THE INSPIRATIONAL
A FO
RCE
C FOR
HAN
GE
side
OF AUSTIN
HOMES FROM THE $200s
EASTON PARK CELEBRATES AUSTIN WOMEN. Choose a neighborhood that’s all about community. With homes from Central Texas’ best builders, Easton Park is a vibrant community with a welcoming lifestyle and 1,500 acres of everything people love, like state-of-the-art amenities including a resort-style pool, more than 350 acres of planned parks, and a 13.1 miles trail system. All for prices starting in the $200s. Come see it for yourself or learn more at www.eastonparkatx.com.
“THE TYPE OF PEOPLE I TELL ABOUT EASTON ARE PEOPLE WHO VALUE COMMUNITY. EASTON CULTIVATES THIS ENVIRONMENT FOR PEOPLE TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS AND FRIENDSHIPS.” BRITTANY C, EASTON PARK RESIDENT
A COMMUNITY BY
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Fall/Winter
CONTENTS
06
Publisher’s Note
08 Local
Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak
Learn why one local woman cherishes her strong ties to a long-standing community organization.
11
Art+Entertainment Soulful Somatics
Discover how one choreographer uses psychology and movement to get to the root of all matters.
34 Go+Do
Bridging the Gap
Six Square continues to uphold its mission of preserving and celebrating the art and culture of East Austin.
40
Home+Away
A Weekend In Boca Chica
A visit to a lesser known beach is the secret to a low-key getaway.
43
Sip+Taste
Away from the Everyday
A necessary pivot opened new doors for this hospitality-focused event series.
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17
A Force for Change
Driven to make an impact, these four women play an active role in their communities in order to move the needle for those who come after them. Learn more about these leading ladies and the organizations to which they are dedicated.
EAST THE RESILIENT
Austin, Texas 78702 eastsideatx.com
Creative Director Will Bowling Publishing Editor Ashley Bowling Photo Editor Eric Morales Business Development Will Bowling
Contributing Photographers Shelby Bella, Ashley Haguewood, Sarah Pressler, Rachel Benevides, Mackenzie Smith,Jerrell Trulove
Distribution Brian Phillips, Will Bowling Submissions info@eastsideatx.com Advertising advertise@eastsideatx.com
Come gallerytoto see CometotoFlatbed's Flatbed's gallery see a a wide inventory of works by acclaimed wide inventory of works by acclaimed Come gallery to to see see aa Come to to Flatbed's Flatbed's gallery Texas artists. We Weworks have Julie Speed Texas artists. haveby Julie Speed wide acclaimed wide inventory inventory of of works by acclaimed print editions, woodcuts by David Come to Flatbed's gallery to see a print editions, woodcuts by David Texas artists. have Julie Speed Texas artists. We We have Julie Speed Everett, and new etchings byDavid Lance wide inventory ofwoodcuts works by by acclaimed print editions, Everett, and new etchings Lance print editions, woodcuts by by David Letscher. Exhibitions Richard Texas artists. We have by Julie Speed Everett, new byRichard Lance Everett, and and new etchings etchings by Lance Letscher. Exhibitions by Armendariz and Suzi Davidoff open print editions, woodcuts David Letscher. Exhibitions byby Richard Letscher. and by Richard Armendariz Davidoff open September and October. Everett, and newSuzi etchings by Lance Armendariz Davidoff open Armendariz and Suzi Davidoff open Letscher. Exhibitions by Richard September and October. September October. September and October. by Suzi Davidoff
@mackevelandphoto
@cindyexploreaustin
WOMAN OWNED AND OPERATED
Contributing Writers Sam Lauron, Jessi Devenyns, Sean Saldana, Ben Haguewood, Alison Bryce, Chris Ferguson, Bethany Wales, Eric Morales, Justin & Kayla Butts
Copy Editor Pam Bowen Social & Web Joanna Fuller
OF AUSTIN
by Sue Heatley
Publisher Nillo Studios, LLC
side
Tag @eastsideatxmag in your favorite East Austin photos and use the hashtag #EASTsideATXmag to be featured!
CONNECT WITH US eastsideatx eastsideatxmag We promise we read every single comment! 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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Armendariz Suzi Davidoff open The Studioand & Gallery ARE OPEN FLATBED'S STUDIOS ARE OPEN September and October. Wednesday-Friday 10am-5pm to artists creating their own woodcuts, FLATBED'SSTUDIOS OPEN FLATBED'S ARE OPEN FLATBED'S STUDIOS ARE ARE OPEN etchings, monotypes, and lithographs, to artists artistscreating creating own woodcuts, creating their own woodcuts, to to artists their own woodcuts, Open to Artists creating their FLATBED'S STUDIOS ARE OPEN and individual tutorials and small etchings, monotypes, and lithographs, etchings, monotypes, ownmonotypes, woodcuts, etchings, etchings, and lithographs, to artists creating their ownlithographs, woodcuts, workshops are available. and individual individual and and small and tutorials small monotypes, lithographs. etchings, monotypes, and and lithographs, and individual tutorials Call or visit to findavailable. out and more.small workshops workshops are available. and individual tutorials and small workshops available. Call or or visit visit toare find out more. Individual tutorials and small Call to findavailable. out more. workshops are 3701workshops Drossett - Austin, Texas - 78744 Call orDrive, visitSuite to 190 find out more. are also available.
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eastside | publisher's letter
3317 Manor Road/Dharma-Yoga.net
Together We Stand
T
his year has been a rough one, and we are grateful for this issue and this topic. As a woman-owned business with a majority woman-run team, this issue becomes even more special. You would think that fact alone would make putting a magazine together in this arena easier, but it actually makes it more difficult given we expect everything to be just perfect! The women featured on the following pages have set up their businesses and/or careers to be instrumental to their community. As a result, they have helped women of all ages, creating new tides that “raise all boats.” We love all the stories we‘ve had the opportunity to share over the years. Yet with each Inspirational Women’s issue, a new wave of emotion, inspiration, and togetherness seems to rise, a charisma not necessarily seen in other issues throughout the year. We hope the selection of stories highlighted in this issue inspires you to not give up on your dreams amidst a rough year and to keep writing your story like future generations depend on it. Another great thing about this issue is that it is funded by women for women. The Leading Women Special Section (starting on page 25) is the reason this issue originated and is the reason this issue is delivered to readers year after year. Many of the area’s most creative and successful entrepreneurs are women business owners who strive to support the local women here in Austin. So, we thank them and encourage you to take a second to read this section and support these wonderful businesses.
{PRINT} {Online} {Social} Get all that is in this issue and more everyday at
EASTSIDEATX.COM advertise@eastsideatx.com
6 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
In addition, the local economy still needs support. Please remember to continue to shop local whenever possible and frequent all the native businesses on the following pages like our local economy depends on it—because it truly does. You can make a difference! Enjoy the read! Ashley & Will Bowling
ON THE COVER:
Year after year, we try to come up with something different for the Inspirational Women’s cover that represents the essence of all the women-owned businesses within the issue. It seems that putting up a great photo of one of our highlighted stories would not do the big picture of this issue justice. Thanks to Steph Bernard of Ivelisse Designs with her elegant illustrations, we did not have to look far. This One, from the Mujer collection called Versátil, it represents the grace and strength of all the stories within this issue so well.
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eastside | local
Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak
National Council of Negro Women WORDS BY
Sean Saldana
Originating in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) is dedicated to “progress by working for the integration of all [American] people, regardless of race, creed, color or national origin into her spiritual, social, cultural, and civic life.” The Austin Section of the NCNW was later founded in 1946, making a powerful impact in the Austin community.
