TODO Austin September 2014

www.todoaustin.com

The Future.

Volume VI / Sept 2014

NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

ATX Tackling Latino Quality of Life Issues

Coming to the LONG CENTER more than 50 season performances & events!

TWIN INFINITY:

The Intergalactic Nemesis Book 3 SEPTEMBER 5–6 Audio drama meets comic-book in a spectacular adventure like none other. The first two installments of this Austin original have appeared on Broadway, at the Kennedy Center, and on PBS, NPR, and Conan. Join us for the party of the century with the world premiere of Twin Infinity!

Evil Dead: The Musical

Bad Kid

Nice Work If You Can Get It

SEPTEMBER 17–21

SEPTEMBER 24–OCTOBER 5

OCTOBER 1–2

This record-breaking musical

Bad Kid is the hilariously

This brand-new musical features

comedy sensation takes Sam Raimi’s

heartwarming tale of a goth boy who

a treasure trove of George and Ira

cult classic films and combines

dreamed of being anywhere but the

Gershwin’s most beloved, instantly

them to make one of the craziest

middle of Texas in 1991. The setting

recognizable tunes set in a fresh and

theatrical experiences of all time…

is specific but the story is universal

funny song-and-dance spectacular.

and it’s the only musical in the world

as David Crabb reflects on rebellion,

With direction and choreography by

where audiences can either sit in the

sexuality, friendship and what it

three-time Tony winner Kathleen

“Splatter Zone” to join in the onstage

means to grow up different and

Marshall, Nice Work if You Can Get It

mayhem or ‘safely’ enjoy the fun

alone–just like everyone else.

brings Broadway magic to Dell Hall.

from the “Dry Zone” seats!

How do YOU LONG CENTER? TheLongCenter.org 512.474.LONG (5664)

+ MANY MORE

@LongCenter

C E N T R O U R B A N O HABLA Austin

Paul Saldaña to run for AISD District 6 Austin native and community advocate, Paul Saldaña, filed to run for AISD school board District 6 on August 18. “I am a proud parent of four sons, including two graduates from Crockett High School, an incoming first grader, and a future AISD student, and am an even prouder husband of an elementary school teacher. I am ready to take on a new role in advocacy and leadership,” said Saldaña. Saldaña has more than 20 years of experience in civic and governmental affairs in Austin, from serving as Chief of Staff for Mayor Gus Garcia to tri-chairing both AISD Community Committee on Neighborhoods & Schools and AISD Superintendent’s Task Force on Strategic Plan Review. He is currently a board member of the RBJ Geriatric Center, the National Council of La Raza and heads Saldaña Public Relations.

entire home and get everyone in the house involved; you’ll be surprised at how quickly it all adds up. If you’re already recycling everything, everyday and everywhere, help by teaching others to do the same. Challenge friends, coworkers, neighbors, and family members to recycle more. Recycling gives garbage a chance at another life and keeps valuable resources out of the landfills. To get tips on how to waste less and recycle more, visit: austintexas.gov/GiveUs5.

GAACC August film mixer The Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce’s Thursday, August 28, working mixer will examine the film industry at the Blackfinn Pub at the Domain. Meet local Asian American creatives sharing their current projects.

Guest speakers include producer Andrew Lee, documentary filmmaker Tim Tsai, producer/ director Eric Pham, filmmaker/film poster designer Yen Tan, SAG actor Roger Chan, and PJ Raval, a filmmaker and cinematographer.

GAACC is also the community partner of this year’s Austin Asian American Film Festival and Leng Wong, the Festival Director, will be on hand.

ACC partners with Mexican college Austin Community College’s Continuing Education Division is partnering with Mexico’s Universidad Tecnológica de Coahuila to expand international learning opportunities, particularly in the fields of high technology and advanced manufacturing. ACC plans to establish a program at UTC that will allow members of the Central Texas business community to gain a better understanding of local customs, consumer behavior, business Spanish, and more.

Waste less and recycle more The City is challenging Austinites to “Give Us 5” more pounds of recycling each month. Adding five more pounds to your recycling cart is easy.

Start by expanding recycling throughout your

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.

UT J-school hooks Univision collaboration Univision has entered into a partnership with the University of Texas at Austin School of Journalism. As a result of the fellowship alliance, grad students will be trained, supervised and evaluated at a Univision TV station in Texas. “This is a great opportunity for our school to forge a partnership with one of the country’s most dynamic and innovative news organizations,” said Glenn Frankel, director of UT Journalism. “It will greatly benefit our students and help us train the young people who will be at the forefront of reimagining journalism for the digital media age.”

Volume VI, Number 5 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

A call for voluntary municipal IDs

By Greg Casar

How can we truly be a world-class city if thousands of hardworking Austinites aren’t formally recognized as a part of our community?

Our broken federal and state politics have trapped many of our neighbors—from undocumented immigrants to the elderly to LGBTQ residents—in legal limbo without valid government issued identification cards. Basic ID gives us access to many services we take for granted, like opening a bank account or renting an apartment. Most importantly, without formal recognition and valid ID, many Austinites are excluded from civic life and from confidently interacting with public safety personnel.

I will never forget how my soul felt when a family that came to the community center where I was working told us that that they had not reported the rape of their daughter to the police because they feared the possibility of deportation.

In response to this reality, cities across the country, from Washington D.C. to San Francisco, have opened access to voluntary ID cards that recognize all of their city’s residents. The initiatives have been a resounding success. In New Haven, people started getting in line at four in the morning to be the first to get a card. Residents there can now open bank accounts instead of carrying around large sums of cash that make them targets for mugging. Others are more confident calling the police now that their true, legal name is recognized on an ID card. Furthermore, we can ensure city ID cards are carried by all kinds of citizens, not just the underserved, by consolidating our bus passes, library cards, and more, into a single piece of plastic. Who doesn’t want to carry a membership card for the coolest city in America?

Let’s face it: almost 20 percent of Austin’s residents are foreign-born. In my City Council District 4, over a third of our residents are immigrants. Thousands more people, like myself, are the children of immigrant parents. If we want to improve the quality of life for our area, we can’t sit and hope that Congress or the Legislature will bring sensible, humane solutions. And this isn’t just about immigrants: members of our transgender community have to jump through hoops set up by Rick Perry’s administration to get their driver’s licenses updated—does that sound like a good system for Austin?

Of course not.

Austinites know that by respecting and integrating our diverse communities, all of us will be more secure and prosperous. That’s why half a dozen charitable and civil rights organizations have formed a new alliance called Recognize Austin. In August, our group worked with the Austin City Council to unanimously pass a resolution to begin the process of creating a voluntary municipal ID card for our city. This takes us one step closer toward being the inclusive, integrated, and respectful place that we strive to be. Our destiny lies in our own hands.

(Gregorio “Greg” Casar is a co-founder of Recognize Austin, the former policy director at Workers Defense Project, and a candidate for Austin City Council District 4.)

WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS/ARTISTS // Güner Arslan, Maria Cristina Gutierrez-Boswell, Veronica Briseño Lara, Adriana Cadena, Gabriela Candanoza, Roy Casagranda, Alejandro Caceres, Cindy Casares, Priscilla Cortez, Anais Cruz, Nora De LaRosa, Rose Di Grazia, Christian Gonzalez, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Harmony Eichsteadt, Layla Fry, Jessica Garza Cherry, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Ora Houston, Yadira Izquierdo, Korina Jaimes, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Ann Kitchen, Ramey Ko, Callie Langford, Heather Lee, Julia Lee, Esteban Lopez, Liz Lopez, Otis Lopez, David Marks, JoJo Marion, Caitlin Moore, Cristina Parker, Esther Reyes, Frank Rodriguez, Marion Sanchez, Shubhada Saxena, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Rama Tiru, Blanca Valencia, Kristina Vallejo, Tara Veneruso, Xavier Wan.

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 // CASA of Travis County photo

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 // SEP 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03

Keeping Austin affordable and livable

By Eliza May

Austinites know that we’re more than what the rest of the world thinks we are. We’re more than just breakfast tacos and SXSW. We are a city filled with proud Texans, vibrant neighborhoods and caring families. Good schools, beautiful parks, hardworking yet fun people, and a wealth of natural beauty -- that’s what Austin is to me.

But Austin is changing. And change is happening quickly.

You live it during the unbearable traffic coming home from work or school. You feel it affecting your family’s bottom line in the rising cost of your property taxes and utility bills and your incomes not keeping up. It’s clear our current City Hall is disconnected from the needs of us, OUR neighborhoods, and OUR families.

Now is the time for leadership experienced in taking on big challenges. I have a history of standing up for what’s right, for what’s important and necessary for our community, no matter how hard the fight. We are no longer the sleepy college town I’ve called home for 38 year. We are a big city now, in fact, the 11th largest city in the country. It’s time for Austin to grow up and start addressing the problems of all Austinites -- not just padding the downtown powerbrokers’ wallets and solving center-city’s issues.

Making East Austin part of the future

With unmanaged growth, we have seen our property taxes rise, our water supply diminish, and city resources focused on downtown.

For too long, you’ve seen city council focus on downtown, while neglecting the real and pressing needs of our neighborhoods. District 8 needs a voice at City Hall that will focus on the needs of the families of District 8: traffic, affordability, dependable water supply, lower taxes; growth that benefits existing Austinites.

Like my family for generations, I was raised in East Austin. With the exception of time spent at West Point and in the Army, I have lived here for my entire life. My grandparents, Moses and Carmen Vasquez, opened the original Tamale House in 1959 on First and Congress. My aunts and uncle had Tamale House restaurants throughout Austin. My parents, Juan and Diane Valera, opened Mexico Tipico restaurant at the location where my siblings and I now have the Tamale House East.

By Jose Valera

All members of District 3 deserve inclusive representation and positive leadership on City Council. I believe my willingness to engage with all members of our community, my diverse background and long ties to East Austin will help me effectively serve the entire district.

You have an historic opportunity to elect your first district representative this November. It is critical that you get this first choice right.

Whoever you elect will set the agenda for many years in District 8 and will contribute to the future of Austin as a whole. Today, I am asking you to support me in my campaign to bring common sense solutions to City Hall as your Southwest Austin representative.

Almost 22 years ago, I fought with my fellow Austinites to protect our district’s crown jewel: Barton Springs. In 2013, I again fought hard for 10-1 to bring geographic representation to our neighborhoods. What that means is for the first time District 8 will have a voice at City Hall -- a voice that represents our values and our community’s interests.

04 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

As a candidate for District 3, in this historic election it is important to recognize the efforts of countless community members that fought for and served their communities in a time where direct district representation was not possible. Without their efforts, we could not be where we are today. Recognizing this, I commit to being an active listener, participating in community conversations inclusive of all area residents and businesses, demonstrating a strong work ethic to earn the trust and support of the community, and proving my ability to be an advocate for the district on City Council.

I hope to bring to Austin City Council a diverse set of tools for representing District 3. Growing up in the district, while at the same time living and operating a business, has given me unique perspective on its change. My time at West Point, in the Army, and in Iraq has taught me important lessons on service and leadership.

And my time practicing law has educated me on the need for informed analysis and prudent decision making.

With these tools, and most importantly with community input and support, I will make the following issues my top priorities: AFFORDABLE AND EQUITABLE LIVING – preserve and expand the affordable housing options, safeguard home ownership, and support responsible growth.

I will find affordable solutions to traffic – for example, synchronizing traffic signals and using mass transit solutions that are more efficient, not just more expensive. I will ensure our water supply by promoting conservation and upgrading infrastructure. I will work on a City of Austin homestead exemption for all to ease the pain of rising property taxes for families and longtime Austin residents, while beginning the discussion of freezing taxes for homeowners 65 and older. I will demand that we keep the city budget down and lower property taxes by pushing for an independent audit of the city budget to find fraud and duplication.

It’s time to bring new leadership to City Hall to make sure that Austin - your city - remains affordable and livable for all of us. That’s why I am running for City Council in District 8.

District 8 is home to the city’s most preserved natural treasures, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, the Edward’s Aquifer and Barton Springs Pool.

respect for Austin’s cultural and community values.

OPPORTUNITY FOR QUALITY EDUCATION – level the playing field for all District 3 students by expanding educational opportunities.

EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY – protect current jobs and ensure future development creates employment and economic opportunities within the district.

EFFECTIVE TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS – with community input, investigate and develop affordable, creative, and practical transportation solutions.

My name is Eliza May and I would be honored to represent District 8 as your City Councilmember. I will use all of my experience to bring Southwest Austin the geographic representation that you demanded when you voted for 10-1. As your City Councilmember, I will fight for you. I will deliver results that will keep Austin a great city - without sacrificing the needs of Southwest Austin and the city we call home.

Simply put, we are an Austin family. We have lived and worked in the district for over four generations. This is our home. But, I don’t think you need to have been here for four generations to call District 3 your home. We are all a part of the District 3 community now.

That’s why I am running an inclusive campaign.

I am focused on providing opportunities for both native and new members to the district.

Please join me in this historic opportunity to shape the destiny of District 8 and the future of Austin. I need your help. Please visit my website: elizamayforaustin.com; facebook. com/Elizamayforaustin.com

I will work with the community and its leaders to preserve and improve our neighborhood.

Austin as a whole, and District 3 in particular, has experienced tremendous growth and change in recent years, but growth and development should occur with a historical perspective and

PUBLIC SAFETY – work with residents, business owners, and public safety officials to develop a comprehensive public safety initiative for the district.

Austin has an incredible future, and I want to make sure that each District 3 resident and business owner has the opportunity to be part of that future, not be pushed aside by it. As we grow and change, we must ensure that each person has access to the basic services and infrastructure they deserve, while at the same time enjoying the opportunities that growth can bring. Together, we can bridge our past as we build our future.

For more information about my campaign, please go to josevalera.com, Twitter: valeraforaustin, and Facebook: valeraforaustin.

“Celebrate Me! – South Korea” is Saturday, September 6, 12-4 p.m.

The free event is the next in a series exploring different cultures from around the world and celebrating their similarity and diversity. Each time we will visit a new corner of the globe. Our journey will explore different cultures and the artistic life of their community through language, food, geography, and history. For more information and to RSVP, call 512-974-4926.

The Texas Music Museum’s “Texas Tenors & Fort Worth AvantGarde Jazz” exhibition continues through November 1.

