has remained the inspiration for the full shift in how Local Life does and views real estate and real life. By knowing the community and understanding the blinding void in the overall real estate experience, Local Life has dominated new development in urban infill Austin and beyond. Their incredible team of agents and designers, along with in-house media and lending, have paved the way for consumers to be taken on an experiential voyage of the places they will call home. Local Life believes in being a partner to buyers, sellers, and developers to identify and achieve what they unequivocally desire.

Justin, Kel, and the Local Life team know that they can and should show the beauty and the lifestyle of living in Austin during the journey - so that when you arrive, you already feel at home.

(512) 502-5117 | 2025 E 7th St. #119 | info@localliferealty.net | localliferealty.net

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2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Hospitality Design Patrice Rios Patrice Rios Interiors

Patrice Rios, founder of TROO Designs, is excited to announce the launch of Patrice Rios Interiors. With 11 years of experience in Austin, Patrice has transformed Troo Designs into a full service design studio to include high-end homes, custom kitchens and bathrooms. Patrice Rios Interiors will focus on design in the hospitality industry with stylish, boutique hotels including The Colton House Hotel in Austin.

Moving into the hospitality industry seemed like a natural next step for Patrice, given her eye for detail and functionality when it comes to the luxury boutique hotel scene. She works with clients to create a space and a mood for every situation: from the lobby, to the bar, to the casual coffee shop, and the individually customized suites.

Patrice and her team specialize in creating unique and inviting rooms for each user. Her goal is to create spaces where someone can experience their entire day finding new aesthetics and nooks to cozy into and never get bored with the spaceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;just like she has done at The Colton House Hotel. Ensuring that every guest can enjoy and be surprised by each room, whether they are on vacation or working, she prides herself on every detail that makes these custom spaces feel like home.

design@patricerios.com | PatriceRios.com | @PatriceTheDesigner

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2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Texas Craft Rum Stephanie Houston Welcome to hye rum

In 2016, an incredible opportunity presented itself to former Dallas-based entrepreneur, Stephanie Houston, to invest in HYE Rum – a project she currently operates with distiller and co-founder, James Davidson. Hye is a small unincorporated town just outside Johnson City on the famed 25-mile stretch of the 290 Wine Road, which is now the #2 most traveled wine road in America.

HYE Rum specializes in bold island-style rums. Their goal is to keep the spirit intact with no additives or added sugar while perfecting the craft of quality rum.

As president of the company and with 25 years’ experience in sales and marketing, Stephanie oversees Hye’s operations, marketing, and sales efforts. As one of a handful of female Texas distillery owners, she is also an advocate for the industry and is fighting for legislative change in Texas liquor laws.

At the beginning of the pandemic, the HYE Rum team switched gears to help with needed supplies. They manufactured 52 tons of hand sanitizer, donating 28 tons throughout Texas.

With tasting rooms slowly opening back up, HYE Rum has been hosting drive-in music and movie festivals at the distillery and welcomes Austinites to make the drive to just east of Fredericksburg to experience HYE Rum for yourself or pickup a bottle at one of their local Austin distributors.

1247 US 290 West | hyerum.com info@ hyerum.com | @hyetxrum

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OF AUSTIN

2020

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Real Estate Advocacy Jorge Aldrete, Nicole Jones, Frances Moreno, & Jasser Awad Welcome to Eastside Advocacy Group

Buying and selling real estate can be a confusing and overwhelming process. Giving the power back to the people by educating them on their various choices and options at every turn in a real estate transaction, Frances Moreno and Nicole Jones with Magnolia Realty, Jorge Aldrete with Elite Financing Group, LLC, and Jasser Awad with Awad Legal Group PLLC have come together to form Eastside Advocacy Group. Led by two realtors, a mortgage lender, and a real estate attorney, they have joined forces to heed their passions and demystify every aspect of the home purchasing and selling process.

The group has deep ties to the community from grassroots organizations to city offices, and holds monthly seminars via Zoom (and eventually in-person again) to help educate consumers on ALL their options surrounding home ownership, heirship transfers, and home equity options before letting their asset go for any amount or outcome less than deserved. Their mission is

simple: to educate the public so that they are well-informed, empowered, and at ease during one of the biggest, most important financial decisions of their lives.