W
orking with the Austin Section of NCNW for nearly 15 years, Dr. Rashaanne Lewis, an entrepreneur, an author, and above all, an educator, has served in the role of recording secretary where she had the opportunity to utilize perhaps her most important skills of all: listening, organizing, and strategizing. In October, Dr. Rashaanne will assume the 2-year term of Section President of the Greater Austin NCNW. Never one to shy away from hard work, Dr. Rashaanne begins most days at 3am and ends them around 11pm. She’s a business owner and is currently preparing to publish her first children’s book. But dear to her heart, she has also long been a vocal advocate for Black women as a part of the Austin Section of the NCNW. I n the last fourteen years that Dr. Rashaanne has served with the NCNW, they have partnered with organizations like LifeWorks, SAFE Alliance, The Refuge, and The Salvation Army. They’ve worked with people transitioning out of homelessness, survivors of sex trafficking, and have put a large emphasis on grassroots advocacy. Dr. Rashaanne says over the next few years of her service that, in addition to raising funds for community projects, she and her team will focus on building relationships and involving younger
8 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
generations in planning, organizing, and advocacy. She calls this process “transforming generations through strong collaborations.” After tragedy occurred in Dr. Rashaanne’s life in 2006, the Austin NCNW embraced her and supported her through healing, and she’s been a part of the organization ever since. It’s what the organization is all about. And now as upcoming President, above all else, she wants to use her leadership position not to highlight herself but celebrate the efforts of the organization. Because, according to Dr. Rashaanne, “this is not about an ‘I’ and a ‘me’, but a ‘we’ and an ‘us.’ She is “of the mindset that change starts internally and at home. It starts in your own community of healing. It starts with loving your neighbor.” It is supporting and networking to help others achieve their goals. The Austin NCNW creates a village of love and self-reliance that supports and strengthens the community, welcoming new members to join them in “extending the collective power and leadership of African American women by continuing the vision of our founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.”
Contact:
(512) 461-8510 ncnwaustin@gmail.com ncnwaustin.org @NCNWaustin
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Did You Know? The Austin Section of the National Council of Negro Women originally started in 1946 by Mrs. Marion Jackson Downs, wife of Dr. Karl Downs, former interim president of Samuel Huston College.
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ALDRICH STREET’S GOT TALENT Follow us on social to learn more about our virtual event on September 24th. The winner will receive a grand prize of $500 in gift cards to the Aldrich Street business/businesses of choice. Aldrichstreet
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Aldrich Street is the heart of Mueller. Its unique mix of shops, cinema, restaurants, cafes, parks and cultural attractions create a new destination to enjoy the Austin Experience. Find it all on AldrichStreet.com.
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9
local • family-owned • austin born
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Art+ entertainment
Fall +Winter 2020
12 perfor-
mance art
THE ART OF EXPRESSION IS A MINDFULNESS PRACTICE FOR A DANCER.
14 entertainment
DISCOVER HOW A LOCAL BOUTIQUE HOTEL LOOKED TO THE COMMUNITY TO NAVIGATE THE PANDEMIC
eastside | art
kind of contemplative practice, learning is never complete. “I start my mornings with two hours of meditation,” she insists. “On Sundays, I don’t speak at all: no stimulation other than a book or smooth jazz. I really like elevator music,” she laughs. Sadé’s approach to meeting people on their level is an art in and of itself. As a healer, Sadé explains, “For example, when someone is on the brink of letting out an emotion but they’re holding on to it, we do contractions.” Contractions as in “convex and concave, beautiful movements,” Sadé demonstrates, as she arches her back and then hollows her body with arms gracefully poised. “It holds the chest up to preserve their dignity while excavating what is happening.” She adds, “I can say this to someone, and they might not understand it, but their body knows. It’s [really] about listening to your body.”
The Show Must Go On Sadé co-founded Ashé Arts with Zell Miller III to create a space where “the arts could be a tool for personal development and empowerment.” To watch and find out more: ashearts.org.
Soulful Somatics
Healing through the Art of Movement WORDS & PHOTOS BY Eric
Morales
A psychologist, dancer, and yoga facilitator, Sadé Jones teaches mindfulness in a yoga practice that combines movement set to modern dance and rhythmic beats.
S
adé earned her masters degree in Social Psychology from UT Austin, and she is an award winning choreographer and performance artist. As the founder of Soulful Somatics, she created a yoga series as a way to share her insight and experience with the local community.
While teaching classes at Sanctuary Yoga, Practice Yoga Austin, among other locations, she currently works with individual clients, small groups, and even guides (online) corporate wellness workshops, sharing her wisdom with people from all walks of life. Sadé’s work is rooted in ancient practices and directly tied to her understanding of Ase, which is similar in concept to the idea of Qi, or Prana. Her practices come directly from her African heritage. According to Sadé, in this 12 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
Additionally, Sadé co-created Melanated Chrysalis, which she says is, “the tale of a Black girl finding her womanhood.” She crafted expressive movements that helped her to understand herself. Others in her community went through their own processes by learning it, and they too were able to share that healing with audiences around Austin.
find more at eastsideatx.com
Sadé shares her insights after practicing healing through movement for years. “People say they want balance, but they really just want the icky to stop. They want triage, just treat the symptoms so they can resume life as they know it.” Generally, those with this mindset might be momentarily satisfied with a quick endorphin rush by pushing their body too hard, too often. However, Sadé’s goal is to lead her clients toward a deeper awareness through movement so they can connect with their bodies and begin to learn from their bodies. She realizes that many dancers already know how to build in that connection with a sense of wholeness and that some have to learn from scratch. “There’s a lot of physics in dance and a lot of primary alchemy,” Sadé says. “Dancers don’t always think of those things because we just do it. We know we worked really, really hard and practiced, literally transmuting our body for an outcome we want.” She explains how the outcome is always something magical. “Practical magic, and everybody has access to it.” According to Sadé, the secret to self-care is rest which is a prerequisite for sleep. “What people want is sleep, but what they need is rest,” Sadé insists. To find out more, Sadé just released an e-book on the subject: Deep Rest: A Self Care Ritual.
Contact:
sadeizm.com hello@sadeizm.com @sadeizmbemoved
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eastside | entertainment
Sleep Well,
Do Good.
Despite uncertainty, Heywood Hotel doubles down on goodwill. WORDS BY
Christopher Ferguson PHOTOS BY Eric Morales
A cherished boutique hotel looks toward a careful, limited reopening after paying staff for months of local volunteering during the COVID-19 shutdown.
S
ince opening its doors nearly a decade ago, East Austin’s Heywood Hotel has hosted thousands of out-oftowners, staycationers, and small groups. With just seven unique rooms, each sporting a sophisticated and minimal aesthetic, the emphasis has always been on providing a
curated and authentic local Austin experience. A passionate team of concierges boast an encyclopedic knowledge of the city, tailoring itineraries to each guest and often making recommendations to visitors well before they arrive. After checking in, guests can use one of the hotel’s free bicycles to explore the neigh-
borhood or peruse a map of 99 handpicked places that are walkable or bikeable from Heywood’s prime location on East Cesar Chavez. This mission to celebrate and support the community it calls home has earned the hotel a reputation for unparalleled hospitality in the heart of the city.
Did You Know? With industry leading cleaning and safety policies, as well as rooms equipped with private entrances, isolated air conditioning, and access to the fresh air of a central courtyard, the Heywood provides a safe, socially distanced stay for lucky guests.