Austin musician Rajamani performs on Saturday, September 13, in the Boyd Vance Theatre at 7:45 p.m. with the Mondsee Orchestra and special guests Bianca Rodriguez’s flamenco dance, and Preya Patel’s Indian dance. Experience the spiritual beauty and passion of two traditions that share an ancient common root. Though Flamenco is from South of Spain, its true story of spirit and origins are etched deep only in the heart of the Spanish Gitanos (Gypsies) whose cultural and genetic origins come from ancient India.

Also, save the date of Sunday, September 21, as the Carver Museum participates in the Austin Museum Partnership’s annual Austin Museum Day.

Be the Change Austin ‘Stand Together, Serve Together’

By Sonia Kotecha

“Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

This quote by Margaret Mead best captures the spirit of Austin’s Be the Change National Day of Service on Saturday, September 27, a day to inspire and foster civic engagement through volunteerism and community service. The Be the Change event is coordinated by South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT), a national, non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering an environment in which all South Asians can participate fully in civic and political life.

When a group of Austin volunteers first participated as a community in 2010, we coordinated one service project that involved 50 volunteers. The next year, we identified 15 new service sites and engaged 500 volunteers, and the years’ following we doubled the number of service projects and engaged over 1,000 volunteers. We’ve been hosting the largest Be the Change event across the country for the last five years.

The initial planning of Be the Change in Austin started with a small group of dedicated individuals wanting to simply promote volunteerism, especially among Austin’s growing South Asian community.

Be the Change provides an avenue for individuals to get out of their comfort zones, learn about

The Flor de Nopal Literary Festival continues with a writing workshop and reading at the MACC in the Raul Salinas room on Saturday, September 1, 1-5 p.m. The workshop will be led

by Muerta-Paz C.C. Sin-Guerra on “Being Your First Publicist: The Era of Web and Social Media Self-Representation.”

On Saturday night, September 13, 7-10 p.m., feel the pride and joy of your Mexican roots as we celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day with music and tradition. Also, be our guest at the Aliento Tequila art exhibit opening reception in our main gallery. The exhibit features photographer Joel Salcido’s work about Mexican tequila producers.

On Thursday, September 25, 7-9 p.m., meet Natalia Sylvester as she reads excerpts from her first novel, “Chasing the Sun.” This event is free and open to the public! Sylvester was born in Lima, Peru, and came to the U.S. at age four, growing up in South Florida, where she received a B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Miami. A former magazine editor, she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter. Her work has appeared in Latina, NBCLatino.com, Writer’s Digest, and The Writer.

The Austin international immigrant community is invited to National Welcoming Week, Wednesday, Sept. 17, 6:30-8:30 p.m., to interact and tell their stories. The carnival style event includes informative booths from local organizations, dance performances, interactive activities, photo booth, food and refreshments. Hosted by the City of Austin’s International Welcome Program. Free and open to the public. For details, see austintexas.gov/internationalwelcome.

Calling all tea lovers and those who are tea-curious! Attendees at the Zhi Tea Workshop & Tea Swap on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 6-8 p.m. will have an opportunity to sip on delicious premium teas from Zhi Tea and try out new tea swap finds. Bring sealed, unopened tea packets and be prepared to share the story of how you stumbled across your tea! Free. Space is limited, RSVP: 512-9741700 or email aarc@austintexas.gov Be the Change is an annual national day of service coordinated

by South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) to inspire and foster civic engagement through volunteerism and community service. Kickoff breakfast and keynote address is 8:30-10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, followed by a service project until 12:30 p.m. on the AARC Community Garden! Register at bethechangeaustin.org.

the needs of their local community and identify ways they can make a positive impact through volunteerism and community service. It also serves as a meaningful way to mobilize the community towards a productive cause that will lead to further civic engagement.

Although rooted in the South Asian community, the Austin planning team and day of service has evolved into an event engaging volunteers from all walks of life regardless of ethnic, religious or cultural background. Be the Change has also grown into a city-wide event. Since being identified by SAALT as one of the core cities to host Be the Change, the City of Austin has proclaimed Be the Change Day in Austin each year. Our efforts have led to strong partnerships with the University of Texas at Austin’s Longhorn Center for Civic Engagement and GivePulse, a social networking site for volunteers and nonprofit organizations, which manages our service site and volunteer registration. This year we are excited to also collaborate with the City of Austin Asian American Resource Center, where volunteers will help construct a community garden.

This year’s theme “Stand Together, Serve Together” will showcase how individuals unite in order to give back to their communities in the spirit of service and their commitment to creating lasting change beyond Be The Change 2014. On Saturday, September 27, there will be projects across the city for all ages throughout the day starting with a volunteer kick-off event at the Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Rd. from 8:3010:00 a.m. Volunteer registration is required at www.bethechangeaustin.org.

POLITICAL AD PAID FOR BY ORA HOUSTON FOR AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL.THIS CAMPAIGN HAS NOT AGREED TO COMPLY WITH THE CONTRIBUTION AND EXPENDITURE LIMITS OF THE AUSTIN FAIR CAMPAIGN CHAPTER. TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05

ASIAN AUSTIN

Asian Austin’s A-List

the types of things that are deemed important in musical performance. I think that there is a good balance of technical, stylistic and musical integrity here in the States due to the fact that there are so many varieties of musical influences and traditions here. I also feel we have the freedom to express ourselves and be accepted for the interpretations we share here in the States.

AA: What project do you have coming up that you are most excited about?

Anne Akiko Meyers: I have a CD coming out at the end of September with works from three generations of important American composers.

The recording will feature world premieres of the Mason Bates Violin Concerto, which I cocommissioned with the Pittsburgh Symphony, the “Lullaby for Natalie” by Academy Award and Grammy winning composer, John Corigliano, (written for the birth of my first daughter, who was born here in Austin) and the Barber violin concerto.

Anne Akiko Meyers + Sandy Yamamoto

By Asian Austin staff

The Austin Symphony opens its 104th season on September 12-13 with two great violinists sharing the same stage: Anne Akiko Meyers and Sandy Yamamoto. Meyers is one of the world’s premier concert violinists. She regularly performs as guest soloist with many of the world’s most prestigious orchestras, in recital, and on television and radio.

She is a top-selling recording artist who has close to 30 albums to her credit. Yamamoto has dazzled audiences in concert performances around the globe for the past three decades as a soloist and as a member of the Miró Quartet. Since leaving the Quartet in 2011, she has been appointed Senior Lecturer of Violin at the Butler School of Music at UT-Austin, where she teaches a studio of violin students and performs recitals regularly.

