www.todoaustin.com
Volume VI / June 2014
Check the record.
INSIDE Latinos Run for Council Rashed Islam Kenny Dorham’s Backyard LGBT Pride Month
Good Times at Güero’s For great tunes and great rita’s! Please
join us for live music on our outside jardin stage, every Thursday through Sunday. THANKS TO THE FANS & BANDS WHO SUPPORT US!!!
JUNE Line-up OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE “WEATHER PERMITTING”
TACO BAR
1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm
-----------------------------------------------------------------------SUN 6/1 THE RECOUPERATORS (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 6/4 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 6/5 LOS FLAMES AND SPECIAL GUESTS (6:30) FRI 6/6 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 6/7 EVE MONSEES (2:30) EL TULE’ (6:30) SUN 6/8 BLUE MIST (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 6/11 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 6/12 THE FABS (6:30) FRI 6/13 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 6/14 THE BREW (2:30) GUSTAVO RODRIGUEZ (6:30) SUN 6/15 MITCH WEBB & THE SWINDLES (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 6/18 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 6/19 AL DRESSEN (6:30) FRI 6/20 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 6/21 HOODYGOODE (2:30) LOS TIPICOS DE CUBA (6:30) SUN 6/22 BIG BAND TEJANO (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 6/25 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 6/26 TRENT TURNER (6:30) FRI 6/27 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 6/28 THE TEXAS TYCOONS (2:30) & SISTER SISTER (6:30) SUN 6/29 CHICKEN STRUT (3:00)
www.GuerosTacoBar.com
C E N T R O U R B A N A HABLA Austin
Small and Minority Business Workshops The City’s Small and Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR) provides opportunities for businesses owned by women and minorities that want to contract with the City or other local governments. The City conducts a “disparity study” every five or so years to keep a pulse of the changing business landscape and identify gaps in contracting with minority and women businesses. They’ll be holding Business Certification 101 workshops on May 27, Aug. 27 and Nov. 19 this year. Who should get certified? If you own a small business that wants to do work for the public sector and you are a minority or woman, this is for you. Learn about the different types of certifications available. Get details at www.austintexas.gov/smbr. Leticia Rodriguez
home stays cool before the hottest months of summer arrive. They’ll provide a $70 rebate on the regular $99 service. The service is performed by registered Home Performance with ENERGY STAR participating companies. The offer is valid through July 31, 2014. “A properly running air conditioner reduces energy use, saves money and increases the comfort and enjoyment of your home,” said Steve Saenz, interim Residential Energy Efficiency Manager for Austin Energy. To learn more about the program, visit www.austinenergy. com/go/accheckup or call (512) 482-5346.
Family Fun Fest to celebrate Colony Park’s future The City of Austin and its community partners invite Northeast Austin residents to celebrate the final Master Plan for two large tracts of publically-owned land by participating in a free Family Fun Fest on Monday, June 23. The fest will include a Colony Park Master Plan Open House and a Community Resources Fair from 4-7 p.m. at the Multi-Purpose Facility and the adjacent grounds of the Turner-Roberts Recreation Center, 7201 Colony Loop Drive. The open house will allow the community to see how its ideas and preferences for the area translate into a Master Plan that will go to the Austin City Council in early fall. The fest will include food, music, and an opportunity for residents to interact with local service vendors to receive info on educational, health, and social services, safety, and adult/youth programs. For more about the Colony Park Sustainable Community Initiative, go to www.colonyparkatx.org.
Record Number of Latinos Running for Council By Paul Saldaña
In about six months, Austin politics will evolve into a new City Council elections methodology bringing a 10-1 geographic representation plan to Austin City Hall. As of May 21, a record number of 20 Hispanic/Latino candidates have filed to run for Austin City Council. Latinos candidates will be running for the Mayor’s office and six out of the 10 newly created single member districts: Mayor - Council Member Mike Martinez District 2 - Delia Garza and Edward Reyes District 3 - Susana Almanza, Julian Fernandez, Miguel Ancira, Mario Cantu, Eric Rangel, Sabino “Pio” Renteria and Ricardo Turollols-Bonilla District 4 - Gregorio Casar, Monica Guzman, Marco Mancillas, Gabe Rojas, Xaiver Hernandez, Robert Perez, Jr. and Manuel A. Munoz District 5 - Mike Rodriguez District 7 - Pete Salazar, Jr. District 8 - Eliza May
Artist INC Live seminar applications In partnership with Mid-America Arts Alliance and Texas Commission on the Arts, the City of Austin is bringing the ground-breaking program Artist INC Live to Austin. Artists may apply now through June 30 to take part in the 8-week seminar (taking place Oct. 4 - Nov. 22, 2014). Through mentorship, expert presentations, and peer networks artists will gain skills to advance their artistic careers. The program will be guided by the City’s Cultural Arts Division in conjunction with Artist INC and M-AAA staff. Six local arts professionals will act as facilitators and lead the training sessions: Zell Miller III, theatre; Leticia Rodriguez, music/dance; Dharmesh Patel, visual art/public art; Andrea Ariel, dance; Roy Rutngamlug, film; and China Smith, dance. “We’re very excited to bring Artist INC Live to Austin. Our local creative sector is an important part of Austin’s economic vitality and we at the City are committed to helping that sector thrive,” said Megan Crigger, Cultural Arts Program Manager of the Economic Development Department. “Artist INC Live gives working artists the tools to strengthen and sustain their careers.” Austin Energy AC check-up rebate Austin Energy is offering a $29 air conditioning check-up to help residents make sure their air conditioner runs efficiently and their
Delivering diversity in media to Austin for more than five years, TODO Austin printed journal, and
TODOAustin.com
offer
news, opinion, cultural arts and lifestyle stories written by, about, and for all ethnic communities in multicultural Austin.
For years, there has been discussion and debate about the potential impact of Hispanic/Latino voters on the political landscape of elections. A record 11.2 million Latinos voted in the 2012 presidential election; that’s 48 percent of Hispanic eligible voters, according to the Pew Research Center. Latinos were also a larger share of the nation’s electorate in 2012, making up a record 8.4 percent of all voters, up from 7.4 percent in 2008.
The kids are lookin’ alright The Austin School of Fashion Design is currently enrolling students ages 8-15 for fashion summer camp from June 9-Aug. 18. Young fashionistas can choose from a variety of classes such as beginner, intermediate and advanced sewing and illustration classes. Students will have a hands-on learning experience and leave fashion summer camp at the end of the course with a handmade garment, backpack or their own fashion illustrations. Tuition is $160 per class and all supplies are included. Classes are offered weekly from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m. To register and pay for classes, visit www. austinschooloffashiondesign.com.
Volume VI, Number 2 PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton // dmdesigninc.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Evelyn C. Castillo, Paul Saldaña, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins SENIOR EDITORS // Lobo Corona, Sonia Kotecha, Diana Sanchez, Lesley Varghese, Yvonne Lim Wilson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS // Anthony Garcia, Mia Garcia, Harish Kotecha, Alexandra M. Landeros, Callie Langford, Genoveva Rodriguez, Monica Peña, Blake Shanley
For Hispanics, the high share of the younger-than-18 population of the U.S. means that we will become a more important voting bloc in future elections. Hispanics are 17 percent of the total U.S. population but 24 percent of the under 18 population. Each year, an estimated 800,000 Latinos turn 18; overwhelmingly, they are U.S.-born citizens and automatically eligible to vote. Latinos hunger for political ideologies that resonate and incorporate our cultural values and traditions. These ideologies must also address the challenges and opportunities that impact and improve our overall quality of life. However, none of these issues matter, if Latinos are not engaged in the political process.
WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS/ARTISTS // Güner Arslan, Skylar Bonilla, Maria Cristina Gutierrez-Boswell, Veronica Briseño Lara, Adriana Cadena, Roy Casagranda, Cindy Casares, Priscilla Cortez, Ruben Cubillos, Nora De LaRosa, Rose Di Grazia, Christian Gonzalez, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Harmony Eichsteadt, Layla Fry, Jessica Garza Cherry, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Ryan Hutchison, Yadira Izquierdo, Korina Jaimes, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Jennifer Kim, Ramey Ko, Heather Lee, Julia Lee, Liz Lopez, Otis Lopez, David Marks, JoJo Marion, Caitlin Moore, Shivgami Natesan, Cristina Parker, Joy Pecoraro, Esther Reyes, Marion Sanchez, Parc Smith, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Blanca Valencia, Kristina Vallejo, Tara Veneruso, Joseph P.A. Villescas, Bowen Wilder
TODO Austin // Multicultural Media for All of Austin. TODO Austin is a free print and online journal for all of Austin highlighting our multicultural heritage and promoting the concept of community in an ethnically diverse city. Circulation throughout Austin, from the Westside’s Pennybacker Bridge to the Eastside’s Montopolis Bridge.
WEB DESIGN // Mike Hernandez COVER // Photo courtesy Lloyd Doggett.
