Urban: 1. Of, relating to, or located in a city.
Celebrate Juneteenth World Refugee Day Ramadan Observed Solstice Festival
Instrumental Change for Urban Music Urban Artist Alliance’s Terrany Johnson and Notes for Notes’ Ray Price VOLUME IX / JUN 2017 // www.todoaustin.com
C E N T R O U R B A N O HABLA Austin
CodeNEXT public meetings City Council will hold special called meetings to discuss CodeNEXT, Austin’s initiative to rewrite its Land Development Code, during June in Council Chambers at Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second St. CodeNEXT is the City of Austin initative to modernize Austin’s outdated Land Development Code with a simpler, user-friendly code that creates and preserves people-friendly places. The Land Development Code sets requirements for what, where, and how much can be built in Austin. Meetings will be held each Wednesday on the following dates: June 7, 1-3 p.m.; June 14, 1-3 p.m.; June 21, 1-3 p.m. For more information on CodeNEXT, visit http:// austintexas.gov/codenext. Seaholm Waterfront study Austin Parks Foundation, The Trail Foundation, and the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department announced May 15 the funding of a collaborative planning study for the future of Seaholm Waterfront, the historic Seaholm Intake structure and its surrounding parkland. The plan—which will rely heavily on public input via online platforms, stakeholder meetings, and public open houses—will serve as a roadmap for future park improvements and the repurposing of the decommissioned Seaholm Intake structures for public use and recreation. The planning phase will be completed in the fall. Immigrant Heritage Month June is Immigrant Heritage Month, a nationwide celebration of our collective immigrant pasts and the essential contributions that immigrants have made, and continue to make, to our communities. All month long, American Gateways will be sharing client stories and important facts about the Texas immigrant community through social media. On June 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at St. James’ Episcopal Church., the public is invited to attend the second annual celebration of immigrant heritage month. The free event will feature music and entertainment, refreshments, food Austin’s MULTICULTURAL media source for EIGHT YEARS • Find us at TODOAustin.com
from several local immigrant-owned businesses and an awards ceremony
Green Business Leaders By resolving to go green, many local businesses are helping to protect the environment, reduce their carbon footprint, and make Austin a more livable place. This year, 39 businesses have been recognized for their commitment to sustainability as Austin Green Business Leaders, bringing the program total to 214 member businesses, representing almost 40,000 employees and more than 15 million square feet of office space. For a complete listing of the businesses in the program, go to: www. austingreenbusiness.com 100% Community exhibition The George Washington Carver Ambassadors, Inc. and Jerry’s Artarama are sponsoring the 11th annual 100% Community Exhibition and Silent Auction Fundraiser to help benefit the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center. The exhibition is slated to run from June 30, 2017 to September 30, 2017, and will begin with a reception and silent auction on Friday, July 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Addressing environmental contamination The City of Austin Brownfields Program has been selected to receive two Environmental Protection Agency grants totaling $300,000. These awards will provide funding for site assessments and cleanup planning for land that may contain environmental contamination, known as brownfields. Austin Resource Recovery’s Brownfields Revitalization Office will focus environmental contamination testing in Austin’s Eastern Crescent where past zoning restrictions allowed industrial facilities such as power plants, fuel tank farms and cement plants to operate resulting in hundreds of brownfield sites today. Site assessments, clean-up and redevelopment of vacant or underutilized properties will allow for transformation of these areas to productive reuse.
By Liz Lopez
Romeo Rodriguez, founder and publisher of Austin’s ARRIBA Newspaper, passed away in late March. He cast a long shadow in both the public and private sector and gave voice to an underserved community for two generations. This past May, Rodriguez was honored in a ceremony at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center’s Awards of Excellence. He was recognized for a remarkable career as a Latino who strove for the highest artistic excellence while serving the cultural arts of Austin. His work demonstrated distinguished service, leadership, dedication, outstanding performance and made a lasting contribution in the arts.
Rodriguez was an early pioneer in publicizing information regarding the Chicano arts, culture, health and political issues. He was a part of the Para La Gente publication, started in 1978 with fellow friends and students of the University of Texas at Austin. In an era of deep ethnic divides in Austin, Rodriguez envisioned that through his vocation as a journalist, he could provide exposure and awareness of the activities within the Mexican American culture that were not being covered by the mainstream newspapers in the area. He founded ARRIBA Newspaper in 1980 and published bi-weekly continuously until early this year. ARRIBA was a colorful, well-researched,
Volume IX, Number 2
Langford, César E. López Linares, Genoveva Rodriguez, Diana Sanchez
PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com
PRODUCTION SERVICES // Anthony Garcia
ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton dmdesigninc.com EDITOR //Lesly Reynaga // lesly@todoaustin.com MANAGING EDITOR // Meredith C. Cox meredith@todoaustin.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Liz Lopez, Monica Peña, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins, Yvonne Lim Wilson CONTRIBUTING STAFF // Rose Di Grazia, Callie 02 TODO AUSTIN // JUN 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
Celebrating local community leader Romeo Rodriguez’s life
CONTRIBUTORS // Alka Bhanot, Roy Casagranda, Cat Cardenas, Matthew Chester, Cindy Casares, Evelyn C. Castillo, Lobo Corona, Nora De LaRosa, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Yadira Izquierdo, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Ali Khataw, Ramey Ko, Harish Kotecha, Sonia Kotecha, Julia Lee, Isabel Lopez-Aguilar, Cristina Parker, Carola Rivera, Paul Saldaña, Marion Sanchez, Sameer Shah, Blake Shanley, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Rama Tiru, Carola Rivera, Aaron Rochlen, Blanca Valencia, Lesley Varghese, Lichen Zhen ONLINE EDITION // TODOAustin.com
bilingual newspaper serving the greater Austin Latino community for over 37 years. With a distinct focus on the arts, entertainment and relevant community news, ARRIBA paved the way for Hispanic media in the Central Texas metropolitan area. Its readership stretched across a broad demographic spectrum, with a format that reached two of Austin’s largest and fastest growing markets, English-reading Latinos and Spanish reading Latinos, hit the mark. The local, minority-owned publication earned Rodriguez a reputation as a key figure for Austin’s growing Latino demographic. ARRIBA earned two Austin Chronicle’s Best of Austin Awards: “Critics Best Guide To Local Hispanic Culture & Politics” in 1993 and “Critics Best Community Newspaper” in 1998. Rodriguez became an inspiration to other Chicanos interested in following a path in advocacy journalism. He was a mentor for many talents in the industry, helping others learn the business of mass communication and developing young writers. He held the outmost respect for the art of writing and it showed in his decades-long contribution to local community news. ARRIBA Newspaper also served as an avenue for Mexican American entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and others who were given thousands of inches of support through the years, as well as free advertising to reach the community. More importantly, Rodriguez wanted to bring awareness to issues affecting Latinos and help inform citizens about critical health care issues, particularly chronic disease such as diabetes and heart conditions that are prevalent in Hispanic communities to this day. He also highlighted education, housing and affordability, gentrification, economic development, religion and myriad topics of importance. Rodriguez was born and raised in Edinburg, Texas, where he attended the University of Texas–Pan American. Family members from across Texas and other states are planning to be in attendance at an Austin memorial planned for Rodriguez on Saturday, June 24, where local community members and friends will celebrate his life and legacy.