Anne Akiko Meyers

Anne Akiko Meyers: I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a musician. It takes Asian Austin (AA): What was your an incredible amount of dedication and attraction to your vocation in music? commitment from family, teachers, and What drew you to do the work you do? colleagues to make a career out of it. There Anne Akiko Meyers: I heard a lot of music in my were many twists and turns along the way, mother’s womb. She also played a lot of music which made me feel its deeply resonating power. after I was born, specifically when I ate as she Playing music is very rewarding and challenging! read that musical stimulation was so beneficial to a baby’s brain. I started playing the violin when I Sandy Yamamoto: I knew that I really loved was four years old and immediately took to it. This music and I definitely went the “course of a passion has grown with me throughout my life. performance major” from the time I was 14. I I’m supremely lucky to call performing, my career. attended the North Carolina School of the Arts and boarded there from my freshman year in Sandy Yamamoto: Music is the universal high school for all four years. I then attended language. I used to think that this was a corny the Cleveland Institute of Music for college. I and generalized statement, but I really do feel think that I knew that I definitely wanted to be a like there is something about music that stirs professional musician by the time I was a senior emotions from all human beings. I do believe in college. After joining the Miró Quartet during that music is more powerful than words my first year of graduate study, I was very sure when it comes to expressing feelings and that this was what I wanted to do with my life. moments. It is also a language that everyone can understand, and it is so amazing that we AA: Do you feel culture informs musical can all get something different from it each and performance in any way? If so, how? every moment. My attraction to music is exactly Anne Akiko Meyers: While artists are that – it’s the perfect medium for me to feel impacted by their culture, music is an and express things that I cannot with words. It’s international language. Van Cliburn, who was my way of sharing with people moments that born and raised in Texas, was considered I couldn’t experience with them otherwise. I a Russian treasure by the Russian people. am completely drawn in by the fact that music never becomes stale; there is never the same Sandy Yamamoto: I do feel like culture informs moment and an end point. One is continuously musical performance in some ways. I feel that learning, feeling, reflecting, and getting lost depending on what country you live in, there in the wonders and meanings of each work. are definitely trends especially in what is valued about music. Here in the United States, because AA: Did you know what you wanted to this country is now infused with so many do with your life or did it just happen? different cultures, there is a lot more variety in 06 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

Sandy Yamamoto: I am frankly very excited about this current project! I feel so blessed to be able to collaborate with Anne, Peter and the Austin Symphony. Anne is a friend, fellow mom and violinist who I respect greatly. Peter is a wonderful man and musician whom I have had the pleasure of playing under when I was a student playing in the Erie Symphony, to pay for my rent back during my CIM days. The Austin Symphony is special since many of my former and current students play in the orchestra along with some good friends that I have met through my time living here in Austin for the past 11 years. This will be such a fun and memorable experience for me.

AA: Is there anything particular about Austin that inspires you?

Anne Akiko Meyers: Lake Austin, especially at sunset, is incredibly peaceful.

Sandy Yamamoto: The generosity of the people in Austin inspires me. There are so many wonderful Austinites that have supported me and many other artists and organizations in town. Every time I perform here in town, I am humbled and thankful for the selfless love from all these wonderful people.

AA: Are there generational issues, or cultural issues, or both, between young and old Eurasians and Asian American Austinites?

Sandy Yamamoto: I’m sure that there are generational and cultural issues between young and old Eurasians and Asian Americans in Austin and all other places in the world as well. As an Asian American myself, I think that the older generation would definitely stress to the youth that to achieve success in the music world or in any other field as a matter of fact, it’s about hard work, winning prizes while maintaining humility, and even more hard work. However, the younger generation is probably more aware of the ever changing music scene and climate, and they would agree with the values from the older generation, but would also focus more energy on public relations and the business side of music or the relevant field. I think that the younger generation is probably more focused on thinking outside of the box and using their creativity and interpersonal social skills to achieve success in their field.

Sandy Yamamoto

AA: Eurasians and Asian Americans are becoming a powerful force in Austin and the U.S. economically, culturally, politically and otherwise. How do you see them fitting into the larger culture and community?

Sandy Yamamoto: I think that it’s great that there is more and more diversity in both Austin and the U.S. as a whole. Hopefully, we can all gain from the positive things from this change while still being able to appreciate the old traditions and customs of Austin and the U.S. AA: What do you consider the most important cultural value for you and for those close to you?

Anne Akiko Meyers: As a musician, promoting new music is vital to me. Commissioning living composers and playing and performing their music, in addition to those of the great classical masters is very important to me.

Sandy Yamamoto: For me, the Asian cultural value that I would like to pass on to my family and also to my students at UT is a healthy work ethic and strong determination as well as respect for one’s elders.

_______________________________ 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.

TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS 2014-2015 SEASON CREATIVE PEOPLE CAN’T BE STOPPED.

Tickets at texasperformingarts.org BECOME A TEXAS INNER CIRCLE MEMBER and enjoy VIP benefits Texas Performing Arts season artists featured here (Clockwise from top): Max Raabe & Palast Orchester, An Evening with Chris Thile & Edgar Meyer, Bill Cosby, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio

PHOTOS : M AR K SHELDON, GR EGOR HOHENBERG, IGOR L AR IN

austinrecycles.com FEATURED SEPTEMBER 2014 EVENTS: Celebrate Me! South Korea

FREE

September 6, Noon-4pm. Featuring language, food, geography, and history.

George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 1165 Angelina St. RSVP: 512-974-4926. More information: www.carvermuseum.org

Citywide: Museum Day!

Sunday, September 21, Various Times.

Visit 8 of our museums and cultural centers and check out their special events!

More info on each site’s activities: www.austintexas.gov/page/museum-day

¡VIVA MÉXICO!

Saturday, September 13, 7pm-10pm.

Celebrate Mexico’s independence day with music, art and tradition.

Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St. - www.maccaustin.org

FREE

dly ily frien

& fam

Featured this month:

OCTOBER 2014

10/ 4

10/ 11 10/ 11

10/ 14

Global Grooves, Austin Moves www.austintexas.gov/planetmusic

Salsa Under the Stars with live music by LA MOÑA LOCA Featuring a free beginner dance lesson at the beginning of the evening!

Saturday, September 6, 7pm - 9pm, Free. Zilker Hillside Theater, 2201 Barton Springs Rd.

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.

10/ 18

10/ 25

FREE! Sugar Skull Making 10:30am & 1:30pm FREE! Family Story Time: The Dead Family Diaz 10:30am ¡Sábados En Familia! Calavera Masks 1pm Paper Mache Mini-Skeletons 6:30pm Glitter Tin Nichos 1pm Catrina Still Life Painting 1pm

Prices & information visit: www.maccaustin.org Call 512-974-3875 to register The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require special assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities please call 512-974-3772 or 711 Relay Texas.

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS CELEBRATION NOV.1 5PM

New City Hispanic/Latino Commission recommends $7 million to tackle quality of life issues

By Frank Rodriguez | H/LQL Advisory Commission Chair

First, some background on the City of Austin’s Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Initiative. The study started in May, 2008, through a multi-phase process that included demographic research, trend and data analysis, and community engagement.

In April, 2010, Austin City Council appointed an Oversight Team to bring forward several initiatives and recommendations. The purpose of the Oversight Team’s work was to answer two questions: 1. Is the quality of life experience of Hispanics/ Latinos significantly different from the quality of life experienced by the rest of Austin and other demographic groups?

2. Is the City of Austin providing programs, services, financial assistance and other opportunities to enhance the quality of life for Hispanics/Latinos?