ADVERTISING/SUBMISSIONS/EDITORIAL: info@todoaustin.com, 512.538.4115
TODO Austin is published by Spark Awakened Publishing. © 2014 Spark Awakened Publishing. All rights reserved. The views expressed here are the authors and should not be taken to represent those of Spark Awakened Publishing or of any of its associates or partners.
TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03
‘Diversity is our Strength’
TODO: What do you like to do when you come home? LD: “Home” now extends across a wide swath of Texas. With Governor Perry splitting Austin into five crooked congressional districts, I have now been stretched from Northeast Austin to South San Antonio. In my district, the Alamo Drafthouse has been replaced by the Alamo. For the many here who say they can no longer vote for me, I say that I am committed to continuing to vote for them. I have focused considerable energy on being involved in Bexar County neighborhoods that I am newly serving. A big challenge of Congressional District 35 is IH 35 obstructing my ability to be multiple places across 90 miles on the same day. I do enjoy being with strong women – Libby, our two daughters, and three granddaughters. We cycle whenever possible, usually down Comal to Lady Bird Lake or the Walnut Creek Trails and recently along the wonderful new Mission Reach trail along the San Antonio River. We are in Texas most weekends, often stopping for some good East Austin food before ever getting home from the airport.
Lloyd Doggett - Our Guardian of Social Justice By TODO Austin staff
As the first U.S. Congressman to make East Austin home, where he has resided for the past decade, Lloyd Doggett has been a staunch supporter of education, access to affordable healthcare, and immigration reform. He has been a long-time sponsor of the DREAM Act and a vocal advocate of efforts to unite families and boost the U.S. economy. A tireless advocate who has served with distinction, Doggett has received numerous honors for his work. For his efforts to improve child welfare as a senior member of the House Ways and Means committee, he was named a “Champion of Children” by the First Focus Campaign, a national child advocacy group. Doggett was also named Public Official of the Year by the National Association of Social Workers for his efforts to help working Texans. He was recently awarded the Interfaith Action of Central Texas Hope Award for his long history of advocacy for policies promoting social justice and education. Last year, Doggett received the American Bar Association’s Justice Award for his work on legislation that assists with funding for legal services to the disadvantaged. He has long participated actively in community events, including a recent platica held by HABLA, a local Hispanic advocacy group, in East Austin. Doggett and his wife, Libby, have two daughters also active in East Austin: Lisa, an Austin physician, works with a clinic that focuses on the uninsured. Cathy, a former schoolteacher, now helps train teachers. After beginning her career as a bilingual teacher at Ortega Elementary, Libby serves as U.S. Department of Education’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Early Learning, leading President Obama’s early learning and preschool initiative. TODO Austin: What do you see as the biggest challenge in Congress?
Lloyd Doggett (LD): Passing comprehensive immigration reform this year despite opposition in the Republican-led House of Representatives. If Speaker Boehner would permit a House vote, I believe we could promptly pass the bipartisan bill, approved by the Senate almost a year ago and of which I am a sponsor. He is the roadblock. TODO: What are you working on right now? LD: Income inequality is worsened by tax policy that encourages some corporations to export jobs while paying top executives astronomical amounts. I have several bills to close major loopholes including unlimited tax write-offs on executive pay. Closing just this one loophole would raise over $50 billion that we need to expand educational opportunity. TODO: What are your goals for this Congress? LD: To see that this sorry Congress does no greater harm. To express forcefully our values for social justice and achieve what little progress is possible. To respond to local concerns such as the $12 million in federal funds recently secured for Onion Creek.
TODO: How would you say that Austin has changed since you grew up here? LD: I grew up in a much smaller Austin that was still segregated. Now we have a more vibrant and exciting community, though much more remains to achieve our full promise. Austinites can join with a coalition of leaders and neighborhoods that reflect the diversity which is our strength. Of course, Austin has really grown and a failure to better fund public transportation has created impossible traffic. TODO: What will it take for Texas to turn blue? Do you think it’s possible?
LD: With more than $1 trillion in student debt nationwide--larger than all credit card debt in America, the Republican chairing the House Higher Education Subcommittee claims that “it is not the role of the Congress to make college affordable and accessible.” I strongly disagree. I have fought Republican efforts to reduce Pell Grants and successfully offered the American Opportunity Tax Credit, which cuts taxes up to $10,000 over four years as reimbursement for tuition and instructional materials. Instead of preserving tax breaks for big oil companies and billionaires, we should be investing in our next generation.
Austin’s Muscular Progressive Lloyd
Doggett
is
a
member
of
the
Democratic Party who has represented a district based in Austin since 1995, currently Texas Congressional District 35, which stretches along I-35 from San Antonio to Austin. A native of Austin with a JD and BBA from U.T., his electoral career began in 1973 when
TODO: What are your thoughts on Wendy Davis and Leticia Van de Putte and what they can do for Texas?
Texas in the 113th Congress in a state with
TODO: What are your thoughts on healthcare and enrollment?
04 TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
TODO: How do you propose we address the high cost of higher education?
LD: Yes, first by rejecting the defeatism that our opponents urge and by not giving up on democracy despite the huge challenges we face. We must overcome Republican voter suppression and greatly increase voter registration and turnout. We must educate more neighbors that their vote can really make a difference.
LD: Wendy and Leticia are about opportunity. When LBJ said that signing civil rights laws would lose the South for a generation, he was right, but now it’s time for a new generation to finally overcome. Strong women can win, including by emphasizing schools, pay equality and permitting women to make their own health care decisions.
Rep. Lloyd Doggett addresses HABLA platica at Juan in a Million.
Administration to make changes including more culturally sensitive outreach. Much remains to achieve the full promise of this law.
LD: With little federal help, Insure Central Texas and the Latino Healthcare Forum did great work. Many have secured health care access. But Obamacare has never been as good as the Tea Party thinks it is bad. Since last summer, I have been urging the
he was elected to the Texas State Senate, serving until 1985. A member of the U.S. House of Representatives from District 25 from 2005-2013, he was one of only three white Democratic House members from mostly Republicans and minority members of the Democratic Party. He is known as one of the most liberal white Democrats from a Southern district, and one of the most liberal congressmen ever to represent Texas in Congress. Contact Lloyd Doggett 300 East 8th Street, #763 Austin, TX 78701-3275 Austin phone: 512-916-5921 WWW homepage: doggett.house.gov/ Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett Write: forms.house.gov/doggett/ webforms/issue_subscribe.htm
Celebrate Juneteenth at the Carver Museum and Cultural
In conjunction with the June 7 performance of Mariachi
Center, 1165 Angelina Street, on Saturday, June 14, beginning
Vargas de Tecalitlán at the Long Center, ESB-MACC welcomes
at 10 a.m. The Juneteenth program includes a marketplace,
11 year-old vocal prodigy Angélica Vargas on Friday, June 6,
music, games, food and history. The date also marks the
for a 30 minute performance and discussion at 2 p.m. The
grand opening of the Genealogy Center with “Family Affair”
public is welcome to the free event. Vargas will officially
festivities at 2 p.m.
launch her debut self-titled CD when she opens for Mariachi
Also on the Carver schedule this month is “Joan of Arc,”
Vargas at the Long Center.
Sunday, June 1, at 6 p.m. in the Boyd Vance Theatre. On
Join us on the last Tuesday of each month for a special
Thursday, June 19, Kitchen Diva Lunch is held at 11:30 a.m. at
screening from the Golden Era of Mexico’s cinema. Seniors
Carver Drum. Also on Thursday, June 19, the “100% Exhibit”
will enjoy a healthy lunch immediately following the film.
opens at 6:30 p.m. in the Carver Gallery.
Please arrive by 9:15 a.m. as screenings begins at 9:30 am.
A free introductory dance workshop for teens, age 13-19,
Admission is free.
will be taught by Dr. Lana Neal and Stephen Shortnacy on
On Tuesday, June 24, “Searching for Sugar Man” screens. The
Saturday, June 7, 12-2 p.m. Take a brief immersion into the
true story of Sixto Rodriguez, the greatest ‘70s rock icon who
elegance of Argentine tango by learning dance steps set to
never was is told in this documentary which won an Academy
the music of the ‘Golden Era’ as well as modern tango music.
Award in 1985. After two renowned producers discover his
Friday, June 20 brings the Folktales Book Club at 6 p.m. in
music in a Detroit bar, Rodriguez signs a recording deal with
the Carver Classroom. Carver hosts the African American
them. But when the album bombs, Rodriguez disappears into
Book Festival on Friday-Saturday, June 27-28. On Saturday,
obscurity. A bootleg recording found its way into apartheid
June 28, a Genealogy Workshop takes place at 1 p.m. in the
South Africa, and over the next two decades, he became a
Classroom.
phenomenon. Today his career has been resurrected.
Want to do business with government? You’ll want to read this. By Veronica Briseño Lara
Minorities in the Austin metropolitan area make up more than 42 percent of the 16-and-older population, but account for less than 23 percent of business owners, according to NERA Economic Consulting.