COVER // Urban. 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. TODO Austin is published by Spark Awakened Publishing. © 2017 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. ADVERTISING/SUBMISSIONS/EDITORIAL: info@todoaustin.com, 512.538.4115
Celebrate World Refugee Day at the Bullock Museum By Carola Rivera
Whether their journey is 1,000 or 10,000 miles, refugees all have a unique and individual story to tell. Join in the celebration Saturday, June 17 as refugees from several different countries reach the pinnacle of their journey to receive American citizenship. The 13th annual Austin celebration of the International World Refugee Day will be held at the Bullock Texas State History Museum from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. with an official naturalization ceremony and children’s activities that will focus on learning about the journey of a refugee. The United Nations established World Refugee Day, commemorated on June 20, to recognize the courage, resilience and strength of refugee families and individuals who have fled their home countries because of conflict and persecution. Sponsored by the Bullock Museum and member organizations of the Austin Refugee Roundtable, World Refugee Day highlights the plight of those fleeing their home country due to religious or political persecution. We are witnessing the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II. The number of people forcibly displaced worldwide is likely to have surpassed a record 60 million. Texas has a proud legacy of welcoming refugees, and we recognize the valuable
Ramadan observances Austin’s Muslim population, which has grown exponentially in the last decade with a current estimate of over 10,000, is celebrating Ramadan this holy month leading up to Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, June 25.
Over 10,000 refugees and SIV visa holders resettled in Texas in 2016. More than 1,500 refugees from nearly 30 countries come to Austin each year to start a new life. About 50 percent of refugees resettled are under 18 years old.
contributions refugees bring to our communities and economy. In Texas, refugees are taxpayers, consumers, business owners, and leaders in a broad range of industries across the state. The Bullock Museum has partnered with iACT and the Refugee Roundtable to host Austin’s World Refugee Day each June for the past eight years. The Bullock Texas State History Museum was recognized as one of the honorees at the Interfaith Action of Central Texas (iACT) 2017 Hope Awards. and other decorations. Old wrongs are forgiven and money is given to the poor. Special foods are prepared and friends or relatives are invited to share the feast. Gifts and greeting cards are exchanged and children receive presents. Eid alFitr is a joyous occasion but its underlying purpose is to praise God and give thanks to him, according to Islamic belief. The Austin Muslim community invites those from other faith traditions to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in style, with food and fun with family and friends. The Austin area is home to seven thriving mosques. Check their websites for more information about Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. • Nueces Mosque. 1906 Nueces Street. www. nuecesmosque.com
For Muslims, Ramadan is a time to reflect on the poor and homeless who suffer from hunger, and also offers an opportunity for the faithful to break their fast with a meal, known as iftar, at the close of day with Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan and the start of a feast that lasts up to three days in some countries. Eid al-Fitr is an important Islamic holiday that involves the faithful rising early for prayer either at an outdoor prayer ground or a mosque. Many Muslims dress in their finest clothes and adorn their homes with lights
world cuisine courtesy of Rosemary’s Catering, while supplies last. Enjoy family activities for all ages, a family portrait area, and all-day free admission to the Bullock Museum’s exhibitions.
• Islamic Center of Greater Austin. 5110 Manor Road. www.austinmosque.org • Islamic Ahlul Bayt Society.12460 Los Indios Trail. www.iaba-austin.org • North Austin Muslim Community Center. 11900 North Lamar Blvd. www.namcc.org • Masjid Ibrahim. 1701 W. Ben White Blvd. #3. www.masjidibrahim.org • Islamic Center of Brushy Creek. 1950 Brushy Creek Road. www.icbrushycreek.org • Islamic Center Of Round Rock. 1951 Hampton Lane. www.rrmasjid.com
Beginning at 11:30 a.m. visitors will learn more about how refugees are resettled and the countries they come from through games sponsored by Caritas of Austin and Refugee Services of Texas. The naturalization ceremony will begin at noon in the Texas Spirit Theater. A total of 28 refugees will be sworn in as new citizens and the ceremony will be officiated by judge Lee Yeakel. Entertainment will be provided by Kupira Marimba and children’s storyteller Elizabeth Kuhara from Africa. Attendees are invited to taste samples of
Our state is better because of our proud history of refugee resettlement. Refugees have played a leading role in shaping Texas into the strong and vibrant state it is today. When we welcome innocent people who have fled their homes in order to save their lives and start over in safety and freedom, we are also strengthening our local communities and making our state and country stronger. The Austin Refugee Roundtable enhances collaboration between agencies, community groups and individuals who serve refugees, with the aim of making Austin a welcoming and supportive resettlement community. The coalition is comprised of a number of local agencies that work with refugees, including Caritas of Austin, Interfaith Action of Central Texas, Refugee Services of Texas, Multicultural Refugee Coalition, Amala Foundation, Center for Survivors of Torture and others.
Swim lessons for kids For some families, Austin summers mean vacationing to the beach or taking a trip to visit family out of state or abroad. Underserved families often have more limited summer activity options that will help them stay active and cool off in the Texas heat. The City of Austin’s Aquatic Division offers swim lessons for infants and adults at 15 sites throughout the city. Age appropriate class curriculum is designed to cover skills in a logical progression for optimal development. Each stage is challenging but also individualized so students gain confidence in their own abilities. Five different sessions will be offered between June 5 and July 31. Each session includes eight classes. Fees for residents are $57.25 and $67.50 for non-residents. The Austin Parks and Recreation Department offers financial support to residents for youth programs. Youth participants must reside in the City of Austin and receive or be eligible to receive reduced or free lunches in their school district to qualify for financial assistance. If a class is full, a spot on the waiting list will be offered (no fee to be on the waiting list). If a participant drops a class that space will be offered to the first person on the waiting list.
Statesman Swim Safe for Austin Kid, a special non-profit program addressing the critical need for accessible swimming instruction, is also available this summer. Offered through a partnership between the Parks and Recreation Department and the Austin AmericanStatesman, the program is designed to build a safer community by teaching its youngest citizens the lifesaving skill of swimming. Enrollment is limited and primarily open to east Austin children (Kindergarten - 3rd grade) with limited resources. Registration may be completed online at austintexas.gov/parksonline. Late registration must be walk-in only to ensure space availability and receipt confirmation prior to the first day of class. More information available at austintexas.gov/swimming. TODO AUSTIN // JUN 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03
A Cutting-Edge Way for LGBTQ to “Come Out”
who come out online are able to determine when and how this information hits the news feeds of others. Coming out online is more efficient in that it significantly decreases the time it takes to disclose the information to loved ones.
By Matthew Chester & Aaron Rochlen
When news breaks about a famous athlete, typically it’s what they say that matters, not how they say it. But there is a recent exception – Shawn Barber.
By Dana Larson
The lunchroom is an aspect of school that some remember fondly, a place for friendships to be formed, dates to be asked out for prom, or potential food fights to be averted. However for many others, the lunchroom experience is one of shame, humiliation and at best, a cold cheese sandwich.