There were over 70 recommendations and initiatives in the 2013 City of Austin Hispanic-Latino Quality of Life Initiative report. One recommendation made was to create a new Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Advisory Commission (H/LQLAC). The seven member H/LQLAC is to advise the City Council on issues relating to the quality of life for the City’s Latinos and to recommend programs and policies to alleviate disparities that confront Latinos. The initiatives and programs include the following: EDUCATION – Improve high school graduation; career readiness; access to childhood education YOUTH SERVICES – Combat truancy and juvenile justice issues to increase graduation rates; health initiatives HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT – Promote affordable housing and long-term affordability CULTURAL ARTS – Support existing and proposed Latino arts and facility projects and increase arts programming access ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Facilitate investment in Latino business community; training and mentoring; access to capital; partnerships; and, contracting opportunities HEALTH – Increase access to health care; address health disparities; and, emphasize wellness and prevention CIVIC ENGAGEMENT – Support leadership development; outreach and engagement strategies; and increase participation on board and commissions TRANSPORTATION – Improve access to school, work, and play opportunities

Implementation

unaffordable property tax bills while still allowing local governments to raise adequate revenue.

The H/LQLAC over the past few months has focused on proposing budget recommendations to consider in the City of Austin’s (COA) FY 2014-2015 budget. The H/LQLAC has used the previous baseline Task Force report to guide our budget recommendations along with new citizen concerns and additional needs being identified.

Given that our disparities are large we believe our budget request is a modest request. Since the H/LQLAC only started meeting well within the current budget development cycle for the COA FY 2014-2015 budget, we think this is a good start and look forward to having more time to consider additional needs for the FY 2015-2016 budget.

Summary of H/LQLAC budget for FY 2014-2015 The HLQLAC’s $6,846,136 budget request is driven by a parity principle that was adopted by the Commission.

The Parity Principle is a guiding standard of equality that the City Council and the city staff should consistently and explicitly apply to insure fair ethnic, gender, and socio-economic representation in programs designed and implemented to serve the general population.

The City Council should recommit the city to adopt and implement an over-arching principle of parity to encourage public trust in local government. This meets the critical need of insuring equity as well as in encouraging trust in the democratic process and local government officials.

The Commission also made several budget and policy recommendations: Housing & Community Development - Ensure surplus property be made available to non-profits through the City’s affordable housing arm, the Austin Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC).

Tax Relief through Property Tax exemptions There are numerous ways to design a property tax exemption, but the design of the policy should reflect its goal: to protect homeowners from the

ESB Mexican American Cultural Center - The MACC property is located within the boundaries of the Waller Creek Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Zone Number 17. However, the current financing plan and associated revenue projections for the TIF produce only enough funding to meet the required costs of the Waller Creek Tunnel. There is no excess funding available for other needs. In addition, the TIF was established, and supported accordingly by Travis County, to fund only the Waller Creek Tunnel. If there were excess funding available, an amendment to the project and financing plan for the TIF would be required. Such an amendment must meet the requirements and limitations of applicable State Law and follow various procedural requirements. Growth in expected future values should be reviewed to determine if there are opportunities for the COA to consider improvements to the MACC as a part of the TIF Zone Number 17. Additionally, other financing mechanisms should be explored to complete the MACC building program and enhance the MACC’s sustainability.

Medical School, Teaching Hospital, and Brackenridge Hospital Re-purpose - A medical school and teaching hospital could mean nearly 15,000 new jobs and about $2 billion annually in economic activity for the Austin area. In addition to potentially better access to health care for Central Texas residents, the City of Austin should consider that these “anchor” institutions adopt the mission of improving the well being of their surrounding community. The “med” and “ed” institutions should engage with the community in multi-faceted ways.

Halloween Flood Buy-outs - The Commission has endorsed the Council resolution to seek funding for the Halloween flood buyouts in addition to the 25-year flood plain flood plain victims. The Commission urges the City Council to seek other funding sources such as Certificates of Obligation. If bond funding secured through the drainage fund fees is deemed unfeasible and there is no other viable source, then the Commission recommends that the amount

An overview of the $6.8 million request is as follows: QUALITY OF LIFE INITIATIVES Education Youth Services Cultural Arts Housing & Comm. Development Economic Development Health Civic Engagement TOTAL

TOTAL REQUEST $935,687 $1,060,389 $1,243,055 $500,000 $525,000 $2,125,000 $457,005 $6,846,136

PERCENT OF TOTAL 13.7% 15.5% 18.2% 7.3% 7.7% 31% 6.7% 100%

needed to for flood buyouts be placed on a November 2014 bond ballot but only as a last resort.

Minimum Wage - The COA should form a minimum wage working group composed of City representatives and a broad group of stakeholders (labor, business, small business and others). The task force’s primary goal is to create a plan to implement short and long-term pay increases for minimum wage workers and those employees whose salaries rely primarily on tips.

The diverse group of labor, business and civic leaders will run an inclusive process to determine the right increase to the minimum wage that ensures every Austinite earns a living that provides an opportunity to the middle class.

Challenges ahead There are challenges associated in improving the quality of life for the Latino community. These challenges are associated with rebuilding the Latino community after a period of economic adjustment and displacement; correcting the marketplace for housing; and responding to inequities and disparities.

Since Latinos are one of the fastest-growing populations in the country and the city of Austin, it is imperative that we address the challenges that this community faces. It is well documented that in this community, Latinos face significant disparities in health and health care, education, and economic indicators. Thus, it is crucial that our local leaders put into place policy and program solutions to address these disparities.

As we look toward the future, one way to begin to address gaps for Latinos is to invest in the Latino community through the City’s operating and capital budget. Recognizing that each American demographic faces different and unique challenges, it is important that we acknowledge our diverse perspectives and craft policy solutions emerging from an inclusive and thoughtful discourse. Closing the gaps today will make us more competitive and stronger in the future.

--Acknowledgement: Special thanks go to the Commission members who after being appointed in Spring 2014 quickly convened and attended numerous meetings to thoughtfully arrive at this budget recommendation. Also thanks to the City of Austin staff that provided great support and advice to this effort.

For further information please contact: Frank Rodriguez | Chair, Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Advisory Commission | frankmrodriguez@ gmail.com | 512-585-7185 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 09

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!!!

SEPTEMBER Line-up OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE “WEATHER PERMITTING”

TACO BAR

1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm

-----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 9/3 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 9/4 LOS FLAMES (6:30) FRI 9/5 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 9/6 THE BREW (2:30) EL TULE’ (6:30) SUN 9/7 THE RECUPERATORS (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 9/10 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 9/11 ALEX DORMANT & THE HOT TEXAS SWING BAND (6:30) FRI 9/12 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 9/13 THE JUKE JOINT PROPHETS (2:30) LOS TIPICOS DE CUBA (6:30) SUN 9/14 BLUE MIST (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 9/17 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 9/18 AL DRESSEN (6:30) FRI 9/19 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 9/20 DON LEADY & THE TAILGATORS (2:30) WINK KEZIAH (6:30) SUN 9/21 ERNIE DURAWA & MURALI CORYELL BAND (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 9/24 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 9/25 HOOK HERRERA (6:30) FRI 9/26 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 9/27 THE TEXAS TYCOONS (2:30) NATALIE ZOE (6:30) SUN 9/28 CHICKEN STRUT (3:00)

www.GuerosTacoBar.com

Howlin’ Lobo

By Lobo Corona and TODO Austin staff

As part of Austin Music People’s “United We Jam” celebration August 29-30, GOBI kicksoff “Back to School Week” on Friday, Aug. 29, at Spider House Ballroom with MODAL, Mobley and Vinyl Dharma. Doors open at 9 p.m. All ages are welcome and tickets are $7 at the door; $5 with an RSVP through Do512.

series celebrating the independence days of Central American countries. The CACFest has become a tradition in Austin, organized by Salvadoran singer-songwriter Mauricio Callejas, who together with a group of enthusiastic volunteers put forth a good sample of the best music made in Central America. Go to cacfest. com for more info.