MORE OPPORTUNITIES First, the City’s Small and Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR) provides opportunities for businesses owned by women and minorities that want to contract with the City or other local governments. Here’s how it works. When the City identifies subcontracting opportunities on projects, SMBR
Ongoing at the Center are free Senior Tea and Recreation every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning. Free senior Tai Chi, every first and third Thursdays. Free exhibits including “Lotus” sculpture, “Asian Texans,” “Waves of Hope,” and a preview for “I Want the Wide American Earth.” Use of the free library includes children’s books, cookbooks and more (on-site borrowing only). Free computer stations. Zen Rock Garden. Free meeting spaces are also available for community groups. If you are interested in volunteering at the AARC with various events, tabling and marketing, please contact Hanna Huang at 512-974-1697.
encourages – and requires – the company to reach out to certified minority, women, and disadvantaged business enterprises (often referred to as MBEs, WBEs and DBEs). This program has become an integral part of how the City does business and in 2013, 79 percent of bidders on City construction-related contracts voluntarily meet requirements for minority participation. In the past two fiscal years, minority-owned vendors received more than $100 million for doing work for the City and businesses owned by women also received more than $40 million in the same time frame.
Additionally, the firm’s data indicates women in the Austin metropolitan area make up 45 percent of the civilian labor force but own less than 30 percent of businesses. And the sales from those womenowned businesses account for only 11 percent of receipts generated in this area.
In addition, SMBR provides free certification services, networking opportunities to meet lenders and prime contractors, exposure to bidding and proposal opportunities, and connections to other resources such as monthly workshops and “plan rooms” with access to computers and market research.
These disparities are clear. So, as a community, what do we do about this? Collectively, we can do better and City of Austin leaders are extremely committed to nurturing and assisting small businesses as promised in our longrange plan, “Imagine Austin.” Since 1987, the City of Austin has taken several proactive steps to level the playing field. The result is more opportunities for our local minority and women business owners, and continued engagement to ensure the City is responsive to the needs of the business community.
“The Fight for Representation: Asian American Studies at UT” is an exhibit curated by Sona Shah and Tu-Uyen Nguyen, now on display at the AARC through mid-September, 2014. The U.T. Center for Asian American Studies (CAAS) is an interdisciplinary academic program housed in the College of Liberal Arts. In the 1990s, students, faculty and members of the community fought to have an academic program that reflects the experiences, histories and issues of Asian Americans. This exhibit is organized around the center’s four core values: social justice, intellectual innovation, collaboration and education, and showcases the beginnings of Asian American Studies at U.T.-Austin.
Veronica Briseño Lara - SMBR Director
landscape and identify gaps in contracting with minority and women businesses. The latest study under way provides a unique opportunity for minority, women and veteran business owners to share their experiences and insights regarding opportunities and challenges involved in doing business or attempting to do business with Austin-area agencies, such as the City, Travis County and Austin Independent School District. This summer, hundreds of Austin business owners are participating in interviews, focus groups and surveys. All business owners are invited to provide input by calling (866) 756-6372 or sending an e-mail to DisparityStudy@NERA.com. Learn more about the Austin Disparity Study at www. austinstexas.gov/disparitystudy. For those who need help with their business now, you can get in touch with a business development counselor at (512) 974-7677.
SMBR also advises minority- and women-owned small businesses on requirements for bonding, insurance and credit.
We hope to hear from you. Together, let’s keep the door open to opportunities for everyone in Austin.
HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD
-----Veronica Briseño Lara serves as Director of the City of Austin’s Small & Minority Business Resources Department. Learn more at www. austintexas.gov/smbr
As Austin’s economy and demographics evolve, the City conducts a “disparity study” every five or so years to keep a pulse of the changing business
TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05
ASIAN AUSTIN
Asian Austin’s A-List
months of my personal time in drafting a Transportation Master Plan for Bangladesh and given to the Transportation Ministry for their consideration in 2009. In Central Texas, I have been active in transportation advocacy through the Chamber. As a traffic engineer at HDR, I have brought innovative intersection concepts that are being implemented by TxDOT at the Y at Oak Hill, IH 35 and RM 1431 in Round Rock and RM 1431 and Parmer/ Ronald Reagan in Cedar Park. These concepts will be the first in Texas and will help reduce traffic congestion.
Rashed Islam By Asian Austin staff
Rashed T. Islam is current Board Chair of the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce. As Managing Principal and Vice President at HDR Engineering, Inc., Islam directs HDR’s Traffic Engineering program in Texas. Islam is married to Laboni and is the father of Rusama and Rahil. Asian Austin (AA): How did you first get involved with the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce? Rashed Islam (RI): I first got involved with the Austin Asian American Chamber of Commerce (AAACC) as a volunteer for the annual gala committee. Afterwards, I was invited to join the Board. I served on the AAACC for four years and chaired the Membership Committee. AAACC merged with TACC couple years ago and GAACC was formed. I was happy to be part of the new board. As the current Chair of GAACC, it is exciting to see the synergy amongst the GAACC, NAAO and AARC as we jointly promote the Asian America culture, heritage and commerce in Central Texas. AA: Did you know what you wanted to do with your life or did it just happen? RI: I always wanted to do something productive and meaningful that can impact the quality of life of the public. As an immigrant from Bangladesh, I saw first-hand how lack of a well-coordinated transportation network can impact the economic vitality of a country. As a graduate student at UT-Austin, I wanted to specialize in this field so that I can contribute towards that. Today, after 16 years in the profession, I enjoy my work and am thankful for what I have been able to do. I also wanted to volunteer my time for community service and give back to the community. I have been involved with the Asian Chamber and also the Austin Chamber. I have been an active member of the Austin Chamber’s Transportation Committee for
Gujarati Samaj Picnic By Harish Kotecha
Gujarati Samaj of Greater Austin held its 20th annual Family Picnic on May 4 at Dick Nichols Neighborhood Park. Almost 200 people attended to socialize, play games, and enjoy delicious ethnic Guajarati foods. A must attend event on the local Indian community calendar, bhajiua and chai was served with a vegetarian lunch catered from Swad Restaurant. Pav bhaji and chaas with sweets and 06 TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
more than eight years. I chaired the Austin Chamber’s Transportation Committee in 2011. I was awarded the Volunteer of the Year award in 2008-2009 for my work in the Transportation Committee. I also served as Chair for the Bangladesh Associate of Greater Austin (BAGA) Board and am currently serving the BAGA Board as well. In addition, I have served on the board for Real Estate Council of Austin. AA: What was your attraction to your vocation? What drew you to do the work you do? RI: Economic development is a passion of mine. I feel strongly that a good education and a good paying job give at once the freedom we really aspire for. It gives you respect and the ability to care for others. In Bangladesh, where I am from, the transportation industry has been the biggest obstacle for our economic prosperity. Communication and movement of goods is very inefficient. Traffic congestion is paralyzing everyday life and it is impacting the productivity and quality of life. I wanted to do something about it. Enhancing the transportation system and reducing traffic congestion through innovative approaches is my passion. I have volunteered almost six traditional watermelon were also on the menu. Adults and children enjoyed games including races and balloon toss, and a moon walk inflatable bouncer. To spice things up, prizes were awarded. Now a rite of spring for a generation of Austinites, families and friends took time out to reconnect as both children and adults enjoyed the good weather. The Gujarati Samaj Committee members and volunteers continue to make the event a great success each year. For membership and other information on Gujarati Samaj, go to www.gujaustin.org.
AA: What does the American Dream mean to you? RI: The American dream for me means to live an honest, decent and respectful life. I want to earn an honest living and set a good example for my family and my community. I feel that giving back to the community that gave me so much is critical and I want my kids to take that to heart. I don’t come from a wealthy background, and good education and financial security are very important for me. My parents worked hard to give the best gift to me that is a good education, which has helped me achieve whatever I have achieved till today. No one will ever be able to take that away from me. That is one thing I strive to instill in my children. AA: Is there anything particular about Austin that inspires you? RI: The diversity and the energy in the community is what kept me in Austin for almost 20 years. After my graduate studies, my first job was in Dallas and I was excited about it. But I couldn’t last in Bid D for long and came back to Austin after five months. The people, the environment, the possibilities are amazing in Austin. These aspects are the reason why we are on top of many lists in the country. AA: Are there generational issues, or cultural issues, or both, between young and old Asian American Austinites? RI: There definitely is. The older generations were high on making a decent living and providing education for the next generations. Fear of failure prevented them from taking risks and go outside of their comfort zones. They paid more value on financial security over trying new things. The younger generations
are more risk tolerant about trying new things and testing new ideas. To them, quality of life is more important than financial stability. As a result, they are doing different types of jobs, investing in new start-ups and studying fields that were somewhat unimaginable to the older generations. AA: Asian Americans are becoming a powerful force in Austin economically, culturally, politically and otherwise. How do you see Asian Americans fitting into the larger Austin culture and community? RI: Indeed. We are the fastest growing community in Central Texas. As citizens of this country we need to engage more with the community at large. As I mentioned, we are too focused on doing the best job possible and taking care of our family but we need to also contribute/volunteer time for making the community a better place for the less fortunate outside of our family, friends and work. As we are growing, we need to volunteer more time for greater causes and for the community who are in need to enhance the lives of our greater community. The Asian community has so much to offer to the greater Austin community. Our education, our culture and our ability to innovate can be a great resource to this community. We are high on STEM education and we can show the importance of it. We at the same time can also learn about getting involved outside of the STEM fields like: government, culture, music, policy etc. AA: What do you consider the most important cultural value for you and for those close to you? RI: Being a good citizen and setting examples is the best way to promote one’s culture. Strong ethical character that demonstrates loyalty and trustworthiness is very important for me. Working hard and helping others is important to me. I value friendship and building strong relationships without any prejudice or bias. Asian Austin at www.AsianAustin.com is an online news source featuring news about Asian American people, organizations and events in Austin. Visit the Asian Austin website and “Like” us on Facebook for calendar and event details! Contact publisher Yvonne Lim Wilson at yvonne@asianaustin.com. Shobhna Kotecha photo
KLRU celebrates LGBT Pride Month KLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 cable 9
klru.org
Independent Lens: The New Black
Independent Lens: We Were Here
Tuesday, June 17 at 10 pm
Monday, June 9 at 10 pm
Centering on the historic fight to win marriage equality in Maryland, this film takes viewers into the pews and onto the streets as it looks at how the African American community grapples with the divisive gay rights issue.