The World Champion and Olympic athlete recently came out as gay to friends and family on Facebook. Ten years ago this would have been a big deal. Reactions would be mixed. He may have lost friends, potentially being shunned from his sport. Crude jokes about gay men and pole vaulting would be widespread. Fortunately, in 2017, Barber’s coming out news has landed as gracefully as one of his signature vault moves. The metaphorical shoulder shrug response to Barber’s coming out signals a positive shift toward acceptance of gay athletes. What is significant about his story is his method of disclosure. He chose to use a public Facebook status post to disclose his sexual orientation to the world. And though we don’t know exactly why he choose this approach, it is becoming more common among gay and lesbian people around the world. We also know their experiences have tended to be positive, mitigating some of the heartache of an emotionally challenging life experience. Coming out the traditional way, in face-toface meetings and with friends and loved ones, can be exhausting. The person coming out has to not only deal with their own emotions, but also immediately confront the emotional responses of others. In a study we conducted, we found that gay men who used Facebook to come out did so to avoid repeated, draining discussions about their sexuality. Like most people who share their sexuality online, these men wanted to avoid traumatic, holiday-type conversations with loved ones. Facebook statuses like Barber’s give LGBT people a much-needed break from the sit-down “talks” of the past. Another positive consequence of coming out on Facebook is that the men who did so garnered extensive support, both online and in person. This happens in part because people 04 TODO AUSTIN // JUN 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
Texas Needs to Follow New Mexico’s Lead and End School Lunch Shaming
It makes it easier to communicate the same information to friends, acquaintances, or the public all at once. When you send the message yourself, in writing, misinterpretations appear less common. Facebook also allows LGBT people to manage how their disclosures are shared. Negative reactions might be shamed by others or squelched by a flurry of positive responses. Shaming or ambiguous comments can also be deleted – which in and of itself can be therapeutic and symbolic. Importantly, coming out online is not right for everyone. For some people, the “old school” method is still the preferred, or needed approach. In our research, we also found that people who disclose online typically inform family members prior to their online positing. Barber’s status update signals that he likely came out to his family before posting on the social network. If true, his decision to privately come out to family members mirrors the decisions of men from our study. Coming out to immediate family members happens only once. More importantly, Shawn Barber’s Facebook disclosure represents a larger phenomenon at play: How we share important information about ourselves is evolving, especially for LGBT people who are coming out online. Facebook isn’t just for selfies, cute kitten videos, and political rants anymore. Social media sites can also facilitate efficient, supportive and relieving coming out experiences. And that is news worth sharing.
This is the practice of lunch shaming — when a child can’t pay a school lunch bill, the school will hold the child publically accountable, meaning they make the student mop floors, wear wristbands identifying them as not able to pay or simply throw the food away in front of the student. This is a practice that must end in Texas, and New Mexico has finally paved a way to a solution. It’s no secret that school lunch is vitally important to students. On average in the U.S., 50 percent of public school students are on free or reduced lunch, which mirrors Texas’ rate of just under 50 percent. For many kids, school lunch accounts for almost half of the food that they will eat that day. However, there is still fear of being looked down on for using any sort of assistance program and receiving a “free meal.” Part of this fear is based off the fact that children who are on any meal assistance programs are often separated through hand stamps or tokens. This essentially puts a large neon sign blinking “poor” above the child’s head, which allows bullies and other kids to pick on these children and further ostracizes them.
Most families will often try to pay for their children’s lunches themselves, but if a child’s family owes more than $25, the child does not get the meal that every other child would receive that day and every day past that point until the debt is paid. At best, they will get a cold hamburger bun with a slice of cheese and a carton of milk. At worst, the meal they were just handed will be thrown away in front of them — all because of something that these children have no control over. New Mexico has finally come up with a way to solve these issues. They have made it illegal to shame or highlight a child for having to be on any sort of food assistance programs, regardless of whether the school is public or private. The law requires that each child gets the same meal, no matter how much assistance the child receives. Each child will receive a hot meal, no different from any other student. It will be the administration’s responsibility to make sure that any child who may be eligible for any sort of free or reduced lunch is enrolled in the program, and any outstanding debts are negotiated between the parents or guardians of the children and the school. This allows children to do what they do best — be children. They can concentrate on learning and the social development of school, rather than the hunger pains that follow them throughout the day if they go without food. New Mexico is making strides to feed its children. It is time Texas does the same. It’s time Texas lawmakers do something to ensure that all forms of lunch shaming ends. While there are laws in Texas that allow for a grace period for children whose families owe money, that grace period is determined by the school and is often not necessarily followed. Our state’s children shouldn’t be punished for their families’ inability to pay a bill. Texas needs to follow New Mexico’s example and make sure that every child is fed while in school.
June 5-9, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Badgerdog’s Summer Book Crush. Led by a professional writer, young readers explore a fantastic novel, take it apart, play around in its pages, and create new work based on the novel. This program is designed to foster close reading skills, critical thinking, and creativity in a fun environment. All participating students have their creative work published on our blog, Unbound. Registration Fee: $150. June 22-24. Austin African American Book Festival. Held at the Carver Library and Museum, the annual Austin African American Book Festival promotes literature, reading and writing within the African American community. Focusing on authors and cultural leaders who have been influenced by African American literature, the event includes a keynote address, local author showcases and author interviews and discussions. Through June 24. “Higher Learning: Educational Toys” Exhibition. Beth Consetta Rubel’s newest series transforms popular childhood games into interactive toys for the adult mind. Featuring innovative and satirical renditions of trending topics-- from the racial passing of Rachel Dolezal to the ongoing protests at Standing Rock--Rubel explores the intersection of pop culture and identity, questioning the role of mass media in our collective education. Artists Gallery.
TCRP committed to bringing national awareness to antiimmigrant SB 4 On May 7, Gov. Greg Abbott signed SB 4 into law. SB 4 is the most discriminatory piece of anti-immigrant legislation in the country. SB 4 is currently scheduled to go into effect in September. The bill makes Texas less safe by encouraging racial profiling and forcing local police to act as federal immigration agents. SB 4 is a threat to immigrant families and multicultural communities across Texas. In order to continue fighting for immigrants’ rights in our state, Texas Civil Rights Project, along with its allies, filed litigation challenging SB 4 in late May. TCRP began litigation against SB4 seeking a declaration that it is unconstitutional and to prevent it from going into force. The organization then filed suit on behalf of the Texas Organizing Project Education Fund, in partnership with El Paso County and its sheriff, against the State of Texas, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, and Director Steve McCraw of the Texas Department of Public Safety. SB4 violates the First, Fourth, and Fourteenth Amendments to the Constitution of the U.S., as
Saturday, June 3, 8 p.m. “Las Cosas Insignificantes.” Alex Garza, who brought us “Abuelita’s Christmas” last December, returns with another hilariously written play. “Las Cosas Insignificantes” is a parody of the Spanish novelas that have been enjoyed by Latino ouseholds since the dawn of time. On this occasion, a variety of characters tells the tale of Tres Leches Family, dealing with drama, craziness and laughs.
Friday, June 2, 10 a.m. - 1 pm. Job Fair by City of Austin Public
Saturday, June 10, 10 a.m. Sábados en Familia. Celebrate family with culturally relevant arts activities. Join us for a variety of arts and wellness activities and free lunch. This month we are celebrating Environmental Justice!