Frances and Nicole embrace the Magnolia values as they lead with a servant’s heart and bring in their knowledge of real estate to each client when they need it most: when buying, selling, or investing in a home. Jorge has over 17 years of comprehensive mortgage brokering and banking experience. His work ethic and sense of urgency enable him to consistently provide flawless service and dependability on every transaction. The team is rounded out with Jasser who not only has the escrow side covered but also makes it his mission to smoothly guide clients with legal needs as he answers questions and finds solutions.

It is important to this team that consumers feel secure and well-informed throughout the entire process. Learn how to make your biggest assets work for YOU and YOUR FAMILY.

eastsideadvocacy@gmail.com (512) 576-3992 | Hablamos Español

O U R FAV E E V E N T

Social Hour

SUPPORTING THE ARTS

Inspirational Women's Event 2020 Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Fourth Annual Women's Event in release of the Inspirational Women's issue! The event was held over the course of three Thursday evenings in collab with The Cathedral Art & Music Nights.

From catching up with friends to making new ones, to supporting the talented artists of ATX Gals, to listening to local jams from Keelan Donovan, Keith Sanders, Drew Davis Music, and Lend Me Your Ear, our fourth Women's Event was more than just an opportunity to raise awareness around the success of women all over this community. It has become a space where stories are shared with other women in business to encourage and uplift one another.

The open space at The Cathedral allowed for an airy atmosphere for guests to gather safely in small groups, while attendees sampled light bites from local restaurants like La Pera and Bento Picnic and sipped on bottomless drinks by Dulce Vida Tequila, Austin Eastciders, Waterloo, and Heart Water. Virtual and in-person guests also had the luxury of taking home a gift bag of goodies provided by Blue Norther Seltzer, HYE Rum, Intero Ristorante, Fail Jewelry, La Pera, Austin Eastciders, Heywood Hotel, EASTside Magazine, Oddwood Ales, Pennyback, Wander/Gather, Union Implantology, Noahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Raw Chocolate, and more.

We loved meeting each and every one of you and hope everyone is looking forward with anticipation to next year's event. Thank you again to partners and Texas Women's University for making the event so memorable.

*To attend Art + Music Nights at The Cathedral, temperature checks are required at the door. Sanitizer is provided at every station and table. Masks are required when moving about the building and may only be removed when sitting with your cohort. Reservations required; 21+ only. Gift bags and alcohol may not be purchased.

46 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

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Go+ do

Dec +Jan 2020/21

46 social hour

A PEAK INTO EASTSIDE MAGAZINE'S ANNUAL INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN'S EVENT

48 go& serve

ADVOCATING FOR YOUTH AND ENSURING EVERYONE'S RIGHT TO A HOME IS THE HEART OF ONE LOCAL ORGANIZATION'S MISSION.

50 go& learn

GAIN A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF THE CITY BY EXPLORING AUSTIN'S RICH, MULTIFACETED CULTURE.

eastside | go&do

Youth Driven Decisions LifeWorks is “unapologetically geek-ish about data,” Susan proudly states.

“Everything we do is measured and evaluated. If it’s not working, we pivot, and we change.”

A Youth “W Full Mission Providing a Home, Education, & Healing WORDS BY

Sommer Brugal Eric Morales

PHOTOS BY

Every organization has a mission, a belief that drives its staff to keep moving forward.

Within that mission is one core focus. For LifeWorks, an organization advocating for youth and families seeking self-sufficiency, that focus is on youth and young adults, specifically those aging out of foster care, experiencing homelessness, and those who’ve interacted with the juvenile justice system.

48 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

e’re kind of a fork in the road,” says Susan McDowell, LifeWorks’ executive director. The young adults, many who’ve experienced complex trauma and multiple transitions, “don’t really fit into child services anymore or adult services,” she explains.

Since its founding in 1998, LifeWorks has grown into an organization that offers more than a dozen programs aimed to support youth and families and serves more than 4,000 units annually: families, individuals or households. Through its programming, LifeWorks provides services to ensure youth have a place to call home, an opportunity to learn and work, and the chance to heal.

The spectrum of programming offered further underscores the valuebased organization’s emphasis on self-sufficiency and encourages these young adults to be the experts in their own lives. Those who come to LifeWorks – whether through referrals or recommendations – decide for themselves what services they want to engage in.

Though youth have been central to the organization’s mission from the start, more recently LifeWorks further narrowed its focus. In 2018, alongside partner organizations, LifeWorks launched a movement to end youth

homelessness in Austin by making it rare, brief, and nonrecurring.