When AIDS came to San Francisco in the early 1980s, a diverse group of people came together when the nation’s leaders looked the other way and built an unprecedented system of love, care and compassion.
For a complete list of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month programs go to klru.org
Also This Month on KLRU
Juneteenth Jamboree 2014
Austin Revealed: Civil Rights Stories
American Experience: Freedom Summer
Focusing on the African-American experience in Bell County, this program features stories about plantation life in mid1850s Salado, the “Black Panthers” tank battalion in Killeen, and much more. Hosted by Funmi Ogunro.
Austin’s civil rights history told through first person interviews with community leaders including Hoover Alexander, Wilhelmina Delco, Larry Jackson, Bertha Means, and Tommy Wyatt.
In 1964, volunteers from around the country joined African American community leaders in a historic effort to shatter the foundations of white supremacy in Mississippi.
Thursday, June 19 at 7:30 pm
Thursday, June 19 at 8 pm
Tuesday, June 24 at 8 pm
KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. Please consider investing in KLRU.
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Marco has been involved with the community for over 12 years and has seen the city grow into a booming metropolis. He will be invested in improving the quality of life for District 4 in the city of Austin. Marco believes in building coalitions with all stakeholders to move city hall forward.
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Marco will fight for affordability, lower taxes, crime prevention, improved transportation, and the enhanced quality of life for everyone. Marco is a proven leader and the right choice for change at Austin City Hall.
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Monday, June 23
4-7 PM
Turner-Roberts Recreation Center 7201 Colony Loop Drive www.ColonyParkAtx.org
(512) 974-3100
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DIVIDED AUSTIN: By Genoveva Rodriguez
Disparity in Austin is Revealed in Housing and Education The nation’s economic recession dealt a blow to many cities, but Austin wasn’t counted among them. From the outset, Austin has been among the most successful cities at dealing with the recession and recovery. According to a recent study by the Brookings Institution, Austin is tops among four major metropolitan areas in Texas responding to the recession, along with Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio.
greatest strength has been its welcoming and open culture and environment; economic segregation threatens the essential foundations of Austin’s identity and its recent prosperity. We all stand to lose if we do not aggressively tackle income and wealth inequality in our community.” Another critical issue is the not so bright future of many of our students from lower socioeconomic communities. East Austin schools, in particular, routinely fail in academic performance studies. Children from communities of color are overrepresented in the areas of dropout and truancy, and underrepresented in terms of graduation, college and career success stories.
By surface appearances, Austin is a city on the rise with programs successfully providing citizens government assistance, education, housing and job opportunities. If one looks closer, however, they will uncover a whole other truth. According to the 2010 American Community Survey data, 66,564 of 193,801 lower-income households across the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos region lived in majority lower-income neighborhoods, a share of 34.3 percent. A similar share of the region’s 121,632 upper-income households, 42,850, or 35.2 percent, lived in upper-income neighborhoods, making the RISI score for the region in 2010 total 69.5. The score defines Greater Austin as more economically segregated than any other metropolitan region for which Pew published RISI calculations. Paul Saldaña has spent the last two decades assisting residents from underserved communities in Austin, as his dedication and commitment have helped give individuals a voice. He finds many have been hindered by poverty and lack of empowerment, failed by the city’s leadership. Housing is one area where Austin’s shortcomings are most pronounced. “City governmental involvement and leadership is vital to addressing affordable housing needs, regardless of the stage of gentrification,” said Saldaña. “Local government plays a key role in creating regulatory policies that support, and sending a message that affordable housing is an important component of the broader community.” Though affordable housing is not Austin’s strong suit, “Attentive management of regulations and city programs can help create opportunities to affect neighborhood revitalization/gentrification and displacement, or hinder them,” continued Saldaña. “If a city does not proactively support the provision of affordable housing and become involved in efforts to manage gentrification, it will be that much more difficult for the community to do so.” It may come as a bit of a surprise that the city that advocates diversity, civic involvement, acceptance and tolerance is caught in the crosshairs of gentrification, political and city leader self-empowerment, and blatant disregard for economically challenged citizens.
Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Latinitas Magazine and Outreach, believes that with true guidance and mentorship, our children, especially young Latinas, can be lifted up and empowered to reach their potentional, just the same as any child truly can with the right resources.
Austin community leader James Nortey, a Northeast Austin resident, comments on a 2013 Travis County study naming Austin the most economically segregated city in the country: “I’m unsure about this conclusion, but part of this is historical. The City’s 1928 Plan mandated racial discrimination which is tangentially related to economic segregation. Because Austin has become so desirable, the cost of living here has also increased, in turn, pushing residents away from the urban core.” The City of Austin’s political leadership is not the only group to blame – a small minority of citizens have always dictated how the city is run – unfortunately, it’s usually the economically advantaged that seem to have the stronger influence. Those with less change to jingle have been overlooked for decades. “The cost of housing and the cost of living generally are perhaps the most urgent and most difficult challenges facing our community today,” stated Ramey Ko, another notable activist. “Even if you have only lived in Austin for a few years, it’s glaringly obvious that costs of all kinds have skyrocketed. Economic segregation feeds racial segregation, exacerbates traffic by making it more difficult for people to be able to live near where they work or go to school, reduces interaction between people from different walks-of-life, and reduces social and economic mobility. Austin’s
“At Latinitas, we are acutely aware of MALDEF’s reports of low graduation rates for Hispanic females since 2009 (41 percent not finishing in four years, if at all),” explained Donnelly Gonzalez. “The answer is not cryptic. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard our older Latinitas in high school express defeat when a counselor says she’s not ‘college material’ or the deterrence that
takes place when a Latina is coming to the college enrollment game later than her peers who might have had the mentoring, economic support, etc., to even consider such an opportunity during their freshman and sophomore year, as opposed to some of our seniors having to navigate this path on their own as the first in their family. They are turned away – trumped by sophomores and juniors. This kind of direction or misdirection is unacceptable, but believe it or not is happening today in 2014 at our area schools more than you think, when a college degree is sometimes a basic minimum for entrance to the professional realm.” Often times, people are completely unaware of these issues, or don’t comprehend the associated hindrances that accompany such problems and fortify them. We can tie much of this unawareness back to the lack of engagement and education in our communities, but that is yet another one of our city’s growing pains. “Perception is everything,” Donnelly Gonzales continued. “If Austin doesn’t view its graduating seniors in our Title 1 schools as viable a workforce as others – kids feel that. We have to start looking, as a city, in our own backyard for raw talent. And, a lot of equalizing needs to happen. The fact is there is no mystery what poverty brings – a lack of luxury that could be as basic as access to the internet. Schools need to equalize technology access for our Austin students, now. Not later. “We should be ashamed to be considered a ‘tech center,’ and how limited that access really is. Our economically challenged Latinitas and other girls of color need inclusion in their education.” On August 24, 2013, the Austin AmericanStatesman published an article pointing out that for the past two years, the Austin school district has posted worse graduation rates for low-income students than any other large urban school district in Texas. That fact is more than startling and the entire community of Austin seems to be unaware, or perhaps, disinterested. Saldaña brings up an even more alarming fact, “In 2008, Austin ranked dead last only graduating 61 percent of our economically disadvantaged students and in 2012 we were still ranked at the second to the bottom, graduating 78 percent of economically disadvantaged students and still nearly seven percentage points below the State Average (85.1 percent).” It seems as though housing and education are two among several prominent issues that our city faces. Our poor education system and lack of affordable housing continues to feed the cycle that creates Austin’s underserved population. If our city leaders continue to avoid tackling these issues and promote temporary solutions, Austin one day, soon, will be recognized for something less attractive than our booming skyline. TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 09
Howlin’ Lobo By Lobo Corona
LOBO’S BITES
Congress Ave, Friday, June 13, culminates at the new ROT Biker Rally, presented by Austin 360, at 305 S. Congress Ave. in the Austin AmericanStatesman parking lot. You shook me all summer LONG There was a time when the performing arts scene in Austin nearly ground to a sweltering halt during the summer months, Aqua Fest aside, but the Long Center for the third year in a row is presenting a series of free and low cost programming. This year more than 100,000 visitors are expected to partake of favorites like Sound and Cinema, Rhythm on Stage and Bubblepalooza!. There are also new experiences like Father’s Day Gospel Brunch and Dell Hall: Dance Hall. The Long Center’s City Terrace, Meredith Family Stage in Dell Hall and Rollins Studio Theatre provide the perfect setting for this community-wide, family-friendly celebration. Check thelongcenter.org for more.