Summer Camp registration still open. Dive in and explore a range
Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m - 1 p.m. Join this open house community meeting to help design a new master plan for the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center. Free breakfast tacos and drinks and Spanish interpretation will be available. Exhibits through Saturday, June 17. Marlene Llanes’ “Places and Perceptions” and April Garcia’s “The Root of It All.” Marlene Llanes aims to determine the way reality presents itself differently for each individual through the concept of perception. April Garcia has been concentrating and exploring different ways of creating sculpture and installation with fabric for 12 years.
Health Equity & Employment Services. Dress for Success will join Human Resources and representatives from over 25 companies and organizations who will be on-site taking resumes and provide employment resources. Please RSVP or sign up to be a Vendor with Binh Ly at binh.ly@austintexas.gov.
of themes, including leadership, cultural awareness, mindfulness and expressive art, introductory coding and environmental responsibility. The camp will be held June 12 - Aug. 4, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. There are early drop-off and late pick-up options. Financial aid available. One-week camps are $112.50 $275 and two-week camps are $247.50 - $300. More information available at austintexas.gov/aarc. Friday, June 9, 6:30 p.m. “Moana” Film Screening. Join us for Disney’s latest animated feature which pays tribute to Polynesian culture. The film tells the story of the strong-willed daughter of a Polynesian tribe chief, who is chosen by the ocean itself to reunite a mystical relic with a goddess. Children’s arts and crafts activities. Free and open to all ages. Ballroom.
well as the Texas Constitution. The legal grounds for the lawsuit are the following violations:
in a state where 38.8 percent of the population is of Hispanic origin, according to the U.S. Census.
• SB4 discriminates against Latinos, Mexicans, Mexican-Americans, Hispanics, and people of color in general, and immigrants of all backgrounds.
SB 4 assumes that the state government knows the needs of communities better than locally elected sheriffs. SB 4 would perpetuate instability by making it impossible for law enforcement officials to effectively direct and manage our deputies. Texas communities each have unique public safety and law enforcement needs that should not be undermined by state, unfunded mandates as authored in Senate Bill 4. This bill is a result of anti-immigrant grandstanding and will strip local law enforcement of our designated power and ability to protect and serve our communities. Anti-immigrant rhetoric from the federal government has emboldened Texas lawmakers to pursue policies which harm immigrants and their families and do nothing for public safety. In 2016 alone, Texas county compliance with Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainers cost local taxpayers $61 million. Despite the federal government’s promises, they have only reimbursed a tiny fraction of the costs to local communities and counties. Ultimately, it is our local taxpayers that will pay even more for this unfunded state mandate. Importantly, our federal laws mandate that the federal government is responsible for enforcing immigration laws. SB4 forces cities, counties and even university campus police to act as immigration agents on a daily basis.
• SB4 does not give adequate notice about how it is to be implemented. • SB4 is likely to result in unlawful arrests when no probable cause exists. • Civil immigration laws are the competence of federal immigration authorities, not local law enforcement agencies. • SB4 seeks to punish elected officials and law enforcement leaders for making certain public statements regarding their policies. • SB 4 violates the Texas Constitution because it tells local law enforcement agencies, including university police, how to run their departments and forces them to enforce federal civil immigration laws. The community relies on its members — regardless of race, religion or national origin — to report crimes. It is unacceptable to drive crime victims and witnesses into the shadows. Already, police chiefs and sheriffs in Harris and Travis counties are reporting drops in crime reporting among Latino communities.
Like Arizona’s notorious SB 1070, Texas legislators included a “show me your papers” provision to SB 4. This new law promotes racial profiling based on appearance, background, language and accent that will affect U.S. citizens and immigrants alike —
TODO AUSTIN // JUN 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05
New East Austin studio brings urban music community together By Lesly Reynaga
East Austin’s African American musicians played an important role in the establishment of our city as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” The unfortunate shrinking of black communities in Austin is an issue that needs to be tackled from several angles. In early June, an important step was taken in support of young artists of color: The Austin Parks and Recreation Department inaugurated the new Notes for Notes’ youth-focused recording and music studio at Doris Miller Auditorium in Rosewood Park. Notes for Notes Studios are drop-in recording studio environments where youth can gain regular, free access to a wide variety of musical instruments, expert instruction and the tools to create and record their own music. Staffed by Notes for Notes team members, the studios offer a knowledge
FREE
base of engineering, instrumentals, theory, and songwriting, ingrained in a culture conducive to collaboration and communication. “We’re building these kids up day to day, handson, building them up and helping inspire them through music,” said the new Notes for Notes Program Director Ray Price. “You never know what you’re going to see and hear when new kids walk in those doors. There’s a creativity that’s beyond words with youth--they come in and make their ideas happen.” This new initiative is inspiring further conversations among urban music organizations with the purpose of advancing opportunities for local artists. The Urban Artist Alliance, founded by multiaward winning artist, producer and artist advocate Terrany Johnson, also known as TeeDouble, is hosting a meet and greet networking and dialog session Friday, June 9 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Doris Miller Auditorium. A partnership with Notes for Notes, the event will touch on the current state of urban music in Austin and what can be done to further assist artist in establishing sustainable careers in the music business. It will also consist of introductions to the new recording space. “Doris Miller is a perfect fit for the Urban Artist Alliance event as it is where I did some of my first shows in Austin back when I was
May 2017 FEATURED EVENTS: CelebrASIA Festival
Saturday, May 6th, 11am - 3pm Celebrate Asian Pacific American Month with food, fun, and kids activities! Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Rd. More information at www.austintexas.gov/AARC
40th Annual PUN-OFF World Championships
Saturday, May 13th 12pm-6pm Old-school, quirky festival celebrating quick witted wordplay - live music too! O’Henry Museum, 409 East 5th St. More information at www.ohenrymuseum.org
West Austin Studio Tour Group Show, May 13th - 21st
At this annual self-guided tour, meet the artists who drive our vibrant creative culture! Doughtery Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. More information at www.austintexas.gov/dac
Ney Day!
Saturday, May 20th 12pm-5pm
Celebrate women in the arts, sciences, and civic life through live music, trapeze, art and technology demos, and more! Elisabet Ney Museum, 304 East 44th St. www.austintexas.gov/elisabetney
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 512-974-3914.