These community bonds came into sharp focus in March after the virus forced hotels, restaurants, and event spaces into sudden hibernation. The shockwave was immediate and palpable as businesses across the city faced harsh realities requiring staff furloughs or even shuttering outright. Kathy Setzer, owner and general manager at Heywood, had a different idea. Instead of disbanding her tightknit staff, she used the hotel’s small business stimulus loan to keep payroll running for anyone who chose to volunteer with a local nonprofit. Months later, the “Sleep Well, Do Good” project has an eye-popping and growing list of accomplishments. Extra toilet paper and surplus food were donated to the Rebekah Baines Johnson Center, an East Austin senior center that serves economically disadvantaged elders. Likewise, Heywood’s staff donated and delivered 125 box fans during Family Eldercare’s summer fan drive. Over 1,000 handwritten notes were donated to Meals on Wheels Central Texas, and the team partnered with ATX Hospital Meals to help deliver meals to local healthcare workers. A comprehensive list of Heywood’s volunteer initiatives can be found on their website or by searching the hashtag #HeywoodHelps. By keeping her team intact and motivated while the hotel’s operations were paused, Kathy notes her staff has only grown closer and even more devoted to the East Austin community they serve.
Contact:
(512) 271-5522 1609 East Cesar Chavez Street heywoodhotel.com hey@heywoodhotel.com @heywoodhotel
EAST AUSTIN 1901 E 7TH ST. | (512) 981-MODS NORTH AUSTIN
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WWW.SHAMANMODS.COM eastsideatx.com
15
r o f e c r o F
E G N A H C A
r these e, and fo thing. g n a h c t in life is ge is a good sion constan n s The only n women, cha ences and a pa nity u ri sti e m u p A m x o e r l c u fo these ersona p f g a o n in o h k g c a a Relyin e to m ers, e m th ti o ir g e in for help as dedicated th the status quo. h g builders and challengin r e c n re n of colo , fe if d r wome ts fo is y rt a a w le the fema paving ners, ace for They are hip, making sp ty business ow on. ti ri rs o ra e e in d n a m for in le xt ge the gap in the ne g the needle bridging ing confidence d for ll re movin and insti r individuals a for their city an u fo re futu These a better come. to create ns of females to o ti genera
Pamela Benson Owens Founder & CEO of Edge of Your Seat Consulting
F
emale entrepreneurs are the fastest growing population in business, with recent data showing that 40 percent of U.S. businesses are women-owned. Within that group, the number of businesses started by women of color is even greater. “Yet, last year, I watched an entire panel talk about the woes of entrepreneurship, and it was all white women,” states Pamela Benson Owens, founder and CEO of Edge of Your Seat Consulting. “So even within the dynamics of women, there’s a lot of work to do.” A seasoned entrepreneur herself, Pamela began her consulting firm nearly 20 years ago and lends her conflict resolution, leadership development, and culture building expertise to corporate teams, nonprofits, and business leaders. While her business coaching and leadership training has built her a client list that includes major companies like Coca-Cola, Pamela got her start by consulting pageant contestants, helping them form their answers to difficult questions. The business began as a necessity to jumpstart her career, but “it really hasn’t changed.” She adds, “I [still] help leaders answer difficult questions.” Over the past year, Pamela has had to put her leadership and organizational skills to direct use as she’s taken on the role of interim executive director at the local nonprofit, Six Square. Working internally with the organization on its infrastructure and core values and
being “in the trenches” have not only given her a renewed perspective on leadership but have also made her a stronger consultant. “How effective are you as a leader and a consultant of leaders if you aren’t actually leading something yourself?” she questions. “When I speak as a consultant, I’m speaking from firsthand experience. It’s a powerful and humbling position to be in.” If there’s one thing that has been a constant, no matter what type of organization or team Pamela is working with, it’s that she never shies away from conflict. “As a matter of fact,” she says, “people will often hear me say ‘have a nice conflict.’” Through experiences, she’s been able to “navigate the most difficult conversations and situations.” Her fearless approach to consulting and her ability to face difficult topics head on derive from the truth that real change lies on the other side of discomfort. Whether that’s ensuring more women of color have a seat at the table or building a diverse and inclusive company culture, Pamela is energized and driven by meaningful work that moves people forward. She insists, “I want to get to the point where we can have a hard conversation, hug it out, and go to lunch.” pamelabensonowens.com @edgeofyourseatconsulting
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17
Julia Cuba-Lewis CEO of Girls Empowerment Network
J
ulia Cuba-Lewis has always felt that her life work has been to empower girls and women. “I have cared about gender justice from a really young age, and I’ve always seen the world through that lens,” Julia states. “I didn’t quite know how, but I knew that I would do this work.” After working at several women’s organizations in Chicago—at one point, she worked with seven at the same time—Julia made her way to Texas where she joined Girls Scouts of Central Texas and worked with at-risk girls. It was here that she remembers learning about Girls Empowerment Network (GEN); she even took her troops to a few of the organization’s workshops. Working alongside the nonprofit, Julia finally felt like she had stumbled upon the resource she had been seeking for so long. “It was so exciting to me that there was a source in our community that was answering girls’ questions that they sometimes find hard to ask their parents or friends,” says Julia. “And this organization wasn’t afraid to tackle it head on and understand the experience.” When the position for CEO at GEN opened up, Julia didn’t even think twice about applying. “It felt like love at first sight,” she recalls. She joined in 2006 and has been dedicated to the organization for more than a decade.
GEN operates on the strong conviction that girls are powerful, and their mission is to help girls believe that is true. Through school-based curriculum, leadership conferences, and now virtual services, GEN’s programming is focused on ensuring girls know that they are unstoppable. To do this, they’ve created a dedicated support system that girls have access to no matter what questions they have or what obstacles that need help working through. A main component of their programming is based around self-efficacy, which is one’s belief in her ability to succeed. Julia acknowledges that by instilling this belief in girls at a young age, it can become a building block for the future generation of women. “If every girl we reach suddenly believes that she’s unstoppable,” Julia says, “then I think we’ll have a female president, and we’ll have more women in leadership around the world. I also think we’ll see better treatment of people, especially if we can raise the voices and beliefs of girls of color.” Even though she’s been committed to female empowerment for practically her entire life, Julia knows that her work is just getting started. “Every day I get out of bed, ever since I was a kid, knowing that this is what gives me life,” she states. “I can’t stop.”