That 70s concert! Austin in 1970s was a different musical beast from today, but that doesn’t mean we can’t escape into that golden decade of pop music.  For its annual free Pops Concert at the Zilker Park Hillside Theater, the Austin Civic Orchestra will perform music from 70s movies and musicals, including “Star Wars,� “Saturday Night Fever,� and “Jesus Christ Superstar,� and from 70s rock bands like Led Zeppelin and the Who. The free concert is Friday-Saturday, June 6-7. austincivicorchestra.org Austin City Limits all-star 40th KLRU presents Austin City Limits Celebrates 40 A ROT old time in town Years, an all-star benefit concert on Thursday, The Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally June 26, featuring some of the brightest stars celebrates its 19th year in Austin, June 12-15. in the show’s history returning to the Austin The music lineup includes Black Star Riders, City Limits stage. The star-studded evening, the new band formed by Thin Lizzy alumni hosted by Jeff Bridges and Sheryl Crow, will Ricky Warwick, Thursday at the Amphitheater feature Alabama Shakes, Gary Clark Jr., Joe with Cody Canada and the Departed opening. Ely, Robert Earl Keen, Kris Kristofferson, Lloyd Reverend Horton Heat headlines Friday, with Maines, Bonnie Raitt, T Bone Burnett, Jimmie Chop Tops up first and Sammy Hagar headlines Vaughan, Grupo Fantasma and Doyle Bramhall Saturday with Heaven Below as the opener. II, and Bridges and Crow. The concert will take The 40,000 motorcycles parade and party on place at ACL’s home, ACL Live at The Moody
Theater, and will be taped for an October 3 airing. Tickets start at $75 at klru.org/benefit. Willie donates phases and stages to UT The red-headed stranger feels more like an old friend to many in Texas, and now Willie Nelson has shared even more of himself via the Dolph Briscoe Center for American History at U.T. Nelson has donated major portions of his collection of photographs, correspondence and song manuscripts; posters, illustrations and portraits; platinum records, certificates and awards; signed books; screenplays; and personal items, including Indian headdresses, dream catchers and numerous gifts and tributes from fans, all of which will be the focus of an upcoming exhibit.
MAKING TRACKS Santana ‘CorazĂłn’ makes splash Latin rock icon Carlos Santana and his band Santana’s new album “CorazĂłnâ€? (RCA/Sony Latin Iberia) debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Latin Albums Chart and number nine on the Billboard Top 200 Chart. This is his first ever Latin music album of his career. Santana performed many of the songs from his album “CorazĂłnâ€? at a once in a lifetime concert event in December, accompanied by many of his album special guests, all celebrating their Latin music heritage in Guadalajara, Mexico (in his native state of Jalisco).
HispanosNet Austin
Marcela Alfonsin, Daniela Ruiz, Joanna SF at Pachanga Raul Rangel, Miriam Garcia at Pachanga
in concert Presented by:
Experience a night of Mexico’s greatest music!
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TECHNOLOGY CAPITAL CORPORATION Christy & David Guajardo Nance
Purchase tickets today at the Long Center - 3M Box Office, thelongcenter.org or by phone at 512-474-5664.
On Thursday, May 15, an area next to the Austin Music Hall was christened Margaret Moser Plaza, an apt honor for the recently retired Austin Chronicle writer and music scene pioneer (center). Don Pitts photo.
By Diana Sanchez
Karina MuĂąiz, Veronica MuĂąiz Rafael Romero, Priscilla Gallardo
Kenny Dorham’s Backyard seeking support for improvements By Otis Lopez
After the untimely and mysterious death of ProArts, DiverseArts Culture Works is the oldest and only multidisciplinary African American cultural arts organization in Austin. The non-profit was created to support the long-term development of the Austin African American Cultural Heritage District surrounding East 11th Street. To that end, the organization produces a wide range of cultural, educational, and artistic programming within the District, including cultural preservation and documentary work that assures that the African American cultural legacy of Central East Austin is documented and honored into the future, all while bridging cultural gaps between Austin communities by disseminating this history to a broad-based audience. DiverseArts also produces cultural programs across disciplines to celebrate the richness of East Austin’s history, showcasing the contemporary creative community while connecting to traditions derived from African American culture. There has been, however, a turn of events that
To Do Música By Liz Lopez
Son y No Son is scheduled for two Brunch Time Shows from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 15 and June 29 at Manuel’s Downtown, 310 Congress Ave. For more info visit www. sonynoson.com ----------------Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Martindale is having their three day church festival with live music. Scheduled for June 6: La Distancia and Conjunto Romo; June 7, Michael Salgado and Raul Vaszquez III y Acero and on June 8, David y Los Hermanos Farias. More info at (512) 357-6573. ----------------Accredited BMI songwriter/producer and vocalist Shelly Lares has a new single, “Agua de Rosas,” from her “De Mi Corazon” CD. To learn more of this talented percussionist and guitar player, visit www.shellylaresmusic.com ----------------The Alianza Cultural arts organization meets every third Sunday evening of the month at Casa de Luz auditorium. They recently celebrated their seven year anniversary of hosting Spanish language cultural events and invite the public to participate. www.alianzacultural.net ----------------Austin based Cinco Doce has a new single, “La Fiesta,” now available on iTunes. Recommended.
Harold McMillan, director of DiverseArts and Kenny Dorham’s Backyard, says will affect the venue, an East 11th Street performance and arts park, and community garden. “We have good relations with our neighbors and have had such for the past 9-10 years,” McMillan said. “Our lease on the property is with the City’s Urban Renewal Agency/Board. It is a free lease in exchange for our doing programming in the public interest. There has never been an issue with us living up to that part of the deal, either from our neighbors or the U.R.A. The bare fact behind all is this is that we do indeed manage to produce high quality programming during our season, but as a very small nonprofit organization, our programming far outstrips the amount of funding we receive. And, we receive no funds or City Services specifically to make improvements at the venue.” DiverseArts is on its own, it seems, even though it is agreed that the work it does via Kenny Dorham’s Backyard is no doubt in the public interest. As McMillan states, this season the U.R.A. only granted the group a six month lease with a plan to come back to the table to see if the lease would be renewed for the full year as is normal. “This apparently came about, not because of any problems with programming, but because some ‘un-named’ commercial neighbor complained about the physical appearance of the venue,” said McMillan. “Though our relationship with the U.R.A. and Neighborhood Housing and Community Development (staff support) is and has been in ----------------Susan Torres y Conjunto Clemencia continue their Wednesday evening residency in June at Little Mexico Restaurant in South Austin from 7-9 p.m. ----------------Alfredo Guerrero (Tortilla Factory), Rick Balderrama and Julio El Catras have a studio promo of their new recording, “La Bomba,” available on http://youtube/PYl-vRq4WJg -----------------The newly released cumbia single, “Mi flor,” by Roy Garcia Grupo Sueno is hitting the airwaves. For more info about the band call (210) 782-4256. Follow them on Facebook where you can learn more about their San Antonio show on Friday, June 20. ----------------Grupo Beso, with Pepper Gonzalez and Ernest Maltos, has a new cumbia release, “Para Siempre,” from Latin World Records. Susan Torres
good shape, they are apparently getting pressure to have us ‘nice the place up,’” McMillan explained. “We have sought in-kind and cash support from them, but they continue to declare that they don’t have funding to help us. They recommend that I come back to them with a plan to make improvements and involve other entities to show that we are searching for help from other places besides them.” To that end, DiverseArts is currently soliciting support from a number of organizations and individuals, seeking partners, and will soon launch an Indie-gogo campaign specifically to make improvements to the venue. The organization
X Marks the Spot
Inaugural X Games Austin to Launch By Erica Stall Wiggins
does have Cultural Arts Division contract support for programming that assumes it will continue to operate from the current venue. If the second half of the year is not granted, that would also mean having to re-locate programming from June through September of 2014. “At this point we need cash and in-kind partners,” said McMillan. “We also need statements/letters of support attesting to the need for our programming in the district and encouraging the U.R.B. and N.H.C.D. to help us look for ways to meet our mutual want to make improvements to the venue. This is indeed something we want to do and our outreach at this point is encouraging.” fashion, food and beverage, sports, gaming, environmental and kid-friendly elements. There is even a “Texas Ranch” village, lest anyone forget they’re in the Lone Star State.