Ora Houston, Jackie Mayo and Clifford Gillard
13 myself,” Johnson said. “We have a mutual goal of empowering black creatives in the various mediums of music to teach team about collaborations and making them future leaders. Urban Artist Alliance was founded on such principles of community outreach and being a voice in board rooms for the artists who have none.” Urban Artist Alliance has helped over 500 artists nationally in the structuring of their music from songwriting, agreements with labels and production companies and basic artist set ups they might not have been exposed to before. Similarly, Capitol View Arts’ Austin Hip Hop/ Urban Music Summit is a Notes for Notes Studio partner event schedule for Friday, June 16 at the Doris Miller Auditorium from 2 - 8 p.m. This will be an engaging event that allows high community participation and takes input from participants. A position paper will be produced after the Summit, which will be submitted to the City Council and used as a guideline to increase opportunity within the hip hop/urban communities. “We’ve had very limited space for these kinds of activities, and it’s our job for those of us who work in the community to get the word out and bring people in to this facility,” states Clifford Gillard, Board President of Capitol View Arts. “As this was unfolding, we started having a conversation about how to make hip hop and urban music have a more sustainable business in the community. It’s a fortunate time circumstance and I’m looking forward to bringing the community together to discuss where we are and how we can get to where we want to be.” Capitol View Arts has consistently recruited artists from underserved populations to be part of events at the Historic Victory Grill, the
Carver Museum and several other local music venues. Capitol View Arts has sponsored artist participation in conferences and festivals in Texas, as well as in New Orleans, Chicago, Atlanta and St. Louis to provide educational and performance opportunities to individuals with financial limitations. The selected artists for these programs range from emerging to experienced levels, with the goal of creating opportunity and advancement. Capitol View Arts is committed to building a positive environment in which artists can work that encourages collaboration, diversity, and cultural awareness; offering support for art entrepreneurs in their economic and creative pursuits; and promoting community participation in the arts. District One Council Member Ora Houston shared her pride and excitement about the milestone that is this project in a historical context. “This is an amazing use of what started out as a negative space,” Houston explained. “In 1971, the old Anderson High School on Thompson Street was closed for desegregation reasons and the fact that Anglos didn’t want their kids going to school in this part of the community. When neither the school district nor the new Anderson High School would take the trophies, pictures and the artifacts that were left behind, we asked Parks and Recreation to build this space right here. Most of such artifacts were moved to the Carver Museum and later on Anderson High School, so this space has been sitting here empty. The fact that it’s been repurposed and the life, energy and spirit is back is very exciting. Music is part of our culture and this is an opportunity for kids to not only get to perform but to learn to do studio work.”
KLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 / cable 9 klru.org
SEE YOUR FAVORITE PBS SHOWS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE WITH KLRU PBS KIDS 24/7! KLRU IS PROVIDING THIS FREE, FUN, EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE FOR ALL FAMILIES! RESEARCH CONSISTENTLY SHOWS THAT PBS KIDS RESOURCES BUILD LITERACY SKILLS, BOOST MATH LEARNING AND FOSTER SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL GROWTH.
Learn more at KLRU.org Also This Month
American Epic Sessions
Juneteenth Jamboree
Story Of China
Witness a historic recording session led by Jack White and T Bone Burnett with top artists, including Willie Nelson, Elton John, Nas, Taj Mahal, Los Lobos and more.
Explore the lives of African American heroes from Texas history. Including the surprising history behind The Yellow Rose of Texas.
This series, written and presented by historian Michael Wood, explores the history of the world’s oldest continuous state, from the ancient past to the present day.
Tuesday, June 6th at 7 pm
Thursday, June 15th at 7:30 pm; Monday, June 19th at 10 pm
Tuesdays at 7 pm starting June 20th
KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. PLEASE CONSIDER INVESTING IN KLRU.
Celebrate freedom and diversity this Juneteenth By TODO Austin staff
Washington, D.C. celebrates Emancipation Day on April 16, which marks the anniversary of the signing of the Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862. Our country also recognizes January 1, 1863 as the day President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation became official. In Texas, however, there is a more historically significant date known as Juneteenth or Freedom Day. It was on June 19, 1865, when official news of freedom were brought to Galveston by Major General Gordon Granger: “The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free,” read General Order Number 3. “This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and free laborer.” The importance of Juneteenth continues to be celebrated to this day and there are plenty of community events happening in Austin for all to join in the festivities. The Greater East Austin Youth Association, a non-profit organization that provides structured sports activities for economically disadvantaged youth, organizes the Central Texas Juneteenth celebration every year. The 2017 program, scheduled for Saturday, June 17, features a day full of fun for everyone. The 2K Emancipation 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 AfricanAmerican community.
Juneteenth Parade
One of the annual highlights of Central Texas observations is the traditional Juneteenth Historical Parade at 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, classic cars, candy and more of what the community has to offer. To end the day’s festivities on a high note, the community comes together for an all-day Juneteenth Park Celebration at Rosewood Park (2300 Rosewood Ave.) with food vendors, exhibits, and live music from gospel to Hip-Hop to R&B, with a children’s area. For more information on the Greater East Austin Youth Association’s program, go to juneteenthcentraltexas.com. Miss & Little Miss Juneteenth Pageant The 2017 Miss & Little Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant will be held on Saturday, June 10 at Huston-Tillotson University (900 Chicon St.). A pageant vendor and mixer fair will take place at Student Union Building from 4 - 6 p.m., followed by the scholarship pageant from 6 - 7 p.m. The pageant underscores growing healthy selfvalue in area youth, recognizing individuality and achievement while promoting and educating others about Texas African American history. Guests will be serenaded by the sounds of Tree G music and Noella Grey. Food, drink and deserts will be provided by Miss Juneteenth’s official sponsor, Chandelier Catering. Green and Clean Neighborhood Project The Juneteenth Green and Clean Neighborhood Project will bring families together on June 10, 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. Travis County Juneteenth Celebration The 27th annual Travis County Juneteenth celebration will be held Friday, June 16. An indoor
ceremony will start at 10 a.m., at 700 Lavaca St., first floor. This will be followed by an outdoor celebration with food and activities on the underside of the parking garage on the northeast corner of 8th Street and Lavaca Street.
Gold Dancers and more. The music line-up features a variety of blues, funk, soul and New Orleans jazz. Featured artists this year are CJ Edwards and The Funk Fellowship. Austin History Center Juneteenth Presentation
If you are interested in making a donation to the Travis County Juneteenth Celebration please write a check out to the Travis County Employee Enrichment Fund with “Juneteenth Celebration” noted in the memo of the check. Please mail all checks to Judge Eckhardt’s Office at 700 Lavaca Street, Suite 2.300, Austin, TX 78701.
On Tuesday, June 20, LaToya Devezin, African American Community Archivist at the Austin History Center, will present on the history of Juneteenth and African Americans in Travis County. This free and open to the public event will be held at the Heritage House Museum in Pluggerville, 901 Old Austin Hutto Rd. Refreshments will be served.
Carver Museum’s Juneteenth Celebration Juneteenth Health Fest The George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center invites the community to join in the festivities Saturday, June 17, 2017 from noon- 4:00 p.m. at 1165 Angelina Street. African American/African Diaspora food vendors, artists and artisan-quality craftspeople will participate in the Juneteenth Marketplace. The Carver’s Juneteenth Celebration also features a familyfriendly environment with live music on two stages, crafts and activities for kids, food and more. Carver Branch Library Juneteenth Outreach Librarians, Carver Library and HEB present their Juneteenth celebration, “Community Connection,” on Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Austin Public Library George Washington Carver Branch. Neighboring the Carver Celebration, Outreach Productions will host its annual Juneteenth Celebration at the Washington Carver Library on Saturday, June 17 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. It will be a fun filled day for youth of all ages and all families. The schedule includes visual art presented by students of Bertha Sadler Means Art at 10 a.m.; an opening ceremony in honor of Marian E. Barnes at 11:30 a.m.; free Refreshments at noon;Puppet show: The Borreguita and the Coyote by Verna Aardema at 1 p.m.; arts and crafts at 2 p.m.; and a dance session at 3 p.m.