When the pandemic began, GEN’s first instinct was to reach out to their community to see what they needed. What they learned was that the girls they serve were seeking a way to stay engaged and connected with one another while at home. This spurred the idea for their Spark Kits. The hand decorated kits, often marked with empowering messages and notes of encouragement, include 25 self-guided and collaborative activities to do at home. The girls also gain access to an online community where they can engage in group or one-on-one sessions.
girlsempowermentnetwork.org @girlsempowermentnetwork
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19
Tam Hawkins President and CEO of Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce
T
am Hawkins is a small business’s biggest cheerleader. “I’ve been dubbed an eternal optimist,” she laughs. “I think because I’ve seen so many people succeed in business and overcome in spite of obstacles, I have this view that [anyone] can do it, too.” This optimism and drive has shaped not only how Tam approaches her work as president and CEO of the Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce but also how she has navigated her own entrepreneurial pursuits. When Tam and her late husband started a commercial real estate business, they knew exactly what they were getting into as they were both third-generation entrepreneurs, something Tam notes “is a rarity in the Black community.” Growing up in an entrepreneurial environment and running her own business instilled in Tam a passion for mentoring others, specifically minority entrepreneurs. Tam ultimately found her way to the Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce in 2013 when she joined as the membership manager. She stepped into the role of President and CEO a few years later. In her current role at the chamber, Tam uses her impressive corporate background—she spent part of her career working with Fortune 500 companies—and unparalleled entrepreneurial spirit to oversee the
20 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
chamber’s programs which fall under three pillars: advocacy, social networking, and business development. The first pillar, advocacy, is something that particularly strikes a chord in Tam; the chamber often finds itself advocating for minority-owned businesses most when it comes to money. According to Tam, the biggest challenge Black business owners face is access to capital. “Black business owners aren’t that different from anyone else. They just need access to capital and the opportunity to be in the same room.” She further explains that even if a minority business owner has the same education, experience, or financial history as their non-minority counterpart, they are still underfunded anywhere from 25-50% comparatively. Driven by this unjust reality, Tam has made it a priority to not only connect Blackowned businesses to funds but to also educate banks on institutional racism and the unintended consequences their prejudices may cause. At the end of the day, Tam’s goal is to ensure that Austin prioritizes minority business as part of its growing ecosystem. “I often ask people 'what kind of city do you want [Austin] to be 50 years from now?'” she states. “It’s about making sure that the generation after you has nothing to worry about. What do you want to leave for the [next] generation?” austinbcc.org @atxblackchamber
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Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce hosts one of the largest events for elected officials in the state of Texas called Black Elected Officials Reception. The signature event is meant to give residents and elected city, county, and state officials a chance to network and strengthen their ties to the community.
Monica Ceniceros Painter, Co-founder of atxGALS & Founder of The Cathedral
M
onica Ceniceros remembers her first public art show clearly. “I was really nervous and hadn’t priced any of my art,” she recalls. “Then my studio mate came in and said, was like ‘Somebody [is] ready to buy one of your pieces.’” Monica ended up being one of the first people to sell a piece of art that day; she also happened to be one of the youngest artists there. As a young female artist without a formal background in art—though she has been painting and drawing her entire life—Monica came into the professional art world with a fresh perspective. While she navigated the more traditional aspects of the art scene with gumption, she eventually realized that the gallery setting didn’t quite cater to young female artists and curious spectators. “I would always have my friends come to support me at art shows, and they would stay for 20 minutes and then leave,” she remembers, and at the time wondered "How can I make this more entertaining for people who come and want to experience art? How do we make this experience less stuffy?” After voicing these thoughts aloud, she realized that she wasn’t the only one who felt this way. She and fellow artist, Whitney Turetzky, decided to test the waters by hosting an art show that redefined the traditional art exhibit. They set out to create an environment that felt more like a party than a gallery and then they hosted the event
at a familiar community space with a DJ and an open bar. The most unique distinction of the event, however, was that it featured only female artists: a nod to the fact that women in the art scene are often underrepresented and underpaid. The artists also got to keep 100 percent of what they made at the show which is “unheard of in a gallery setting,” Monica shares. They ended up selling more than 350 tickets, confirming that the art world was due for a shake up like this. Though this was intended to be a one-time event, Monica and Whitney couldn’t ignore what the community clearly wanted, and atxGALS was officially born. The organization has been hosting quarterly art parties that highlight emerging female artists ever since. For those who know Monica or have engaged with her art, it should come as no surprise that she is a champion for women. Since she began exploring the distinctive medium she works with— rich acrylic paint on wood grain—she’s been drawn to female figures. The natural curves of the wood grain inform the shapes of her designs, but the notion of being independent and bold is what truly influences her work.
Monica is also the founder of The Cathedral, a co-working and event space for creatives and artists. As atxGALS grew, so too did the need for a space of their own. When Monica stumbled upon an old church in East Austin, she immediately envisioned a creative space that suited both atxGALS and the community. Opened in 2019, the space operates as a co-working facility by day, and on nights and weekends, it hosts art parties, workshops, weddings, and events.
In both her art and community work, Monica is driven by “being able to showcase the natural beauty that comes from being unique.” She adds, “Standing out is not a bad thing.” monicaceniceros.com @moni.ceniceros | @atxgals @thecathedralatx
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Recognizing Excellence
2020
Leading
WOMEN 2020
LINDSAY NEUREN | REALTOR®, THE LINDSAY NEUREN GROUP A third-generation Austinite, Lindsay brings a unique perspective to her clients looking to buy and sell in her beloved hometown. She takes immense pride in providing her clients with the best in service. Lindsay loves the vibrancy of the Eastside and the wonderful community that has been nurtured here.
Lindsay started her career in nonprofit fundraising in New York City. Driven by a passion for helping people, she has found her calling in real estate. With her optimism and warm personality, Lindsay goes above and beyond helping her clients buy and sell homes across the greater Austin area. She loves to be involved in every aspect of the buying and selling experience.
CONTACT
TREC Information About Brokerage Services TREC Consumer Protection Notice
(512) 913-6987 @LINDSAYATXREALTOR LINDSAYNEURENGROUP.COM
26 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
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Leading
WOMEN 2020
RHONDA PAVER
STEPPING STONE SCHOOL The heart of Rhonda Paver’s vision is the same today as it was over four decades ago when Rhonda and her family arrived in Austin in 1979. After searching for quality early care and education for her own children, Rhonda believed the children of Austin deserved something better than what was available. That very year she founded the first Stepping Stone School. Since then, Stepping Stone School has grown to 20 campuses providing exceptional early care and education for families throughout central Texas. Stepping Stone School is dedicated to supporting the development of the whole child and empowering children to be resilient and successful lifelong learners. Their dedicated teachers and leaders are committed to developing nationally recognized programs and have educated over 100,000 children. (512) 459-0258 STEPPINGSTONESCHOOL.COM INFO@STEPPINGSTONESCHOOL.COM 20 LOCATIONS ACROSS AUSTIN
TIFFANY HENTRUP
MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER UFCU I moved to Austin in 1992. And though I took a detour for 4 years, I made it back to my favorite city in 2001. That’s when I bought a ‘fixer upper’ in East Austin, and since then, I have been a proud Eastside resident. I love my neighborhood and the sense of community living here brings. Being able to help clients realize the dream of homeownership is rewarding beyond measure. Whether financing or refinancing, every decision is important, and I work to understand borrowers’ specific needs to ensure that they are supported throughout the homebuying process. My goal is to make sure that my clients not only get their dream home but also find the entire process smooth and efficient. (512) 789-8778 THENTRUP@UFCU.ORG MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER NMLS# 509718 UFCU MORTGAGE SERVICES NMLS # 441215
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Leading
WOMEN 2020
LINDSAY HARRIS | BROKER ASSOCIATE AT COMPASS As a proud East Austin resident since 2004, I’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 CONTACT (512) 784-2163 LINDSAY.HARRIS@COMPASS.COM LINDSAYHARRISREALESTATE.COM
28 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
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.
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Leading
WOMEN 2020
PATRICE RIOS
TROO DESIGNS Patrice Rios, a talented designer, is making her way to the top of this high-end industry where her work simply speaks for itself. A virtuosic eye for color, adventurous sense of style, and a fierce ability to multi-task are all synonymous with her success. Her work reflects what she values in design: acute attention to detail and a love for combining materials, colors and textures influenced by her clients’ style. Clients are a major part of her inspiration. “When I meet a new client, I dive in, get to know them, and learn about their vision which then translates into a personal design that is as usable as it is stylish,” says Patrice. “I love the mix of having many different projects at the same time, all with a unique style. There is constant crossover with creativity in my studio.”