Austin will have a national spotlight upon it from June 5-8 as extreme sports fans and festival enthusiasts celebrate the inaugural X Games Austin. As the new U.S. home of the Global X Games, the capital city will host the U.S. summer games for the next four years. The international competition brings together the top action sports athletes in the world and has been undergoing a global expansion and transformation in recent years. After a competitive bid that lasted eight months, Austin edged out cities such as Charlotte, Detroit and Chicago to host the games that have called Los Angeles home for the past 11 years. The event will be held at the 1,500-acre Circuit of the Americas (COTA) sports and entertainment complex in southeast Austin and at venues downtown. In addition to more than 200 athletes competing in the disciplines of skateboarding, BMX, Moto X and Off Road, there will be a full festival atmosphere with nine festival villages. The worldclass music village will host performances by Kanye West, Flaming Lips, Pretty Lights and many more. Other festival villages include shopping,
“X Games Austin 2014, will be a four day sports, music and lifestyle festival,” said Scott Guglielmino, sr. vice president, programming and X Games, ESPN. “The best athletes, competing at the highest levels remain the core of X Games. But we’re incredibly excited about being able to create a full-scale festival around that, which celebrates some of the other elements of the X Games lifestyle – music, friends, family, food and fun.” For more information and tickets, visit xgamesaustin.com. TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 11
Film Austin
”All Is By My Side”
By Tara Veneruso
I love this time of year. Sure, it’s hot as heck and getting hotter. Summer brings some of my favorite things in life: chief among them, outdoor movie season and summer blockbusters from the sequels, prequels, to the cheesiest movies you can imagine. But even the worst movie is made better with a picnic basket, beach blanket and a glass of wine. The ESB-Mexican American Cultural Center (600 River St) hosts free showings from the Golden Era of Mexico’s cinema the last Tuesday each month/9:15am) starting with “Searching for Sugar Man” on June 24. Once a month, Austin Parks Foundation hosts movie night in Republic Park including “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” on Thursday, June 12. On Fridays, head to Anderson Mill’s El Salido Pool where “Jaws” screens on Friday, June 13, or Austin’s infamous Ski Shores’ Family Movie Night (see schedule at skishoresaustin. com). Amy’s Ice Cream hosts Monday Movie Night on Burnet Road, and also look for the “Sound and Cinema” starting June 18 at the Long Center.
including double bills with “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” (June 13-14) and “The Godfather I & II” (June 22), among the highlights. Other outdoor summer series w/ TBA schedules are 101X Summer Cinema at Central Market, Whole Foods Summer Sunset Film Series, and the Deep Eddy Summer Series at Deep Eddy Pool.
Head inside to cool off where some terrific summer movies series are playing indoors. Austin Public Library hosts Family Movie Night the first Wednesday each month (“Iron Giant” is Wednesday, June 4, at Manchaca Road Branch. Visit austintheatre.org for the Paramount and Stateside Theater’s vast summer series selections
As Summer Blockbuster season starts, it seems every star alive has a movie out this season. The huge blockbusters most worth noting are Seth MacFarlane’s “A Million Ways to Die in the West” and the Jimi Hendrix biopic, “All Is By My Side,” from “12 Years a Slave” writer/director John Ridley starring OutKast’s Andre Benjamin. I’m frightened of the biopic on James Brown, but interested like a train wreck to see “Get on Up.” As a sci-fi buff, I’m going to see “Snowpiercer” about earth on the brink of global-warming destruction, “Jupiter Ascending,” where Mila Kunis discovers she’s a
The Telos of Eeyore’s Birthday
thinks everyone has forgotten his birthday, only to discover that his friends had planned a surprise party for him all along. (Part of my telos for Eeyore’s is symbolic for all the “forgotten birthdays” around the world, particularly my sisters’ suffering in countries who do not support them or their rights to live equally and without violence.)
By María Cristina Gutiérrez-Boswell
I have been attending Eeyore’s Birthday celebration since my firstborn, Richie, was two years old. It is Eeyore’s Birthday, where bands play different genres of music which fly through the air and envelopes the eardrums of attendees, “The Children’s Midway,” where kids live and breathe arts and crafts for free, the playgrounds, people relaxing up in the trees of nearby hills where they communally enjoy the “native plant” scene (wink wink), a costume contest, the Maypole, all the gorgeous colors and smells of the food and drinks, homemade granola handed out around the Drum Circle... THE DRUM CIRCLE.
The word “telos” comes from Aristotle’s philosophical view which means “purpose.” Aristotle reasoned things happen the way they are supposed to happen in a sort of “cosmic order” out of a desire to reach a natural place. A tree grows fruit. The animals eat the fruit and spread the fruit’s seed all around through their poop or from their fur onto the ground, where another tree grows. One could argue the telos of the fruit is designed to attract animals and insects so its seeds will be carried, dropped onto the ground and a new fruit tree can grow. In Winnie-the-Pooh, for instance, Pooh reasons a “buzzing noise” to “a bee making honey” to “the only reason for a bee making honey is so I can eat it.” Very Aristotelian. Enter Eeyore’s. It started as a picnic in 1963 by the University of Texas’ English Department and has never ended, its latest incarnation being this past April 26. The telos of celebrating Eeyore’s birthday came from the A.A. Milne story wherein Eeyore 12 TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
A tradition at Eeyore’s is the “Drum Circle,” where if you have a beat to lay down, via bucket, bongo, snare, timpani, or if you just want to hit the ground, this is the place to expand not only your creative energy, but physical one as well because the beat never stops; it is literally a cacophony of different thumps, magically coming together, harmoniously, from the beginning of the festival to the end. It is the
warrior from outer space, and in “The Giver,” where Jeff Bridges must impart all of human’s wisdom to a boy to save mankind. I can only imagine the studio meetings that got those films green-lit. Of the movies this summer I’m most looking forward to, Linklater’s coming-of-age drama “Boyhood” leads the pack. You can argue the merits of others, but “Boyhood” was a real accomplishment and great cinema. Next up, the rom-com, “Obvious Child,” fresh from rave reviews at Sundance Film Fest, follows an aspiring comedian through her disaster-ridden love life. On a more serious note, the thriller, “The Rover,” on the strength of raves at Cannes Film Fest, stars Guy Pearce and Rob Pattinson in an Australian outback setting, both of whom have been applauded for their captivating performances. Does this mean R. Patts is here to stay? I hope so.
director Paul Haggis (“Crash”). I’m also looking forward to Zach Braff’s “Garden State” follow-up, “Wish I Was Here,” and from Director Steve James (“Hoop Dreams”) comes the touching documentary about Roger Ebert, “Life Itself.” On the other end of the spectrum, the comedy-doc, “The Fluffy Movie,” captures the life of up-andcoming comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias. Tara Veneruso is an award-winning film producer and director making films in Austin and Hollywood. For film casting, 3D, transmedia, animation or gaming news, write Tara at filmtodoaustin@gmail.com.
Summer films with the most unique plots include director Michel Gondry’s funny and romantic “Mood Indigo,” and the odd dark-comedy, “Frank.” In it, actor Michael Fassbender wears a papermache head the entire film and leads a rock-art band. In the thriller, “The Double,” Jesse Eisenberg meets his doppelganger and starts going insane. In the very intriguing sci-fi film “I, Origins,” Michael Pitt goes on a beautiful and serious quest to discover the true meaning of life. Films with potential include “Palo Alto,” directed by Gia Coppola, based on actor/director James Franco’s short stories. Franco also stars in the summer romance-pic, “Third Person,” from heart(beat) of Eeyore’s, and perhaps Eeyore himself? Speaking of hearts (wink wink), a wonderful trend has surfaced at Eeyore’s: women going perfectly topless (which is legal in Austin). Both painted and unpainted bosoms decorate the festival. For me, as a woman and mother, this represents society’s nourishment. As a feminist, it defies traditional patriarchal views of a woman’s body to be completely covered because there is something shameful about our bodies. Also, it throws the idea that women “bring on rape” because it is—erroneously— linked to the way we dress.
“A Million Ways to Die in the West”
There are costumes, a drum circle and decorated and undecorated bosoms dotting Pease Park each spring which can only mean one thing: it is the last Saturday of April in Austin. This means it is Eeyore’s Birthday. The purpose is to celebrate our depressed, donkey-friend from the famous children’s literary series, but also to serve as a reminder that we can celebrate and find telos in anything we want. María Cristina Gutiérrez-Boswell is a Native Texan, double-majoring in WGSS, focusing on Latina Rights and PS, focusing on Law, Politics and Society at Oregon State University. Maria Boswell photo
Council Passes Resolution to Review Austin’s Municipal Equality Index Council Member Chris Riley joined community leaders from across Austin on May 22 in supporting a review of Austin’s Municipal Equality Index to identify opportunities to expand rights for LGBT Austinites. The Human Rights Campaign recently released their national scorecard rankings of cities’ commitment to equality, and Council Member Riley, along with co-sponsors Council Member Bill Spelman and Council Member Laura Morrison, wants Austin to lead the nation. “I’m proud to stand with the LGBT community and proud that Austin has a strong record on equality, but we can do better. Let’s not just be #1 in Texas, let’s be #1 in the country,” said Council Member Riley. “Momentum is building across the country for greater equality, and Austin should be a leader.” Community leaders in Austin applauded Council Member Riley’s resolution. “As leaders in our community, it’s our job to make sure Texas really is an exceptional place for all of its people,” says State Representative Celia Israel. “Living up to the promise of equality and treating all Texans and their families with the dignity and equality they deserve should start in Austin, and I am proud of our City Council’s work on this important issue.”