Two-time Grammy nominee Ruthie Foster returns to the Paramount Theatre on Friday, Sept. 5, 7 p.m., to celebrate the release of her new album, “Promise of a Brand New Day.” Produced by Meshell Ndegocello and featuring collaborations with Doyle Bramhall II and Toshi Reagon, the album highlights Foster’s singular blend of blues, soul, folk and gospel. At her local CD release party, she’ll be accompanied

by North Mississippi Allstars frontman Luther Dickinson, Austin up-and-comers Mingo Fishtrap, and guitar hero Hadden Sayers.

Darden Smith opens the show.

Down the road on the San Marcos River, the inaugural Float Fest launches with Group Love, Portugal.The Man, and several more acts on Sunday, Aug. 31. Shuttles will be available to move tubers to the festival grounds from Don’s Fish Camp and Cool River Ranch. Float the river, then stick around for some great music from 11 a.m.-10:45 p.m. at what looks to be one of Austin Bollywood Cultural Association presents Central Texas’ best late-summer events. See “Bollywood Show - Live Music Concert 2014” on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Westlake High School floatfest.net for updates.

Performing Arts Theatre at 6 p.m. The show is an Centroamericanto Fest 2014 is Friday, Sept. 5, effort by the producers to bring all ‘’deewanas 8 p.m., at the Cactus Cafe in the Texas Union of Madhuri’s latke, Kareena’s jhatke and Sallu with three acts originating from Costa Rica. Bhai’s phatke’’under one roof in Austin. With Singer-songwriter Guadalupe Urbina, pianist music by Bobby Rozario, Tina Kundalia, Bejoya Esteban Alvarez, and Jeana Paul and Juan and Amit Ganguly, an appearance by Bollywood Carlos Ureña from Texas and Costa Rica, plus actress Prachi Desai and emcee Deepa Bakshi. singer-songwriter Mauricio Callejas from El Salvador, are featured in the 6th annual concert Two roadshows shows to look for from Texas

To Do Música

By Liz Lopez

is during elementary school. My uncles would take me to see Tejano bands and they had trumpets. I saw the trumpets shining. So in the sixth grade, I was offered the opportunity to be in the band and it was the trumpet I liked.”

Mariachi Amor and a bit of Austin history Alex M. Ramirez has been a long time local musician – as far back as his high school days – and well into his adult years, performing mariachi music until 2007. During this part of his musical career, he produced the Mariachi Espectacular annual concerts from 1994-1998 at the historic downtown Paramount Theater in Austin.

Ramirez has returned to the music scene within the last year with his new endeavor, Mariachi Amor.

Having covered his career since the mid- 1990s, I saw Ramirez perform for years. He appeared very passionate about the music and the culture in the past, and after the recent seven year absence, what brought him back was “the music; being a musician and able to perform again. In some part of me, it brings fulfillment. When performing, you are giving an emotion – joy, happiness, sadness and it brings out emotion. Seeing that was something I missed in a sense. Loving to play and knowing I was given a skill for a reason makes me feel like it is making a difference for someone.”

Knowing this Austin native has a long music history, I wanted to explore the initial roots and influences that lead to his career. “My first thought

Moving on in his music career, Ramirez added, “In the twelfth grade, my best friend asked me to go to a rehearsal with him, as he played with Manuel ‘Cowboy’ Donley. At the end of rehearsal, Mr. Donley asked me if I wanted to be a part of (his orquestra) Las Estrellas. That was about 1985.”

Ramirez is yet another musical artist that was influenced Donley, a 2014 NEA National Heritage Fellow. Donley will be honored in Washington at an awards ceremony on September 17 with a concert at George Washington University September 19.

Performing Arts this month are Jason Mraz and Raining Jane (Sept. 7, Bass Concert Hall) and Haochen Zhang (Sept. 17, McCullough Theatre).

Ticket info at texasperformingarts.org.

Pachanga Latino Music Festival is extending their vibrant blend of Latino-created musical performances with the launch of the Red Bull Panamérika Pachanga Tour, featuring Latin alternative artists Bomba Estéreo and Los Rakas. The tour kicks off Tuesday, Sept. 9 in El Paso and closes in San Antonio Sept. 13. “We couldn’t be more excited to bring a taste of the Pachanga musical experience outside of Austin and to the rest of Texas,” said Pachanga founder Rich Garza.

Guadalupe Urbina

Ruthie Foster

4, at Toro Negro Lounge, 615 W. Slaughter Lane, starting at 8 p.m. with no cover. There will be food, a screening of her new music video and live performances by Silva and band, along with many local artist friends. laurensilvamusic.com -------------------------Jess Lopez and Felix Pompa perform as a duo at Willie’s Joint Bar and BBQ, 824 Main St. in Buda every Tuesday from 8-10 p.m. www.williesjoint. com -------------------------Se Fo (Jose Barragan) Spanish Nights, weekly on Wednesday evenings after 8:30 p.m. at Gypsy Lounge 1504 E. 6th St. www.gypsyloungeaustin. com

Since Ramirez is back to performing once again, he sees differences today. “The thing about Mariachi Amor is not just to do with the music itself. It is customer service, the contact with the individual and treating it like a business. The experience is what sets it apart.” For more information on the group, visit mariachi-amor.com

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RECOMMENDED SEPT. SHOWS

Saturday, September 6 at 9 p.m. at the One-2-

Lauren Silva is relocating to Los Angeles after living the past four years in Austin to pursue very long anticipated opportunities offered to her. Her going away celebration is Thursday, September

Joan Sebastian performing Friday, September 5, at El Coliseo (9111 FM 812), 512-382-6848. www. elcoliseoaustin.com -------------------------Cilantro Boombox and Zoumoutchi perform One Bar -------------------------Reggae Night on Sunday, September 14 at 8 p.m.

Saturdays, Sundays, and Thanksgiving Friday

1

October th - November 30th Discount tickets available at TexRen Fest.com

at Plush (617 Red River St.) $10. 512-478-0099 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

11

KLRU celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month KLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 cable 9

klru.org

El Taller: An Arts In Context Special Thursday, September 25, at 9 pm This documentary follows a group of students and volunteers for a year as they work together to improve their community while maintaining their culture at Talleres Infantiles, a year-round Spanish language art program for mostly low income students.

Central Texas Gardener:

Spanish Melting Pot Garden Saturday, September 13, at noon and 4 pm Sunday, September 14, at 9 am Who influenced your garden design? See how our Spanish and Mexican melting pot impacts us today. Visit an historic home where a walled Mission-style garden features a central aqueduct.

For a complete list of Hispanic Heritage Month programs, go to klru.org Also This Month on KLRU

Finding Your Roots

American Graduate: Let’s Make It Happen

Makers: Women Who Make America

Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. continues his quest to understand our collective American identity, revealing rich family stories.

This season includes Ben Affleck, Jessica Alba, Anderson Cooper, Billie Jean King, Stephen King, Nas and many more.

This national initiative features programs to help students stay on the path to on-time high school graduation and future success. This full-day event is dedicated to engaging Austin around the dropout crisis.