Since then, the movement reduced homelessness in Austin by 29% and has moved more than 600 youth experiencing homelessness to permanent housing. According to Susan, two hundred of those moved have occurred since the onset of the COVID-19.

“Five years ago, we were the largest provider for housing youth and young adults in Austin,” she notes.

“We were really good at it, but we were never able to reduce the number of youth experiencing homelessness.”

Now, the organization is a leader in a movement to help solve a problem.

“We know we’re making a big difference,” Susan says. Moving forward, their staff has a comprehensive plan to achieve “functional zero,” meaning the amount of housing and services available is equal to or greater than youth who fall into homelessness every month. Susan believes they’re about one year out from achieving that goal.

At LifeWorks, one core belief connects every pillar and effort, and everyone deserves a good life. For Susan and her dedicated staff, “it’s as simple as that.”

Contact:

lifeworksaustin.org (512)735-2400

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Staff, however, aren’t the only individuals interpreting and analyzing data.

The organization’s two-pronged commitment to research and evaluation emphasizes youth voices and experiences to determine if change is needed.

LifeWorks is increasingly developing opportunities for youth to be active participants in program designs.

Susan says that the youth can actually help them interpret and understand the data, adding “Part of it is about the numbers, but part of it is also about engaging the people who have experienced and lived expertise to help us know what to do with it.”

Eclectic • Saucy • Unforgettable

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Mourcafe.com | 1414 Shore District Dr. Bldg. 3 Suite 120 | 512.442.6687

EAST AUSTIN 1901 E 7TH ST. | (512) 981-MODS NORTH AUSTIN

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WWW.SHAMANMODS.COM {the authentic side of austin}

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Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce, and the Office of Arts & Cultural Resources.

912 E 11th St.

The Asian American Resource Center

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Funded by a city bond and a federal grant, the Asian American Resource Center (AARC) opened in 2013 “to serve the greater community.” Thus far, the Center has made good on its promise, hosting numerous programs highlighting the gorgeous diversity of many Asian cultures. The AARC is also home to a ballroom, a commercial kitchen, a beautiful community garden, and they host annual festivals and events that celebrate Asian traditions and culture.

8401 Cameron Rd.

Puerto Rican Cultural Center

Places to Learn About Austin’s Culture Understanding What Makes Austin Beautiful & Weird WORDS BY

Sean Saldana

PHOTO BY

Will Bowling

For years now, Austin has been widely cited as one of the best places to live in America. Essential to this quality of life is the city’s rich culture and history.

The Austin History Center

Initially started in the 1950s, a small set of files called the Austin-Travis County Collection would eventually grow to become the Austin History Center. With tens of thousands of documents, ranging from before the city’s founding in 1839 to present day, the History Center is the go-to place for anyone interested in taking a comprehensive look at Austin’s culture and history.

810 Guadalupe St.

2

Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center

Opened in 2007 and renamed after lifelong Mexican American activist Emma Serrato Barrientos, the Mexican American Cultural Center (MACC) has quickly become a focal point of Hispanic art, culture, and celebra50 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

tion. From ballet folklorico performances to sugar skull making workshops, the MACC sees over 100,000 visitors annually and is one of the best places to learn about Latin American arts and culture. 600 River St.

3

African American Cultural and Heritage Facility

Originally built in the late 1800s, the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility (AACHF) was originally a home owned by Thomas Dedrick, one of the first freed slaves in Austin. Today, the AACHF is home to the Dedrick-Hamilton House Visitors Center,

Founded in 1997 with only a single dance class, the Puerto Rican Cultural Center has become one of the country’s preeminent facilities celebrating the diverse and nuanced heritage of Puerto Ricans today. Since its founding, the Center has opened a community theatre, a multipurpose facility, and has received a multi-year grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies. The Center hosts workshops, dance performances, and bilingual plays honoring Taíno culture. 701 Tillery St. #13

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George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural & Genealogy Center

As of early 2020, the Carver Museum has a new and permanent exhibit, The African American Presence in 19th Century Texas. The stunning work of art was brought to life by artists Aimee M. Everett and Moyo Oyelola. As an extension of the Carver Museum, the Genealogy Center provides “genealogical information such as databases, books, instructive material, and monthly seminars” for folks looking to dive deeper into their roots and get a better understanding of the city’s history. The Center serves as a resource to the community and has a conference room, a printer, and is a key gathering place centralized in Austin’s historically Black community. 1165 Angelina St.