CASA
(Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Cheryl Albanese was born in Midland and graduated from Texas A&M with a BBA in Management. She has lived in Austin for 21 years and is currently a realtor with Turnquist Partners. Cheryl has raised two wonderful children who attend college at The University of Texas and Georgetown University. She is committed to her membership at Life Austin and donates 10 percent of her profits to charity. Cheryl began volunteering at CASA of Travis County in 2005 when she was going through a difficult time in her life. “I needed a place to focus my energy away from the negative things,” said Cheryl. “I decided to put my positive energy towards CASA training.” On her cases Cheryl works very diligently to develop relationships with everyone involved. She puts a special focus on the relatives who could be potential placements for a child,
“The Municipal Equality Index examines the laws, policies, and services of municipalities and rates them on the basis of their inclusivity of LGBT people who live and work there,” said Paul Rhea, Chair of Austin’s Human Rights Commission. “I’m extremely proud that the City of Austin has the highest score on the MEI of any Texas city, and appreciate Council Member’s Riley’s efforts to further evaluate and improve our policies to ensure the LGBT community is welcome and included in city government.” “The Human Rights Campaign looks forward to working with Austin’s City Manager, the Human Rights Commission, and other non-profit partners to assure that Austin remains safe and welcoming to everyone that resides, works, and visits here,” said Ceci Gratias, Vice President of the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and Strategic Relations Co-Chair of the Austin Steering Committee of the Human Rights Campaign. “Council Member Riley once again raises the bar for Austin, and challenges us to take the lead in equality,” said Eugene Sepulveda, former Co-Chair of President Obama’s GLBT Leadership Council. “Thank you Council Member Riley for calling on all of us, including Austin’s LGBT community, to set national standards for equality and inclusion.”
LGBT Pride Month June is LGBT Pride Month and Austin has several events celebrating the impact LGBT people have in the community. Among them is “Queerbomb 2014” on Saturday, June 7, 6 p.m. The free event kick’s-off with a rally at Pine Street Station (1101 East 5th St) for a pre-procession celebration starting at 8 p.m. that welcomes guest speakers from the community, DJ’s, a full bar, and tables for LGBTQIA organizations. The Queerbomb procession leaves at 9 p.m., with marching and dancing in the giant queer pride down 6th St. to Brazos and then back Pine St. Station for the official after-party. “Back to the Boathouse” is on Sunday, June 15, 5-10 p.m. For one night only the legendary Austin bar, the Boathouse, will return to its original location. Step through the doors off Colorado Street and onto the dance floor and its Austin in the 1980’s when everyone climbed those spiral stairs to watch the crowd. All proceeds benefit AIDS Services of Austin. With featured Boathouse DJs Randy Todd (1986 –’90) and Dale William (1988 –’90). Join Austin PRIDE for its 4th Annual Stonewall Celebration on the South Steps of the Texas Capitol on Thursday, June 26 7-8 p.m. This year they’ll celebrate the 45th Anniversary of the Stonewall Riots with guest speakers and performers. The Stonewall Celebration pays tribute to the individuals that sparked the modern day gay rights movement in June, 1969 at the Stonewall Inn. Don’t miss the huge drag performance finale, the likes of which the State Capitol has never seen. For more events in June, visit austin.gaycities.com/events
to achieve a smooth transition if need be. She emphasizes that instilling encouragement into a child can be what it takes to change his/her life. “I try to get them to be passionate about their interests,” said Cheryl. “I strive to get them excited about what they like to do.” Through her time as a CASA advocate, Cheryl has had the privilege of impacting the lives of seven children.
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This project is funded and supported in part by the City of Austin through the Economic Development Department/Cultural Arts Division believing an investment in the Arts is an investment in Austin’s future. Visit Austin at NowPlayingAustin.com.
4926 E. Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78702
www.latinitasmagazine.org
austin@latinitasmagazine.org
(512) 900-0304
TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 13
NORTH AUSTIN INFLUENCERS:
Developing Leaders with Billy Moyer By Monica Peña On June 18, North Austin Influencers will celebrate male role models at Casa Chapala for the June Joint Networking Mixer with SOS Leadership. This month’s highlighted Influencer will be Billy Moyer, President and Chief Operating Officer of SOS Leadership Institute, an international leadership development resource center that seeks to develop leaders that make a difference. Moyer is considered one of the top young thought leaders in the world. He is a speaker, author, and entrepreneur with a long-held interest in helping others develop “what matters most” focus and to answer the call to leadership. He co-founded SOS Leadership when he was just 22-years-old with his father, Bill Moyer and sister, Amber Fogarty.
programs, coaching, and tools to help run and grow businesses. SOS Leadership also has a book publishing division that helps first time authors. Billy is the co-author of “The Turnaround: If You Don’t Grow, You Go!,” “Retreat to Success: Living Your Life on ‘Purpose’,” and “Seeds of Success: A Journey from Success to Significance.” NAI will also be joined by the father of June’s highlighted influencer. Bill Moyer (the elder) has invested 30 years of his life defining “What Matters Most” as a focus, rather than a question. He has spoken to business leaders in 36 countries and 49 states on effective leadership and has authored more than 50 articles in business publications. “I went through my first goal setting program when I was just four-years-old. I spoke to my first group at seven,” said the younger Moyer. “This is because of the influence my father has had in my life.”
SOS Leadership services include leadership development programs, Chief People Officer consulting, culture training, coaching, and speaking, operating the SOS Coaching Network of coaches around the world who use their
Port Aransas-Texas Island Style By Rose Di Grazia
As soon as the college kids are back from their spring break beach trips in March is about the time of year I start itching to go to the beach. Luckily, Port Aransas is only about a four hour trip from Austin. Once in Port A., drive your car onto the ferry as it takes you to your beach paradise destination; mine was Seashell Village Resort. Stay in one of the cottages or choose one of the pet friendly rooms right in front of the sparkling pool. Spend the afternoon getting a tan poolside or dive into the heated saltwater pool. If you like cooler water, take a dip in the nearby pool, you also won’t find a shortage of lounge chairs around. At this haven of fun, enjoy the BBQ grills and front porches. The room I stayed in was perfect for anyone with dogs, with a little fenced-in yard for pets. You can sit out and sip your coffee and listen to the palm branches swaying and the seagulls squawking. The pool area makes me think of a resort in Greece with the white cabanas and the sky blue, peach, and yellow cottages everywhere. The room offered a fully equipped kitchen and nice tile floors. This place is a gem in my book when it comes to comfort and cleanliness. After settling in, take a short five minute stroll to the beach. Seashell Village is in walking distance to pizza, shops, ice cream parlors and restaurants. Check out the Third Coast Club for live music and entertainment on the property. This is one place you will want to stay time and time again. Some of the restaurants that are a must for tourists are Trout Street Grill, Venetian Hot Plate, and Eats. Trout Street is known 14 TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
Four Key Steps to Agile Leadership Leadership is the action of leading a group of people or an organization. It requires setting a new direction or vision for a group to follow. It’s not enough for a leader to be highly specialized expert. They must receive and process diverse and potentially conflicting sources of information with the openness to implement a variety of strategic solutions, and have ability to adapt to changing conditions. Agile Leadership requires a very specific set of skills and behaviors. Play Storming will introduce you to four key steps that will help you on your way to becoming an agile Leader.
for its beautiful deck and view of the boats that are docked around the eatery. Order the grilled chicken and crispy fries for lunch, and sip on a glass of wine and watch the boats come in. For a great view and good food, this is a regular spot for me. If you like Italian, stop on over at Venetian Hot Plate and try their delicious spaghetti with meat sauce. It also happens to be a portion for two in my eyes. The restaurant is owned by an Italian and the food, atmosphere, and service makes for a great place to have a romantic dinner: dimly lit with an old world charm. I was so full after pasta, salad, and bread that I will have to head back to Corpus to have dessert on my next trip. For a great and hearty breakfast, try Eats. Eats is a well-known place for breakfast and lunch. I go ape over their breakfast of eggs, muffins, bacon, breakfast tacos and great coffee. Sit outside on the deck or at one of the tables in the window. The owner is originally from Austin and did a great job at keeping the customers that once frequented the location when it was Bundy’s. Since new management arrived, the place is very
Seashell Village Resort, Port Aransas
Shawn Utterback and Terrill Fisher of Play Storming will be facilitators at the Ronald McDonald House Charities Community Meeting Room on June 26 for the North Austin Influencers monthly professional development. Utterback is a seasoned improviser and facilitator with over 15 years of experience who has helped develop communication and brand strategies for some of the world’s largest brands including Pepsi Co, Proctor and Gamble and Kellogg’s. Fisher, with a background as an investment media broker and management consultant, has learned how effective humor could be in difficult business situations. He leads programs in Negotiation, Stress Management, and How to Understand Yourself and Others Better. Fisher is also the co-founder of Humor University, a virtual center for humor and fun experts around the United States. The group will collect donation items for Ronald McDonald House of Charities, from their wish list. With 29 years of service to Austin and Central Texas, RMHC offer families a place to sleep, eat and relax while their children receive medical treatment at one of the area’s nearby hospitals. For more information and to register visit: http://www.meetup.com/ NORTH-AUSTIN-INFLUENCERS/
clean and organized. I love their fresh muffins and cinnamon rolls, too. Also, while in Port Aransas, stop in at the Art Center. The center offers a plethora of art from artists all over Texas and beyond. Come view the paintings of the beach. Buy one to take home or purchase some of the beautiful jewelry and greeting cards of seagulls and pelicans, etc. Every year the center has a popular art show (this year it was May 16-18). The center is also in the process of having a brand new, huge, Art Center built. Port Aransas has become my beach of choice in Texas for its proximity, tranquility, shops, and restaurants. But most of all, I go there for peace of mind and the sounds of the seagulls and palm branches swaying, and those morning and nightly walks on the beach.