(512) 810-3730 TROODESIGNSKBI.COM PATRICE@TROODESIGNSKBI.COM 4646 MUELLER BLVD. #1050
DEBORAH WHITBY
AUSTIN PLUMBERY Beginning with my grandfather, service has played an integral role in defining my family. For us, three generations of native Austinites, taking an active role in our community is not an option; it’s simply what we do. After succumbing to my entrepreneurial spirit, I decided to take what my father had started to the next level. My story has become about legacy. More than family legacy alone, I strive to create a deeper one—as a mother, female business owner, woman of color, and advocate for using entrepreneurship as a means of impact in our local community and beyond. This company has given me a voice and platform to define what a plumbing company means today. As modern home and business owners, we understand you because we are you. Providing the best experience possible, you will feel the heart I put into Austin Plumbery as customer service is our top priority. We are in the business of building relationships which propels us to do excellent and honest work for each of our clients. Here at Austin Plumbery, we can’t wait to get to know each and every one of you. (512) 766-1519 HELLO@AUSTINPLUMBERY.COM WWW.AUSTINPLUMBERY.COM
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Leading
WOMEN 2020
STEPHANIE HOUSTON | RUMINATE DISTILLING As president and cofounder of Ruminate Distilling, Stephanie Houston is an advocate for businesses and manufacturers who are fighting to stay afloat during uncertain times. She is working for legislative change in Texas; her goal is to take her brand national while using the business as a vehicle to bring positive change and hope to the industry. Ruminate’s distillery is located in Hye, Texas, on the 290 Wine Road and is home to two brands: HYE Rum & Island CONTACT INFO@HYERUM.COM 11247 US 290 WEST, HYE, TEXAS 78635 HYERUM.COM
30 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
Getaway Rum. Stephanie’s previous experience with start-ups as well as chief marketing officer and cofounder of a national staffing company has been instrumental in launching brand awareness and in the strategic planning for HYE Rum as it grows. When the pandemic hit, HYE Rum pivoted, manufacturing 28 tons of hand sanitizer which were donated to first responders. With tasting rooms still closed through the summer, 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 distributors.
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Leading
WOMEN 2020
JULIE JONES | SKYBLUE KENNELS After years of managing kennels in Austin, Julie Jones heard about the sale of Austin’s longest running kennel. Immediately, she sold her dream home in south Austin and gambled the proceeds on pursuing the dream of owning her own business. Thus, SkyBlue Kennels was born. Opening its doors in 2016, Jones brought along her long-time friend, Kelly Edmondson, to manage the place and offer training and grooming services in addition to boarding, making SkyBlue a one-stop-shop for furry friends who visit. SkyBlue sits on wooded acreage in East Austin and offers ALL dogs the chance to run around multiple times a day in one of its 8 play-yards. All kennels are climate-controlled and have large indoor/outdoor runs. SkyBlue has a highly trained and devoted staff, while Julie also lives on the property. Their top priorities are safety, sunshine, and dogs just getting to be dogs. (512) 928-2583 SKYBLUEKENNELSATX@GMAIL.COM SKYBLUEKENNELSATX.COM 7509 FM 969 (E MLK JR. BLVD.)
ALITCA GARCIA RUEDA | AG RUEDA BOOKKEEPING AG Rueda Bookkeeping is a professional and knowledgeable accountancy service located in the heart of East Austin. For more than 15 years, Alitca has helped multiple small businesses set up for financial success by listening to their needs and working together to effectively plan for the future. One of Alitca and her team's top priorities is to bring as much value to their client's life as possible. Giving back valuable time to busy business owners and allowing them to prioritize building their business, AG Rueda Bookkeeping focuses on the clerical work. Their goal is to educate their clients on how they can be deeply impacted by simple errors within bookkeeping. This has a wide range of benefits when it comes to tax time. Her team can get meticulous with the details, with the end goal of saving their client's money. (512) 963-9387 | 2823 E MLK JR BLVD., STE. 130 ALITCA@AGRUEDABOOKKEEPING.COM AGRUEDABOOKKEEPING.COM @AGRUEDABOOKKEEPING
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Leading
WOMEN 2020
SUSAN LAMBERT | REMINGTON FAMILY DISTILLERS Remington Family Distillers is a family owned and operated business with a passion for superior quality spirits handcrafted locally in Austin, Texas.
with Remington’s team. With a background in IT, Susan was a quick study. Between her natural talent for photography, a scientific passion in her research of industry trends, and the drive to succeed in everything she does, she quickly spun that effort, and that mindset, In the beginning, the idea of marketing meant taking a badly lit into great success. Since then, Susan has been able to turn those 30 photo with a cell phone and pushing it out to our 30 adoring fans. fans to over one million impressions last quarter, numbers generally Marketing sheets were a collage of our favorite bottle shots along with held by the biggest names in the industry. our most successful sales pitch. We were like many young start-ups: an amazing product and the drive to sell it but no idea how to market However, Susan’s real love is working to help those around her. She ourselves to the larger world. Fast forward several years to when has been able to combine her passion for charity work with Rem Susan Lambert took on a leadership role as chief marketing officer ington’s founding principle of always giving back to the community. With Susan’s lead, Remington Family Distillers has contributed to 65 different humanitarian events in the past 18 months, events CONTACT whose combined efforts contributed over $250M to local organiza (512) 288-3491 tions. It’s no wonder why Susan most recently received gold medals RFDISTILLERS.COM @CAFFEDELFUEGO for both Social Media Engagement & Charitable Campaigns from @REMINGTONVODKA the John Barleycorn Society of Spirits Writers and Marketers. 32 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
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Happy, Healthy, Vision
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FALL INTO SOME BOOTS KICK IT IN COMFORT AROUND YOUR YARD, GARDEN AND HOME. 501 BASTROP HIGHWAY (US HWY 183 SOUTH)
512-385-3452 BETWEEN DOWNTOWN & THE AIRPORT WWW.CALLAHANSGENERALSTORE.COM @CALLAHANSGS
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YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD BREWERY PATIO & CURBSIDE: WED - SUNDAY oddwoodales.com | 108 Manor Rd. Austin, TX 78723
34 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
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Go+ do
Fall +Winter 2020
36 go&do local
THIS EAST AUSTIN NONPROFIT STRIVES TO CELEBRATE AND SUPPORT EAST AUSTIN’S CREATIVE COMMUNITY.
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eastside | go&do
“We have an ongoing opportunity to say, ‘how do we need to show up in this space?’” says Pamela. “How do we get people to be curious about what they don’t know? It’s so easy to live in a bubble.”
Bridging the Gap
Leading the Way for Artist Equality WORDS BY
Sam Lauron Mackenzie Smith & Jerrell Trulove
PHOTOS BY
When Pamela Benson Owens joined Six Square a year ago, her first order of business was not to take immediate action but, rather, to listen. What resulted was a subtle, yet crucial, shift in how the organization showed up and held space for the community it has served for the past seven years.