DID YOU KNOW? Since 2016, the U.S. News & World Report has ranked Austin in the top three places to live in America. The report considers survey data, Census Bureau statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics data, and school and hospital rankings to evaluate affordability, the job market, and overall quality of life. find more at eastsideatx.com

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Home + away

Dec +Jan 2020/21

54 home A VETERAN DESIGNER TEAM TRANSFORMS A CHERRYWOOD HOME WHILE MAINTAINING ITS '50S BUNGALOW EXTERIOR.

56 away

A WEEKEND IN IDYLLIC STUART, FLORIDA, OFFERS A LOOK INTO LIFE ON THE ATLANTIC COAST.

eastside | home

Outside In A Natural Addition WORDS BY Christopher

Ferguson, AIA Calo

PHOTOS BY Andrea

A thoughtful and bright expansion to a 1950’s ranch home in Cherrywood takes its cues from a tree-filled lot and a veteran design and build team.

“T

he directive from the beginning was about adding living spaces for a family with two young children,” explains architect Shane Pavonetti. “So, in that sense, the project was reasonably straightforward.”

The low-slung, modest ranchstyle home already had great bones and a handsome curb appeal, so Shane worked with builder David Glauser to maintain its street presence, expanding towards a creek at the rear of the home’s lot.

“We don’t run away from the idea that something will look different in 10-20 years from when it was brand new. We like things that age, and things that age well. It shows that the architecture is being used and inhabited, which is the end goal,” Shane explains as he credits the contractor, Glauser

54 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

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Building Company, and interior designer, Sarah Stacey Design, for “helping with all of those critical details” that make a house a home.

At first approach, passersby may not notice the two-story addition to the mid-century home with large, green shade trees reminiscent of other homes in the area.

But from the backyard, a beautiful structure ties old and new together with a statement and deliberate purpose.

Bold and volumetric, the addition maintains the clean lines and material simplicity in keeping with the mid-century roots of the original structure. Two sprawling, heritage pecans are preserved by the home’s careful siting, giving the rear façade its angled shape.

By removing an existing master bedroom, Shane was able to add a second generous living area to

complement the home’s existing front room, which also received a new vaulted ceiling to match the roof line. An airy, daylit atrium connects the new living space to the new second floor, adding two outdoor decks, a small office, and master suite.

The home also features mixed species wood flooring to match the existing hardwoods, as well as simple, white-painted CMU block walls aligned with the home’s original construction. Likewise, the addition of floor-to-ceiling windows was designed to emulate the home’s original mid-century metal casement window details.

The restrained material palette and deft approach to daylighting allow for exceptional pops of color in the bathrooms, where feature walls of Ann Sacks tile and Clay Imports custom tiles are accentuated by dark floors, warm wood accents, and sleek Brizo bathroom hardware finished in brass and matte black.

Taken together, these simple and thoughtful considerations, combined with a commitment to the home’s original '50s charm, yield a home that feels delightfully greater than the sum of its parts.

“

Creating something that looks like this, yet still works with an existing '50s bungalow was a big part of the challenge.”

Contact:

Pavonetti Architecture (512) 657-7020 2235 E 6th St #107 pavonettiarchitecture.com @pavonettiarchitecture Photographer: andreacalo.com Builder: glauserbuilding.com Interior Designer: sarahstaceydesign.com {the authentic side of austin}

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acre park that includes a hiking trail. Then head to the Stuart Green Market. The weekly outdoor market brings in locally sourced produce and meats, baked goods, arts and crafts, and live music.

Before heading out, grab a bite for lunch at Lola’s Seafood Eatery or Stuart Boathouse for a water-front meal and enjoy that cool ocean breeze one last time.

More than a Beach Town WORDS BY Sommer

Brugal

Stuart, Florida, just two hours north of Miami, lives up to its name as the “Sailfish Capitol of the World.” Located on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, locals and seasonal residents alike enjoy the rich culture, range of dining options, and the friendly, small-town charm. From ocean views to local brews, there’s something for everyone on the Treasure Coast.

Day One After arriving midafternoon, check into the Old Colorado Inn,

located in the heart of historic downtown Stuart. The boutique hotel offers a range of room options, including traditional studios,

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After a leisurely halfmile walk, you’ll reach Sunset Bay Marina.