This series returns to examine the impact women have had over the past 50 years in six fields – comedy, politics, space, war, business and Hollywood.

Tuesdays at 7 pm starting September 23

Saturday, September 27, starting at 10 am

Tuesdays at 8 pm starting September 30

KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. Please consider investing in KLRU.

Austin PRIDE Week The PRIDE Festival on Saturday, September 20, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Fiesta Gardens, tops off Austin PRIDE Week, the largest annual LGBTQ advocacy and fundraising event in Central Texas.

The Festival features two entertainment areas with a main stage showcasing musical artists and pop culture icons and a DJ Stage featuring the latest mixes by nationally and regionally known DJs. Plus inflatable games and activities for munchkins of all ages, photo booths, face painting, drinks, food, and dozens of vendor booths featuring products from local businesses that support the LGBTQ community.

Austin Pride Week begins a week earlier Saturday, September 13, with a free art show reception at Romani Gallery. “Flannel and Glitter” features original pieces and prints from LGBTQ artists and allies including Phyllis Diller. Doors at 7 p.m.

Oilcan Harry’s celebrates brings RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 winner, Sharon Needles, for a show on Sunday, September 14, 10 p.m. $5 cover. “Big Boobie Bingo,” on Tuesday, September 16, 7 p.m. at Maria’s Taco Xpress, includes food, drink and prizes, hosted by Miss Austin PRIDE 2013 Cupcake, Nadine Hughes, and special guest: Miss Austin PRIDE Emeritus Kai Lee Mykels. Also on September

CASA volunteers help Latino children stay connected to family and culture

By Callie Langford and Sonia Kotecha

16, the Pride Interfaith Service at University Baptist Church (7 p.m.) will feature special guest speaker Randy Roberts Potts, the gay grandson of Evangelist Oral Roberts, and Susan Arbuckle leading the church choir in a safe environment for people of all faiths to join together.

Join Austin PRIDE at Austin Music Hall on Thursday, September 18, 7 p.m., for the 2nd Annual “Werk!” fashion show featuring original runway designs from stars of the hit TV Show “Project Runway,” including Austin’s Daniel Esquivel. Emceed by recently crowned “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 6 Winner, Bianca del Rio, will also feature live musical performances and a silent auction.

2 p.m. at Fiesta Gardens. Miss Austin PRIDE Emeritus, Kai Lee Mykels, and a bevy of beauties will entertain while you dine. The perfect way to close Austin PRIDE Week.

The Austin Gay and Lesbian PRIDE Foundation (AGLPF), has donated thousands of dollars to various non-profit organizations and causes through the Austin PRIDE Cares program. For more info go to www. austinpride.org

On Friday, September 19, Castro’s Warehouse celebrates Austin PRIDE Week with the GLOW Black Light Party featuring tons of black lights, the Boys of ATX, and all things glow. 10 p.m. $5.

Benson’s ‘Baroque’ exhibit “Inside the Baroque: The Legacy of Mexican Viceregal Arts and Culture,” a new multimedia exhibition, opens September 11 at the Benson Latin American Collection with a free public roundtable and reception from 4:30-7 p.m.

“Inside the Baroque” illuminates the splendor and diversity of Mexican arts and letters in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, and their enduring legacy. Photography by Carolyn Brown and documentary film by Quin Mathews present arresting views of Mexico’s baroque churches, showcasing the height of the period’s aesthetic and architectural achievement. Surrounded by these images, Benson rare books and manuscripts offer another view of the Hispanic baroque and its impact—from colonial writers Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz and Carlos Sigüenza y Góngora to the contemporary neobaroque and “ultra baroque.”

The exhibit runs through Jan. 31, 2015.

At the conclusion of PRIDE Festival on Saturday, September 20, join thousands of your closest friends for a pre-parade dance party at 7:30 p.m. in front of the Emerald City (aka The Paramount Theatre) featuring DJ C-Rail. RuPaul’s Drag Race All Star, Raven, emcees the parade from the Congress Avenue stage at 8 p.m.

Recover from celebrating with a delicious brunch on Sunday, September 21, 11 a.m.CASA fought for the little boy to remain with his aunt, prioritizing him healing with his family over moving in with strangers - even if another home might be perceived as nicer. CASA worked with the aunt on resources and back-up plans to make sure she could properly care for the little boy and her own children no matter what might happen. Finally, the aunt was able to adopt him, and because he’d stayed in one home and with family the whole time he was in care, he was much more resilient in healing from the trauma that originally brought him into the system.

Tonantzintla Church by Carolyn Brown

an opportunity for our organization to make a stronger effort to recruit volunteers from Austin’s growing Latino population. Last year, 650 of the 1,600 total children CASA advocated for were Latino. Out of the 600 CASA volunteers who advocated for children in Austin last year, only 70 were Latino. Just 12 percent of volunteers were Latino, in comparison to 47 percent of the Austin population. The community has an opportunity to make a strong impact on a system that greatly affects Latino children.

A few years ago a little boy whose family had emigrated from Central America came into the care of Child Protective Services (CPS) after his father murdered his mother. He was scared and Volunteering with CASA is an opportunity to get lonely after what he’d been through, and he was appointed a CASA volunteer to look out for As an organization, CASA of Travis County involved and help change our overburdened his needs and be an adult who he could trust values family and culture and keeping children connected to their heritage. Of the 688 and count on. children whose cases we helped close last His CASA volunteer wanted to keep him year, 55 percent were reunified with parents connected to his family and his heritage to help and another 21 percent now live permanently him better heal from this incredibly traumatic with relatives. The more we can diversify our experience. His aunt lived in Austin and was volunteer population, the more we can build willing to adopt him, even though she had trust and stronger relationships with all of the children of her own. However, CPS was very communities of Austin. This will allow us to concerned about her apartment being too bring more creative solutions to the court small for this large family and whether or not which could hopefully lead to more children the living situation could meet the basic needs being reunified with safer, healthier families of all the children. The aunt spoke only Spanish or living permanently and safely with loving and the bilingual CASA volunteer became the relatives. main point of communication between her and CASA of Travis County recognizes that we have the court system.

foster care system for the better.

CASA’s vision is to ensure that no child in the foster care system goes without a CASA volunteer focused on them and devoted to their best interest. With the help of the Latino community, we will move dramatically closer to meeting that need and advocating for every child in Austin who’s been through abuse or neglect. For anyone interested in taking advantage of this opportunity, visit www. casatravis.org or call 512-459-2272 to learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer.

Every child needs a hero, but abused children need superheroes!

5K & Kids 1K Sunday, September 21st Cedar Park Center www.casasuperherorun.com TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 13

CELEBRATING

DIVERSITY

DIEZ Y SEIS SPOTLIGHT

BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin

Aztlan Dance Company presents “Xicano Dreams” Earth, Life, & Labors of Love, Sept. 4-7 at Santa Cruz Theater. Provocative and moving, each work reconstructs cultural and social narratives of East Austin lifeways, framed within the context of an intergalactic traveler’s imaginings for a postmodern Chicana/o humanity on earth. Look too for PachanGala Sept. 20 at ESB-MACC. aztlandance.com

Its Diez y Seis time again and there’s plenty on offer this year. The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center’s “Dieciseis - ¡Viva México!” on Saturday, September 13 at 7 p.m. features performances from Trio Los Vigilantes, Danza Azteca Guadalupa and more. Free for the whole family. The gallery will feature the “Breath Tequila” exhibition with photographs by Joel Salcido.