36 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
P
amela, founder of Edge of Your Seat Consulting whose background is in leadership consulting and conflict resolution, was brought on as Six Square’s interim executive director to help strengthen the nonprofit’s methodologies. As a starting point, Pamela went on what she describes as a “listening tour” in order to understand what the community in which the organization caters to truly needs. What she learned from speaking with and listening to Black artists and entrepreneurs in East Austin is that there’s a crucial gap that Six Square could be filling. “I think there’s a real disconnect between how the community shows up and partakes in the arts,” says Pamela, “and [understanding] what it takes to be an artist of color in one of the most expensive cities.” Founded in 2013, Six Square’s mission is to preserve and uplift the art, culture, and history of Central East Austin. While that mission, along with the name—a reference to Austin's 1928 city plan that forced Black residents to live within a six square mile radius east of what is now I-35—remains the guiding force for the nonprofit, Six Square is reframing how that mission takes shape.
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With Pamela at the helm, the small team of four determined that Six Square’s role is to be a voice, an advocate, and a partner for artists and creatives of color. To do this, they’ve curated educational, community-driven programming around arts, economic development, and even topics like mental health. One recent program they introduced, for instance, is a virtual meditation series called Black Minds Matter. Through initiatives like these, Six Square hopes to not only create a safe space where artists have a voice but to also provide an educational platform that strengthens the community’s knowledge and understanding of East Austin’s art and cultural legacies. Six Square has been a constant source of preservation and sustainability. But by paring down their programming and focusing on just a few core pillars, Pamela believes they will be able to provide for the community in new ways and achieve their ultimate goal. “To me, the end goal is true equality around the artist community,” she states. “[This role] has been equal parts grueling and difficult, but it’s also the thing that gets me out of bed. I am meeting the most incredible artists and creatives, and it’s powerful.”
Serving the Community for 70+ years.
Happy Hour
Stay Black & Live
Contact:
1152 San Bernard Street info@sixsquare.org sixsquare.org @sixsquareatx
Six Square partnered with George Washington Carver Museum and several Black organizations in East Austin for Stay Black and Live, a virtual Juneteenth festival. The festivities included free food, an online raffle and auction, and live performances. Though the annual festival was forced to take place online due to COVID-19, the event had more than 1,000 attendees.
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eastside | go&do
WANT MORE? Native outdoor plants that grow well in East Austin soil are also
important additions to any home.
Visit eastsideatx.com/best-plantsto-plant-in-east-austin for the full lineup of ideas to beautify your space.
3
Aloe Vera
Revered across the globe for its skin healing properties, Kerri rates aloe for its striking emerald leaves and diverse growing patterns. Allow the aloe’s soil to dry completely before watering and find her a bright sunny spot to bask in.
6
best
Rhipsalis
With cascading, alien-like tendrils which spill from the planter in satisfying layers, Rhipsalis (AKA Cactus Mistletoe) is a unique and pretty alternative to common trailing plants. Kerri recommends finding a high perch for this tropical succulent and only water when its soil is completely dry.
Gynura Aurantiaca
House Plants
Creating a Personal Plant Sanctuary WORDS BY
Bethany Wales PHOTO BY Ashley Bowling
Few home additions can rival the restorative power of plants. Not only do these living ornaments improve the aesthetics of a space, but they also possess potent air purifying functions which counter the impact of pollution. Bonafide plant expert and owner of East Austin’s Plant Party, Keri Anderson, shares her six favorite houseplants for creating natural indoor sanctuary.
1
Madagascar Dragon Tree
Hailed as one of the lowest maintenance house plants in the world, the leaves of the Madagascar Dragon Tree explode outwards like a foliage firework and add an exciting, tropical feel to any space. To see this tree flourish, Keri suggests to keep it away from direct sunlight and maintain damp soil. 38 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
2
Monstera Deliciosa
Also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, the Monstera is sophisticated, vibrant, and gloriously easy to care for. This waxy tropical vine is a fantastic choice for first-time plant parents. Kerri recommends placing the plant in a bright spot away from direct sunlight and watering weekly to maintain damp soil.
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For plant parents looking to experiment with bold new hues, look no further than the Purple Velvet Plant, scientifically known as Gynura Aurantiaca. The peach-skin leaves of this South American evergreen seem almost iridescent, thanks to their vivid purple edges and violet stems. Keep their soil moist and place in bright, but indirect, sunlight.
6
Sansevierias
More commonly known as Snake Plant, the upright, snake-patterned leaves of the Sansevierias make a bold addition to any home, and these plants are a fantastic addition to decor when looking to add desert vibes to an interior space. Ensure soil is completely dry before re-watering and find a place with medium light to display.
Contact:
Plant Party (888) 272-6499 plantparty.co 1200 E 11th St. #105 @plantparty.co
Home + away
Fall +Winter 2020
40 home
A LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGNER TAILORS HER ECLECTIC STYLE TO HER OWN BUNGALOW WITH PLAYFUL AND PERSONAL TOUCHES.
42 away
HEAD SOUTH TO EXPLORE A HIDDEN GEM ALONG THE TEXAS COAST.
eastside | home
Modern Eclecticism
When in doubt, try it out. WORDS BY Christopher
Ferguson, AIA Shelby Bella
PHOTOS BY
Jennifer Fisher’s self-styled Eastside bungalow is an ever-evolving canvas resonant with the eclectic charm that defines her professional work.
W
ith its low-slung roofline, crisp curb appeal, and cherry-red front door, Jennifer Fisher’s tasteful bungalow is indicative of the charm one would expect to find in Austin’s Chestnut neighborhood. However, once inside, it becomes clear that this is no ordinary home. Equal parts showroom, office, and personal residence, the collection of highly functional spaces is united by an aesthetic rich with juxtaposition. The home’s front room provides eye-candy in every direction, as furniture and artifacts collected over a lifetime unfold within a 40 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
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tableau of thoughtfully curated vignettes. Even to guests visiting for the first time, it’s clear the space is deeply personal, imbued with a sense of poise and warmth that cannot be accomplished with just a Pinterest board or trip to a bigbox furniture store. According to Jennifer, this attention to the individual and his or her history (and not simply what a space could look like) are what distinguishes her work from others. Her philosophy has had an undeniable payoff, earning her billing on multiple lists of Austin’s top interior designers since opening her doors four years ago. The success of Jennifer’s approach is rooted in her ability to stay in
flux while culling a sense order from many disparate sources.
The home, like Jennifer’s professional work, avoids the pitfalls of contemporary eclecticism. It neither feels cluttered nor austere, yet achieves an inimitable richness unique to its homeowner.
As a full-service design firm, J. Fisher Interiors does it all. Whether it’s a remodel, new construction, or even a treehouse, Jennifer and her team design to the most important and personal details.
Contact:
(512) 954-0904 jfisherinteriors.com @JFisherInteriors
JORDAN SLAGTER, D.D.S.
Cosmetic & General Dentist
“What I love about Austin is how much time everyone spends outside—whether it’s on trails or patios.”
What she ♥s: Tiny's Milk & Cookies Spending extra time with family Long walks outdoors • Swimming to beat the heat during warmer months
‘ V
A large, blue dimensional letter “E” serves as an improvised end table, rescued from a San Francisco car dealership in 1997 as they replaced their backlit signage. A dozen playful elephant sculptures of varying sizes face the main entrance, an homage to the notion that elephants bring good luck. A pair of large, patterned armchairs anchor the living room, establishing their place by accident while Jennifer considered reselling them. The trick, according to Jennifer, is staying committed to experimentation and change and allowing yourself to be surprised.