This is one of the best places to watch the sunset. For a full dinner and possibly live music, take a seat at Sailor’s Return. For lighter fare, such as a cheese board or fish dip platter, accompanied by a glass of wine or pint of beer, get comfortable at Gilbert’s Coffee Bar. Its casual outdoor seating area is perfect for a relaxing evening by the water. Or for a nightcap, head to Café Martier.

Day Two

a large blanket or beach towel will do the trick.

Look no further than The Roasted Record for a morning cup of joe.

The coffee, roastery, and record shop in downtown Stuart has ample indoor and outdoor seating and offers small bites such as a breakfast sandwich and muffins.

Dinner options in Stuart are plentiful. Chef’s Table, The Talk: house, Casa Bella, and District Table & Bar will offer an elevated dining experience in a non-pretentious setting. For a more casual ambiance, head to Fruits & Roots for vegan fare, Carmela’s Brick Oven Pizza and Wine Bar, or Ocean Republic Brewery.

After breakfast, spend some time at the Stuart Heritage Museum.

Located downtown, the museum features historical artifacts, 80% of which were acquired locally. Next, stroll through downtown, and pop into the many locally-owned shops.

Afterwards, check out one of Stuart’s beloved beaches, such as Stuart or Santa Lucea. Beach chairs and an umbrella are recommended, but for those traveling light,

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End the night with some live music at Terra Fermata, an eclectic outdoor music venue in downtown Stuart that features nightly concerts and events.

Day Three Start the morning at Kiplinger Nature Preserve, a more than 150-

PHOTOS COURTESY

A Weekend In Stuart

suites, a cottage, and historic guest houses.

Once settled, head just a few blocks toward the St. Lucie River and hop on the Sailfish Healthy Trail boardwalk and head west.

Located just a few miles from downtown Stuart is downtown Jensen Beach.

Jensen Beach Boulevard features local favorites like Crawdaddy’s for food and live music, Jan’s Place for the classic diner experience, and Bunkhouse Coffee Bar for coffee and vegan fare. Visitors shouldn’t overlook others, such as Lures Riverfront Restaurant and Tako-Tiki.

Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing

Nearby Gems

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Sip+ taste

Dec +Jan 2020/21

60 taste feature

HOW A LOCAL BAKERY CONTINUES TO PRESERVE ITS LEGACY WITH TASTY TREATS AND TRANSPARENCY.

62 farm to table

FIND COMFORT AND GOOD FORTUNE IN

THESE TRADITIONALLY LUCKY HOLIDAY DISHES.

64 dining guide

A CURATED GUIDE TO THE BEST PLACES TO GRAB A BITE IN EAST AUSTIN

66 sip

feature

HOW A NEW PREBIOTIC DRINK IS SHAKING UP THE BEVERAGE INDUSTRY.

eastside | taste

Protecting a Legacy Standing the Test of Time WORDS BY

Gaudalupe Triana Bella

PHOTOS BY Shelby

For more than 37 years, Quack’s Bakery has served up budget-friendly baked goods to the Austin community. Now, the company is strengthening the legacy it’s worked hard to build.

S

ince 1983, Quack’s has been fueling Austinites with its tasty sweets, strong coffee, and delicious pastries. Today, Quack’s is more than just a recognized name in the community; it’s a business that has become part of the fabric that makes Austin unique.

“Our number one core value is to provide quality baked goods at reasonable prices—always,” says chief operations officer Heather O’Connor. Heather’s been with the company for nine years now and has been instrumental in the expansion of Quack’s growth.

She passionately explains that Quack’s doesn’t do things with the grain, which can prove challenging at times, but allows the company to stand out nonetheless.

“We’re not a necessity; we’re budgeted for,” Heather says with a smile. “Coffee, pastries,

60 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

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and sweets—[they’re] not something that people have to have. They’re a treat, so we need to approach it as such.”

In the last few years, Heather explains that she hasn’t been to an establishment that ranges between fast food prices and $20 a person. As a savvy person, she believes that there is a large lack in quality eateries at reasonable prices.

“I’ve been in Austin for a decade, and I’ve [observed] the way the food scene and the food culture have shifted,” Heather explains. “We’ve started losing a lot of really big legacy companies.”

But there’s a reason Quack’s continues to thrive. Heather attributes their success to the transparency-based philosophy that the company has adhered to since its early days.