The Juneteenth Health Fest is a community based event, free and open to the public that focuses on African American health and wellness. HustonTillotson University will be hosting this event on its East Austin campus. The 2016 first-ever health fest was a great success thanks to community members participation and support as well as the support of community organizations. This year, the event will be held on Saturday, June 24. A line-up of Black/ African American health care providers and healers will come out and share their expertise with the community in this free and open event. There will be several 30 minute health workshops taking place, facilitated by African American health professionals in both western and traditional medicine fields. There will also be health screenings for blood pressure and glucose courtesy the Quality of Life Unit of Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services. Juneteenth Rhythm and Ribs Festival The Voice Inc. and the City of Round Rock Parks and Recreation Department are joining forces again for the 9th annual free Round Rock Juneteenth Rhythm and Ribs Festival on Friday, June 16, 7:30 - 11:30 p.m. and a full day of entertainment from Saturday, June 17, 2 p.m. to midnight, at the Lakeview Pavilion in Old Settlers Park Lakeview Pavilion. Admission and parking for this event are free.
Juneteenth Music Festival
Juneteenth (Travis County 2016 Celebration) 08 TODO AUSTIN // JUN 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
The fourth annual Juneteenth Music Festival is Saturday, June 17, 6-10 p.m. at Austin ISD’s Performing Arts Center at 1500 Barbara Jordan Blvd. Sponsored by the Reagan High School Soul Raider Marching Band, event performances include the Reagan High School Cheerleaders, Austin All Star Band, A Train Drumline, Black and
The festivities kick off Friday with Cupid and the Dance Party Express back by popular demand! The celebration continues Saturday with a barbeque cook-off, followed by music entertainment, a health fair, moonwalks, clowns, games, food, retail vendors and more. To get more info about the Juneteenth Festival and to register for the barbeque contest or vendor booths, visit thevoicerr.com.
To Do Música By Liz Lopez BROWN SOUND NEWS The South Austin Moonlighters announced the unveiling of their new video for “I’ll Be Coming Home” from their album, “Ghost Of A Small Town,” directed by AJ Vallejo. Video is available on YouTube. They’re playing a show on Saturday, June 10 at Baker Street Pub & Grill, 3003 South Lamar, 9 p.m. No cover. bakerstreetpub.com. “Live at the MACC” with Mauricio Callejas is the 3rd installment of the series showcasing the artist in residence. Callejas will be celebrating the 15th anniversary of the release of “Cosas de la Calle,” his first solo CD from 2002 originally recorded in El Salvador on guitar and vocals only. This edition of “Live at the MACC” will recreate the 12 songs from this album with a five piece band of talented local musicians. The concert will be recorded live. Doors open at 7 p.m. and will close once the show starts. General Admission tickets with limited seating are $10 at the door. Saturday, June 10, 7 - 9 p.m. at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St. mauriciocallejas.com. Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 22! Patricia Vonne and band will be rocking with the “King of TexMex” Joe King Carrasco and special guest Rick Del Castillo. They’ll perform their co-written song, “Lil’ Lobo,” which she states “has been bringing the house down in Europe w/everyone howling like wolves!” Sam’s Burger Joint, 330 East Grayson St., San Antonio. Tickets on sale now at samburgerjoint. com. Samba Bamba launched the video of their first recorded song, “Roda Aberta,” now available on
YouTube. With seasoned, talented musicians and a vibrant set list tailored for your dancing feet, their show has the spirit of the Rodas de Samba in Brazil, a community getting together to sing and play samba while having a good time. Mixing new and classic Brazilian Sambas, some original compositions and other jewels, their music transmits a good vibe feeling and an overwhelming joy sensation. The WEPA (ATX Cumbia Roots Fest) is not your average cumbia festival. This will be a yearly festival to showcase international and local acts playing cumbia and its roots. The accordion in modern cumbia is imitating the gaitas flutes. The teachers of the teachers of the tradition, Trapiche de Colomboy, will travel from the Colombian savanna in Sahagún, Córdoba. Trapiche are one of the most respected bands in the tradition. They have won virtually every category in all the National Cumbia and Gaita Festivals and are the first place winners in this year’s Cerete National Cumbia Festival in the Professional Ensemble category. Also performing are Kiko Villamizar, La Frenetika, Wache, Parranderos de la Kumbia. To kick off the day, Trapiche and Kiko Villamizar will team up to do an extensive and interactive workshop where they will teach individuals how to make and play the instruments, as it is traditional that a player learns to make their own. They will also speak about the history of the tradition and the resistance to colonization organized by their maestros and founders. Saturday, June 24th from 4 - 10 p.m. at Kenny Dorham’s Backyard, 1106 E 11th St. “Plaza Para Todos” is an opportunity to immerse yourself in culture with an evening with entertainment from local musicians and performing artists, children’s activities, classic Latino games, and food from across Latin America.
Samba Bamba
Local artists interested in performing, contact MACCeducation@austintexas.gov. Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St. Sunday, June 25 from 6 - 8 p.m. Beto and the Fairlanes is being inducted into the South Texas Music Walk of Fame! The induction will be held Saturday, June 3 at noon at the Water Street Market Patio, 309 N Water Street in Corpus Christi, Texas. The induction ceremony kicks off the annual Water Street Market Music and Art Festival. Later that evening the band will play at Rockit’s Whiskey Bar. Fellow 2017 inductees include Chris Perez, the Texas Jazz Festival, Wanda Gregory, Andrew Moore and Al Dean and the Allstars. Previous inductees include Freddie Fender, Selena, Alejandro Escovedo, Terri Hendrix and Kris Kristofferson. RECOMMENDED SHOWS
Kiko Villamizar
Trio Los Vigilantes will be in rare form performing acoustically--no microphones, speakers or amplifiers getting in the way of the lush harmonies of three voices. Saturday, June 10 from 2 - 3:30 p.m. at Ruiz Branch of the Austin Public Library, 1600 Grove Blvd. All library programs are free and open to the public. --Salsa Night with J Bobadilla & Cosa Nostra La Banda (formerly named Salsa Brava and founded in San Antonio) perform along with a DJ on the breaks. The band members have extensive musical careers with over 15 years of experience and are from different nationalities--Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban and America--and perform the greatest hits in Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, and Cha Cha. Their 2015 salsa CD, “Incomparable,’’ is available on CD Baby and other online outlets. Friday, June 30. Doors 9 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. performance. $13 (with salsa class) or $10 show. Bring your own beverages. Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales St. esquinatangoaustin.com. --Rey Arteaga and Son y No Son return to play Cuban dance beats Wednesdays at the