SP
Cosmetic Dentistry | General Dentistry | Sedation Dentistry Pain-Free Laser Dentistry | Stringent Infection Control Protocols Smile Makeovers | Porcelain Veneers | Teeth Whitening Dental Implants | Complimentary Hand or Foot Massage
www.austindentalspa.com (512) 452-9296 {the inspirational side of austin}
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eastside | away
Day Three Enjoy a filling breakfast at Toddle Inn Restaurant, then head to Historic Battlefield Trail. This path runs from the heart of Brownsville to the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park and offers a variety of sights including downtown Brownsville and the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art. And if that’s not enough, explore natural, cultural, and historical places along the Caracara Trails. Before heading home, stop by Gladys Porter Zoo. With 28 acres of tropical plants and roughly 1,600 animals, this zoo, known for its success in helping endangered species of wildlife, will not disappoint.
Day One
A Weekend In
Boca Chica A Hidden Texas Treasure WORDS BY Alison PHOTOS BY
Bryce Sarah Pressler
While many visitors and residents debate between Galveston, Corpus Christi, and Padre Island National Seashore for Texas beach destinations, the valley has some of the most overlooked, yet pristine, shores and crystal waters known to Texas.
42 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
Plan on departing Austin early morning for the six hour drive. You’ll know you’re getting close when Route 4 ends, roughly 25 miles east of Brownsville, past the ghost town of Boca Chica Village and the new SpaceX Launch Facility. While the beach is technically in Boca Chica State Park and part of the Boca Chica Loop, the area does not have a check-in station or facilities like other Texas parks and boasts an added bonus: free admission. Once at the beach, feel free to park on the sand. Find an open spot on the shoreline, then choose from a variety of beach ac-
tivities to enjoy such as sunbathing, swimming, surfing, or fishing. Stretch your legs after the journey with a walk around the shallow bays and unique dunes of wind-blown clay. For dinner, plan ahead for cooking over a crackling open fire for a true Texas summer experience.
Day Two Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise. With little to no buildings in sight, the view is uninterrupted looking across the water or gazing down the saline flats. Bird watching can easily fill the first half of the day. With the impressive list of species traveling to the area, sightings of peregrine falcons, piping plovers, and American oyster-
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catchers are bound to happen, especially when exploring the mouth of the Rio Grande. Be prepared to see more wildlife than birds though. The Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle is the most critically endangered sea turtle in the world and makes its journey ashore during the spring and summer months. For dinner, head back to Brownsville to indulge in local fare at The Vermillion Restaurant and Watering Hole. This local establishment has been serving up a variety of dishes from the Fantastico Fajita Plate to the Shrimp Cocktail since 1934. While the exterior may not look like something to write home about, this eatery lives up to its slogan, “not fancy, just good.”
WHERE TO STAY Since overnight stays on the beach are prohibited, consider renting a short-term rental such as VRBO, air bnb, or outdoorsy RV. There are plenty to choose from, including the “Unique House” which is close to the cultural district, museums, and the zoo.
Sip+ taste
Fall +Winter 2020
44 taste feature
A NEW APPROACH TO GATHERING IN THE FACE OF CHANGE
46 taste expert
MAXIMIZE LEFT-
OVERS AND FOOD
SCRAPS TO CREATE A BRIGHT AND
SUSTAINABLE DISH.
48 dining guide
A CURATED GUIDE TO THE BEST PLACES TO GRAB A BITE IN EAST AUSTIN
50 sip
feature
NEW CONCOCTIONS ARE ON THE HORIZON FOR A SISTER-RUN CRAFT COCKTAIL BUSINESS.
eastside | taste
Away from the Everyday Safely Creating Communal Moments WORDS BY
Jessi Devenyns Bella
PHOTOS BY Shelby
Establishing and nurturing a business that thrives in Austin is not a feat for the faint of heart. Yet, there is nothing that could have prepared Jessica Alonso, founder of Wander/Gather, for the storm that rolled in this spring and utterly redefined the hospitality industry.
I
n February, Wander/Gather (aka W/G) had been in existence for about 18 months when Jessica began a seismic shift to her business model in hopes of scaling while still delivering thoughtfully curated events for both sponsors and patrons to enjoy. After tickets sold out quickly to her inaugural event that implemented her new model, news began to circulate that the pandemic was going to be more than just a hiccup. In response, Jessica postponed her event — indefinitely. Several weeks later, she found herself having to make the unenviable decision of whether or not to lay off her staff to keep her business afloat. “So after that, I took two weeks off,” she shares. Following her momentary retreat to reflect and regroup, W/G returned to deliver good food and good times to Austinites. This time, though, it came in the form of a home-delivered box. Two days after Jessica released the novel concept onto social media, she sold out. “I was like, ‘Okay, we have this business. And we can carry on,'” she remembers thinking. But the fluidity of the pandemic and its ripple effects had just begun.
44 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
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Austin / Texas Following the launch of her W/G in a Box, Austin opened its doors just to shut them again. “Like that,” she says, snapping her fingers. “There was no consistency; it was crazy. So again, I took two weeks to learn that it was the value that we are bringing. And that [value] is what people are liking.” Fast-forward two weeks and Austin was introduced to the new face of W/G, The Backyard Series. According to Jessica, the idea responded to her need for consistency to being a viable option both under stringent gathering restrictions and also when the world returns to a state similar to which it left earlier in the year. Most importantly, the flexible concept allows for her to provide jobs to those who are otherwise unable to work in traditional centers of hospitality. Despite the behind-the-scenes maneuvering that required her to arrive at this socially-distanced, yet genius, concept, the result is a seamless interaction for those looking to plan a hiatus from the recurring scenery of their homes. With the click of a button, individuals can warmly greet their closest friends over a Mexican-inspired dinner. Alternatively, they can take a moment to enjoy the scents and tastes of the East Coast, lounge in front of a private concert, or indulge in a riotous brunch. Each experience comes with a themed-set, yet customizable, menu and arrives in one’s backyard on the appointed day. Best of all, there is no planning required. Without the need to remember to dash off for last minute napkins or bags of ice, Jessica is able to help Austinites rekindle a sense of carefree enjoyment that many have lost over the last few months. Of course, she insists that safety precautions are taken both by her event staff and by those who attend each of the gatherings in order to ensure that the memory of a “night out” remains a beacon of happiness to buoy spirits for days after.
Contact:
wander-gather.com 2403 E. 16th Street letstalk@wander-gather.com @wander.gather
FRANCES PEARL MORENO
Helping People Find Home
512.576.3992 francespearltherealtor francesmoreno@magnoliarealty.com frances.magnoliarealtyaustinhc.com
Be Your Own Beautiful!
INTRODUCTORY
FULL CLASSIC NATURAL LASHES FOR $99! CALL 512.648.LASH AND MENTION PROMO CODE IFS99 TO BOOK
THE LASH LOUNGE AUSTIN – MUELLER 1911 Aldrich St. #140, Austin TX 78723 Follow us on social media! @thelashloungeaustin
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eastside | taste expert
Ideas for Eliminating Food Waste: • Add coffee grounds to potting soil for beautiful blooms. • Banana peels and egg shells make great garden compost. • Crystalize citrus peels after juicing them.
Sustainable & Delicious Eating Panzanella Soup WORDS BY
Justin Butts RECIPE BY Kayla Butts Benevides
PHOTOS BY Rachel
Food waste is a global problem with a local solution. Food waste costs billions each year in lost resources and landfills. Plus, wasting food means losing flavors, but consumers can play a role in assisting in that change.
• Dip a lemon half in Epsom salt for an all-natural emulsifying cleaner for stubborn pots and pans. • Add cheese rind to any soup for extra flavoring. • Dehydrate apple and potato peels on low heat for crunchy, high-fiber snack. • Add fresh herbs to olive oil and freeze into ice cubes for a quick flavor-infuser. • Transform onion skins and turnip peels into vegetable broth. • Turn carrot peels and radish tops into pesto.