“We take the same approach with our staff.

Native Knowledge We try to remain open, transparent, honest, and welcoming,” she emphasizes. “We trust people to come as they are.” She believes that as a business, if you take care of your staff, they’re going to take care of your guests.

Quack’s founder Art Silver remains steadfast in his mission to offer quality products at reasonable prices. At 77 years old, Art still works seven days a week, proving he’s in it for the long haul.

According to Heather, Art wants Quack’s to be remembered as a great place to work with a product that people can afford. Once the team established this concept as a concrete goal, they began building their entire foundation for expansion around the idea.

Today, Quack’s fanatics can choose between three locations: Quack's 43rd Street Bakery, Lady Quackenbush’s Cakery in Mueller, or Captain Quackenbush's Coffeehouse in South Austin. While all three locations offer the same delectable treats, each space has a distinct purpose and is special in its own way.

Contact:

Bakery@QuacksBakery.com East: 1900 Simond Ave. Ste. 300 Central: 411 East 43rd St. South: 5326 Menchaca Rd. QuacksBakery.com @LadyQuacksCakery @QuacksBakery

With COVID changing the way Austinites dine out, Lady Quackenbush’s Cakery is offering customers a new way of enjoying the dining-out experience.

The bakery is offering picnic baskets that come with a blanket, two sandwiches, two pastries, two coffee drinks, and two alcoholic beverages that can be picked up at their East Austin location and enjoyed at Mueller Lake Park, or anywhere else!

THIS YEAR, WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER The coronavirus pandemic has left many families struggling to get back on their feet. Together, we can fill holiday tables for our neighbors in need and help our community have a happy and healthy holiday season.

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eastside | farm to table

A Comforting Tradition New Year’s Day Pork Roast, BlackEyed Peas, & Collard Greens Justin Butts Butts PHOTOS BY Rachel Benevides WORDS BY

Photo: Katie Wnukoski

RECIPE BY Kayla

A diversely populated STEAM school with infant sign-language and Spanish language instruction.

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SCHEDULE A VISIT TODAY 3407 Red River Street Austin, TX 78705 Open 12 months a year CentralAustinUSAS@Upbring.org USASCentralAustin

512-230-9224 (Text is okay!) or take a virtual tour at:

Upbring.org/usasca 62 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

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Fresh Pork Roast Prep time: 7 minutes Inactive Prep Time: 8-12 hours Cook time: 20 minutes per pound Ingredients: Fresh Pork Roast, 3 to 5 pounds (picnic, Boston butt, or ham) ½ c. salt 2 t. fresh thyme, stemmed 2 t. fresh rosemary, stemmed and minced 2 t. coarsely ground pepper 1 t. dried bay leaves, crushed pinch ground cloves 3 garlic cloves, sliced Directions: Stir salt in 6 cups water until it dissolves. Submerge roast, cover with plastic wrap, and brine in the refrigerator overnight.

It’s tradition to eat pork, black-eyed peas, and collard greens for luck on New Year’s Day. But how did these particular foods become the lucky symbols of the New Year?

T

he luck in black-eyed peas can be traced to Savannah, Georgia, near the end of the Civil War. Union General Tecumseh Sherman, in his famous March to the Sea, captured Savannah on December 21, 1864. Sherman’s troops burned all the food and provisions of Savannah before leaving town.

On New Year’s Day, the residents of Savannah crawled out of their hiding places in the forests and swamps to find their city a smoking ruin and all of their food destroyed.

But the invading army did not destroy the stores of black-eyed peas. According to legend, the Union soldiers mistakenly believed that black-eyed peas were animal fodder, and since they had taken all the Southern livestock, there was no need to burn the black-eyed peas.

So, on New Year’s Day, 1865, the survivors of Savannah huddled around their fires and ate the only food left to them. The story of those lucky, life-saving black-eyed peas was handed down to the younger generations, a story of humility and grace, until it became folklore.

The tradition of serving pork on New Year’s Day was born in the days before refrigeration, when farmers butchered their hogs in the fall at the first sign of the cold weather. They salted the pork and stored it in cold cellars for winter.

In lean years, in times of depression and want, the pork did not last until the New Year. To be out of pork so early in winter was a bad omen, but it was good luck to have a pork roast on New Year’s Day: a sign of bountiful times to come.