Fiestas Patrias of Austin presents the much anticipated 36th Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiesta on September 13-14 at Fiesta Gardens.

A stellar line-up of top-shelf Tejano acts includes Tierra Tejana, Los A-T Boyz, Yayo Castillo y Rumores, Son de Rey, Cinco Doce, Mariachi Los Toros, Knights, and Sunday’s showcase of some of music’s most extraordinary accordion specialists with Hugo Cesar, Estrellas, Los Autenticos, La Flama, and more playing cumbias, boleros, rancheras, and other styles. Plus Ballet Folklorico de Mari Cruz. Traditional festival and Mexican food fare, children’s games, rides and more, with craft vendors also on site. For more info, go to www.diezyseis.org.

Join Austin Samba School at the Historic Scoot Inn on Saturday, Sept. 6, for the annual Brazilian music and dance blow out, “Brazil Day Austin.” With performances by Fusca XR3, Austin Samba, Seu Jacinto, Macaxeira Funk, Capoeira Evolução, Morena Soul, Trem do Samba, Batuque Raiz, and Maracatu Texas. Food and drink available. Tickets at eventbrite.com. Doors 6:30 p.m. austinsamba.com Oliver Rajamani performs his annual “Moonlight Tanz” concert at the Carver Theatre on Saturday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m., featuring his orchestra of western strings, piano and percussion, plus dancers. Lauded by many for his original Indo-flamenco creations, Rajamani is a singular artist who more than anyone has shed light on the Indian roots of Spain’s Gypsy flamenco music and dance. oliverrajamani.com As the singer in the band, Pink Martini and as a critically acclaimed performer, Storm Large has taken her remarkable voice from rock clubs to Carnegie Hall.

She’ll bring her band to McCullough Theatre for an evening of American songbook classics, Broadway tearjerkers, and rock anthems with a fierce emotional commitment and a wicked sense of humor. Saturday, Sept. 20, 8 p.m. texasperformingarts.org In his current best seller, “I Didn’t Ask to Be Born, But I’m Glad I Was,” Bill Cosby talks about being a grandfather, his first love and more in his uniquely humorous and insightful manner. Recipient of the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, he returns to Bass Concert Hall for two shows (3/6:30 p.m.) on Sunday, Sept. 21. texasperformingarts.org

Tuesday, September 16, Diez y Seis de Septiembre and México’s War of Independence are observed at the Texas Capitol Rotunda with host, State Senator Kirk Watson, and grito

by Cónsul General de México Rosalba Ojeda.

Free and open to the public, 12-1 p.m.

“Bad Kid” is the hilariously heartwarming tale of a goth boy who dreamed of being anywhere but the middle of Texas in 1991. The setting is specific but the story is universal as David Crabb reflects on rebellion, sexuality, friendship and what it means to grow up different and alone – just like everyone else. Sept. 24-Oct. 5 in Rollins Theatre. “Delightful … heart-wrenching,” says NY Metro. thelongcenter.org

Austin Community College invites all to its free Diez y Seis de Septiembre event with co-host, Sen. Gonzalo Barrientos, at the Riverside Campus on Monday, September 16, 12-1 p.m. Sample tasty traditional dishes and enjoy the rhythmic steps of Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklórico, plus music by Johnny Degollado y su Conjunto, and Boca Abajo.

The Old Pecan Street Association hosts the fall Pecan Street Festival on Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 27-28. One of Central Texas’ oldest and most popular events, the free arts festival fills the street with hundreds of local and national artisans, more than 60 musical acts on three stages, 30 food vendors and family-friendly activities from street magicians to a petting zoo to delight adults and kids. oldpecanstreetfestival.com

14 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

‘EVIL DEAD’ THE LONG CENTER Bloody hysterical and one helluva fun night out!

That’s what theatregoers from NYC to Toronto to Las Vegas have been saying after seeing “Evil Dead-The Musical,” playing Sept 17-21 at the Long Center.

The record-breaking musical comedy sensation takes all the elements of Sam Raimi’s cult classic films–“Evil Dead,” “Evil Dead 2” and “Army of Darkness”–then combines them to make one of the craziest theatrical experiences of all time … and it’s the only musical in the world where audiences can sit in a “Splatter Zone!” and get drenched from the onstage mayhem.

The “Evil Dead” films combined to make one of the most beloved cult franchises in the history of cinema.

Starring cult icon Bruce Campbell, the movies used comedy, gore, slapstick, blood, one-liners, and some of the most creative camera techniques ever seen to revolutionize the horror genre.

In the musical, five college students go to an abandoned cabin in the woods, and accidentally unleash an evil force that turns them all into demons. It’s all up to Ash (a housewares employee, turned demon-killing hero), and his trusty chainsaw to save the day. Blood flies. Limbs are dismembered.

Demons are telling bad jokes, and all to music.

In 2006, it made its Off-Broadway debut in NYC where it was praised by both fans and critics alike.

The cast album from the show even debuted at #4 on the Billboard Show Charts.

The songs in the show are completely off the wall as well. Titles like “All the Men in My Life Keep Getting Killed by Candarian Demons” and “What the F*@k was That” will have you rolling in your seats, and screaming for more and more blood. thelongcenter.org

¡VIVAMEXICO! 2014

Saturday, September 13, 2014 7pm Children’s Art Activities | 8pm Music Begins La Rondalla Introducing for the first time on stage, ESB-MACC’s own rondalla group. A rondalla is a group of musicians traditionally formed randomly on the streets of any Latin American country.

Danza Azteca Guadalupana A group of 24 dancers performing traditional pre-Columbian Aztec dance.

Featuring in Concert Trio Los Vigilantes Trio Los Vigilantes was formed in the late 1990’s with the idea of transporting their listeners to the days of yesteryear, of Caballeros y Damas, recreating the romance of La Epoca de Oro... The Golden Age.

Lesly Reynaga Performer from the musical play Mariachi Girl.

Mexican National Anthem by La Rondalla Shuttle will be available at Sanchez Elementary and Martin Middle School. Free parking on Holly St. The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require special assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities please call 512-974-3772 or 711 Relay Texas.

Free event for the entire family!

600 River Street, Austin, Texas 78701 www.maccaustin.org | 512-974-3772

The

AusTin symphony

Save the Date October 25, 2014 Noon - 11pm

Fun for the whole family

Music | Food | Art Kid’s Activities

Children under 12 free with paid adult

For information visit:

www.austindiadelosmuertos.com

Perfect date nights start here.

Upcoming event: season opener september 12 & 13, 8:00 p.m.

Long center’s Dell Hall anne akiko Meyers & sandy Yamamoto, violins Bach, Beethoven & Brahms

At the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Photographs by Joel Salcido Opening Reception:

Saturday, September 13, 7-9 pm In the Sam Z. Coronado Gallery Music by Mariachi Relámpago y Los Alfonsinos Free event for the entire family!

600 River Street, Austin, Texas 78701 www.maccaustin.org | 512-974-3772 ConCert SponSor

Media SponSorS

TickeTs/info

(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org

The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require special assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities please call 512-974-3772 or 711 Relay Texas.