Continental Club Gallery in June and July. Arteaga is on vocals & congas; Carmelo Torres (timbales), Ben Bradshaw (bass), Paul Matthews (piano), Oliver Steck (cornet), and also with series appearances by Russell Scanlon (guitar), Gordie Johnson (on trés) and Glenn Rexach (guitar). Show from 10:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. $5 at door. ¡Que reventón de ritmo! 1315 S Congress Ave. continentalclub.com. --Austin’s own Mariachi Capitál on Wednesdays, starting at 7 p.m., at DK Maria’s Legendary Tex Mex, 1807 W. Slaughter Lane. dkmarias.com. --The Rockdale Chamber of Commerce presents the Buckin’ Bulls & BBQ event and the Tejano Night featuring Los A-T Boyz (7:30pm) and AJ Castillo (9:15pm) on Friday, June 2 at Fair Park. Gates open at 5 p.m. Open to all ages. rockdalechamber.com. --The Chisholm Trail Roundup will have a BBQ and Chili Cook-Off June 2-3 at the Lockhart City Park. Thursday, June 8. The weekend includes many more activities, including live music by Justin Trevino from 10:30 p.m. - midnight, among others. A $20 day wristband includes access to all music stages, rodeo, fairgrounds and vendors and weekend wristbands are also available. Details at chisholmtrailroundup.com or (512)398-2818. --The 64th Annual Luling Watermelon Thump is a “fun for the whole family” festival. The Luling Watermelon Thump Association is a 501(c)(4) organization which raises funds for local scholarships, fellow non-profit and civic organizations as well as local agricultural producers. The four day festival has live music, with free shows on Thursday, June 22 (Texas Unlimited Band and Sunday); Friday, June 23 (Mike Ryan, Hayes Carll); Saturday, June 24 (Copper Chief, Ronnie Milsap and Diamond Rio); and Sunday, June 25 (Lance Lipinsky & the Lovers and Darrell Mccall). There is a fee for the shows on Friday. Children 12 & under are free all weekend. Advance tickets (price includes the grounds admission fee) are available. 421 E Davis St., Luling, TX, 78648. More details at watermelonthump.com. TODO AUSTIN // JUN 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 09
CASA
Summer beach haven at Port Aransas By Rose Di Grazia
(Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County
With the heat index rising day after day, now is the perfect time to put your new bathing suit on and head to the nearest playa. My beach of choice in Texas happens to be Port Aransas, which is only about a four-hour drive from Austin. With two new furry babies in tow, I headed out for my first beach trip of the year in May. My final destination upon arriving in Port A is my yearly beach home Seashell Village. This resort is surrounded by lush palms everywhere and the smell of Jasmine wafts through the air. My first priority is to get the pups out of the car and into the pet friendly rooms with hardwood floors in front of the two pools. They jump up on the recliner and make themselves right at home. My second priority, after bringing all the luggage in, is to head out on foot to the delicious Shells restaurant right next door. It is my refuge. Shells is known for their delicious Italian dishes and New Orleans style gumbo. I indulged in my chipotle cream and smoked chicken pasta dish. For healthy greens, I ordered the huge salad with tomatoes and black olives. Order up some crunchy garlic bread or plain bread fresh out of the oven. For dessert, most customers know not to forget to take home a slice of the out-of-this-world Bourbon Pecan pie or heavenly Key Lime pie. You will need a long walk on the beach after this feast.
Summer Stock Austin returns “Summer Stock Austin is back for 2017. Gearing up for its 13th season, high school and college students from all over the country will once again come together as part of a “stock” company to build, design and perform three professionalgrade musicals in rep under the guidance of industry professionals. Student tickets start at $15. “Monty Python’s SPAMALOT,” the musical comedy sensation “lovingly ripped off” from the film classic Monty Python and The Holy Grail, leaps onto the Rollins stage this summer, spreading laughter and cheer throughout the kingdom. As gleefully silly yet wickedly smart as Monty Python, the beloved British comedy troupe that inspired it, Spamalot parodies the legend of King Arthur and his band of haphazard knights as they sing and dance their way through an inane divine quest, dodging giant wooden rabbits, obnoxious Frenchmen, and a deathdefying limbless knight along the way. Don’t miss this madcap comedy of magic and mayhem July 21-August 12 at Rollins Studio Theatre.” “Annie Get Your Gun,” Irving Berlin’s glorious 10 TODO AUSTIN // JUN 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
The place is not fancy but the food is divine. Come early or you may find yourself standing in line. Back at the village, I take a dip in the salt water pool. The sounds of seagulls and palms swaying is music to my ears. I settle down in my room with some yummy ice cream purchased at the local IGA grocery store. It is in walking distance from my room and so are tons of restaurants and shops. I am lucky to have a kitchen with all the amenities of home, stocked with pots, pans and dishes. My kitchen has a breakfast table but the beach patio is calling so I must go sit and drink my coffee with the gulls. I could sit there forever, but alas, I must go walk on the shore which is only about a 10-minute stroll from my door. The water is bathtub temperature and the sand is still cool beneath my feet.
Coffee Waves to get my java for the day. I can sit out on the Adirondack chairs and chat with the locals or watch the beach carts go by. This coffee haven is not like any in Austin. No one is cranky cause you ask for a glass of iced water along with your jolt. I tell the barista this and she claims we are all on beach time. That afternoon I go in search of a Condo, mobile home or RV to maybe live in and never have to return to Austin’s busy traffic. On this trip I had the pleasure of meeting the Mayor of Port A. He was so kind to show me a lovely mobile home he and his wife were selling. Unfortunately, they said it was spoken for and I would have to continue my search for my beach oasis.
The next morning I head to my neighborhood
For now, my beach paradise will remain Sea Shell Village until I find a place to hang up my beach hat and call home sweet home.
wild west spectacle, celebrates the legendary sure-shot, Annie Oakley at Rollins Studio Theatre, August 2-12. ANNIE GET YOUR GUN is loosely based on the true story of renowned sharpshooter Annie Oakley and her tempestuous romance with gunslinger Frank Butler. The musical features countless standards, including “You Can’t Get a Man With a Gun,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “I Got Lost in His Arms,” and “Anything You Can Do.” The original production, starring Ethel Merman, opened at the imperial Theatre on May 16, 1946 and proved to be Berlin’s longest-running Broadway show, playing 1147 performances. The 1999 revival attracted the talents of Bernadette Peters and Reba McEntire. Join us for one of Broadway’s most loved musicals!
In “A Shoe Story,” July 25-August 12 at Rollins Studio Theatre concerns Sydney, a 13th generation shoemaker, who lives in a flooded town. Her business is failing and Sydney will have to close the shop for good if she can’t sell her last pair of shoes. But when a shoeless girl arrives at her door, the shoemaker gives the shoes away. Luckily for Sydney some refugee elves, on the run from the law, decide to make shoes for her in exchange for a safe place to stay. What is there to do but to solve everyone’s problems with rap battles, lounge singing, and magical, tap-dancing shoes? It’s a story your entire family will enjoy! A Tall Tale…with plenty of Heart and Sole! Did we mention the rap battle/pun-off? Perfect for all ages.
Texanna Turner knew she would be a special education teacher ever since the second grade. That’s when she first saw reports that public schools would begin enrolling children with developmental disabilities. As the eleventh of thirteen children in northeast Arkansas, her path to earning her master’s degree and becoming a middle school principal wasn’t easy, but she could always rely on her family’s support. “We were a poor family but we learned how to take care of each other,” she says. “My older siblings took care of us. I knew I could do that for others and that’s always what guided me.” Texanna taught special education for fifteen years, then served as a principal for both elementary and middle schools for another eighteen, before retiring in 2015. CASA was always part of her retirement plan. “As an educator, I remember CPS being on my campus and having to call CPS on families,” she recalls. “The CASA volunteers who would follow and take on kids who needed them, they were inspiring.” Texanna started her volunteer training during her final year as a principal so that she could start advocating immediately upon retirement. “It’s given me a powerful voice. I can be more assertive for her than I ever was for myself,” she explains. “But I’ve learned to advocate for myself more, too.”