Collard greens are a cold-weather vegetable. The frost that kills other crops in the field only makes collards sweeter. Poor farmers, harvesting their greens in the winter wind, could count them like money and dream of riches in the New Year.

These humble foods are a tradition because they remind us how lucky we are, in any year, to eat well on New Year’s Day and express gratitude for the years to come.

Approximately two hours prior to desired mealtime, preheat oven to 325°F. Remove roast from brine and pat dry with paper towels.

Combine rub ingredients in a small bowl. Cut several slits into roast, approximately 1” deep using a steak knife. Insert garlic into prepared slits. Massage rub into roast. Place roast into a large pot (Dutch oven is best) and add ½ cup water to the bottom of the pot. Cook uncovered for approximately 20 minutes per pound or until internal temperature reaches 145°F or higher, depending on how well-done you prefer the pork to be cooked.

Black-Eyed Peas Prep time: 10 minutes Inactive prep time: 8 hours Cooking time: 1 hour Ingredients: 1 lb. dried black-eyed peas ½ lb. fresh bacon, chopped 1 medium onion, diced 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 T. cayenne pepper sauce 4 c. chicken or vegetable stock 2 bay leaves 1 ½ c. fresh cilantro, diced Salt and pepper, to taste

Place half of chopped bacon into a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Brown until desired crispness is achieved.

Remove prepared bacon, add onion along with remaining bacon, cooking 3-5 minutes.

Add garlic and cook for an additional 60 seconds. Add cayenne pepper sauce and peas, stirring until coated.

Add stock and bay leaves, and heat until boiling. Reduce heat, cover peas, and simmer for approximately 30 minutes.

Add cilantro and season to taste. Serve peas topped with crisp bacon.

Collard Greens Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 1 hour Ingredients: ½ lb. bacon, roughly chopped ½ large sweet onion, chopped 1 ½ t. crushed red pepper 4 garlic cloves, minced 2 bunches collard greens (about 6 c.), rinsed, stemmed, and roughly chopped 2 c. low-sodium, low-fat chicken stock, with one cup extra on hand Sea salt to taste Directions: Sauté the bacon, onions, and pepper flakes in a large pot over medium-high heat. Heat until onions become translucent and bacon begins to brown. Add garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add collards, chicken stock, and salt to taste. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes or up to two hours.

Directions: Soak peas prior to cooking according to package directions. If peas are bought fresh from a farmer, there is no need to soak. Drain and rinse peas, and remove any undesirable pieces.

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63

O U R FAV E R E S TA U R A N T S

Pick 10

FOR THE EASTSIDE

eastside dining guide S-H Donuts

This unassuming store-front houses an outstanding array of fluffy-light donuts, a variety of kolache flavors, and savory breakfast croissants. Even if the food wasn’t enough, the warmth of the owners Sochea and Sarong make the trip to S-H worth it every time. 5313 Manor Rd.

Cisco's

The menu at Cisco’s provides flavorful TexMex options for any meal of the day. Order favorites like their mouth-watering breakfast tacos or comforting cheese enchiladas for dinner. Either way, the food and the service will have you wanting more.

1511 E 6th St. | ciscosaustin.com

Artessano Mour Cafe

Featuring a rotating selection of the world’s most satisfying dishes, Mour Cafe is where gastropub meets comfort. They serve environmentally conscious ingredients sourced from local farmers, which brings flavor that’s uniquely Austin to each soul-filled dish. mourcafe.com | 1414 Shore District Dr. Bldg. 3, Ste. 120

The fresh tropical fruit juice and the arepas are why you need to visit Artessano. As a food trailer specializing in Colombian food, expect dance music and lots of friendly conversation when you visit. 1211 E 6th St.

Rosewood Restaurant

This locally owned Gulf Coast Chophouse is located in a historic 1890 home with expansive outdoor dining overlooking downtown, featuring locally sourced 40-Day Dry Aged Bone in Ribeye and all the comforting favorites with an inventive twist.

1209 Rosewood Ave. | rosewoodatx.com

Flyrite Chicken

Disrupting the fast food industry one sandwich at a time, Flyrite is a drive-thru with all-natural, antibiotic-free chicken as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options.

2129 E 7th St. | flyritechicken.com

Hillside Farmacy Oddwood Ales

Designed as a cozy neighborhood pub, Oddwood Ales provides a variety of flavorful ales, home-made pizzas, and Italian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with arcade games and a pet-friendly patio.