CELEBRATING DIVERSIT Y
JUNETEENTH
BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin
For over half a century, Mariachi Vargas has been considered one of the finest mariachi in the world, earning and upholding the title of “El Mejor Mariachi del Mundo.” Founded in 1898 in Tecalitlán, its current generation represents the state of the art in mariachi music. The group is celebrating its 115th anniversary with a stop in Austin at the Long Center, Saturday, June 7, 8 p.m. thelongcenter.org
Photo by Julie Moody/KUT
Few communities observe Juneteenth like Austin. The Greater East Austin Youth Association is readying a number of events from June 14-21. The Juneteenth Green and Clean Neighborhood Project starts things off on Saturday, June 14, from 7–9 a.m., with volunteers gathering at 13th St. and Chicon before starting their effort to pick up litter and waste from the surrounding area.
The Amala Foundation hosts “Growing Circles,” a benefit concert and dinner for the Global Youth Peace Summit, on Tuesday, June 10, 7 p.m. at Vuka Studios (411 West Monroe). The evening features music by Gina Chavez, Phoebe Hunt, Mohinya and the One Village Music Project. The goal of the event is to raise funds to sponsor 20 youth to attend this year’s summit. amalafoundation.org/circles New contemporary dance company, Performa/ Dance, debuts with “Ignite: three works,” June 13-14, 8 p.m. at AustinVentures StudioTheatre. Co-founded by Jennifer Hart and Ballet Austin dancer Edward Carr, the inaugural performance features Hart’s choreography with guest artists from Ballet Austin and Ballet Austin II, along with several Austin-based independent dancers. balletaustin.org
The annual Miss & Little Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant, on Thursday, June 19, from 1–5 p.m., in Doris Miller Auditorium (2300 Rosewood Avenue), underscores the goal of growing healthy self-value in area youth, recognizing individuality and achievement while encouraging community involvement. A community program on the same date and location is scheduled from 7-9 p.m.
Mexic-Arte Museum’s “Young Latina Artists 19: Y, Qué?” is an all women artist’s exhibition curated by San Antonio’s Más Rudas Chicana Collective. The annual exhibit showcases new and experimental art from talented and innovative young Latina artists under the age of 35. The exhibit runs Friday, June 13 through September 7. M-Th 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; F-Sa. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. mexic-artemuseum.org
On Saturday, June 21, the 2K Freedom Run/Walk begins at 9:30 a.m. with participants starting at Comal St. and MLK Blvd. The community is invited to join families, friends, neighbors, organizations and businesses to raise awareness about the increasing prevalence of health disparities within the African-American community.
Austin’s World Refugee Day celebration is Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m. at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. The free event, a collaboration between the museum and the Austin Refugee Roundtable, features music, dance, fashion, refreshments, games, activities, info tables and more, with resettled refugees in attendance. Welcome our newest Texans at the annual family-friendly event. interfaithtexas.org
One of the annual highlights of Central Texas observations is the traditional Juneteenth Historical Parade on Saturday, June 21, 10 a.m. along Comal St. and MLK Blvd. Known as a beautiful, vibrant experience, the annual parade is the signature event of the celebration with floats, marching bands, dancers, cowboys, horses, candy and more of what the community has to offer. Also on June 21, in Rosewood Park (1182 Pleasant Valley Rd.), the Juneteenth Park Celebration runs from 12–8 p.m. and features a multitude of vendors, exhibits, food, live music from gospel to Hip-Hop to R&B, with a children’s area. For more info, go to juneteenthcentraltexas.com.
The truth serum, or burundanga, as it’s known in South America, is the initial component of the fun, entertaining comedy, “Burundanga.” Stories of terrorism, love, kidnappings and friendship are mixed in Austin Latino Theater Alliance’s production, directed by Alejandro Pedemonte, running through June 21 at the ESBMexican American Cultural Center. Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. www.altateatro.com Revelry, disguises, serenades, swashbuckling, and, of course, pining lovers abound in what some call Shakespeare’s most perfect comedy, “Twelfth Night,” now playing at City Theatre through June 22. A tale of mistaken identity and mismatched ardor unfurls as lords and ladies, servants and masters wind a topsy-turvy path to happiness. Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. Sunday, 5:30 pm. citytheatreaustin.org
SALVAGE VANGUARD THEATER 20th Birthday Bash Salvage Vanguard Theater celebrates its 20th anniversary this month with a free birthday bash on Tuesday June 10, 7 p.m. at its East Austin location, 2803 E. Manor Rd. Join the crew for an evening of party games, cake, libations and music by DJ Manateemann, hosted by SVT board member and performer extraordinaire, Jay Byrd. Donations will be accepted in the giant birthday box. The nonprofit arts organization has been a hub for visionary Austin artists, receptive audiences and dynamic arts organizations for a generation, creating and presenting transformative high-quality artistic experiences to foster experimentation and conversation. SVT’s staff continues to trail blaze on the Austin theatrical scene, led by producing artistic director, Jenny Larson, Heather Hanna, Adrienne Dawes, Zac Crofford, W.A. Brenner, and Henna Chou. In June, Lucky Chaos Theater Projects presents, “30 Loves in 60 Minutes!” Thursday-Saturday, June 5-7, 8 p.m., (and 10 p.m. June 7). Fast-paced, audience interactive, funny and poignant, mini-plays are performed with high-energy and moments of reflection. No Shame Theatre’s open mic series are Friday, June 6, and June 20, 10 p.m. NMASS! New Music Art and Sound Summit runs June 11-14. Doctuh Mistuh Productions hold stage June 19-July 13. Cinema 41 is Thursday, June 26, and Gnap! Get-up is Friday, June 20, 8 p.m., with Rhino Dino improv theatre on Friday, June 27, 10 p.m. On the horizon, look for the July 31 “Made in the SVT” world premiere of “Bright Now Beyond,” a musical by Daniel Alexander Jones and Bobby Halvorson, directed by Will Davis. TODO AUSTIN // JUNE 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 15
the austin symphony’s Butler Pops series presents
classical mystery tour
sEason finalE! fri & sat, JunE 6 & 7
A triButE to
ClassiCal MystEry tour
Martin Herman, guest conductor Palmer Events Center Doors open, 6:45 p.m. Concert, 8:00 p.m. Back by popular demand, the ClassiCal MystEry tour will perform your favorite Beatles tunes like you’ve never heard them before: totally live! Experience this quartet as they rock with your Austin Symphony! Bring your favorite food dish and enjoy this concert in a cabaret-style setting.
2013–2014 season PEtEr BAy, MuSic DirEctor
tickets/info
Artwork By LAurA BEth DurAnD ConCErt sPonsor
sEason sPonsor
(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org MEDia sPonsors
All artists, programs, and dates subject to change
FEATURED JUNE 2014 EVENTS:
FREE
Juneteenth Celebration!
Saturday, June 14, 10am-5pm George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center 1165 Angelina Street - www.carvermuseum.org
Featuring the GRAND OPENING of the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center’s Genealogy Center! Ceremony at 2pm. Latino Arts Residency Program resident ALTA presents: Burundanga! May 22nd – June 21st, Thursdays – Saturdays, 8pm Performed in Spanish with English subtitles Content rated ages 16+ 600 River Street - www.maccaustin.org
Plein Air Austin Art Exhibition
June 11 – July 5, 2014, Reception: June 18 Dougherty Arts Center, Julia C. Buttridge Gallery 1110 Barton Springs Road - www.doughertyartscenter.org BRANDING // WEB DESIGN 512.827.2620 // SUNDARAMDESIGN.COM 4201 West Parmer Lane Building C • Suite 250 • Austin, TX 78727
Visit our Facebook page for all upcoming events! www.facebook.com/ArtsInParks The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities, please call 512-974-4000.