CELEBRATING
DIVERSITY
BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin
ATX Television Festival is a four-day event that celebrates the television medium: looking back at its history, where it is now and where it is headed. The festival, June 8-11 at multiple venues, consists of panels (inc. Battlestar Galactica reunion), screenings (inc. film with Will Ferrell), premiers and events where attendees and leaders in the TV industry talk, watch, and experience television together. atxfestival.com In the Latino Comedy Project’s “Gentrif*cked,” the resistance starts at home. The multimedia sketch troupe examines the causes and consequences of gentrification in Austin and America. Through their trademark mix of live sketches, music and original videos, LCP provides all the hard answers and leaves no one unscathed. June 9-10 at Spiderhouse Ballroom. latinocomedyproject. com
SOLSTICE FESTIVAL By Meredith C. Cox
The last couple of weeks have given us a taste of the wickedly hot summer coming our way. Some Austinites love nothing more than languishing in 100 degrees days out in the park, but many others couldn’t be lured out of an air-conditioned club even if they got paid. However, because this is Austin and the best city when it comes to live music, no matter what your summer preference is, Solstice Festival has you covered. The Austin Solstice Festival, June 15-17, is part of a worldwide movement of cities and people bringing in the summer solstice with celebrations of music. This is the fourth year that one has been held in Austin, and you can expect two stages of live music, art installations, art vendors, food vendors, drinks and more. Something to appreciate about Solstice Festival (aside from the amazing lineup of local bands) is that it takes place both inside and outside. For example, on Thursday and Friday, attendees can hit up Empire Control Room, Mohawk or the Sidewinder (Mohawk and Sidewinder will have performances both inside and outside) to see some of Austin’s best artists--Bayonne, Leopold and his Fiction, Otis the Destroyer, The Midnight Stroll, and Nina Diaz, plus lots more. On Saturday, head outside to Pan Am Park on East 3rd Street for two separate stages and music from Golden Dawn Arkestra, JJ Grey & Mofro, the Bright Light Social Hour, Los Coast, and others. Wether you prefer the cool darkness of Mohawk or the sunshine-filled satisfaction of spending a day in the park, this is the summer festival for you. Tickets start at a reasonable $35 (especially for a music fest), and kids under 12 get in free. More info at solsticeatx.com.
Mark your calendars for a special summer of Latinx Stories at The Living Room: Storytime for Grownups at ESB-MACC on second Saturdays, June 10, July 15 and August 19 at 7:30 p.m. Host Amparo Garcia and others come together for an eclectic mix of stories around a specific theme. It is a space for friends, neighbors and perfect strangers who are comfortable in front of an intimate audience. Tapestry Dance Company presents the 17th Annual Soul to Sole Tap Festival, June 16–17 in Rollins Studio Theatre at the Long Center. The Company, North America’s only full-time, professional repertory tap dance outfit, presents a one-of-a-kind festival bringing dancers and teachers from around the world together for swinging jazz, a rhythm showcase and a stunning faculty performance. tapestry.org Celebrate International Day of Yoga on Saturday, June 17, at the Texas State Capitol. The Art of Living Austin presents the third annual event, sponsored by Consulate General of India, Houston with Yoga Studios and several organizations. On the program are a 45 minute yoga asanas, peace meditation, live music and more. Wear cool white summer clothing and bring a yoga mat and water. keepaustinyogic.org The Long Center and Ballet Austin’s Butler Center for Dance & Fitness present Rhythm on Stage, part of All Summer Long. Back for its sixth year, Austin’s only instructional dance series invites you to take center stage in Dell Hall. Learn how to dance free, with doors open at 7 p.m. and instruction at 7:30 p.m. It’s come and go, starting June 22 with Bollywood Dance featuring Prakash & Divya. thelongcenter.org The Austin African American Book Festival, Saturday, June 24, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center, is an annual event that promotes literature and arts by and about African Americans. The free event, open to the public, will include will Angie Thomas, Peniel E. Joseph, D. Watkins, April Sinclair, Jennifer Wilkes and Mark Cunningham. aabookfest.com
Sound & Cinema THE LONG CENTER Do512 and the Alamo Drafthouse are back with their free summer event series, Sound & Cinema. Presented by the Texas Lottery, Sound & Cinema is one of Austin’s most popular summer events, drawing thousands of people to the lawn at the Long Center to enjoy an evening of outdoor family fun with an amazing view of downtown. Now entering its fifth season, the event series features unique pairings of classic films with popular bands hand-picked from Texas. The bands perform a musical tribute to the movie, followed by a screening of the film on Alamo’s giant inflatable outdoor screen, with the Austin skyline providing a picturesque backdrop. In addition to music and movies, the four-event summer series will feature a selection of Austin’s best food trucks, including Garbo’s, Mama Fu’s, Moojo Ice Cream, Newk’s, Rosarito’s, Slab BBQ, The Peached Tortilla, and Uncle Louie G’s. There will also be full bar service on the terrace, offering a variety of cocktails, craft beers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Sound & Cinema will take place on select Wednesdays in June and July. Each event is free, family-friendly, and open to the public. On the schedule are: June 21: Princess Bride featuring ICING (covering Cake); June 28: Raising Arizona featuring The Quaker City Night Hawks; July 19: Galaxy Quest featuring Special Guest (TBA); July 26: Scott Pilgrim vs. The World featuring A Giant Dog Food trucks will open at 6 p.m. each night, with the sunset concerts beginning around 7:30 p.m. Movies will begin shortly after dark (around 8:45 p.m.). Guests are welcome to bring personal water bottles, folding chairs, blankets, and pets (leashed, on the lawn only). Parking is available in the Long Center garage, and there will also be extra bike racks at the Long Center for each event. TODO AUSTIN // JUN 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 11
District 3 Council On Your Corner
Jun 10 10AM
CodeNEXT Town Hall at Eastside Memorial High with Council Member Renteria
Good Times at Güero’s For great tunes and great rita’s! Please join us for live music on our outside jardin stage, every Wednesday through Sunday. THANKS TO THE FANS & BANDS WHO SUPPORT US!!! JUNE Line-up
TACO BAR
1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm
OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE “WEATHER PERMITTING” -----------------------------------------------------------------------THU 6/1 LOS FLAMES @ 6:30 FRI 6/2 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 6/3 THE BREW @ 2:30 / EL TULE’ @ 6:30 SUN 6/4 MCLEMORE AVENUE @ 12:00 / THE RECUPERATORS @ 3:00 WED 6/7 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 6/8 JORGE TAMAYO & FRIENDS @ 6:30 FRI 6/9 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 6/10 TEXAS TYCOONS @ 2:30 / THE TONY HARRISON BAND @ 6:30 SUN 6/11 J.J. & THE WOLVES @ 12:00 / BLUE MIST @ 3:00 WED 6/14 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 6/15 TOM BEN LINDLEY @ 6:30 FRI 6/16 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 6/17 JIM STRINGER @ 2:30 / GLEN COLLINS @ 6:30 SUN 6/18 ERIN JAMES @ 12:00 / MITCH WEBB Y LOS SWINDLES @ 3:00 WED 6/21 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 6/22 WINK KEZIAH @ 6:30 FRI 6/23 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 6/24 JELLY @ 2:30 / TRACIE LYNNE @ 6:30 SUN 6/25 EL TRIO MUSICAL @ 12:00 / CHICKEN STRUT @ 3:00 WED 6/28 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 6/29 TEX TOMAS @ 6:30 FRI 6/30 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30
www.GuerosTacoBar.com