3108 Manor Rd. | oddwoodales.com

La Fruta Feliz

A happy place where breakfast is served all day. Of course, you can also get lunch, but why would you when you can have chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and authentic breakfast tacos at 8pm? 3124 Manor Rd.

64 EASTside | Dec2020/Jan2021

Something about Hillside Farmacy, weekend brunches, patio dinners, and cocktails just make you feel better. Perhaps that’s due to its historical location in the lovingly renovated 1950s Hillside Drugstore. Or perhaps it’s because the fresh, carefully selected seasonal food that comes from local farms and onto your plate is just good medicine.

1209 E 11th St. | hillsidefarmacy.com

Cherrywood Coffeehouse

With an expansive patio and a continual rotation of events, you’ll find yourself frequenting for the community as often as food, which is an inviting array of tacos, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and smoothies.

1400 E 38th 1/2 St. | cherrywoodcoffeehouse.com

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3317 Manor Road/Dharma-Yoga.net

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Harnessing Plant Power WORDS BY PHOTO BY

Guadalupe Triana Eric Morales

Native Knowledge

A Modern Spin on Native Wisdom For co-founders Vicente Reyes and Oliver Shuttlesworth, Mayawell is a project that’s been years in the making. The innovative prebiotic drink is the result of a collaboration between two people aiming to put a modern twist on a treasured succulent.

M

ayawell, as the bottle’s label clearly states, is a bubbly prebiotic tonic that offers numerous scientifically-backed health benefits: the main one being essential prebiotic fibers that support an immune system boost and aid digestion. But with its playful agua fresca-like approach, it’s easy to forget that, at its core, Mayawell is an agave-based health drink.

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The bubbly tonic is the result of two entrepreneurs hoping to make a social impact with a beverage that draws people in, not only for its benefits but also with its story and adaptability.

As an early pioneer in

the mezcal industry, Vicente began researching the benefits of the agave plant with a team of scientists. While working in Mexico, Vicente hoped to find a way to bring his new-found knowledge to the States.

Meanwhile, Oliver was in New York participating in an accelerator program where he realized where his true passion lay: creating a sociallyconscious business. It was through their shared goal of making a social impact that the two were connected by a mutual friend.

“A beautiful coincidence,” Vicente admits. “It was perfect timing, perfect synchronicity—which is

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[what] happens when something is meant to be.”

For both Oliver and Vicente, the vision for Mayawell remains the same: to find new ways to introduce the health benefits of the agave plant. They believe there’s a huge opportunity to create a healthier alternative to sugary drinks, both in the United States and in Mexico.

“It’s an opportunity to introduce prebiotics” into the everyday diet. Oliver says that their goal is “to be one of the pioneering voices as people start to [value] the benefits of both prebiotics and a fiber-rich diet.”

Mayawell beverages can be found at various establishments around town, including Royal Blue Grocery, Quickie Pickie, Mr. Natural, Cherrywood Coffeehouse, Rebel Cheese, and Mañana, the coffee and bake shop located inside the South Congress Hotel, where Oliver suggests ordering a house-made paleta and pairing it with any of the three Mayawell flavors.

The multi-occasion beverage touts several appealing flavors like Pineapple Mango Turmeric, Pear Lime Green Tea, and Strawberry Ginger Hibiscus. The duo explain that the drink is meant to be enjoyed whenever and wherever: post-workout, with lunch, or as a mealtime aid.

However, the drink’s versatility doesn’t stop there.

Mayawell can also be enjoyed in a mocktail or cocktail, making the tonic a great mixer and, above all, an adaptable, innovative, tasty beverage. drinkmayawell.com

panache-usa.com

Panache is dedicated to sustainability and green building.

3443 Ed Bluestein Blvd., Bldg. V, Austin, TX 78721 | 512-345-7000

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HOSTING PARTIES OF 10 to 100

IN 6 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS Outdoor Options Available

PRIVATE EVENTS: BIRTHDAY, BUSINESS DINNER, SHOWER, REHEARSAL DINNER, COCKTAIL PARTY, & BRAND ACTIVATION

VICTORIA ROOM | TURRET ROOM | BAR | LOOKOUT ROOM | PAVILION | PATIO 1209 Rosewood Ave. Austin, Texas 78702 Inquire about space at info@rosewoodatx.com