A
U.N. report estimates that $750B of food is wasted across the globe each year. The nutritional or regenerative compost value of this food is lost as it rots in expensive landfills. An additional staggering fact is that more than a quarter of arable farmland worldwide is growing food that is ultimately wasted. Roughly 40% of this food waste occurs in homes. That means each household can assist in solving this problem while saving money and eating better all at the same time. Sustainable eating begins with supporting sustainable farming and fishing. Shopping local suppliers not only saves the planet, but the ingredients are also much more nutrient dense and incredibly flavorful. Once these exceptional ingredients are incorporated into a kitchen, it’s up to the consumer to stretch them as far as possible with sustainable recipes. Once aware, many small steps can easily be taken to eliminate food waste, from sourcing local ingredients to using those ingredients more thoughtfully and creatively. For instance, turn carrot and radish tops into amazing pesto. Transform onion skins and turnip peels into vegetable broth. Elevate leftovers into something new and beautiful, instead of a lukewarm has-been. This Panzanella soup is more formula than recipe. Any of its vegetables and herbs can be replaced with whatever is on hand. The flavor combinations are endless, and veggies past their prime actually add flavor and depth. Panzanella may be one of the oldest food-saving recipes in history. Stale bread and overripe tomatoes go together so well that it’s almost as if this dish was invented by nature. Doing good for the planet has never been so delicious. In doing so, there’s an opportunity to save money, reduce waste, and maximize flavor with these easy and sustainable recipes.
Panzanella Serves: 4 Prep time: 25 minutes Ingredients: 4 c. stale French bread, cubed 2 c. tomatoes, roughly diced Optional: 2 cucumbers, cubed ¼ c. extra-virgin olive oil 1 c. basil, stems removed, chiffonade 1 t. salt 1 t. cracked pepper Directions: In a large bowl, combine bread, tomatoes, (and cucumbers if using), and basil. Drizzle bread mixture with olive oil while tossing to distribute evenly over bread. Season with salt and pepper and toss salad once more. Serve at room temperature.
3 c. of any vegetables past their prime, including but not limited to greens, lettuce, cabbage, carrots, beans, peas, beets, turnips, radishes, corn, celery, peppers, artichokes, broccoli, etc. Optional: hard cheese rinds 5-6 c. chicken stock (enough to mostly cover vegetables) 1 c. heavy cream 2 bay leaves 2 t. salt 1 t. cayenne pepper ¾ t. poultry seasoning ½ t. thyme ¼ t. nutmeg
Makes: about 3-4 quarts Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes
Directions: In a 6-quart pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Cook onions in oil mixture until fragrant, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook an additional minute. Toss in remaining vegetables and any cheese rinds you have on hand, and fill pot with enough chicken stock until vegetables are mostly submerged. Increase the temperature to high heat until mixture boils, decreasing heat as necessary to prevent boiling over. Continue to cook the soup, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
Ingredients: 2 T. butter 2 T. olive oil 1 large onion, sliced 3 garlic cloves 4 russet potatoes, peeled and roughly chopped
Remove soup from heat. In a small pot, heat cream over medium low heat until a few bubbles start to emerge. Add warm cream to vegetable soup. Using a hand blender, puree the soup until smooth. Add more broth if the soup is too thick. Serve hot with a crusty bread.
Sustainable 'Kitchen Sink' Soup
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O U R FAV E R E S TA U R A N T S
Pick 10
FOR THE EASTSIDE
eastside dining guide Colleen’s Kitchen
Celebrate any occasion—big or small— at a neighborhood favorite. The southern hospitality and down-home inspired menu includes fried chicken, smoked fish, savory biscuits, and warm chocolate chip cookies. 1911 Aldrich St. #100 | colleensaustin.com
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
Artessano Taco Bronco
Although the name says taco, the man behind the meat here is none other than Tom Micklethwait. This barbecue masterpiece is where hungry patrons can grab tacos filled with crispy smoked pork carnitas or South Texas boar sausage to go with their beer. Taco Bronco also has family-style smoked meat plates along with meat by the pound ready to dish up. 3220 Manor Rd. | tacobroncotx.com
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.
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.
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
Cisco's Intero Restorante
Intero, meaning “whole,” is dedicated to the thoughtful use of every ingredient in their dishes. Homemade pastas, farm-totable plates, and artisan chocolates make up their bold, yet intimate, Italian menu. 2612 E Cesar Chavez St. | interorestaurant.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.
48 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
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
Paper Route Bakery
Hidden behind a little window next to Cenote, this tiny operation serves up small-batch organic baked goods daily: from cheddar chive scones and strawberry balsamic pop tarts to custom orders. 1010 E Cesar Chavez St. | paper-route-bakery.business.site
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eastside | sip
A Crafting Cocktails
In a City of Makers WORDS BY
Bethany Wales Shelby Bella
PHOTOS BY
In the midst of an industry slump, one craft cocktail company is defying the odds to deliver quality tipples to homes across the country.
s the morning light streams into Jill Burn’s home office, she beams as she talks about the idea behind her business. Jill is one half of the family duo behind Austin Cocktails: the company responsible for keeping at least 14 states quenched with pre-batched craft cocktails throughout lockdown. This morning, Jill has swapped her signature Fred’s Ruby Red (5 times distilled vodka with natural grapefruit, lime, and mint) for coffee, served in a round mug which she cozies between her palms. “We’ve had to pivot our marketing plan,” she says as she explains how she and her sister and co-owner, Kelly Gasink, have been coping during the pandemic. “When we realized what was happening, we looked at our
50 EASTside | Fall/Winter 2020
marketing and started shifting more towards digital and grassroots advertising. Our business has actually grown in the past six months. We have been luckier than many others because people are missing the in-bar cocktail experience, and we bring it to their homes.” To attribute the company’s success to mere luck is wildly modest. Since launching in their backyard 7 years ago, the sisters have worked tirelessly to perfect their production process, utilizing natural ingredients, and craft techniques, drawing from a rich family history of mixology, passed down by their grandfather Fred. In addition to their bottled concoctions, they are launching sparkling cocktails in cans this fall. With creations like Perfect Bergamot
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Orange Margarita (Premium Tequila and Natural Triple Sec, blended with bergamot orange, lime, and organic agave nectar) and Cucumber Vodka Mojito (Premium vodka, lime, mint, and organic agave), the women are redefining the liquid candy stereotype associated with premixed cocktails. Their ABV has been upped, refined sugar swapped for natural agave, and artificial flavors ousted in favor of natural fruit and vegetable juices. “Having a cocktail is the backdrop for some of our very best memories. The whole category was shifting when we started. This upcoming generation of drinkers has different palates because they were raised on vitamin waters and juices. They want clean, full-bodied alternatives to mass-produced mixed drinks,” Jill points out.
The team hopes to move into its new headquarters at The Yard at St. Elmo later this year. The space will include a state of the art production facility, as well as an office and event area. Neighbors will include other craft beverage creators like The Texas Sake Company, The Austin Winery, and Still Austin Whiskey Distillery. Jill emphasizes,“We’ve had a really warm welcome and have already become great friends with our new neighbors. We feel the support. People are passionate about supporting a small family business, and we appreciate that. It’s great to place a stick in the ground in Austin. It’s a city full of makers.”
Contact:
austincocktails.com @austincocktails
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